When looking for a new assistant superintendent, the Suffolk School Board went with someone who could not be any more familiar with the Suffolk school system.

Kevin L. Alston, a graduate of John Yeates High School, was named assistant superintendent for administrative services during the board’s July 14th meeting.

Alston will take the position effective Aug. 1.

Janice B. Holland, who currently holds the job, is retiring.

After leaving Yeates, Alston graduated from James Madison University with a bachelor’s in geology.

He has a master’s degree in urban education from Norfolk State University.

Alston was a science teacher in Suffolk high schools from 1976 until 1991, the assistant principal at Nansemond River from 1991 to 1998, and the assistant principal and principal at Forest Glen from 1998 to 2003.

Currently, he is the coordinator of Middle School Instructional Services, a position he has held since 2003.

The position works closely with both school personnel and with pupils, said Alston, especially concerning discipline matters, transportation needs, and other administrative and logistical needs.

andrew.giermak@suffolknewsherald.com