Leadership
V.Tanaia Hines
Principal
Principal Hines is dedicated to ensuring that students from all socioeconomic backgrounds have equitable access to educational opportunities that help them excel. She is relentless in seeking avenues for students to discover and embrace their individual passions.
Before joining Richmond Public Schools, Principal Hines served as an Assistant Principal in Norfolk Public Schools at both an International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (IB MYP) school and a STEM-focused school. There, she played a pivotal role in restructuring the STEM program, which led to improved state test scores and a shift from traditional teaching methods to fostering STEM literacy, preparing students for 21st-century careers.
In July 2019, Principal Hines became the principal of Bellevue Elementary School in Richmond's East End. At Bellevue, she fosters strong relationships with students, staff, parents, and the broader community by inspiring and motivating them to achieve their highest potential. She leads by example, encouraging her students to become positive contributors to their community. She actively collaborates with community members, organizations, and participates in various forums to highlight the successes of Richmond Public Schools.
Principal Hines holds a Bachelor's degree in Exercise Science from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA, and a Master's in School Administration and Supervision from Cambridge College in Cambridge, MA.
Principal Hines is a proud mother and grandmother!
Christopher Lacy-Thompson
Assistant Principal
Christopher Lacy-Thompson is excited to join the Bellevue Elementary School family. Prior to joining RPS, Dr. Lacy spent 13 years in education, serving in a variety of roles. His previous positions include third, fourth, and fifth grade teacher, interventionist, beginning teacher coach, high school and middle school assistant principal, and most recently, school improvement specialist in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.
Dr. Lacy believes that education is liberation and knowledge is power. He is committed to building authentic partnerships between educators, families, and communities to ensure children are equipped with the knowledge and experiences needed to achieve anything. He also believes in continuous improvement and the power of small gains—1% better every day can unlock the limitless potential of both teachers and students.
Dr. Lacy is a proud three-time graduate of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte—Go 49ers! He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, a Master’s degree in School Administration, and a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership.
In his free time, Dr. Lacy enjoys spending time with family and friends and doing anything that involves live music.