UCPS announces 2023-2024 Assistant Principal of the Year finalists
The role of an assistant principal is crucial to the success of any school, supporting the principal and working with teachers, staff, parents and students to create a positive and productive learning environment. This year, Union County Public Schools is proud to recognize five outstanding assistant principals who have been named finalists for the 2023-2024 Assistant Principal of the Year.
On Monday, March 27, senior leaders surprised the finalists at their schools. These dedicated individuals have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, a commitment to student success and a willingness to go above and beyond in their roles as assistant principals.
One finalist will be named the 2023-2024 Assistant Principal of the Year during an awards program May 4.
“We are thrilled to recognize these exceptional assistant principals for their hard work and dedication,” said Superintendent Dr. Andrew Houlihan. “Their contributions to our schools and communities are truly remarkable, and we are proud to have them as members of our team.”
Congratulations to the following Assistant Principal of the Year finalists:
Jamee Giers - Walter Bickett Elementary
Jamee Giers has been an educator since 2000 and an assistant principal at Walter Bickett Elementary since 2022. Giers supports highly-qualified educators, data-driven instruction and academic achievement for all students by serving as a mentor and academic leader in the school. She serves as the second and third-grade administrator and literacy lead. Giers is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
Shane Ferron - Cuthbertson Middle
Shane Ferron has been an educator since 2004 and an assistant principal at Cuthbertson Middle since 2019. Ferron is an experienced data-driven educator who believes every student can be successful. He supports teachers through continuing education, staff development and leadership roles. Ferron is a graduate of Bowling Green State University and Wingate University.
Debbie Mayer - Sun Valley High
Debbie Mayer has been an educator for 29 years and an assistant principal at Sun Valley High since 2021. Mayer has a strong work ethic and has experience as a classroom teacher and instructional coach. She supports educators with research-based instructional strategies to improve lessons within the classroom. She has built relationships with students in many learning environments throughout her career. Mayer is a graduate of Missouri State University and Wingate University.
Emily Culberson - Indian Trail Elementary
Emily Culberson has been an educator since 2004 and an assistant principal at Indian Trail Elementary since 2022. Culberson has a passion for school leadership and is curriculum-driven. She also recognizes the importance of coaching teachers and building positive and intentional relationships with all stakeholders. Culberson is a graduate of Appalachian State University, Gardner-Webb University and Salem University.
Mari McTamney - Antioch Elementary
Mari McTamney has been an educator for 29 years at Union County Public Schools and an assistant principal at Antioch Elementary since 2022. She prides herself on fostering a school culture where all teachers can flourish while motivating and inspiring students to love learning. McTamney is a graduate of the Edinboro University of Pennsylvania and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
03/27/2023