Meet Angela B. Garcia, NBCT, Principal

Joined Team CCS - January 1995

Experience 
I began my career in education in 1995 right here in Catawba County Schools. My journey started as an elementary English as a second language and Spanish teacher at Sweetwater Elementary School. I then taught English as a second language at St. Stephens High School for eleven years, where I earned my National Board Teacher Certification and Graduate Degrees before leaving the classroom for leadership positions. I had the pleasure of serving as an instructional coach and assistant principal at St. Stephens Elementary and then principal at Lyle Creek Elementary School prior to joining the Mustang family here at Webb A. Murray Elementary School as principal. 

Education 
BS - Spanish - Appalachian State University
MA - Curriculum and Instruction, School Administration - Appalachian State University

Why I Became an Educator 
My high school Spanish teacher influenced my career choice to become an educator. She always challenged me and inspired me to be a lifelong learner. I wanted to be in a role where I could make a positive impact just as she did. My former principal inspired me to pursue a graduate degree and move in the direction of school leadership. Her leadership demonstrated that positive impact continues in the world of school administration.

Favorite Activities
I enjoy reading, swimming, movies, and spending quality time with my family.

I joined the team at CCS because I could immediately tell that this was a district that is both student-centered and genuinely supportive of staff members.

Meet Jamey Carter, Assistant Principal

Joined Team CCS - August 2006

Experience 
I've just completed my fifteenth year in public education. My first job was as the interim Technology teacher at Webb A. Murray Elementary, where I worked for one semester. I then started full time as CTE Teacher at South Davidson High School in Denton in 2005 and held the same position at St. Stephens High School, Fred T. Foard High School and Bunker Hill High School. I also coached a combination of football, basketball and baseball during my time at each stop along the way. 

In 2015 I was given the opportunity to join Mill Creek Middle School as Assistant Principal and have enjoyed the last five years working with the students, staff and community. I am excited to once again join the staff at Murray for the 2020-2021 school year.

Education 
B.S. Business Administration - Catawba College (2003)
M.A. Executive Leadership - Gardner-Webb University (2016)

Why I Became an Educator 
As weird as it may sound, the father of one of my little brother's friends told me for years that I should be a teacher and a coach. I fought the notion throughout college and after. Within a year of graduation, I found myself substitute teaching and volunteer coaching at Arndt Middle School, and I never looked back.

I never liked hearing someone say "I told you so," but when he did with a sly grin on his face, it certainly made me laugh. It's crazy sometimes how others see things in us that we don't see in ourselves."

Favorite Place in Catawba County
My favorite place in Catawba County is wherever my wife and kids are. Riding bikes in the street, cooking out with neighbors, or a picnic in the park. I just love spending time with my family. 

As for a specific place, I really enjoy the new development in downtown Hickory. With so many locally owned restaurants and stores, the improvements they've made to Union Square, the park, the outdoor concerts and events; there's always something to do.

Favorite Activities 
My favorite activity is golf. I stink at it, but man, do I love being out on the course.

As a student I went to Murray Elementary, Arndt Middle School and graduated from St. Stephens High School in 1999. CCS is almost all I've ever known from a school standpoint, and I wanted to help provide future students with the same great education that I received.