About Mrs. Haney

Mrs. Cathy Haney was named principal at Rocky River Elementary School, effective July 1, 2021. 

Mrs. Haney grew up in Fairmont, West Virginia.  She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education from Fairmont State University and her Masters in School Administration from the University of Kansas.  She began teaching in Union County in 1998 and has worked at several schools in both Union and Wake County throughout her career.

“I decided on my first day of kindergarten that I would be a teacher someday.  I am so thankful for that wise 5-year-old and the course she set me on.  She led me right where I was supposed to be.” Mrs. Haney commented.  

Mrs. Haney lives with her husband, Michael, in Indian Trail with their daughter, Anna, a student at Sun Valley High School.  Her son Grant is a UCPS graduate and a member of the United States Marine Corp.  Her daughter Kate, also a UCPS graduate, is a film student at Western Carolina University.  

When away from school, Mrs. Haney loves the water--the beach, the lake, the pool.  She enjoys time with her pets and being outdoors.   

She values building relationships with students, staff, and stakeholders and coming up with solutions to challenges.  She feels that growth should not just be a priority for students, but should be the goal of every educator every day.  “I can honestly say that I love coming to work.  Every day poses a new challenge and a new opportunity to improve.”

Mrs. Haney added, “I love watching students grow, not just physically from kindergarten through fifth grade, but academically, socially, and emotionally as they mature and develop as leaders.  Being with 500 children every day gives me peace, knowing that the future is bright and there is so much good in the world.  I am inspired each day by the natural curiosity, resilience, and joy that surrounds me.  It seems odd to me to call myself an educator when it is the students that teach me so much.  Rocky River is a special place, full of the most talented educators and amazing children.  I am honored to be the principal.”  

Contact Mrs. Haney

• Phone: 704-290-1523
• Email: cathy.haney@ucps.k12.nc.us

About Ms. Funderburk

Mrs. Funderburk earned her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and began teaching in Union County in 2001.  She has been a part of the Rocky River family for the last 15 years. She has worked as a classroom teacher, interventionist, Curriculum Coordinator, and Instructional Content Facilitator.  In 2011, Mrs. Funderburk decided to continue her education and completed her Masters in School Administration and Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. 

Mrs. Funderburk is married to Kevin, who is a Social Studies teacher in Union County.  Their oldest son, Elijah, is a UCPS graduate and is currently a student at Clemson University.  Their youngest son, Caleb, is a student at Parkwood High School. 

When away from school Mrs. Funderburk loves to crochet, shop for yarn, and spend time outdoors with her family.  She loves traveling throughout the United States, visiting national parks, and getting to see various types of wildlife and landscapes.

Mrs. Funderburk believes strong relationships are the key to students’ success.  She believes when students feel safe, loved, and valued they are ready to learn.  Mrs. Funderburk is excited about her new role as Assistant Principal and is looking forward to helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

Contact Ms. Funderburk

• Email: stephanie.funderburk@ucps.k12.nc.us

• Principal: Cathy Haney
• Representative: Cindy Atwell