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 media release.
The following leadership appointments have been made:
● Shaun Krencicki has been appointed as the Principal of Aberdeen Elementary School.
● Sandra Bare will become the Principal of Southern Middle School.
● Jamie Synan has been appointed as Deputy Superintendent.
● Stefanie Phillips will serve as the Assistant Superintendent for Academics and Student Support Services.
● Dr. Molly Capps has been appointed as the Director for Student Support Services.
Shaun Krencicki
Shaun Krencicki will become the Principal of Aberdeen Elementary School, bringing a wealth of experience in school leadership, said the school district. Krencicki is currently serving as Principal of Southern Middle School, where he led the school to a 9-point increase in its NC School Report Card grade. Under his leadership, Southern Middle School became a pilot school for Moore County’s Advanced Teacher Roles and achieved highly favorable results in the Teacher Working Conditions survey.
Before his time at Southern Middle School, Krencicki served as Principal of West End Elementary, where he helped the school become the highest-performing school in the district for the first time in its history, said the district. Additionally, he served as Principal at the Community Learning Center at Pinckney, where he oversaw a $750,000 federal School Improvement Grant and transformed the school into a learning-focused institution.
Krencicki holds a master’s degree in School Administration from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and a Master of Arts in Teaching in Middle Grades English Education. His leadership achievements have earned him numerous accolades, including being named District Principal of the Year in 2019.
Sandra Bare
Sandra Bare will assume the role of Principal at Southern Middle School, following her current role as Assistant Principal. “Bare has demonstrated exceptional leadership, particularly in the areas of student support, family engagement, and professional development,” said the district. “As Assistant Principal, she has worked to create a school culture built on trust, while promoting academic success and supporting teachers in their professional growth.”
Bare’s experience includes serving as Dean of Students at Southern Middle School, where she worked on improving student behavior and academic achievement. Additionally, she has classroom experience as a third-grade teacher at Sandhills Farm Life Elementary and as a preschool teacher leader in New Bedford, MA.
Bare holds a master’s in School Administration from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and a bachelor’s in Elementary Education with a minor in Child Development and Family Relations from East Carolina University. She is also certified in Reading K-12 and has received specialized training in Responsive Classroom and Learning-Focused strategies.
Jamie Synan
Jamie Synan will serve as Deputy Superintendent, having previously held the position of Assistant Superintendent for Academics and Student Support Services. “Mrs. Synan brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of North Carolina’s educational landscape, making her an invaluable asset to our leadership team,” said the district.
Prior to joining Moore County Schools, Synan enjoyed a distinguished career with Scotland County Schools, where she served as teacher, assistant principal, principal, director of student support services, and chief academic officer. She also held positions with Randolph County Schools, further enriching her understanding of diverse educational environments. Synan’s leadership skills were acknowledged when she was named the 2012 Wells Fargo District Principal of the Year and the recipient of the Dr. Samuel Houston Leadership Award in 2025.
Synan earned her bachelor’s degree from Elmira College, a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from High Point University, and an Educational Specialist Degree in Education Administration and Supervision from East Carolina University. Her tenure as Region IV President of the North Carolina Principals and Assistant Principals Association highlights her dedication to advancing educational leadership in the region.
Stefanie Phillips
Stefanie Phillips will assume the role formerly held by Jamie Synan as Assistant Superintendent for Academics and Student Support Services. With an extensive background in education and administration, Phillips brings a strategic vision and innovative approach to the position, said the district.
“Having served as Principal of Pinecrest High School since 2018, Mrs. Phillips has been instrumental in maintaining a high graduation rate and achieving notable accolades such as a consistent ‘B’ school letter grade and inclusion on the AP School Honor Roll,” said the district. “Her tenure at Pinecrest High, which was preceded by roles including Principal of Aberdeen Elementary and Specialist for Science & Healthful Living, showcases her effective leadership and commitment to student achievement.”
Phillips has been recognized for her leadership and contributions to education, including being named the 2024 Moore County Schools Principal of the Year and receiving national honors such as the 2021 District Administrator of the Year from the National Speech & Debate Association. She holds a Master of School Administration and an M.A. in Science Education from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, where she also earned her B.S.
Dr. Molly Capps
Dr. Molly Capps will serve as the Director for Student Support Services, bringing extensive leadership experience to the role. “Dr. Capps has a proven track record of excellence in educational leadership, having most recently served as Principal at McDeeds Creek Elementary School, a position she held since 2019,” said the district. Under her leadership, McDeeds Creek Elementary was nominated for the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) National Blue Ribbon School Award in 2024, received the Capturing Kids’ Hearts® National Showcase School honor for five consecutive years, and was recognized as one of the top schools in North Carolina for meeting growth expectations.
“Dr. Capps has been instrumental in transforming schools, including leading Aberdeen Primary School to a thriving educational environment,” said the district. Her leadership at both McDeeds Creek and Aberdeen Primary earned her numerous accolades, including the North Carolina Whole Child School Award and recognition from the NCDPI for her implementation of Professional Learning Communities.
In addition to her leadership roles, Dr. Capps has significantly contributed to the educational field through her work in curriculum development and teacher training. She is a noted speaker and author, with several publications under review with Solution Tree Press. “Her deep commitment to student success, professional learning, and community involvement underscores her qualifications for this key district role,” added the district.
Dr. Capps holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership and Curriculum & Instruction from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. She also holds a master’s in School Administration and Reading Education from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, as well as a bachelor’s degree in Middle Grades Education from North Carolina State University.
“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. “Shaun, Sandra, Jamie, Stefanie, and Molly 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: L-R: Jamie Synan, Shaun Krencicki, Sandra Bare, Dr. Molly Capps and Stefanie Phillips.
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