Meet Aaron Joplin, Principal

Experience and Education

I began my educational career as a fourth grade teacher on emergency licensure at Gamewell Elementary in Lenoir, NC.  Shortly thereafter, I served in the Peace Corps where I taught English language and culture at Hexi University in China.  This was an incredible experience and helped solidify my decision to make education my career.  When I returned, I completed my Master of Arts in Teaching in Elementary Education and took a teaching position at Viewmont Elementary in Hickory.  I thoroughly enjoyed my time there, and after completing my add-on licensure in school administration, I took an Assistant Principal position at our feeder middle school, Grandview Middle.  I served there for three years before assuming the Principal position at Sparta K-8 in Alleghany County, NC.  Soon after, I returned to Grandview Middle as principal.  Serving at both Viewmont and Grandview allowed me to get to know numerous families in the Hickory area, and I still communicate with many of them.  I most recently served as Executive Director of the Northwest Learning Community in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools where I supported 28 schools.  I am thrilled to be returning to the area to join the amazing staff of Jacobs Fork Middle School! 

 Why I Became an Educator

My interest in education began in college.  I originally thought that I would be a college professor, but after college I took a position teaching 4th grade on emergency licensure and found that I loved it.  After my time teaching English in China, I returned to get a Master’s in Elementary Education, and I have been an educator ever since.  

 Favorite Place in Catawba County

This is a tough question, because there are so many great places in the county.  With my love for the outdoors, I really enjoy visiting Glenn Hilton and Geitner Parks.  In fact, my wife and I were married at Glenn Hilton Park. 

 Favorite Activities

I have enjoyed hiking for most of my life.  I spend a lot of time in the mountains of North Carolina around the Boone area and near Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  I also love to run, although I do not do it as much as I would like!  Family time is very important to me, and my weekends are spent enjoying my wife and two boys.  

 Something Unique About Me 

I completed the Mortimer 100 challenge this year with 5 other team members.  We ran 100 miles as a relay team in 24 hours through the mountains of North Carolina from Granite Falls to Boone. 

 

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Meet Katie Helms, Assistant Principal

Experience and Education

I graduated from Lenoir-Rhyne University in 2009 with my undergraduate degree in Middle Grades Education. I have 12 years of teaching experience and 1 year of school leadership experience.

I have had the honor and privilege to serve as a high school math teacher in Catawba County for 9 years, teaching at Challenger Early College and Maiden High School. Most recently, I served as the principal intern at St. Stephens Elementary School.

I am a recent graduate of High Point University’s Leadership Academy with my Master’s of Education in Educational Leadership and a graduate of the North Carolina Principal Fellows Program.

I am very excited to be joining the Jacobs Fork school community and I look forward to an amazing school year!

 Why I Became an Educator

I have known from a young age that I wanted to be an educator. Throughout my K-12 educational experience, I was privileged to have many amazing teachers who encouraged and inspired me to pursue my dream. As a teacher, I had the honor to work under educational leaders who empowered me to become a teacher leader and fostered my goal of becoming an administrator.

 Favorite Place in Catawba County

I would have to say downtown Hickory because there is so much to do! I enjoy eating at the restaurants, supporting the local shops, attending plays at Hickory Community Theatre, shopping at the farmer's market, and attending live music events.

 Favorite Activities

I enjoy sharing time with my friends, family, and my new puppy. I also enjoy being outdoors, reading, crafting, and listening to music.

 Something Unique About Me 

In the past few years, I have discovered that I have a green thumb and I have amassed quite the collection of indoor plants.