Ware County Schools is proud to announce Mrs. Julie Augustine as the new principal of Ware County High School, bringing more than 26 years of educational experience and a steadfast commitment to student success, strong relationships, and academic excellence.
Mrs. Augustine is no stranger to the Gator family. During the 2024–2025 school year, she served as an assistant principal at Ware County High School, where she worked closely with students, staff, and families to support the school's mission and goals. She then spent the 2025–2026 school year serving as principal of Ruskin Elementary School, leading the school with a focus on relationships, collaboration, and student growth. Now, she returns to Ware County High School to serve as its principal and continue building upon the school's proud tradition of excellence.
A graduate of the University of Florida, Mrs. Augustine has served in a variety of educational leadership roles throughout her career, including teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, and principal. She credits each of those experiences with shaping her approach to leadership and preparing her for this next chapter.
“I’ve spent the last 26 years in education, and it truly has been such a rewarding journey,” Augustine said. “Every role has helped shape who I am, and I’m excited to continue building relationships with students, staff, families, and the community.”
Mrs. Augustine believes relationships are the foundation of a successful school and strives to lead with honesty, support, and approachability.
“I want parents and staff to know that relationships are at the heart of how I lead,” she said. “I believe in being approachable, supportive, and honest. I want teachers and staff to feel appreciated, encouraged, and supported because when the adults in a school feel valued, students thrive too. At the end of the day, I always try to do what’s best for kids.”
Her passion for education stems from a belief that every student deserves the opportunity to succeed and that schools have the power to transform lives.
“I’ve always believed education has the power to change lives, and every child deserves the opportunity to succeed,” Augustine said. “There’s nothing better than watching students grow in confidence and realize just how capable they are.”
As principal, Mrs. Augustine hopes every student who enters Ware County High School feels welcomed, supported, and empowered.
“I want every student to know they belong, that they matter, and that there are adults here who truly care about them,” she said.
Mrs. Augustine also believes the strongest schools are built on relationships, teamwork, and a shared commitment to students.
“Great schools always have strong relationships and a sense of family,” she said. “When people work together, support one another, and keep kids at the center, amazing things happen.”
Outside of school, Mrs. Augustine enjoys spending time with her family. She and her husband, Jamie, are proud parents of daughter Josie, a student at Georgia Southern University, and son Jackson, who will attend Ware County High School this fall. She is also a self-described morning person who enjoys math, the beach, sweet tea, and cheering on her beloved Florida Gators.
Superintendent Dr. Lynn Barber expressed his enthusiasm for Mrs. Augustine’s return to Ware County High School.
“Mrs. Augustine is a relationship-centered leader who understands the importance of supporting students, staff, and families while maintaining high expectations for success,” said Dr. Barber. “Her experience, integrity, and commitment to doing what is best for children make her an outstanding choice to lead Ware County High School. We are excited about the future under her leadership.”
Please join Ware County Schools in congratulating Mrs. Julie Augustine as she begins this new role leading Ware County High School and helping shape the next generation of Gators.