It is an honor to serve my second year as principal alongside with this extraordinary school community. I arrived to South Topsail as a passionate elementary teacher and have served in school administration for five years. In addition to my role as an educator, I am first and foremost a mother and wife. My husband, Dominique Bates, is the CTE Director for Pender County and is enjoying his time in a career that was made for him. I have a beautiful daughter that attends STES with me. It is such a joy getting to be at the same school with my daughter.

The 2024-2025 school year marks my 14th year in education. Since graduating from Catawba College in Salisbury, NC, I have served in many roles as a teacher leader that enticed me to pursue a career in administration. "Teamwork makes the dreamwork" is my favorite motto and the reason why I have experienced so much success as an educator. I took a leap of faith relocating my family to Hampstead in 2022 and am most excited that my life path has led me to you guys at South Topsail Elementary.