A life changing experience has given direction to Amanda New’s approach to leadership and life.
Three years ago, she was diagnosed with breast cancer, a devastating notification that changed her world. However, she has taken that experience and used it to develop a new approach to life and leadership.
For New, there was no opt-out card. “You’ve got to figure out how to push through it and use it to the best of your ability to help and inspire others,” she said, describing her leadership style and her approach to life simultaneously.
That spirit of service and perseverance is what guides her in her new role as Federal Programs Coordinator for Carroll County Schools. It’s the latest step in a career in education that began more than two decades ago in Gallatin County, where she worked as a part-time instructional assistant.
“We are excited to have Mrs. New as an addition to our team. Her expertise will help us to ensure that we are meeting the needs of all of our students,” said Carroll County Schools Superintendent Casey Jaynes.
New’s career has spanned nearly every level of education. “I worked my way up from instructional assistant and bus monitor, to teacher, teacher leader, principal, and now to this position. I’m green and growing. I value the work I’ve done, and it’s helped me understand every single person who’s in a school and the direction we’re going.”
As federal programs coordinator she supports a range of federal programs, including Title I, English Language Learners (ELL), and services for families and students in transition, including foster care and unaccompanied youth. “Every day, I feel like I’m learning something new that I’m responsible for,” she said. “It’s exciting to go deeper into areas I touched as a principal. Now I get to be the district contact and really learn the ins and outs of funding and how it drives our work.”
New credits her predecessor, Mary Lohr, for leaving things in good order. “Mary left it in such fine shape. I’m thankful for her; she really set me up for success.”
She sees her role as a bridge between the district office and those doing the daily work in schools. She collaborates with all employees and carries important information to ensure the federal programs are working effectively.
While she is excited for the new adventure in her new position, leaving the school building hasn’t been easy. “I cried the last day I said the Pledge of Allegiance, because it was something I did with students for 10 years,” she admitted. “When the first day of school comes, it’ll be a shock. When it gets quiet and everyone’s back in their buildings I may have to go visit the preschoolers at the child development center.”
In the meantime, she’s focused on a future filled with positivity and excitement around her new job and is looking forward to learning and growing as a Panther.