The Moore County Schools New Principals announcement marks one of the largest leadership transitions in recent years as the district prepares for the 2026-2027 school year. On June 8, Moore County Schools announced seven new principal appointments that will take effect July 1, bringing experienced educational leaders to schools throughout Moore County. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
District leaders say the appointments reflect Moore County Schools’ commitment to strong leadership, academic excellence, and building positive school cultures that support student achievement and family engagement.
New Leadership Across Moore County Schools
The new appointments include leadership changes at elementary, middle, and specialty schools across the district.
- Rochelle Dunlop – Connect Academy
- Dr. Quinetta Pratt – Crain’s Creek Middle School
- Carlos Rodriguez – Elise Middle School
- Jerid Cassady – Highfalls Elementary School
- Ashley Priest – Sandhills Farm Life Elementary School
- Jami Burr – Southern Pines Elementary School
- Abby Greenberg – Vass-Lakeview Elementary School
Each educator brings years of experience in instructional leadership, school improvement, and student support programs to their new roles. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Experienced Educators Taking on New Roles
Several of the newly appointed principals have already demonstrated success within Moore County Schools.
Dr. Quinetta Pratt moves from Southern Pines Elementary School to Crain’s Creek Middle School after leading significant academic gains and helping Southern Pines Elementary maintain strong growth and improved performance ratings. Carlos Rodriguez, currently serving as assistant principal at Crain’s Creek Middle School, will take over leadership at Elise Middle School. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Jami Burr, who currently leads Connect Academy, will become the new principal at Southern Pines Elementary School. During her tenure at Connect Academy, enrollment increased significantly while the school consistently met growth expectations and achieved strong academic performance. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Ashley Priest will transition from leading Elise Middle School to become principal at Sandhills Farm Life Elementary School, while Jerid Cassady moves from Cameron Elementary School to Highfalls Elementary School. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Focus on Student Success
According to Moore County Schools, the newly appointed principals have demonstrated a commitment to instructional excellence, positive school culture, and community partnerships.
The district highlighted accomplishments ranging from improving student achievement and reducing discipline referrals to expanding support systems and strengthening teacher development programs. Many of the leaders have experience implementing Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), and data-driven instructional strategies. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Superintendent Praises New Leadership Team
Superintendent Jenny Purvis expressed confidence in the district’s new leadership team as they prepare to take on their new roles.
Purvis said the educators have earned the trust and respect of their colleagues through dedication, hard work, and commitment to students. She noted that Moore County Schools is fortunate to have outstanding educators leading schools throughout the district. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
As students and families prepare for the upcoming school year, these leadership appointments are expected to play a key role in shaping the future of education across Southern Pines, Aberdeen, Vass, Carthage, and communities throughout Moore County.
For more information about Moore County Schools, visit Moore County Schools.
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