TAKING FLIGHT MILLS RIVER'S SARAH SCHWARTZSarah Schwartz, a 3rd Grade teacher at Mills River Elementary School, has been named Henderson County Public Schools’ (HCPS) Beginning Teacher of the Year for 2025-2026. From the first day she joined the Mills River family, Ms. Schwartz impressed colleagues and administrators with her professionalism, creativity, and commitment to student success. Schwartz demonstrates remarkable leadership and initiative in all she does,” said Mills River Principal Chad Auten. Ms. Schwartz created a classroom environment where she not only thrived academically but also approached challenges with courage. As the district’s Beginning Teacher of the Year, Ms. Schwartz is now eligible for the NCCAT state award.