FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 28, 2026

Heather Wilson Named Principal of Conover School

NEWTON, NC — The Newton-Conover City Schools Board of Education is proud to announce the appointment of Heather Wilson as the new principal of Conover School. Mrs. Wilson brings over 15 years of dedicated experience working in special education as she takes on this leadership position to guide the school’s academic vision, student development, and specialized programming.

Throughout her distinguished career in special education, Mrs. Wilson has developed a deep expertise in supporting students with diverse learning needs, implementing specialized instructional strategies, and fostering strong collaborative relationships between educators and families. Her background includes overseeing individualized education programs (IEPs), supporting multidisciplinary support teams, and advocating for inclusive practices that ensure every child receives the tailored support necessary to reach their full potential.

In her new role as principal, Mrs. Wilson will be responsible for leading day-to-day operations, mentoring faculty and staff, and continuing to elevate the high standards of care and academic excellence at Conover School. She is committed to cultivating a safe, supportive, and empowering environment where students, teachers, and staff feel valued and equipped to achieve meaningful growth.

"We are excited to welcome Mrs. Wilson as the new principal of Conover School! She brings an extensive background in leadership and a genuine passion for students," said Dr. Emily Shaw, Superintendent of Newton-Conover City Schools. "Her leadership aligns with our commitment to creating a culture of academic excellence for students and staff, while fostering the positive culture, strong relationships, and 'Good Vibes Only' mindset that help every student thrive."

Mrs. Wilson shared, “Stepping into this role is an incredible honor, and I am beyond thrilled to become part of the Conover School family. I am excited to connect with our staff, students, and families to continue building an environment where everyone feels valued and inspired.”

For more information about Conover School or Newton-Conover City Schools, please visit www.newton-conover.org.

about 21 hours ago, Angie Sigmon
New principal at Conover School.
Happy National Mentoring Day to our district mentor, Eileen Cangemi, and all of our incredible Buddy Teachers who work tirelessly to support and guide our beginning teachers!
2 days ago, Angie Sigmon
Happy National Mentoring Day - Thank you to our district mentor, Eileen Cangemi, as well as all our Buddy Teachers who work so hard to support and mentor our beginning teachers!!. Newton-Conover City Schools

Celebrating two of Newton-Conover’s own! Alumni Ben Jenkins (Class of 2006) and Robbie Gonzales (Class of 2007), who currently serves as our Board of Education Vice Chair, were honored at last night’s Hickory Young Professionals Top 10 Under 40 Awards. Congratulations, Ben and Robbie!

6 days ago, Angie Sigmon
Ben Jenkins and Robbie Gonzales being recognized from the Hickory Young Professionals Top 10 under 40 Awards from last night at Catawba Country Club.
Below is the Superintendent’s Message from the Monday, October 19, 2026 Board of Education meeting, presented by Dr. Emily Shaw.
7 days ago, Angie Sigmon
Below is the Superintendent’s Message from the Monday, October 19, 2026 Board of Education meeting, presented by Dr. Emily Shaw. One of the greatest blessings of Newton-Conover City Schools is the incredible people who make up our school community. We are fortunate to have dedicated staff members who pour their hearts into serving students, students who bring energy and potential to our classrooms, and a community that continues to show up and support our schools. The relationships, commitment, and pride that exist throughout N-CCS are what make this district so special. I am truly grateful to be part of this community, and I never want us to lose sight of how fortunate we are to work together in support of our students and one another. We have spent time reviewing individual school data with our principals and are working alongside school leadership teams to identify focused priorities and establish clear goals for this school year. In a few minutes, and again next month, you will hear directly about the work our school-level teams have done to develop school improvement plans grounded in their data. Individual teacher EVAAS data was released on October 15, and our accountability department is carefully reviewing the results and engaging leadership teams in conversations about how we can leverage these insights to strengthen instruction and maximize student growth. As discussions surrounding the potential merger continue, we remain committed to advocating for Newton-Conover City Schools and ensuring that our district’s voice is heard. We love our schools, our students, our staff, and the community we serve, and we believe any decisions about the future of public education must be thoughtfully considered with students’ best interests at the forefront. We will continue to stand together, ask important questions, and advocate for the best possible future for our students and the communities we serve. October is National Principals Month, and I want to take a moment to recognize and celebrate the incredible principals who lead our Newton-Conover City Schools. Our principals wear so many hats each day as they support teachers and staff, build relationships with families, celebrate students, solve challenges, and keep student learning at the center of every decision. We are incredibly fortunate to have such dedicated, caring, and talented leaders, and I am grateful for the heart, energy, and leadership they bring to our schools every single day! I would like to recognize each by name and school. Jonathan Tharpe, Shuford Elementary: Jonathan Tharpe exemplifies servant leadership through his genuine commitment to helping his school, staff, and students continually grow and succeed. He cares deeply about his students and is intentional about creating an environment where they feel supported and can thrive. I love visiting his building and seeing firsthand the meaningful interactions he has with students and staff. It is clear that his leadership is rooted in relationships, service, and a desire to make a difference every day. Elizabeth Moseley, South Newton Elementary: Elizabeth Moseley exemplifies a hands-on, servant-hearted leader who consistently puts her staff and school first. She is rarely in her office because she is always out where she is needed most, taking care of her team, jumping in to help, and making sure things get done.
Below is the Superintendent’s Message from the Monday, October 19, 2026 Board of Education meeting, presented by Dr. Emily Shaw. One of the greatest blessings of Newton-Conover City Schools is the incredible people who make up our school community. We are fortunate to have dedicated staff members who pour their hearts into serving students, students who bring energy and potential to our classrooms, and a community that continues to show up and support our schools. The relationships, commitment, and pride that exist throughout N-CCS are what make this district so special. I am truly grateful to be part of this community, and I never want us to lose sight of how fortunate we are to work together in support of our students and one another. We have spent time reviewing individual school data with our principals and are working alongside school leadership teams to identify focused priorities and establish clear goals for this school year. In a few minutes, and again next month, you will hear directly about the work our school-level teams have done to develop school improvement plans grounded in their data. Individual teacher EVAAS data was released on October 15, and our accountability department is carefully reviewing the results and engaging leadership teams in conversations about how we can leverage these insights to strengthen instruction and maximize student growth. As discussions surrounding the potential merger continue, we remain committed to advocating for Newton-Conover City Schools and ensuring that our district’s voice is heard. We love our schools, our students, our staff, and the community we serve, and we believe any decisions about the future of public education must be thoughtfully considered with students’ best interests at the forefront. We will continue to stand together, ask important questions, and advocate for the best possible future for our students and the communities we serve. October is National Principals Month, and I want to take a moment to recognize and celebrate the incredible principals who lead our Newton-Conover City Schools. Our principals wear so many hats each day as they support teachers and staff, build relationships with families, celebrate students, solve challenges, and keep student learning at the center of every decision. We are incredibly fortunate to have such dedicated, caring, and talented leaders, and I am grateful for the heart, energy, and leadership they bring to our schools every single day! I would like to recognize each by name and school. Jonathan Tharpe, Shuford Elementary: Jonathan Tharpe exemplifies servant leadership through his genuine commitment to helping his school, staff, and students continually grow and succeed. He cares deeply about his students and is intentional about creating an environment where they feel supported and can thrive. I love visiting his building and seeing firsthand the meaningful interactions he has with students and staff. It is clear that his leadership is rooted in relationships, service, and a desire to make a difference every day. Elizabeth Moseley, South Newton Elementary: Elizabeth Moseley exemplifies a hands-on, servant-hearted leader who consistently puts her staff and school first. She is rarely in her office because she is always out where she is needed most, taking care of her team, jumping in to help, and making sure things get done.
generously. We are grateful for the time he has spent serving Newton-Conover City Schools and for the many ways he has strengthened our district. While we will certainly miss his leadership and presence, we celebrate the lasting impact he has made on our school community. Dr. Efird, thank you for your service, your heart for students, and the difference you have made in the lives of so many. Our district is better because of you, and we wish you all the very best in this next chapter! Thanks, Dr. Emily Shaw Superintendent

Thanks to the partnership that Shuford Credit Union has with N-CCS, Jazmin Rangel, a Pre-K teacher at South Newton, was presented with a $500 gift certificate to Food Lion. Thanks again to Shuford Credit Union!

7 days ago, Angie Sigmon
Jazmin Rangel was presented with a $500 giftcard to Food Lion from Shuford Credit Union.
NCMS has been named a U.S. News & World Report Best Middle School! Ranked among the top 40% of middle schools across North Carolina for 2027, this recognition reflects the incredible hard work, dedication, and excellence of our students, teachers, and staff.
8 days ago, Angie Sigmon
newton-conover STEM middle school. Newton-Conover middle school. Best middle schools. U.S. News & world report 2027. Ranked amongthe top 40% of middle schools across NC for 2027 according to U.S. News & World Report.

Celebrate National Principals Month with us as we give a huge shout-out to our incredible school leaders!

At this month’s board meeting, Superintendent Dr. Emily Shaw took a moment to present and honor our school principals for their unwavering dedication, leadership, and commitment to our students, staff, and community.

Our principals work tirelessly behind the scenes, in the halls, and in the classrooms every single day to foster safe, inspiring, and supportive learning environments. Thank you, principals, for all that you do to lead our schools toward excellence!

9 days ago, Angie Sigmon
Harry Efird, Leah Hayes, Jonathan Tharpe, Elizabeth Moseley
Our October spotlight continues as we honor the dedicated principals who champion, inspire, and elevate our school communities every single day! Today, we are proud to recognize Harry Efird, Principal at Conover School!

Thank you, Dr. Efird, for your dedicated leadership and unwavering support for the students and staff at Conover School!
9 days ago, Angie Sigmon
newton-conover city schools, national principals' month. The Good Vibes at Conover School come from seeing our students succeed academically while becoming increasingly visible and engaged in our community. Whether students are demonstrating growth in the classroom, developing greater independence, participating in community-based learning, or representing Conover School at events throughout our area, we are celebrating their abilities and accomplishments. Our staff works intentionally to create meaningful opportunities for every student to learn, grow, and participate beyond the walls of the school. Seeing our students experience success, build confidence, and be recognized as valued members of the community reminds us why we do this work.
Newton-Conover City Schools is looking for passionate, dedicated individuals to join our team and make a difference in our community. We have a wide range of open positions. Learn more and apply today!
👉 Apply here: newtonconover.schoolspring.com
10 days ago, Angie Sigmon
We are hiring - Middle School Math Teacher, School Success Specialist/bus driver, ec teacher, kid connection program coordinator, kid connection assistant program coordinator, kid connection group leader, elementary music teacher, ec teacher assistant, bus drivers, child nutrition assistant (part time), child nutrtion subs, subs, coaches
Happy Digital Citizenship Week! Being a safe, kind, and responsible digital citizen starts with great learning habits, just like at Shuford Elementary, where students received a lesson on internet safety from Officer Grindstaff. Let’s keep working together to support safe choices online!
10 days ago, Angie Sigmon
Officer G discussing internet and social media safety with 4th grade students at Shuford Elementary
Our October celebrations continue as we shine a light on the dedicated leaders driving excellence across our schools! Today, we are proud to spotlight Elizabeth Moseley, Principal at South Newton Elementary!

Thank you, Mrs. Moseley, for your intentional leadership, commitment to collaboration, and constant focus on growing both students and staff at South Newton Elementary!
10 days ago, Angie Sigmon
newton-conover city schools. National Principals' month. The Good Vibes at South Newton are coming from our new hires and some new teamings at South Newton are proving successful!! Teachers are using their experiences and sharing them with their teammates to actively participate in data discussions and next steps in lesson planning when working with Cynde Gilmore. PLC discussions and post-actions have been very strong, and the assistance teachers and students have recieved as a result of these conversations & this planning is showing excellent results. “I don't have to chase extraordinary moments to find happiness—it's right in front of me if I'm paying attention and practicing gratitude.” — Brené Brown Elizabeth Moseley South Newton Elementary
Happy National Boss’s Day to our incredible leader, Dr. Emily Shaw!

Dr. Shaw brings nothing but Good Vibes to Newton-Conover City Schools! We are so grateful for her unwavering dedication, positive energy, and tireless commitment to our students, staff, and community. Thank you for leading our district with heart, strength, and continuous enthusiasm every single day!
13 days ago, Angie Sigmon
Dr. Emily Shaw, Newton-Conover City Schools. Happy National Boss's Day
Newton-Conover City Schools is proud to highlight Karmen Lawing, a teacher at Newton-Conover High School, for serving on the teacher panel at the Music Impact Coalition!
13 days ago, Angie Sigmon
Music Impact Coalition - Mrs. Karmen Lawing on the teacher panel.

📢 Reminder: There is no school for students tomorrow, October 16, 2026, due to a Required Teacher Workday. Enjoy the long weekend!

14 days ago, Angie Sigmon
Newton-Conover City Schools - No school for students, October 16, 2026. Kid Connection will operate at North Newton from 6am-6pm. Required Teacher Workday
This month, the "Good Vibes" at Newton-Conover High School are coming from all of the exciting fall activities happening across campus! Fall sports are in full swing, homecoming excitement is building, and the campus is buzzing with positive energy. Principal Penley credits this amazing start to the dedicated staff and wonderful students who bring so much spirit to school every single day.

Thank you, Mr. Penley, for your steadfast leadership, encouragement, and dedication to the Red Devils family!
14 days ago, Angie Sigmon
newton-conover city schools national principals' month - The Good Vibes at Newton-Conover High School are coming from all of the exciting fall activities across our campus. Fall sports are getting underway, homecoming excitement is building, and the campus is full of energy. This amazing start couldn‘t happen without our dedicated staff and wonderful students who bring so much spirit to our school. All we can do is the best we can do! Chris Penley - NCHS
Our October spotlight continues as we honor the outstanding leaders who guide, inspire, and support our schools every day! Today, we are thrilled to recognize Billy Cannon, Principal at Newton-Conover Middle School!

This month, the "Good Vibes" at Newton-Conover Middle School are coming from their incredible academic success from the previous school year, including exceeding growth, achieving the highest growth in the district, and tying for the #1 middle school in the county! NCMS is also celebrating the vibrant return of fall sports, band, chorus, color guard, and theatre as staff and students build upon last year's achievements together.

Thank you, Mr. Cannon, for your relentless pursuit of excellence and for fostering a supportive, high-achieving environment for the students and staff at NCMS!
16 days ago, Angie Sigmon
newton-conover city schools national principals' month - The Good Vibes at Newton-Conover Middle School are coming from our academic success from the previous year! Exceeding growth, highest growth in the district, and tied for the #1 middle school in the county. We are also enjoying the return of fall sports, band, chorus, color guard, and theatre. We love having our staff and students back at school and building upon last year's success. You're braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think." -A.A. Milne Billy Cannon, NCMS
Our October celebration continues as we honor the incredible principals who lead, support, and inspire our schools every day! Today, we are proud to spotlight Shane Whitener, Principal at Discovery High School!

This month, the "Good Vibes" at Discovery High School are coming from a brand-new tradition: their Vengeance Volleyball tournament!
21 days ago, Angie Sigmon
Newton-Conover City Schools - National Principals' Month - This month the Good Vibes at Discovery High School are coming from our Vengeance Volleyball tournament!. We have had a March Madness basketball tournament for a while during our Community. For the first time, we're going to have a Vengeance Volleyball tournament in October. There is a lot of buzz about it.

Behind every great athlete, team, and success story, there’s a coach who believed first.

Today, on National Coaches Day, we want to send a huge THANK YOU to all of our incredible coaches at Newton-Conover City Schools! You do so much more than teach plays and run drills. You build confidence, instill discipline, and model leadership every single day.

Thank you for your endless dedication, late nights, early mornings, and the heart you pour into our students. We appreciate you! 🙌

23 days ago, Angie Sigmon
N-CCS - National Coaches Day October 6, 2026
This October, we are continuing to highlight the dedicated leaders across our district who bring positivity, passion, and purpose to our schools! Today, we are excited to spotlight Jonathan Tharpe, Principal at Shuford Elementary! 📚✨ This month, the "Good Vibes" at Shuford Elementary are coming directly from their schoolwide Reading Buddies program! This wonderful initiative brings together upper-grade and lower-grade students to build reading and math fluency through engaging, meaningful learning activities. Beyond strengthening key academic skills, students build confidence, leadership skills, and lasting friendships across grade levels. Principal Tharpe’s daily inspiration for his school family? "Every day is a day to be happy!" 😊❤️ Thank you, Principal Tharpe, for fostering a positive, connected, and joyful learning environment for the students and staff at Shuford Elementary!
23 days ago, Angie Sigmon
N-CCS - National Principals' month: This month the Good Vibes at Shuford Elementary are coming from our schoolwide Reading Buddies program! This initiative brings together our upper-grade and lower-grade students to build reading and math fluency through meaningful learning activities. In addition to strengthening academic skills, students have the opportunity to develop leadership, confidence, and new friendships across grade levels. We are excited to see the positive impact these relationships will have on our students throughout the school year. Every day is a day to be happy! Jonathan Tharpe, shuford elementary
Dear N-CCS Staff, Families, and Community,

Today marks an important step in the process surrounding the proposed merger of Newton-Conover City Schools. Today was the deadline for briefs to be submitted to the North Carolina State Board of Education, and Newton-Conover City Schools submitted our brief.

We are proud of the work that went into our submission and remain confident in the position we have presented. Our message continues to be clear: Newton-Conover City Schools should remain an independent school district.

We know the strength of our schools. We know the dedication of our staff. We know the opportunities and experiences we provide our students. And we know the importance of our schools to the Newton-Conover community. We will continue to stand firmly in support of our district and advocate for what we believe is in the best interest of our students, staff, families, and community.

The next step will be for the Catawba County Board of Commissioners to submit a reply to the briefs that have been filed. The proposed merger plan is currently scheduled to be discussed at the November meeting of the North Carolina State Board of Education.
As this process continues, we will remain engaged, prepared, and committed to advocating for Newton-Conover City Schools.

We will continue to keep you informed every step of the way. More importantly, we will continue to do the work, tell our story, and stand firm in our commitment to Newton-Conover City Schools remaining an independent school district.

Thank you for continuing to stand with us and, most importantly, for continuing to stand up for our students and our community.

Together, we will continue to advocate for what is best for N-CCS.

Please use the link below to access the brief that was submitted to the State Board of Education.

N-CCS Brief Submission - https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1nxY3ZbrIClTaXV2PLpWZwxYf8Zg_VoJg

With appreciation,

Emily Shaw
Superintendent
Newton-Conover City Schools
24 days ago, Angie Sigmon