06/03/2026
WHY RCS WEDNESDAY 💙💛❤️💚
Celebrating Leadership Across Rutherford County Schools
This week, we're proud to recognize a remarkable group of leaders who will serve our students, staff, and communities in new roles during the 2026-2027 school year. Their experience, dedication, and passion for education reflect the very best of Rutherford County Schools.
⭐ Dr. Renee Collins
Interim Principal, East Rutherford Middle School
A former assistant superintendent, director of secondary education, principal, and teacher, Dr. Collins brings decades of educational leadership experience. Her commitment to building meaningful relationships and supporting student success has made a lasting impact across North Carolina and Rutherford County Schools.
⭐ Reagan Rippy
Principal, R-S Middle School
With more than 20 years in education and over a decade as an administrator, Mr. Rippy has served in numerous leadership capacities and is known for his commitment to students, staff, and community service. His extensive experience makes him exceptionally prepared to lead R-S Middle School.
⭐ Ashley Twitty
Principal, Forest City-Dunbar Elementary School
Mrs. Twitty is a dedicated instructional leader whose work has centered on supporting the whole child. A former Teacher of the Year and Principal Fellow, she is recognized for implementing trauma-informed practices that help students thrive through connection, trust, and support.
⭐ Jennifer Walker
Principal, Pinnacle Elementary School
Mrs. Walker brings strong instructional and operational leadership experience to Pinnacle. Known for her collaborative approach and commitment to continuous improvement, she has successfully led school improvement efforts, testing programs, and professional learning initiatives throughout her career.
⭐ Sanna Smawley
Principal, Forrest W. Hunt Elementary School
Having served Rutherford County Schools as a teacher assistant, teacher, and assistant principal, Ms. Smawley exemplifies servant leadership. Recently named both Rutherford County Schools Assistant Principal of the Year and NCPAPA Assistant Principal of the Year, she has earned recognition for her outstanding service to students and families.
⭐ Karen Davis
Principal, East Rutherford High School
A 25-year veteran of Rutherford County Schools, Mrs. Davis has served as a teacher, coach, instructional coach, assistant principal, and district leader. Her broad experience and commitment to excellence position her well to lead East Rutherford High School into its next chapter.
⭐ Mark Snyder
Testing, Accountability & Student Services Coordinator
Mr. Snyder brings valuable school-level leadership experience to the district's Instructional Services Department, where he will support assessment, accountability, and student services initiatives that impact schools across Rutherford County.
⭐ Charlie Freeman
Assistant Principal, CHASE Middle School
A respected district leader who previously directed Career and Technical Education and other district programs, Mr. Freeman now brings his expertise and student-centered leadership directly to CHASE Middle School.
⭐ Laura Thompson
Assistant Principal, R-S Middle School
A 27-year veteran of Rutherford County Schools and recent graduate of the North Carolina Principal Fellows Program, Mrs. Thompson continues her commitment to educational excellence through this new leadership role.
⭐ Natalie Brown
Assistant Principal, R-S Central High School
Mrs. Brown's experience as a school principal and educational leader brings valuable perspective to the R-S Central leadership team as she begins her new role supporting students and staff.
Congratulations to these outstanding leaders as they begin new opportunities to serve Rutherford County Schools. Your dedication, expertise, and commitment to students make a difference every day.
