Amherst County Schools Appoints Interim Superintendent

Dr. Tim Hoden takes over leadership as division searches for permanent replacement

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Amherst County Public Schools has appointed Dr. Tim Hoden as interim superintendent following the resignation of Dr. William Wells due to ongoing health issues from a concussion. Hoden, previously the assistant superintendent, will focus on developing the upcoming school budget and maintaining stability across the division's 10 schools while the school board searches for a permanent superintendent.

Why it matters

The transition in Amherst County's school leadership comes at a critical time, as the division faces challenges like staffing and budgeting amid the broader context of education disruptions caused by the pandemic. Hoden's experience working closely with the outgoing superintendent is seen as an asset in providing continuity during this period of change.

The details

Dr. William Wells announced he would step down as superintendent at the end of the school year due to ongoing health issues from a concussion he sustained in July. Wells said the stresses of the superintendency were directly impacting his ability to fully recover. The Amherst County School Board appointed Dr. Tim Hoden, the previous assistant superintendent, as interim superintendent to maintain stability while the board searches for a permanent replacement. Hoden's immediate priorities include developing the upcoming school budget and ensuring the division's 10 schools remain successful.

  • In July 2025, Dr. William Wells sustained a concussion.
  • In February 2026, Dr. Wells announced he would step down as superintendent at the end of the school year.
  • Dr. Tim Hoden assumed the role of interim superintendent in February 2026.

The players

Dr. William Wells

The outgoing superintendent of Amherst County Public Schools who is stepping down due to ongoing health issues from a concussion.

Dr. Tim Hoden

The new interim superintendent of Amherst County Public Schools, previously serving as the assistant superintendent.

Amherst County School Board

The governing body of Amherst County Public Schools that appointed Dr. Hoden as interim superintendent and is conducting the search for a permanent replacement.

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What they’re saying

“The stresses associated with the superintendency are directly influencing my ability to fully recover.”

— Dr. William Wells, Outgoing Superintendent (wset.com)

“Well, you know, right now, what I've been tasked with is to try to come up with a budget that is in the best interest of our staff and students, so I'm gonna be presenting that soon, so that's probably my biggest challenge on the forefront is getting that, but, you know, maintaining, you know, for all of our schools to be accredited.”

— Dr. Tim Hoden, Interim Superintendent (wset.com)

“I just want to make sure that the transition is smooth, and again, I really want folks to understand that my mission and vision haven't changed, right? Every child, every day.”

— Dr. Tim Hoden, Interim Superintendent (wset.com)

What’s next

The Amherst County School Board said it will share additional information about the search for a permanent superintendent as it becomes available.

The takeaway

The transition in Amherst County's school leadership highlights the challenges districts face in maintaining stability and continuity during periods of change, particularly when it comes to key roles like the superintendent. Hoden's experience and commitment to the division's mission are seen as assets in navigating this transition.