FERRUM, Virginia -- Former Ferrum College cheerleader Marcee (Amos) McMillan '11 has been promoted to Assistant Principal at East Salem Elementary School. McMillan is one of three educators taking on more important administrative responsibilities within Salem (Virginia) City School System.

Jamie Garst is returning to Salem High School to serve as an assistant principal, Nikki Mitchem is set to resume her administrative career as an assistant principal at Andrew Lewis Middle, and Marcee McMillan is leaving the classroom for an assistant principal position at East Salem Elementary. All three appointments were formally approved by the School Board at this Wednesday afternoon's school board meeting. They will take effect on July 1, 2025.

"It is truly rare to have the opportunity to hire administrators with this level of experience and commitment to students," said Hicks. "Each of these leaders brings a unique set of skills and an unwavering dedication to our division, and I am confident they will have an immediate and positive impact on their respective schools."

At East Salem Elementary School, McMillan is set to join the front office staff and complete the brand-new leadership team that includes recently named Principal Kenya Motley.

"It is a true privilege and honor to be able to give back to the community that gave so much to me, and I'm looking forward to working alongside the teachers, students, and the families at East Salem." said McMillan. "Teaching has shown me the powers of patience and empathy as well as the importance of cultivating relationships and believing in every child's potential, and I am excited to begin this new journey."

McMillan has a bachelor's degree from Ferrum College and a master's degree in teaching from Hollins University. She will complete requirements for her Educational Leadership certificate later this summer from James Madison University. She began her teaching career at Roanoke's Westside Elementary and since 2017 she has been a valued faculty member at G.W. Carver Elementary. She was voted as the school's teacher of the year in 2024.

"Marcee McMillan is another proud Salem graduate, and her appointment as assistant principal at East Salem Elementary is a great reflection of our homegrown talent," Hicks noted. "She has a strong understanding of curriculum and instruction, including the Virginia Literacy Act and the science of reading. Her knowledge and the relationships she has built will be incredible assets to our students, staff, and families at East Salem."

McMillan is taking over for Christina Rose, who is moving to the central office. Rose is replacing the retiring Dr. Elizabeth Arthur as the division's coordinator of student services. Mitchem is stepping into Motley's former position at Andrew Lewis Middle, and Garst is replacing Chris Wilkes, who is moving to Roanoke College to lead the Maroons regiment marching and spirit bands.

"This is an exciting time for the Salem City School Division," Hicks concluded. "With leaders like Nikki, Jamie, and Marcee stepping into these important roles, our future is in excellent hands."