The MCPS School Board recently approved the appointment of four MCPS employees to new positions.
"I am excited to recognize and build upon the talents of these four outstanding members of our team," MCPS Superintendent Dr. Kelly Guempel said. "Their leadership and expertise will help move our division forward as we continue our commitment to providing exceptional opportunities and outcomes for every student."
Leah Bressler
Leah Bressler was named the division's director of organizational compliance and policy review. She currently serves as the MCPS compliance officer. A Radford University alumna (’96), Bressler returned home to the New River Valley last year to advocate for local students. She steps into the director role with over 25 years of combined experience as both a licensed trial attorney and a former classroom educator. Having previously served as the district’s Compliance Officer, Bressler has built a reputation for navigating civil rights and personnel matters with deep expertise and transparency. In her new role, she will continue to serve as a supportive, student-centered partner to staff, families, and the community.
"Compliance is about more than just rules and regulations—it’s about creating a safe, fair, and supportive environment where our kids and staff can thrive," Bressler said. "I look forward to partnering with our schools and community to ensure we meet the highest standards of equity and excellence every day."
Dr. Matt Dunleavy
Dr. Dunleavy is the Director of Strategic Innovation and Grants for Montgomery County Public Schools. Dr. Dunleavy has been the principal investigator on multiple grants totaling $17.6 million from the U.S. Department of Education, the National Science Foundation, the Virginia Department of Education, and the Intel Foundation.
"I am incredibly grateful to Dr. Guempel and the Montgomery County School Board for this opportunity to serve as Director of Strategic Innovation and Grants," Dr. Dunleavy said. "This role is not about solo initiatives; it is about building collective efforts that empower our students and teachers. I look forward to working alongside our outstanding staff, families, and community partners to secure the resources that turn our boldest educational dreams into reality."
Michael Trussell
Michael has been named the division's administrator of assessment & data analysis. Since joining the MCPS team in 2025, he has served as assessment coordinator.
"Thank you to leadership and my peers for this incredible opportunity," Trussell said. "In this new role, I am excited to elevate our data practices—shifting focus toward actionable data insights that directly support student achievement, close learning gaps, and help our MCPS educators do what they do best."
Dr. Amanda Weidner
Dr. Amanda Weidner was approved as the assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction. Since the summer of 2025, she had been serving in this role on an interim basis. She has nearly three decades of service to MCPS and has held many leadership positions throughout the division.
“It has been an honor and privilege to serve Montgomery County Public Schools for nearly three decades," Weidner said. "I am excited to continue expanding my leadership role within the division and to work alongside Dr. Guempel to strengthen student academic achievement and social-emotional growth, enhance organizational effectiveness, and advance our vision for excellence in education. I look forward to collaborating with students, staff, families, and community partners to meet the needs of every learner, foster innovation, build strong relationships, and ensure that Montgomery County Public Schools continues to thrive.”
Andrew Webb
Andrew Webb is moving from the position of coordinator of communications and public relations to the new role of administrator of communications, public relations & marketing. Webb joined the MCPS team in 2024 and has led the district's internal and external communications.
"It is an honor to continue serving Montgomery County Public Schools in this expanded role," Webb said. "Our schools are filled with outstanding students, dedicated employees, and supportive families who deserve clear, timely, and meaningful communication. I am excited to build upon our efforts to strengthen community engagement and share the stories that make MCPS such a special place to learn and work."