Rowan-Salisbury School System announces new district, school leadership

Published 12:00 am Tuesday, July 2, 2024

SALISBURY — Last week, the Rowan-Salisbury School System (RSS) announced the addition of four district and school leaders to its administrative team.

Mary Smith has joined RSS as the director of academic counseling, based at the Wallace Educational Forum. Smith brings a wealth of experience from her tenure with Cabarrus County Schools, where she contributed significantly to various institutions including the Virtual Academy, Opportunity School, Substance Abuse High School and Performance Learning Center. Employed in the Cabarrus County Schools’ school counseling department since 2010, Smith’s extensive background in academic counseling will be invaluable in her new role, where she will oversee and enhance the counseling services across our district.

Dr. Amanda Macon, who served as interim at the end of the year, was named principal of Southeast Middle School. Macon has extensive experience working with beginning teachers, supporting students, and working across multiple levels of leadership. Previously, she served as a middle school teacher, assistant principal in high school and as a principal in both middle and high schools. After serving in human resources for two years, she is excited about returning to a school and working directly with students and teachers.

Dr. Michael Marsh has been appointed as the new principal of Koontz Elementary School. Marsh has been serving as the assistant principal at Hurley Elementary School since 2020, where his leadership and dedication have made a substantial impact. His career also includes roles as a teacher and assistant principal in Cabarrus County Schools and as a teacher in the Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. In addition to his educational experience, Marsh brings 13 years of expertise from the City of Charlotte’s Department of Transportation. He currently serves as a major in the U.S. Army Reserves. His diverse background and commitment to education make him a strong leader for Koontz Elementary School.

Josh Mullis has been named the new principal of West Rowan Middle School. Mullis previously served as the assistant principal at China Grove Middle School since 2022. Mullis also worked at South Rowan High School for eight years, where he held various positions including teacher, instructional coach, academic success coordinator and principal intern. His comprehensive experience in instructional leadership and academic success coordination will greatly benefit the students and staff at West Middle School.

“We are excited to welcome these leaders to their new roles within RSS,” Superintendent Dr. Kelly Withers said. “Ms. Smith will provide a needed focus on preparing students with individualized pathways for their future careers. Dr. Marsh, Dr. Macon, and Mr. Mullis are poised to create a positive impact on the schools they will lead, and I look forward to working with them to serve our students.”