Pittsboro, NC – The Chatham County Board of Education unanimously approved Dr. Karla Eanes as the next principal of Chatham Central High School (CCHS) during its October 8 meeting. Eanes’ first day as principal is Nov. 1, following the retirement of longtime principal Mitchell Stensland. Stensland retires October 31 after 30 years of experience as an educator, including 12 years as CCHS’ principal.
“Dr. Eanes emerged from a diverse and accomplished pool of applicants,” Chatham County Schools (CCS) Superintendent Dr. Derrick D. Jordan said. “She has acquired some solid experiences from her time here in Chatham and from her prior leadership roles elsewhere that will continue to advance student achievement at Chatham Central.”
Eanes has been an educator for 22 years and has been with CCS for 17 years. She has served as the assistant principal at CCHS since 2012. Eanes earned a doctorate degree in educational leadership from UNC-Chapel Hill, where she also earned a master’s degree in special education. Eanes was an undergraduate at UNC-Greensboro, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in elementary education.
“I am so excited to lead a school that has been such a vital part of this community for so many years.” Eanes said. “I hope to inspire students and staff to continue our work to ensure each student is prepared for success beyond high school.”
Eanes, a lifelong Chatham County resident and Northwood High School alumna, still lives in the house where she grew up. She enjoys reading, playing tennis and spending time with her family when she’s not collaborating with students, staff and families at CCHS.