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Avery Schools Welcomes Former Lake Norman Principal Todd Griffin, New Principal of Avery High School

Griffin, in gray Avery sweater, stands with students. Photo courtesy of Martha Davis, ACS
Griffin, in gray Avery sweater, stands with students. Photo courtesy of Martha Davis, ACS

Jan. 10, 2013. Avery County Board of Education members approved Todd Griffin to serve as the new principal for Avery County High School. Mr. Griffin replaces Mark Garrett, who took an assistant superintendent position with the McDowell County Schools in Marion, NC. A committee of nine members including representatives from the school system, administration, and community, screened resumes, conducted interviews and followed policy with a unanimous board approval. The committee reported that Mr. Griffin expressed a sincere desire to work on a team with other educators where meeting student’s needs are the top priority.

As an educator, Mr. Griffin has served in a variety of leadership positions, the most recent as principal of Lake Norman High School in the Iredell-Statesville Schools, where approximately 2000 students are enrolled. Before entering administration, he served the classroom as an English/Drama Teacher and was involved in coaching football, basketball and track and field. Mr. Griffin attended the University of South Carolina where he received his Bachelor of Arts in English and a Masters of Education in Educational Administration. He is currently working on his doctorate in Educational Leadership from UNC-Charlotte. Mr. Griffin shared that he is very interested in NC school systems’ 21st century curriculum reform particularly the extensive role technology will play in the next five to ten years. He stated, “I am administrator who is an advocate for student success and achievement.” Mr. Burleson said, “We are thrilled to have a person with Todd Griffin’s background and experience to be part of our Avery High School Team. With the quality of staff, outstanding students and dynamic leadership in place, there should be no limitations for the future success for our students.”

Mr. Griffin will be joined by his wife, Amy along with their two children, Braxton and Emma. 

Sincere gratitude is expressed to Joe Wield retired teacher and administrator who served as the interim principal during the time of transition.