District Leadership

Dr. Ayers transitioned to school administration at West Lincoln Middle School where she served as Assistant Principal of Instruction from 2010 to 2014.  She then became Principal at Lincolnton Middle School and was named Principal of the Year in 2017.

After relocating to Jackson County in 2018, Dr. Ayers was hired by Asheville City Schools as Chief Academic Officer.  She commuted to Asheville until 2021 when she became Superintendent of Jackson County Public Schools.

Dr. Ayers received her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Belmont Abbey College in 1999.  She was awarded a Master of Arts Degree in School Administration in 2008 and AIG licensure in 2009 from WCU.  In 2016, she completed her Doctorate in Educational Leadership at UNC Charlotte.

In her personal life, Dr. Ayers prioritizes faith, family, and community.  She has participated in many service projects with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, Salvation Army, and Samaritan’s Purse.  She has volunteered at homeless shelters, served as a team captain for Relay for Life, and collected food for various ministries.  Dr. Ayers and her family are also active supporters of WCU athletics.

Mr. Buchanan began his educational career in 2001 teaching social studies at Smoky Mountain High School.  He became assistant principal at Scotts Creek School in 2010.  He served the district as director of middle and secondary education in 2012 prior to becoming principal at Smoky Mountain High School in 2013.  Under his leadership, Smoky Mountain moved into the top 5% of high schools in North Carolina in both academic growth and graduation rate.

Mr. Buchanan completed his Bachelor’s Degree in History from King College in 1999.  He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education Social Studies in 2001 and a Master’s Degree in School Administration in 2009 from Western Carolina University.  In 2017, he received an Education Specialist Degree from Clemson University and is currently working on his Doctorate in Educational Leadership.

Mr. Buchanan received National Board Certification in 2005.  He was selected as the Jackson County Teacher of the Year in 2007 and the Jackson County Principal of the Year in 2015.  He became assistant superintendent in June 2018 and deputy superintendent in March 2021.

Former Superintendent Dr. Kim Elliott said, "Mr. Buchanan is a true asset to Jackson County Public Schools.  He shares my vision for safe schools and excellence in teaching and learning.  Mr. Buchanan cares deeply about students and their success.  Students have always come first and will continue to do so in Jackson County."