Davenport returns to lead H.O. Brittingham Elementary

A familiar face has returned to Milton, with the announcement of Yvette Davenport as the new principal of H.O. Brittingham Elementary School.

Previously, Davenport served as HOB assistant principal from December 2018 through June 2021, when she accepted a position as principal of Hartly Elementary in the Capital School District. She takes over for Kyle Bentley, who was named head of school at Sussex Academy.

When the opportunity arose to return, Davenport said she went for it because she had such a positive experience working at the school in the past.

“HOB always felt like home,” she said. “The people are so welcoming. The community is amazing.”

At Hartly Elementary, Davenport was the only school administrator overseeing about 250 students. In this solitary role, she said she gained confidence and leadership skills.

Working at Hartley was a legacy for Davenport, she said, as both her mother and aunt were long-time teachers at the school. But, it was time to grow and move out of her comfortable space, she said.

Davenport said she is excited to connect with students and is currently scheduling one-on-one meetings with staff members to get to know them personally and learn what they think works at the school and what could use improvement.

The Dover native and Dover High grad received her bachelor’s degree in primary education and her master’s degree in educational leadership from Delaware State University. She and husband Jahi have three children: Carissa James and Kamryn and Jayden Davenport.