Article provided by Kloud-12 LLC
Sanford, NC — Aimee Petrarca doesn’t just lead schools—she strengthens them. As the principal of West Lee Middle School in Lee County, Petrarca has made a career out of building thriving school cultures rooted in data, collaboration, and care.
This spring, she was named the recipient of the Kloud-12 Innovation Award for Empowerment Through Professional Learning , honoring her decades of service and her lasting impact on students and educators across the district.
With more than 25 years of experience in Lee County Schools, Petrarca is a proud product of the community she now leads. After rising through the ranks as a teacher, assistant principal, and then principal at a thriving elementary school, she was invited to bring her leadership to two schools navigating important seasons of growth and transition. First, she helped guide a newer elementary school toward greater stability and success. More recently, she stepped into the role of principal at West Lee Middle School—once a cornerstone in the district—which is now undergoing an exciting chapter of renewed momentum and school pride under her leadership.
“She didn’t have to take on a new challenge at this stage in her career,” said Superintendent Dr. Chris Dossenbach. “But that’s just who she is. She’s a competitor, she’s all-in for Lee County, and she leads with purpose.”
Now in her first full year at West Lee, Petrarca is already seeing gains in every measurable area. But those who work with her say her secret isn’t just high expectations—it’s how she brings people along with her.
At the core of Petrarca’s leadership is a data-driven approach grounded in student outcomes. She cuts through the noise to help teachers make sense of complex data, guiding them with clarity, urgency, and support. “Data doesn’t lie,” Dossenbach noted. “And Aimee uses it to move the conversation forward. She helps educators see where they are—and where they can go.”
But behind the numbers is a leader with heart. “Her outer shell can seem tough, but she has a heart of gold,” Dossenbach added. “She looks every student in the eye, asks how they’re doing, and brings back the fun—pep rallies, school spirit, the joy of being a middle schooler. She understands that school culture matters just as much as academic outcomes.”
Those sentiments were echoed by Vicki Haislip , a former principal who worked closely with Petrarca at Greenwood Elementary School. Haislip shared that even early in her leadership journey, Petrarca demonstrated bravery, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to success. She noted that while many leaders recognize what needs to be done, Petrarca stands out for her courage to act—especially when it involves difficult conversations and uncomfortable changes needed to benefit students.
Haislip also emphasized Petrarca’s collaborative leadership style. Rather than imposing expectations from a distance, Petrarca works alongside her staff, creating an environment where high standards feel shared and contagious. This approach, Haislip observed, helps transform complacency into a collective drive for excellence, with Petrarca modeling the work she expects from others.
Patricia Coldren , a long-time colleague and friend, described Petrarca as a dynamic, multi-faceted leader who brings energy, creativity, and heart to every space she enters. Coldren recalled that even as a student, Petrarca was known for her competitive spirit and commitment to excellence—traits that now fuel her leadership. She praised Petrarca for seeing beyond academic achievement, emphasizing her focus on developing students’ soft skills, character, and citizenship.
Both Haislip and Coldren highlighted Petrarca’s authenticity as a key reason she connects so deeply with students, staff, and families. She lives out her values openly and consistently, earning respect and trust through her actions. In a profession where authenticity can sometimes be rare, Petrarca’s example shines as a model of integrity and purpose.
Her community roots also make her impact at West Lee Middle School even more profound. As a former student of the school herself, Petrarca’s return symbolizes a full-circle moment. Parents, colleagues, and community members alike have expressed excitement and confidence in the renewed momentum she is bringing to the school.
As West Lee prepares a surprise celebration in her honor later this spring, one thing is clear: Aimee Petrarca isn’t just leading a school—she’s shaping a legacy of learning, growth, and belief in what’s possible.
Those who know her best agree: when Petrarca steps in, progress is inevitable—and the entire community rises with her.