Administrative Team
Brian King, Ed.D.
Principal
bking@ccboe.com
Dr. Brian King was named as the principal of Margaret Jamieson Thornton Elementary School in 2024. He began his career in public education in 2001 as a teacher in District of Columbia Public Schools. Dr. King joined Charles County Public Schools in 2012 as a second-grade teacher at C. Paul Barnhart Elementary. He also served as an administrator at two Charles County Public middle schools before serving as the principal at Barnhart for six years. During his tenure as principal at Barnhart, the school consistently produced above average student achievement outcomes and was named as a National Elementary and Secondary Education Act Distinguished School.
Dr. King graduated from Syracuse University in 2001 and earned a master's degree from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education in 2007. He is a University of Maryland alumni, earning his doctorate in 2020 and now serves as an adjunct professor in the school leadership program.
Dr. King believes schools should be safe, welcoming, and supportive places with high expectations for all students and teachers. He is excited to begin working with the Thornton community to build a culture that supports the needs and growth of all students.
Bianca Valdez
Assistant Principal
bvaldez@ccboe.com
I’m thrilled to serve as the Assistant Principal of Thornton Elementary School! After spending nine wonderful years teaching fifth grade in Charles County, I’m excited to support our students, staff, and families in a new leadership role.
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Transformational Educational Leadership from Towson University. I’m passionate about creating an inclusive, supportive, and engaging school environment where every student can grow and succeed.
At Thornton, I share the administrative team's priorities of building strong relationships with our school community and ensuring that everyone feels welcomed, heard, and valued. I look forward to helping shape a positive, collaborative culture that empowers all students to thrive.
Keyanna Williams
Assistant Principal
kewilliams@ccboe.com
Keyanna Williams has been named assistant principal of Margaret Jamieson Thornton Elementary School for the 2025–2026 school year. She began her career in education in 2019 as a kindergarten teacher at C. Paul Barnhart Elementary School. During her time at Barnhart, she also taught first and fourth grade, gaining valuable experience supporting students at various stages of their academic development.
In addition to her work in the classroom, Williams served as a district mentor teacher and coordinator for Barnhart’s New Teacher Support Program, helping guide and develop early-career educators. In recognition of her impact and dedication, she was named Teacher of the Year at Barnhart for the 2023–2024 school year.
A proud graduate of Charles County Public Schools, Williams brings a deep commitment to serving the community that helped shape her educational journey. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a master’s degree in Transformational Educational Leadership from Towson University. She also holds an Administration I certification, preparing her to support and lead with clear vision and dedication.
Williams looks forward to working closely with students, families, and staff at Thornton Elementary to help build a school culture rooted in excellence, collaboration, and community pride.