Press release from Asheville City Schools:
It is with excitement and mixed emotions that we announce the retirement of our colleague, Sarah Cain, Executive Director of EC and Federal Programs. After 24+ years of service to Asheville City Schools, Ms. Cain has decided to embark on a new chapter.
Throughout Ms. Cain’s tenure, she has been an integral part of our Cougar family, contributing her time, expertise, and unwavering dedication to the success and well-being of our students and staff. Ms. Cain has touched the lives of countless students through her time as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and director. Sarah’s leadership was recognized multiple times throughout her career; she was named Principal of the Year three times (2013, 2016, and 2018).
Sarah’s remarkable 24+ years of service to students and educators in Asheville City Schools spanned multiple schools and roles:
1999: Language Arts and Social Studies Teacher at Asheville Middle
2006: Assistant Principal at Asheville Middle
2009: Assistant Principal at Ira B. Jones Elementary
2010: Principal at Ira B. Jones Elementary
2019: Director of Elementary Education
2022: Executive Director of EC and Federal Programs“I made a very intentional decision to work in Asheville City Schools. I began my career teaching in Buncombe County Schools but came to teach summer school in ACS for four summers, before joining the Cougar family full-time. What struck me the most about ACS was the sense of community and the feeling of being seen and heard. As an ACS employee, I felt valued for my contributions and work ethic, unlike other large districts where no one knew your name. I fell in love with the Asheville Middle School community and felt an immediate connection to the students and my colleagues. I loved going to work every day; everyone felt in sync and like we were working towards a shared goal – working hard for the students we served. When I transitioned to Ira B. Jones, the creativity and energy of that community made me fall in love with elementary school. I treasure those years.
When I look at the list of graduating students, that’s my ‘why.’ I have a big stack of graduation cards that I send out to the kids that I’ve known since they were in kindergarten. To see them graduate is the most amazing feeling.”
Ms. Cain offers this parting wisdom to new educators: “Give yourself grace. Know that it won’t be perfect your first year, second year, or maybe even the tenth year! Every year will be different. You’ll have good years and challenging years, but it’s the challenging years that will make you grow. You have to remember that you’re impacting kids every step of the way.”
Ms. Cain’s last day will be Friday, June 28th. As she transitions into retirement, please join us in expressing our heartfelt gratitude and best wishes for all that she has done for our district. We will continue to uphold the values and the example of hard work and dedication set by Ms. Cain.
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