Our Administration

Amanda Pelter

Principal

Amanda Pelter has been a member of the CHMS family for the last 22 years. During her time here she has served in various other roles, both teaching and administrative, that allowed her to develop valuable relationships with the students, staff, and families of Colonial Heights. Ms. Pelter graduated from Longwood College in 2001 with her Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies and Elementary Education, and obtained her Master’s of Education in Administration and Supervision from Virginia State University in 2013. She is excited to continue to work alongside the CHMS staff to create an environment that is welcoming and foster’s success.

Latoya Edwards

Assistant Principal

Latoya Edwards has dedicated the past two decades to Colonial Heights Middle School, now serving as one of its two Assistant Principals.  She brings a strong educational background from Prince George High School, Longwood University, and Virginia State University, along with 16 years of teaching eighth grade physical science.  Mrs. Edwards approaches her role with enthusiasm and a commitment to building and fostering a supportive environment unique to the adolescents our building serves.

Elona Smith

Assistant Principal

Ms. Smith is currently serving as one of the Assistant Principals at Colonial Heights Middle School. She earned her undergraduate degree from Chowan University in 2011 and her Master's of Education in Administration and Supervision from Virginia State University in 2022. Before joining the Colonial Heights Middle School team, Ms. Smith taught in Hopewell City Public Schools from 2011 to 2024 and then went on to serve as a Student Support Specialist from 2024 to 2025. She believes all students are unique and deserve to be loved, encouraged, and inspired throughout their educational journey.

A Message from Mrs. Pelter

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians:

It is with great excitement that I welcome you all to Colonial Heights Middle School! It is my sincerest honor and privilege to serve as Principal, and work alongside such an amazing community of students, teachers, and families.

At Colonial Heights Middle School, we plan to continue maintaining open communication with our families, supporting our staff, and loving our students. We have an excellent staff here at CHMS, and together, in partnership with our families, we will continue to provide our students with the experience and education necessary to be successful beyond middle school. Our belief is to focus on the whole child, which means supporting them academically, socially, and emotionally.

We encourage students to get involved during their time with us. We offer a wide range of extracurricular activities to help students explore their interests and passions. Whether your child is interested in sports, music, theater, or academic clubs, there is something for everyone at Colonial Heights Middle School.

Thank you for entrusting us with your child's education. Together, we can make middle school a fantastic experience.

Sincerely,
Amanda Pelter, Principal 
Colonial Heights Middle School