Dr. Amanda Boshoff

Principal

About Me:

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My name is Dr. Amanda Boshoff, and I am deeply passionate about the transformative power of education. With over two decades of experience in the field, I believe that education is not just about imparting knowledge, but about inspiring students to think critically, embrace their potential, and become lifelong learners. My approach to leadership is student-centered, where I focus on creating an inclusive and engaging environment that supports each individual’s unique strengths and needs. I aim to instill a sense of curiosity and a love for learning that extends beyond the classroom, empowering students to achieve academic success and personal growth.

I am also a strong advocate for the connection between education and community. I believe that learning does not happen in isolation, and that students thrive when they see the real-world impact of what they are studying. Whether through local partnerships, community engagement, or service learning opportunities, I strive to help students make meaningful connections between their academic work and the world around them. This engagement fosters a sense of responsibility, not only to their own development but to the communities they are a part of, encouraging them to become active and compassionate citizens.

Above all, my greatest priority is the well-being and success of my students. I take pride in being a compassionate and supportive mentor who is always available to guide students through their challenges, both academic and personal. I believe that every student deserves a nurturing environment where they feel seen, heard, and empowered to succeed. Seeing my students grow, thrive, and make a positive impact in their communities is what truly motivates me, and it is an honor to be part of their educational journey.

Email: aboshoff@wcpss.net

Departments: 

Magnet Programs, Assistant Principals, Clerical Staff, Intervention, Athletics (Overall Programs)

Roles/Responsibilities:

School Bell Schedules

JAG Club Liaison

Alumni

Student/Staff Parking

Off-Campus Lunch

Testing

Family Partners

JAG Fest/Orange and Blue Day

Cohort Graduation Rate Team

Principal’s Advisory Council

Magnet Program

Staffing Plan

Master Calendar

Student Government

Department Chairs

School Resource Officer Liaison

Graduation

Senior Awards Assembly

School Budget

Allotment Administrator

Magnet Open House

Lockdown Drills

Building Programs

School Improvement Team Member

PTSA

Steve Katz

Assistant Principal of Instruction

Grades: 9th-12th

About Me:

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My name is Steve Katz, and I began my career in education in Florida, where I developed a deep commitment to helping students achieve their fullest potential. After several years of teaching and learning in the Sunshine State, I moved to North Carolina, where I have had the privilege of working at Athens Drive High School for over 10 years. Throughout my career, I’ve been driven by a passion for creating a safe, supportive environment where every student feels valued and empowered to succeed. My time at Athens Drive has allowed me to foster meaningful relationships with students, colleagues, and the community, all of which have contributed to the rich, positive culture of the school.

At Athens Drive, my focus has always been on student safety and success. I believe that when students feel safe—both physically and emotionally—they are better able to focus on their academic and personal growth. Over the years, I’ve worked closely with leaders and staff to ensure that our students have the resources, guidance, and encouragement they need to thrive. From implementing programs that address student well-being to creating opportunities for students to explore their interests, I am dedicated to ensuring that every student’s experience at Athens Drive sets them up for long-term success.

As I reflect on my journey, I am incredibly proud of the impact we’ve had at Athens Drive. Our school community is a place where students not only excel academically but also grow as individuals. I’ve seen firsthand the positive outcomes that result from a school environment where students feel supported, respected, and motivated. Being part of this vibrant community has been a truly rewarding experience, and I look forward to continuing to work with students, parents, and faculty to further strengthen our commitment to student safety, success, and well-being for years to come.

Email: skatz@wcpss.net

Departments: 

Healthful Living/PE, Athletics (Coaches), Student Services

School Counselor: 

Jasmine Pearson

Roles/Responsibilities:

Master Schedule

Course Registration

Classroom Assignments

Professional Learning Teams

Cohort Graduation Rate Team

API Meetings

Bus Transportation (Secondary)

Security/Safety Administrator

Staff Professional Learning

Security/Allied Barton

PowerSchool Administrator

WakeLearns

Crisis Team/Plan

Tornado Drill

AP Coordinator

Secondary Budget Manager

JAG Club Liaison

Guest Speaker Approvals

AVID

School Improvement Team Member

EVAAS Administrator

Michael Clinkscales

Assistant Principal

Grades: 9th-12th 

Last Names: A - Cl

About Me:

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My name is Michael Clinkscales, and I bring over 20+ years of experience in education to my role at Athens Drive High School. My journey in education began with a deep commitment to helping students succeed, and throughout my career, I’ve worked in a variety of roles that have shaped my approach to teaching and leadership. I spent time at NC State University, where I was able to contribute to the development of future educators, and I also served as an Assistant Principal at a middle school before transitioning to Athens Drive. Each experience has reinforced my belief in the power of education to transform lives and foster a sense of community.

At the heart of my philosophy is a student-first approach. I firmly believe that every decision we make in education should prioritize the needs, well-being, and success of our students. Whether working with teachers, parents, or administrators, I strive to ensure that our students have the resources and support they need to thrive both academically and personally. I take great pride in fostering an environment where students feel valued, heard, and motivated to reach their fullest potential. This focus on the individual needs of each student is what drives my work every day.

Now at Athens Drive, I am excited to continue building a positive school culture where students feel safe, supported, and challenged. With my extensive background in both higher education and school leadership, I am dedicated to ensuring that our students have every opportunity to succeed. I’m passionate about working with our staff and community to create an inclusive environment where students not only excel academically but also grow into responsible, compassionate individuals who are prepared to make a positive impact on the world.

Email: mclinkscales@wcpss.net

Departments: 

Special Education, Instructional Assistants

School Counselor: 

Shacarra Taylor

Roles/Responsibilities:

CANVAS Administrator

CPR Graduation Requirements

Emergency Bags

Website

Faculty Handbook

Curriculum Night

Instructional Assistant of the Year

Master Calendar

Administrative Coverage Calendar

Meet the Teacher Night

JAG Fest

Special Education Contact

Powerschool Administrator

School Improvement Team Member

Donti Coats

Assistant Principal

Grades: 9th-12th 

Last Names: Co - Ha

About Me:

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My name is Donti Coats, and my career in education began as a counselor, where I had the privilege of working directly with students to guide them through both academic and personal challenges. Early on, I discovered the power of building strong relationships with students, helping them navigate their individual paths to success. Over time, I transitioned into school administration here at Athens Drive, where I’ve had the opportunity to expand my impact, supporting not only students but also teachers and staff in fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.

My educational philosophy is simple: all students can learn, and all learners can be successful. I firmly believe that every student has unique strengths and the potential to succeed, regardless of their background or challenges. As an administrator, my goal is to ensure that all students have access to the tools, resources, and support they need to reach their academic and personal goals. I am dedicated to creating an environment where every student is seen, heard, and given the opportunity to grow and excel.

At Athens Drive, I work every day to promote a culture of high expectations, equity, and inclusion. Whether it’s through supporting our teachers or connecting with our students and families, I am committed to providing a school community where success is attainable for all. I believe that when we come together with a shared commitment to student growth, we can unlock the potential in every learner and make a lasting difference in their lives.

Email: dcoats@wcpss.net

Departments: 

English/Literacy, Media Specialist, ESL

School Counselor: 

Paige Burnette

Roles/Responsibilities:

Summer School

Volunteer Approval

Transportation (Secondary)

Professional Learning Teams

Field Trips

Driver’s Ed Eligibility

Teacher of the Year

Secondary Budget Manager

Health Science Career Academy

Restorative Justice

Cohort Graduation Rate Team

Literacy Coach

Technology

School Improvement Team Member

Ryan Piccolo

Assistant Principal

Grades: 9th-12th 

Last Names: He - Mc

About Me:

Hello Athens Nation! I am excited to be returning for my second year as an administrator at Athens Drive Magnet High School, and it’s been an incredible journey filled with learning and growth. I’m passionate about fostering a positive environment for both students and staff, and I truly enjoy being a part of this vibrant community!

I moved to North Carolina back in 2016 and started my career as a Healthful Living Teacher, shifting to a Special Education Teacher at the Middle School level before moving into Administration.

I am married to my amazing wife of 3 years named Amy, who is also a Wake County Teacher, and have a wonderful daughter named Brynlee, who brings so much joy to our lives. We love to travel and explore new places together, creating lasting memories as a family. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an adventurous road trip, we cherish every moment.

I also value the time spent with friends and family. Nothing beats sharing laughter and experiences with those I care about. I believe these connections are what truly enrich our lives, and I’m grateful for every opportunity to spend time with loved ones.

For students to be truly successful in education, they must first feel like they belong. A sense of belonging is essential for students to feel valued, respected, and connected to their school community. When students know they are accepted for who they are, it creates a foundation of trust and confidence, which empowers them to take risks, ask questions, and engage more deeply in their learning. Without that feeling of belonging, students may struggle with motivation, self-esteem, and even their academic performance. By fostering an inclusive, supportive environment where every student feels like an integral part of the school, we set the stage for both academic and personal success.

Go Jags!!

Email: rpiccolo@wcpss.net

Departments: 

CTE, ISS/ALC, Attendance

School Counselor: 

Kristen Long

Roles/Responsibilities:

Transportation (Primary)

Attendance

MTSS

Discipline Data

Tardy Sweep

Restorative Justice

Cohort Graduation Rate Team

Health Science Career Academy

Volunteer Approval

ISS/ALC Management

Credit Recovery

Academic Recovery Plans

eCATS Management

Edgenuity

School Improvement Team Member

Taneshia Harris

Assistant Principal

Grades: 9th-12th 

Last Names: Me - Sam

About Me:

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My name is Taneshia Harris, and I began my career in education at Cary High School, where I had the privilege of working closely with students and faculty to create a positive and engaging learning environment. During my time at Cary, I discovered the importance of fostering strong relationships with students, helping them feel supported and motivated to succeed. A few years ago, I made the transition into administration at Athens Drive High School, where I continue to be passionate about guiding both students and staff toward excellence.

My educational philosophy centers around the belief that building relationships is key to creating an environment where all students can succeed. I believe that students thrive when they feel connected to their teachers, their peers, and their school community. By establishing trust and open communication, we create a space where students are not only academically successful but also emotionally and socially supported. I also believe that learning should be an enjoyable experience, and I work to create a school culture where students and staff alike have fun while learning, growing, and discovering new passions.

At Athens Drive, I am committed to making learning a dynamic and engaging experience for everyone. I work to create an atmosphere where students are excited to come to school, where they feel empowered to take risks and challenge themselves, and where they know they have a strong support system behind them. My goal is to continue building a vibrant, inclusive school community where students are not only prepared for the future but are also excited about the journey along the way.

Email: tharris@wcpss.net

Departments: 

Science, World Language

School Counselor: 

Michael Grabiec

Roles/Responsibilities:

Special Transportation

MTSS

Video Approvals

Guest Speaker Approvals

Clubs

Business Alliance

Cohort Graduation Rate Team

PBIS Co-Coordinator 

Employee/Staff Appreciation

End-of-Year Staff Celebration

Business Alliance

School Improvement Team Member

STEM Academy

Shayla Wiggins

Assistant Principal

Grades: 9th-12th 

Last Names: San - Z

About Me:

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My name is Shayla Wiggins, and I began my career in education as a Social Studies teacher, where I developed a deep passion for helping students understand the world around them and their place within it. I spent several years in the classroom, working to make history come alive and fostering critical thinking skills that would serve my students both academically and personally. A few years ago, I transitioned into administration at Athens Drive, where I continue to advocate for student growth, support our dedicated staff, and ensure that every student has the resources they need to succeed.

At the core of my educational philosophy is the belief that confidence in oneself is a powerful tool for success. I firmly believe that when students trust their abilities, they are more willing to engage in their learning, take on challenges, and push themselves beyond their limits. Confidence doesn’t just help students perform better academically—it empowers them to be active participants in their own growth and to approach education with curiosity and determination. My goal as an administrator is to create an environment where students not only feel capable but also believe in their potential to achieve great things.

At Athens Drive, I am committed to fostering a school culture where confidence, respect, and mutual support are at the forefront. I work closely with both students and staff to ensure that everyone has the encouragement and opportunities they need to flourish. When students feel confident in themselves, they become more engaged learners, stronger leaders, and compassionate individuals—traits that will benefit them well beyond their time in school. It is this sense of empowerment that drives my work and continues to inspire me every day.

Email: scwiggins@wcpss.net

Departments: 

Social Studies, Arts, Custodians

School Counselor: 

Cheryl Hegarty

Roles/Responsibilities:

Facilities/Key Administration

School Assemblies

Staff Required Trainings

Equity Team

Cohort Graduation Rate Team

Hospitality/Hardship

Performing Arts Booster Club

BIMAS

Backpack Buddies/Food Pantry

Community in Schools

Custodial Contracts

Risk Management

Fire Drills

Class Meetings

School Improvement Team Member

Pat Abel

Assistant Principal

Grades: 9th-12th 

About Me:

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My name is Pat Abel, and I have had the privilege of being part of the Athens Drive High School community for over 19 years. Throughout my time here, I’ve seen the school evolve, but my commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive environment has remained constant. Over the years, I’ve worked alongside incredible staff and students, and I’ve witnessed firsthand the power of building strong relationships in creating a thriving school culture. Athens Drive has become more than just a workplace to me—it’s a community where everyone is valued, supported, and encouraged to grow.

My educational philosophy centers around a community and relationship-based approach. I believe that strong, trusting relationships are the foundation of student success and staff collaboration. Whether working with students or colleagues, I strive to create an atmosphere of mutual respect, open communication, and shared goals. By understanding the unique needs, strengths, and challenges of each individual, we can work together to build a supportive environment that helps everyone reach their fullest potential. I believe that when we invest in relationships, we create a school culture where everyone feels connected, motivated, and ready to succeed.

At Athens Drive, I am committed to continuing to nurture a sense of belonging and community for both students and staff. I believe that when people feel they are part of something larger than themselves, they are more likely to contribute positively and do their best work. My goal is to maintain an environment where students are excited to come to school, where teachers are empowered to do their best work, and where everyone feels supported in their journey. The lasting relationships we build at Athens Drive are the heart of our success, and I’m proud to be part of such a dedicated, caring community.

Email: pabel@wcpss.net

Departments: 

Math

Roles/Responsibilities:

Beginning Teacher Support

Mentor Coordinator

Teacher Evaluation Matrix

Peer Observation

Student Teachers

New Teacher Orientation

Lunch Duty Matrix

Administrative Team Duty Matrix

Cafeteria Nutritional Services

School Improvement Team Members