Sierra Jennings is a Gaston County native and graduate of Ashbrook High School. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from UNC Charlotte in 2009 and later completed a master’s degree in Educational Leadership at Queens University of Charlotte in 2019. Mrs. Jennings began her career teaching in Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools before returning home to Gaston County, where she taught at Brookside Elementary and formally served as Lead Teacher at Hawks Nest STEAM Academy.

Family and friends are an important part of her life. She and her husband have two sons, a daughter, and a very sweet doodle named Memphis. They enjoy traveling and spending time outdoors. In her spare time she can be found at sporting events cheering on her children, or nestled up in a quiet space with a good book.

Mrs. Jennings has proudly served as assistant principal at Belmont Middle School since 2021, embracing her role in ensuring students have an exceptional educational experience while in middle school. She considers Belmont a wonderful community and feels honored to be part of the Wildcat family!

Shanti Hinkle is from Detroit, Michigan, but is a product of Gaston County Schools, graduating from Ashbrook High School. She later earned her bachelor’s degree in English from UNC-Greensboro in 2009. In 2011, she completed a master’s degree in Elementary Education from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University while beginning her career with Gaston County Schools at Lingerfeldt Elementary School. Ms. Hinkle acquired her master’s degree in School Administration from Gardner-Webb University in 2022 while teaching sixth-grade math at Cramerton Middle School. Ms. Hinkle is pursuing a doctoral degree in Curriculum and Instruction at Gardner-Webb University.

Being a mother of a son, an avid traveler, and an educational creator are intricate parts of her life. She enjoys doing high-intensity workouts, nature walks, and creating memories with her family.

Ms. Hinkle joined us as Assistant Principal at Belmont Middle School in 2024. She is extremely excited to spread kindness and build lasting relationships with the Belmont community and Wildcat family.