The Bryan Allen Stevenson School of Excellence (BASSE) continues its exciting growth with the appointment of Raushann Austin as its new Head of School and the launch of several community-focused initiatives to support the school’s expansion.
Ms. Austin joins BASSE with 25 years of experience serving students and families as a teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, and principal in Montgomery County, Maryland, and Wilmington, Delaware. She served as an Education Associate at the Delaware Department of Education, contributing to Educator Effectiveness, School Improvement and Innovation, and Equity Teams. Her leadership supporting the revision of the Delaware Teacher Professional Growth System and her deep expertise in school improvement and educator development position her to guide BASSE through its next phase of growth. In her most recent role, Raushann served as Senior Director of School Support and Family & Community Engagement, further deepening her commitment to students and families.
“BASSE is lucky to have an experienced school leader like Raushann taking the helm,” says Chantalle Ashford, co-founder and initial school leader. “I have no doubts that she will continue the work started by Alonna Berry, Dr. Teresa Berry, and our founding team. Our staff and students are in good hands.”
Ms. Austin began serving as Head of School in late August and is committed to advancing BASSE’s core values of equity, hope, voice, community, and excellence. Austin is “honored to step into this role and continue my lifelong commitment to ensuring all students, families, and educators have the resources and support they need to thrive.”
The Bryan Allen Stevenson School of Excellence’s growth is also reflected in the leadership shown by its students. This fall, BASSE students led a successful food drive, collecting over 500 food items for families in need, demonstrating the school’s strong emphasis on service learning and community partnerships.
Building on this momentum, BASSE will launch its new Speaker Series with “An Evening with Donna Brazile” on March 20, 2026. Brazile, a renowned political strategist and author, will explore the theme of “Rebuilding Trust in a Divided Nation.” The event, featuring music by Shades of Blue Collective, is designed to inspire students, families, and the broader community through its clear connection to BASSE’s core values of community, hope, and voice. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available, with proceeds supporting BASSE’s continued development and student programming.
As the Bryan Allen Stevenson School of Excellence continues to expand its programs and community engagement, the school is also expanding its student body for the 2026-2027 school year through the Delaware School Choice application. The school is accepting applications for middle and early high school grades. This recruitment cycle represents another critical milestone in BASSE’s mission to provide an equitable, community-connected education to Sussex County students. Families are encouraged to apply by January 14, 2026.
As BASSE’s expansion continues, the school remains dedicated to offering small class sizes, a supportive staff, and a learning environment where every student is empowered to grow to their fullest potential.
Check out our Admissions page to learn more about enrollment and follow @BASSESchool on social media to stay up to date about happenings about BASSE!