Ashley Wallat, Interim Principal

Ashley Wallat serves as Interim Principal of Isaac Dickson Elementary School, bringing 17 years of experience in public education—including a decade of leadership within Asheville City Schools. Most recently, she served as Associate Principal for Instruction at Asheville High School.

Ms. Wallat’s background spans elementary classroom teaching, gifted education, instructional coaching, and administrative leadership. She began her career teaching fourth grade before joining ACS as an Academic and Intellectually Gifted (AIG) Specialist, working directly with elementary students to deliver enriched, student-centered learning. Since moving into administration at Asheville High School in 2017, she has served as Assistant Principal, Instructional Specialist, MTSS Coach, and Testing Coordinator.

A former North Carolina Principal Fellow, Ms. Wallat holds a Master of School Administration from Western Carolina University, an elementary education teaching license, and a Talented and Gifted certification from the College of William & Mary. Known for her collaborative leadership style, she is deeply committed to rigorous instruction, strong community relationships, and supporting the academic and social-emotional growth of every scholar.

Toby Anderson, Assistant Principal

My name is Toby Andeson and I am thrilled to be the assistant principal at Isaac Dickson Elementary School.  Indeed, this is a full circle moment for me, as I began my teaching career at Dickson twenty-four years ago.  Having spent my whole life in Asheville and the surrounding area, I know the reputation and culture that IDES is known for and am honored to be a part of this community.  In my twenty years of teaching, I have had the privilege of teaching 1st grade and 5th through 12th grade, before making the transition to administration four years ago.  My philosophy as an administrator is to lead by serving, to remove barriers for students and teachers alike, and to put students first in all that we do.  Outside of the school building, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Leslie, and my two daughters, Mykala and Myrissa.  We enjoy all the mountains of Western North Carolina have to offer from outdoor activities to cheering on our local sports teams.  I look forward to working with each of you to strengthen the climate of success here at Isaac Dickson Elementary.  Thank you for letting me be a part of your Crew!