SANFORD, NC - Andrea Cummings, Principal at Tramway Elementary School, has been named the 2024-2025 Principal of the Year for Lee County Schools. Cummings was selected based on a vote of her peer principals across the district. 
“I found something that I loved to do as a little girl – playing school – and made a career out of it,” joked Cummings, now serving in her 20th year in education, each of which has been with Lee County Schools. “My younger brother and sister may say that the bossiness finally paid off, but in all seriousness, this is a ministry and I pray daily for wisdom and boldness to be obedient to serve.”
Cummings started her time with the district teaching Pre-K at Warren Williams School before transitioning to teach Kindergarten at Tramway. Shortly after that, she was tapped to work alongside Tramway’s Principal, Anne Beal, serving as Assistant Principal for six years before Anne’s retirement.
Known for her care and compassion, Cummings’ teams have consistently delivered high quality educational outcomes. Under her leadership, Tramway has met or exceeded growth each year that growth has been measured by the state since 2018.
“Andrea is an outstanding leader who consistently puts students first, demonstrates deep care for her staff, and serves as a mentor to new principals in our district,” said Dr. Chris Dossenbach, Superintendent of Lee County Schools. “One of the most remarkable aspects of this honor is that it is determined by her peers, who overwhelmingly selected her for this recognition. Andrea is the epitome of a data-driven leader who genuinely prioritizes the success of her students and school community.”
“Learning that I had been chosen by colleagues that I admire and have been able to work with for many years brings a humbleness that is inexplicable,” detailed Cummings. “It was truly special to celebrate the news of this honor with not only my current school family but the great group of Elementary Principals who helped me grow exponentially on this leadership journey as well as two of my three amazing assistant principles and my sweet family. I’m truly blessed.”
Her philosophy of people-first shines through clearly each day at Tramway. “I can say with certainty that the relationships I have built with colleagues, staff and students over these last 20 years are what I treasure most,” explained Cummings. “It may sound simple or cliche but I hope my students, staff and colleagues are able to say ‘She loved me too much to let me fail – she did not stop until I succeeded. She showed me who I could be, and she did it with me.”
