Western Branch Middle School
Administration
Mrs. Beth Pallister is delighted to return to Western Branch Middle as principal. She previously worked as an assistant principal at Western Branch Middle from 2014-2016 and as the Assistant Principal for Instruction at Grassfield High School from 2016-2022. Before becoming an administrator, Mrs. Pallister taught English at Oscar Smith Middle School and Great Bridge High School. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and a Master of Science degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Old Dominion University. She earned her endorsement in Educational Leadership and Administration from The George Washington University. As a lifelong learner, she is currently enrolled in a doctoral program at Regent University.
Mrs. Pallister has been a Chesapeake resident for more than 30 years, and all three of her children are proud graduates of Chesapeake Public Schools. When not at school, Mrs. Pallister enjoys reading, singing, cooking, and watching movies.
Mrs. Pallister is committed to ensuring that students engage in meaningful learning experiences in a school environment that is safe, welcoming, inclusive, and innovative. She believes that growth doesn’t come from comfort zones and encourages all Bruin students to step out of their zones and try new endeavors.
Mr. Shawn Kole is entering into his 16th year of education, all of which have been with Chesapeake Public Schools. This year, he will serve as the sixth grade assistant principal. Mr. Kole obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics at Virginia Tech, and earned his Master’s degree from the University of Virginia. Following his passion for math, Mr. Kole taught Geometry at Indian River High School for seven years. Then, he got the opportunity to be a Technology Integration Specialist for both Western Branch Middle and Greenbrier Middle School. Mr. Kole resides in Chesapeake with his wife and two children. He is excited to rejoin the Bruin community!
Mrs. Kathy Clifford has been an educator for the city of Chesapeake for 28 years. This year she will serve as the eighth grade assistant principal. She is a proud graduate of Virginia Wesleyan University and George Washington University. Prior to becoming an administrator Mrs. Clifford taught mathematics at the middle school level. She has four years of experience in administration. Mrs. Clifford lives in Chesapeake with her husband and has two children. She believes that all students can achieve success and it is her responsibility to guide and support them as they work towards their goals. She is proud to be a member of the Bruin family!
Mrs. Stephanie Galloway has been an educator for more than 25 years. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Old Dominion University and obtained Master of Arts degrees in School Counseling and in School Administration from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. With 16 plus years of experience as a school administrator, Mrs. Galloway happily serves as the 7th grade assistant principal at Western Branch Middle School. She has a strong passion for children and is dedicated to ensuring they are equipped with the necessary life skills to become successful students and well-rounded citizens. Mrs. Galloway resides in Suffolk, VA with her husband and three children.