Hello! I am honored and privileged to be the Principal of James Breckinridge Middle School for the 2023-2024 school year! I am a lifelong "Roanoker" and third-generation educator with 18 years experience in public schools. I graduated from Virginia Tech with a degree in psychology in 2001 (Go Hokies!), earned my Teaching License and M.Ed. in Educational Leadership from Radford University, and recently completed a Doctorate in Education with a concentration in Curriculum, Teaching, Learning, and Leadership from Northeastern University-Charlotte. I arrived at JBMS in 2016 as the assistant principal and became principal in 2021. I look forward to the 2023-24 school year leading the next generation of "Majors"! Other than education, I love spending time with my wife Wesley and two boys Shepherd (Age 11) and Briar (Age 8)! 

Welcome back to the 2024-25 school year! I’m so happy to be part of the James Breckinridge community and one of the assistant principals. I began teaching in 1987 with Roanoke City Schools and have taught many students and their parents over the years. Having had various positions through the years ranging from classroom teacher, EL teacher, Instructional Coach, and Administrator, I have played a part in all aspects of our students’ education. I hold a B.A. in Elementary Education from Roanoke College, a M.S. in Educational Leadership and Administration from Radford University, and have an ESOL teaching endorsement. 

My husband, Peter, and I have two grown sons, Chris and Joey, and a Shih-Poo named Buddy.

Hello Breckinridge students and families!  My name is Ashley Cayton and I am an Assistant Principal at JBMS for the 2024-2025 school year.  I am so honored to have this position and cannot wait to become a bigger part of this school and community.  Education is my life’s calling and while I’m proud to say this is my 12th year in public education, I am excited for opportunities here that provide me continued growth.  

I graduated from Marshall University (Go Herd!) in 2008 with a bachelor’s degree in education, earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from Mary Baldwin University in 2014, and earned a master’s degree in educational leadership and administration from Radford University in 2022.  I have held various educational positions throughout my career and I feel each placement has helped prepare me for my current role as Dean.  

When I’m not at school you can find me spending time with my husband and our two dogs, exercising, riding my motorcycle, or spending time with my family and friends.  Parents and guardians, please do not hesitate to contact me with questions or concerns.