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CCS Names New Principal for Sherrills Ford Elementary School

NEWTON, October 28, 2024 -- Catawba County Schools Superintendent Dr. Matt Stover announced a new principal appointment. Amy Gates was named principal at Sherrills Ford Elementary School. The school board confirmed the position at Monday night’s regular Board of Education meeting. Gates will officially assume her new role on Monday, November 25.

Headshot of Amy Gates

Catawba County native and Fred T. Foard High School graduate, Gates, pursued her higher education at NC State University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Communications. After returning to her roots, she began her teaching career in Catawba County Schools while obtaining her K-6 Elementary Education licensure. For eight years, Gates dedicated herself to teaching upper elementary students at Startown and Mt. View Elementary Schools. In 2013, she advanced her career by earning a Master’s degree in School Executive Leadership from Gardner-Webb University. Gates transitioned into school leadership in 2015, serving as the Assistant Principal at Sherrills Ford Elementary, where she continues to make a significant impact.

Gates shares, "It is an honor to serve in such an amazing community that has truly become my home. As principal, I will strive to build upon the tradition of excellence in which we cultivate a supportive and collaborative environment that nurtures student success and empowers passionate educators. I look forward to strengthening our partnership with families and Bandys feeder schools to ensure a safe, positive experience for all our Sherrills Ford Tigers."

Gates and her husband, Blake, have been happily married for 14 years. Together, they have two children, Davis, 10, and Camden, 7, both of whom are students at Sherrills Ford Elementary. In her free time, Gates enjoys traveling with her family and is an avid supporter of her favorite sports teams, the NC State Wolfpack and the Atlanta Braves.