Meet Chavis Sims, Principal

Joined Team CCS - August 2018                                                  

Experience 
I have worked in education for 9 years in the state of North Carolina. I started my career as a middle school social studies teacher and football, basketball, wrestling and track coach. I transitioned to teaching language arts and social studies in three districts, including Catawba County. I have also worked as an Adult Basic Education instructor on the community college level. After plying my trade as a teacher, I was blessed with the opportunity to transition to the administrative level in Catawba County Schools. 

Education 
B.S. Sociology with a concentration in Criminology and Social Control, Appalachian State University
Lateral Entry into Education
Masters of School Administration, Appalachian State University
Ed.D - Educational Leadership, University of Kentucky - In Progress

Why I Became an Educator
My parents influenced me to pursue a career in education. They were both born in impoverished conditions. Through determination and a focus on continuing their education, they were able to rise to the top of their professions. My education was always a priority for them. Through my upbringing, I gained an appreciation for learning and teaching that I have carried with me throughout my life. 

Favorite Place in Catawba County
My favorite place in Catawba County is downtown Hickory. It is a beautiful area, and I love to support small businesses in our community. 

Favorite Activities
I enjoy hanging out with my family, reading, playing basketball, cooking and rarely - gaming! 

 

I joined CCS because I knew this is where I wanted to raise my family. This is an area that pours into the people, and I wanted to be part of the growth of this county. I love Catawba County, and I am proud to call it home.    

Meet Jamey Carter, Assistant Principal

Joined Team CCS - August 2006

Experience 
I've just completed my sixteenth 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 in 2020 join the staff at Murray Elemenary. I am excited to return to middle school and join the staff at Arndt for the 2022- 2023 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.

Meet Chasity Bolch, Dean of Students

Rejoined Team CCS - August 2022

Experience 
I have taught middle school math and science at River Bend and Newton-Conover collectively for the past 14 years. In my work at the middle school level, I learned my passion for helping meet students' needs beyond the classroom. I love working with students to help them see their potential and gain success. In this role, I will be an additional resource for students needing support to become more successful. I understand that middle school is such a short time in a student's academic career, but it can also set the tone for future study habits and work ethic. 

Education 
BS- Middle Grades Math and Science (Western Carolina University 2008)
MS- Middle Grades Education (Gardner-Webb University 2013)
NBCT- Early Adolescent Science (2018)

Why I Became an Educator 
My parents were hard working individuals that had big goals of me graduating high school and attending college. I was actually the first person in my family to attend college. Teachers I had along the way became key components to continuing my success. 
I also taught my very own karate class when I was in middle school and through this work I recognized my passion for teaching kids.  

Favorite Place in Catawba County
I've grown up in the greater Hickory area and currently live in Newton. My family enjoys walking through our neighborhood and downtown. 

Favorite Activities 
I love kayaking on the river during the warm weather. My girls are at such a fun age for family adventures as well from hiking and swimming to catching a movie. When I'm not at school, I continue to train martial arts in Hickory and I love working out at CrossFit Hickory!  

My parents were hard working individuals that had big goals of me graduating high school and attending college. I was actually the first person in my family to attend college.