Administration

latia deravil

Mrs. LaTia Deravil, Principal

I am deeply honored to serve as your Principal! This marks my 8th year with the Selma Middle family and my 5th year as an administrator.

Originally from Tampa, Florida, I moved to Johnston County in 2018 with my husband and four children. My background includes teaching high school math and middle school science, directing a preschool, and serving as an MCL and MTSS Lead right here at Selma. I hold a B.S. in Chemistry from Florida State, a Master's in Teaching and Learning with a focus in Leadership from Liberty University, and a School Administration Certificate from Appalachian State.

I believe hard work, strong relationships, and creative problem-solving are key to preparing our students for an ever-changing world. My goal is to maintain a safe, engaging environment where every child is empowered to thrive and reach their greatest potential.

Thank you for allowing me to serve this amazing community!

#WeAreSelma #SelmaStrong

Phone: 919-965-2555 ext. 4901

Email: latiaderavil@johnston.k12.nc.us

Sabrina Penuel

Mrs. Sabrina Penuel, Assistant Principal

I am honored to continue serving as Assistant Principal at Selma Middle School and proud to be part of such an incredible school community. Over my time at Selma, I have truly fallen in love with the students, families, and staff who make our school such a special place. Every day, I am inspired by the dedication, resilience, and heart that define our Railblazer community.

The teachers and staff at Selma Middle are exceptionally talented and deeply committed to student success. Their passion for teaching, willingness to support one another, and belief in our students create a learning environment where children are encouraged to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Our administrative team works collaboratively and with a shared vision, allowing us to lead with consistency, positivity, and a strong focus on what is best for students.

With 23 years of experience in education, I have had the privilege of serving as an assistant principal, behavior support teacher, intervention coordinator, and special education teacher. These experiences have given me a strong understanding of how to support students with diverse academic and behavioral needs while building systems that help both students and teachers succeed. I am passionate about using data to guide instruction, strengthening school-family partnerships, and creating an inclusive school culture where every student feels seen, valued, and capable of success.

One of the greatest joys of my work is collaborating with teachers and staff to develop innovative strategies that empower students and celebrate their achievements. Whether supporting academic growth, improving school climate, increasing student engagement, or creating opportunities for students to shine outside the classroom, I believe every child deserves a school experience that helps them discover their strengths and potential.

At Selma Middle, we proudly live out our theme: Learn More, Do More, Be More! This theme reflects our commitment to continuous growth, high expectations, and creating meaningful opportunities for students and staff alike. I remain dedicated to supporting our students, encouraging our teachers, and helping our school community continue moving forward together with pride and purpose.

On a personal note, I have been happily married to my husband, Mike Penuel, for 19 years. We have two wonderful children—Lana, who is in middle school, and Ethan, who is in high school—as well as two beloved dogs, Libby and Bowie. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family and relaxing at my favorite place—the beach.

I look forward to continuing to build strong relationships with our families, celebrating the accomplishments of our students and staff, and working together to make this school year our best yet.

Sabrina Penuel, BFA, MSA

#WeAreSelma #SelmaStrong

Phone: 919-965-2555 ext. 4959
Email: sabrinapenuel@johnston.k12.nc.us

New Ap

Lyndsey Hinton, Assistant Principal

I am thrilled to join the Selma Middle School community as Assistant Principal and am honored for the opportunity to serve the students, families, and staff this school year. Over the past 14 years, I have had the privilege of working in middle school education as a math and science teacher, supporting school-wide MTSS efforts, and serving as an instructional coach. Throughout each role, my greatest joy has come from building relationships, supporting teachers, and helping students discover their potential.

Originally from the Cleveland, Ohio area, I earned my Bachelor of Science in Middle School Education from Kent State University in 2011 and later earned my Master of Education in Administration from Liberty University in 2023. My husband’s military career has allowed our family to experience and serve in several wonderful communities along the way, but we are especially grateful to call Johnston County home again and to be raising our three daughters near family.

I believe that students rise to high expectations when they know they are valued, supported, and cared for. Strong relationships, meaningful learning experiences, and a positive school culture are at the heart of successful schools. I am passionate about celebrating growth, encouraging others, and partnering with students, families, and staff to help every child thrive. I cannot wait to get to know the Selma Middle community and to support the incredible work already happening!