Erin Rayfield Named McDowell Principal of the Year

Erin Rayfield, principal of McDowell Early College, has been named the 2026 McDowell County Schools Principal of the Year. Rayfield was surprised with the announcement in front of McDowell Early College’s staff and students, Superintendent Tracy Grit, and other district leaders.

The process for choosing the Principal of the Year begins with nominations from the McDowell County Schools Leadership Team. Directors and Principals have the opportunity to nominate a principal who fosters a culture of collaboration, encourages academic innovation, and leads with integrity and compassion. Principals across the district then vote on the nominee they believe best exemplifies these qualities.

Rayfield was deeply honored by the recognition, sharing, “Receiving this award is truly humbling, but it’s a reflection of the extraordinary people I have been fortunate enough to work with throughout my career. I’m surrounded by a team of dedicated teachers and staff who pour their hearts into our school community, and I’ve been lucky to have the guidance and encouragement of our superintendent, assistant superintendents, and district leaders. Leadership is a collaborative effort, and I’m proud to contribute to a system where teamwork drives meaningful outcomes for students.”

Mrs. Rayfield began her teaching career in 2008 at Old Fort Elementary. She then joined West Marion Elementary School, where she taught from August 1, 2009, to June 30, 2021. In August 2021, she transitioned into administration as Assistant Principal at West McDowell Middle School, serving there until June 30, 2023. From July 2023 through June 2025, Rayfield served as Principal at Pleasant Gardens Elementary School, before assuming her current role as Principal of McDowell Early College on July 1, 2025.

A lifelong learner and passionate educator, Rayfield holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Sociology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (2001), a degree in Elementary Education from Shaw University (2008), and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Queen’s University (2020).

Superintendent Tracy Grit shared words of praise for Mrs. Rayfield, stating, “Erin Rayfield is an exceptional leader who models professionalism, empathy, and dedication every single day. Her vision and leadership have helped make McDowell Early College a place where students are challenged to achieve and supported to succeed. She embodies what it means to lead with both heart and purpose.”

Rayfield will go on to represent McDowell County Schools in the Region 7 (Northwest) Principal of the Year competition in November, where she will compete against 15 other district principals for a chance to become the Regional Principal of the Year. The eight regional winners will then be considered for the North Carolina State Principal of the Year honor in the spring.