In a visit to Blue Ridge Elementary School last Thursday afternoon, Superintendent Kathy Amos, Assistant Superintendent Heather Cox, and Elementary Curriculum Director Andrea Allen surprised Principal Erik Buchanan with the announcement that he has been named the YCS Principal of the Year 2022.
Buchanan is in his second year as principal at Blue Ridge Elementary School after serving six years at Mountain Heritage High School as assistant principal.
During the nomination process, staff and former co-workers expressed their appreciation of Buchanan and how he leads his school – by example.
“Mr. Buchanan embodies what it means to be a diligent, personable, and considerate leader. His work ethic is unmatched, as he willingly takes on roles that go above and beyond the traditional principal role,” wrote BRES counselor, Faith Chrisawn. “Being the first to arrive, and the last to leave, Mr. Buchanan puts his heart and soul into making BRES the absolute best it can be. His leadership skills, high standards, and optimistic attitude has earned him the respect and admiration from the students, staff, faculty, and parents of BRES.”
YCS Teacher of the Year 2022 and BRES teacher Ashley Randolph wrote, “Erik Buchanan is the epicenter of our school. His energy penetrates throughout our building and our community. From the first faculty meeting I attended with him, I knew he was going to be an excellent administrator. I never expected him to rise to the level at which he guides our faculty and students. He motivates me, my children, my students, and my coworkers to be our BEST … at all times.”
“It is my honor to be able to promote Mr. Buchanan into the principalship role at Blue Ridge Elementary,” stated Superintendent Amos.” He will continue to put students first and serve all students, teachers, and parents with integrity.
As cheering staff and students lined the sidewalks just before the dismissal of school on Thursday, Buchanan emerged from the school with his office “power team” of Christel McFarland and Tammy Hensley with a confused look on his face. Learning from Superintendent Amos the reason for the unscheduled fire drill that had emptied his building, Buchanan was genuinely surprised. Being one who will typically shy away from the limelight, Buchanan stated his humbleness and gratitude in accepting this honor to represent Yancey County Schools at the regional POY level.
Buchanan added, “I don’t do what I do for a trophy. I just try to do my job every day, and make a difference in at least one person’s life, every day.”
And Erik Buchanan does that – every single day.
