Administration

Mrs. Deanna Fierro-Kin, Principal

Deanna Fierro-Kin is proud to serve as the principal of T. Benton Gayle Middle School. Before joining the Gayle community, she served as the assistant principal at Shirley Heim Middle School and previously worked in Henrico County as an Education Specialist. In that role, she supported professional learning initiatives and strengthened school and community partnerships across the division.

Earlier in her career, Mrs. Fierro-Kin taught mathematics in both Henrico County and Richmond City. In recognition of her commitment to advancing equitable practices in education, she was nominated for the Mary Peake Award for Excellence in Education Equity by the Virginia Department of Education in 2021.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Math Education from the University of Texas at El Paso and a Master of Educational Leadership and Supervision from Virginia Commonwealth University. Mrs. Fierro-Kin is currently completing her Ph.D. in School Leadership and Policy at VCU, where she is a doctoral candidate actively working on her dissertation.

As principal, Mrs. Fierro-Kin is dedicated to leading through policy, fairness, and a student-centered lens. Her vision is to ensure that every student has a pathway to reach their full potential and develop a strong sense of self. She is committed to highlighting what makes Gayle Middle School the PRIDE of Stafford by celebrating the incredible talents of its students and honoring the school’s rich history of dedicated faculty and staff. Through collaboration, high expectations, and a focus on student success, she aims to foster a thriving school community where everyone feels seen, supported, and empowered.

Dr. Keana Butler, Assistant Principal

Keana Butler serves as an assistant principal at T. Benton Gayle Middle School. With a rich background in education and a strong commitment to student growth and success, Mrs. Butler brings a wealth of experience to the Panther community.

Her journey in education began in Brooklyn, New York, where she taught third grade at P.S. 167 for four years. After relocating to Spotsylvania, Virginia, in 1999, she continued her work as an educator in Stafford County, teaching third and fourth grade at Falmouth Elementary for five years. Mrs. Butler later served as assistant principal at Essex Intermediate School in Tappahannock, Virginia, before returning to Stafford County in 2007 as assistant principal at Rocky Run Elementary, a position she held for six years.

In August 2013, she was named principal of Park Ridge Elementary School, where she led the Patriots with a focus on academic excellence and the holistic development of every student. Mrs. Butler holds a bachelor's degree in sociology from Virginia State University, a master's degree in elementary education from Long Island University Brooklyn Center, and a postgraduate degree in education leadership from George Mason University.

Outside of school, Mrs. Butler is the wife of a federal police officer and the mother of a graduate student. She is also a proud pet parent to two Rat Terrier pups named Sissy and Chip. In her free time, she enjoys cheering on the New York Giants.

Mrs. Butler is committed to fostering a positive and inclusive environment at Gayle Middle School, where every student has the opportunity to excel academically and grow into their full potential. She looks forward to partnering with students, staff, and families to make this school year an exceptional one and to help Panther pride shine brightly.

Mrs. Katie Hawkins, Assistant Principal

Katie Hawkins serves as an assistant principal at T. Benton Gayle Middle School and brings 18 years of experience in education. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering curiosity, resilience, and a growth mindset in both students and staff.

Mrs. Hawkins holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from James Madison University, a Master of Religious Education from Liberty University, and a Master of Education in Administration and Supervision from Old Dominion University. She spent 16 years teaching at the secondary level before moving into school administration, where she continues to make a positive and lasting impact.

Prior to joining Gayle Middle School, Mrs. Hawkins served for three years as a Restorative Practices Specialist. In that role, she facilitated restorative circles and conferences, taught anger management courses, and provided professional development focused on building strong, supportive school communities. Her experience in restorative justice continues to shape her leadership approach, emphasizing emotional intelligence, accountability, and meaningful relationships.

Mrs. Hawkins is passionate about cultivating a culture of continuous learning. She encourages both students and staff to embrace self-reflection, lead with empathy, and strive for personal and academic growth. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time outdoors, being with her family and friends, and supporting her children in a variety of extracurricular activities.