COLUMBIA, Tenn. – Maury County Public Schools (MCPS) Superintendent, Lisa Ventura, announced Julie Wolaver as Principal of J.E. Woodard Elementary School after serving as the Assistant Principal since 2021. She assumes the role currently filled by Carol Ann Jent, who will retire effective June 30.

“Julie has demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and a strong commitment to fostering a positive culture at J.E. Woodard Elementary School,” said Maury County Public Schools Superintendent, Lisa Ventura. “Her promotion is a reflection of her outstanding contributions coupled with the trust and respect she’s earned from staff, students, and families over the years.”

Julie began her educational career as a teacher at Culleoka Unit School in 2000. Over the years, she also taught at Santa Fe Unit School, Joseph Brown Elementary, and Whitthorne Middle School where she also served as a Title Facilitator. In 2019, she was promoted to Assistant Principal of Whitthorne Middle School, then joined J.E. Woodard Elementary in the same role in 2021. Under her leadership, J.E. Woodard Elementary School was recognized as a Reward School in 2022 and 2024. In addition, Julie assisted with bringing Bright Apple, a nonprofit that provides healthy snacks to students, helping fight against food insecurity at home to J.E. Woodard Elementary School.

“I’m deeply honored with the trust that Superintendent Ventura and Maury County Public Schools have placed in me,” said Wolaver. “J.E. Woodard Elementary School is truly a special place, and I’m excited to be part of its bright future!”

Wolaver earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and a master’s degree in Administration and Supervision, both from Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU).

The mission of Maury County Public Schools is to provide the educational instruction, tools, and environment for every child to succeed in LIFE as Life-long Learners, Independent Thinkers, Fearless Innovators, and Exemplary Citizens.

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