Administration

Erin Sikes-Thurston, Principal

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Areas of Supervision: ESOL, Technology, IB, Admin Team

[email protected]
703-361-3185

Erin Sikes-Thurston is so SIKED to be part of the Unity Braxton family!

Dr. Erin Sikes-Thurston began teaching middle school Earth and Physical Science in 1996 at Grace Metz Middle School in Manassas City, Virginia. Over the next 17 years, she taught middle and high school science in Prince William County Schools, Arlington County Public Schools, Fairfax County Public Schools, and in Texas in the Austin Independent School District. She also coached women’s soccer in Manassas City, Arlington, and Austin, where she enjoyed getting to know students outside the classroom through the sport she loves.

In 2013, Dr. Sikes-Thurston left the classroom to serve as a central office leader in Fairfax County Public Schools and as an Assistant Principal at both John R. Lewis High School and South Lakes High School.

She has supported various critical areas including English as a Second Language, Special Education, Science, Advanced Academics, attendance, On Time Graduation, and intervention.

Dr. Sikes-Thurston earned her master’s in education from George Mason University in Science Education Leadership in 2009 and her Doctoral degree in 2019 from Virginia Tech in Education Leadership and Policy Studies. Her dissertation focused on the science course-taking patterns based on when students take Algebra 1.

Outside of the classroom, Dr. Sikes-Thurston has an amazing husband and a wonderful 23-year-old son and lives in Centreville, VA. She and her family travel and spend time with extended family whenever they can. Their two dogs help them stay active with their walks, and she is also an avid reader.

Ruba Ayyad, Assistant Principal

Areas of Supervision: Science, Mathematics, Health & Physical Education, 6th Grade Administrator

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[email protected]
703-361-3185

Area of Supervision: Science, Physical Education, Homebound Coordinator

Ruba is an experienced educational leader and teacher with over 26 years of expertise. Throughout her career, she has focused on fostering academic excellence with a special emphasis on student achievement. Her teaching approach is centered around actively engaging students in STEM fields, guiding them through various activities and providing opportunities for students to showcase their knowledge and creativity in science fairs and symposiums. Her why is to make a positive impact on the school community and to help create a supportive and well-organized environment that benefits students and staff.

Darius Coulibaly, Assistant Principal

Areas of Supervision: Special Education, Social Studies, 7th Grade Administrator.

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Dr. Darius Coulibaly is a visionary and racial-equity centered school leader who always prioritizes scholars and staff over tasks, and fosters an inclusive, antiracist, and trauma-informed learning environment. He articulates a clear vision for creating a culture of rigorous learning and teaching, continuous improvement through data-driven decisions, personalized professional development, and transformational coaching cycles aimed at enhancing the instructional skills of teachers and increasing students’ learning.

As a committed advocate for students and families, Dr. Coulibaly actively works collaboratively and tirelessly to address and reduce racial disparities in disciplinary referrals, school suspensions and expulsions, chronic absenteeism, academic achievement, and access to advanced placement courses. His multilingual abilities enrich his approach as a school leader, enabling him to connect with diverse communities effectively. With nearly 20 years of experience in K-12 education, Dr. Coulibaly has held various leadership roles, bringing a wealth of instructional leadership experience and skills, a passion for rigorous teaching and learning, culturally responsive pedagogy, and restorative practices. He has taught at the elementary school, middle school, high school, and university level He received his Administrative & Supervision Pre K12 Leadership endorsement from John Hopkins University.

A Vanderbilt University alumnus, Dr. Coulibaly holds a master’s degree in economics and a PhD in International Education. He is committed to empowering underprivileged communities in Africa. In 2023, he founded Empowering African Youth, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides STEM education, equitable educational opportunities, and youth leadership initiatives in Africa through collaborative and global projects between K-12 students in Africa and the United States.

Dr. Coulibaly is also a dedicated family man, married and blessed with five wonderful children—four intelligent and beautiful princesses and one bright prince—who inspire him to continue his work in emancipatory education, social justice, and advocacy.

Carla Shaw, Assistant Principal

Areas of Supervision: ESOL, CTE, World Languages, Fine & Performing Arts, 8th Grade Administrator

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Carla Shaw is a bilingual educator with heritage from Ecuador and Spain. A first-generation American raised in Northern Virginia; she holds a Bachelor's degree in Textile and Apparel Management from NC State and a Master's in Elementary Education from Marymount University. After beginning her career at the Corporate Executive Board in Washington, DC, she transitioned to education, dedicating 22 years to Prince William County Schools. Her experience includes 14 years teaching 2nd and 3rd grades, followed by 7 years as a high school Spanish teacher, where she served as Department Chair and held multiple leadership roles.

In Spring 2023, Ms. Shaw earned her Administration and Supervision endorsement from James Madison University and began her role as Assistant Principal at Unity Braxton Middle School in 2024. Having worked at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, Ms. Shaw brings a comprehensive and well-rounded perspective on student development, instructional leadership, and school culture.

Ms. Shaw is committed to fostering strong relationships to build a positive school culture and enhance student achievement. She prioritizes consistency and routines to create a safe, inclusive environment where students feel empowered to take ownership and accountability for their learning and celebrate their successes.

She has been married for 23 years with four children, two daughters, two sons, and a family dog. Her eldest daughter is pursuing a degree in Education from Marymount University. Her second daughter is a freshman at the University of Miami studying Sports Broadcasting and Journalism, and her two sons are a junior and freshman in high school in PWCS. Outside of work, Carla enjoys attending her children's sporting events, traveling, and reading.

Jayna Cobbs, Counseling Director

Director of Counseling UBMS

[email protected]

703-361-31985

Areas of Supervision: School Counseling, Family Liaison and Purple Star Committee

Jayna, a dedicated counselor with extensive experience, transitioned from being a middle school teacher, counselor, and professor in higher education to her current role as an administrator. She previously served as a high school counselor in Prince William County Public Schools.

Jayna is passionate about fostering a positive and inclusive environment, Jayna guides and empowers students to achieve academic and personal growth. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in History from Hampton University, a Master’s in School Counseling and Human Development from George Mason University, and a Post Master’s in Clinical Counseling from Johns Hopkins University.

In her free time, Jayna enjoys spending quality moments with her family, exploring new travel destinations, and tending to her garden. She is grateful for the opportunity to serve the Unity Braxton Middle School community.

Eduardo Garcia, Dean of Students

TOSA UBMS

[email protected]

703-361-3185

Areas of Supervision: MTSS Coordinator, Attendance, 504 Compliance

Mr. Garcia, also known as Coach Garcia, is entering his 17th year in PWCS. This is his 6th year at Unity Braxton and his first year on the administrative team. He earned a degree in Administration and Marketing from InterAmerican University of Puerto Rico. Mr. Garcia obtained his teaching license from the University of Phoenix. In 2014, he earned his first master’s degree in Teaching and Learning from Nova Southeastern University. Last year, he completed his second master’s degree in Educational Leadership. Additionally, he proudly serves as the coach of the Jaguar boys’ soccer team and wrestling team.