H.M. Arndt Middle School has a proud tradition of preparing our students for high school and beyond. At HMA, we do the things the right way! Our mission is to consistently provide our students and their families with an enriching educational experience!
A Message from our Principal
"Every day, our goal is to provide a fantastic experience for our students. HMA staff is always willing to go the extra mile to help students experience success. Our focus is on impacting the whole child, and we strive for greatness in all we do."
Meet our Administrative Team
Chavis Sims
Principal, Arndt Middle School
Meet Chavis Sims, Principal
Joined Team CCS - August 2018
Experience
My journey in education spans twelve years in North Carolina, during which I have held various roles. I began my career as a middle grades social studies teacher and coach for football, basketball, wrestling, and track. I then transitioned to teaching language arts and social studies in three districts, including Catawba County. In addition, I have experience as an Adult Basic Education instructor at the community college level. After plying my trade as a teacher, I was blessed with the opportunity to transition to the administrative 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
Graduate Certificate - Executive Educational Leadership, University of Kentucky
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.
Chasity Bolch
Assistant Principal, Arndt Middle School
Meet Chasity Bolch, Assistant Principal
Re-Joined Team CCS - August 2022
Experience
I've just completed my sixteenth year in public education and I am so excited to transition from your Dean of Students to your Assistant Principal! My entire career has been spent in middle grade education in Catawba County. As a National Board Certified Science Educator, I was also blessed to be the 2021 state finalist for the Presidential Award of Excellence in teaching in math. I absolutely love middle school and love HMA!
Education
Graduate Certificate - School Leadership - (2024)
B.S. Middle Grades Math and Science - WCU (2008)
M.A. Middle Grades Curriculum - Gardner-Webb University (2013)
Why I Became an Educator
When I was in middle school, I taught martial arts classes and realized I really enjoyed working with kids. In high school, I applied to become a NC Teaching Fellow and found my love for working with adolescents specifically and since I also loved math and science it became an easy fit!
When I was growing up, teachers became my biggest advocates to pursue my dreams and work hard. My goal has always been to do the same for students, help them recognize their potential.
Favorite Place in Catawba County
I can often be found at CrossFit Hickory or running my kids from Cheer Energy or CVYASA, but my favorite place is on the river in my kayak!
Favorite Activities
I love being outdoors or working out and recently have started playing pickleball with some of the staff!
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.
Dean of Students, Arndt Middle School
Eric Mendel, Dean of Students
Joined Team CCS - 2013
Experience
I began my teaching career in Charlotte, NC, teaching high school math at Kennedy Charter and Myers Park High School. From there, I taught and coached for two years at Hickory High School before moving to St. Stephens High School, where I taught math, and coached football, and lacrosse for the past 11 years.
I am very excited to take on this role and I am looking forward to having a great year!
Masters of School Administration. UNC Wilmington, 2024
Why I became an educator
I became an educator with the goal of providing our young people with the skills and guidance needed to be successful in our society. Along my journey, I had some fantastic teachers and coaches who impacted my life. I have tried to emulate those greats as I interact with students.
Favorite place in Catawba County
I love spending time with my family whether at home or playing with my kids at the park. I also love to play golf, and our are has some great courses.
Favorite Activities
I love to be active and involved with athletics. Football season is my favorite time of year, and I love to watch games at any level.
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