Moore County Schools announced several key leadership appointments within the district, effective July 1.
“These appointments reflect our ongoing commitment to educational excellence and will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our schools and student success,” said the school district in a press release.
The following leadership appointments have been made:
● Matthew McLean – Principal of Pinecrest High School
● Amy O’Neill – Principal of West Pine Elementary School
● MacKenzie Sovey – Principal of McDeeds Creek Elementary School
Matthew McLean Appointed as Principal of Pinecrest High School
Matthew McLean has served as principal of West Pine Elementary School since 2024, leading a K–5 campus of 400 students. During his tenure, he cultivated a positive school culture, refined operational procedures, and ensured student achievement through data-driven leadership, said the school district. From 2019 to 2024, McLean was principal of Clement Elementary School, where he managed all school functions without an assistant principal and earned credentials through the North Carolina Principals and Assistant Principals Association’s Executive Leadership Program.
Prior to his elementary leadership roles, McLean served as assistant principal and athletic director at Cape Fear High School (2014–2019), where he oversaw teacher evaluations, led professional learning communities, managed a $250,000 activity budget, and was named the 2019 North Carolina Athletic Director of the Year. He began his career as a social studies teacher in Cumberland County Schools (1998–2012), teaching honors and AP courses while chairing school-improvement teams and coaching varsity sports.
McLean holds a Master of School Administration from Fayetteville State University and a B.A. in History from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. He is a graduate of the Sandhills Leadership Academy’s Executive Intern Program.
Amy O’Neill Appointed as Principal of West Pine Elementary School
Dr. Amy O’Neill has been named principal of West Pine Elementary School. She currently serves as assistant principal at West Pine Elementary, where she has demonstrated leadership in curriculum development, school culture, family engagement, test coordination, and staff support, said the district. O’Neill brings broad experience from several states and diverse educational settings, having served as a teacher, academic coordinator, and military school advisor.
An Army veteran, military spouse, and a mother of six, O’Neill is a longtime Moore County resident who grew up in the community she now serves. The district added that she is deeply committed to student success and academic excellence and values building strong relationships with students, staff, and families.
O’Neill holds a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and an Executive Educational Leadership Certificate from the University of Kentucky, an Ed.S. in Administration and Supervision from Austin Peay State University, an M.A. in Elementary Education from the University of Phoenix, and a B.A. in Political Science from North Carolina State University. Her leadership style centers on collaboration, high expectations, and creating a positive, supportive environment for the entire school community.
MacKenzie Sovey Appointed as Principal of McDeeds Creek Elementary School
MacKenzie Sovey said she is excited for her new role as principal at McDeeds Creek Elementary School. She currently serves as assistant principal at Union Pines High School, where she has led professional development, supported instructional growth, and strengthened community partnerships, said the district. She also previously held teaching and MTSS Coordinator roles at New Century Middle School and McDeeds Creek Elementary, giving her a strong connection to the school she will now lead.
Sovey’s educational background includes a Master’s in School Administration from UNC Pembroke and a Bachelor’s in History with a minor in Elementary Education from Metropolitan State College of Denver. Her career is marked by her ability to build positive school culture, lead with empathy, and use data-driven strategies to support student achievement, said the district. Her broad classroom and leadership experience across multiple schools in Moore County make her well-prepared to guide McDeeds Creek into its next chapter, added the district.
“We are fortunate to have some of the best leaders in the state and country serving our students, staff, families, and communities,” said Superintendent Dr. Tim Locklair. “Matthew, Amy, and MacKenzie bring a wealth of experience, dedication, and vision to our schools. I am confident that their leadership will continue to inspire excellence and help our students reach their full potential.”
Feature photo: Amy O’Neill (left), Matthew McLean, and MacKenzie Sovey. Photos via Moore County Schools.
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