Carrie Farris has been selected as the principal of Jim D. Rollins School of Innovation.
Farris is currently the Walker Elementary School assistant principal and will transition to Rollins following current principal Dr. Annette Thompson’s retirement.
“I want to thank Dr. Cleveland, the district administrative team and the Springdale School Board for this tremendous opportunity,” Farris said. “I am looking forward to meeting the students, families and staff at Rollins. I am also excited to continue the outstanding work put into place by previous administrators and staff that will further grow our innovative community.”
Dr. Jared Cleveland, Springdale Public Schools superintendent, expressed confidence in Farris as she prepares for her new role at Rollins.
"Mrs. Farris is an outstanding administrator and served well at Walker Elementary as assistant principal," Cleveland said. "I'm confident she will lead Rollins Elementary in Tontitown with the same dedication to excellence for her students and staff."
Farris has 22 years of experience as an educator and has worked with Springdale Schools for seven years. In addition to serving as Walker’s assistant principal for Springdale, she’s also taught kindergarten and first grade and has worked as an instructional facilitator.
Forever a Bulldog, Farris graduated in 1996 from Springdale High School and earned a Bachelor of Science in early childhood education, a Master of Science in school leadership, management and administration and an Educational Specialist program degree in educational leadership from the University of Central Arkansas in Conway.
“I hope to continue the mindset of developing student agency and incorporating transformational practices and beliefs that further support student and teacher growth and achievement,” Farris said of some of her goals as Rollins' principal.
Farris, 44, has been married to her husband, Trey Farris, for 24 years.
The couple has three children. Abby Farris, 24, Har-Ber High School graduate Ellie Farris, 18, and Har-Ber junior, Max Farris, 16.
“I am blessed to continue my learning journey in my hometown with outstanding colleagues and the Springdale community,” Farris said.