The Alamance-Burlington School System is saying goodbye to two remarkable leaders this year, as Dr. Jean Maness and Dr. Robin Finberg announce their retirement after decades of service in education.
Dr. Jean Maness, a proud ABSS alumna, has dedicated her entire 39-year career to the district. Starting as an elementary teacher in 1985, she went on to serve as an assistant principal at R. Homer Andrews Elementary and Eastlawn Elementary, principal at R. Homer Andrews Elementary, Executive Director of Elementary Education, Title I, and Title II, and Executive Director of Elementary Schools and PreK. Her leadership and passion for education have left an indelible mark on the lives of countless students and colleagues. Dr. Maness attended AO for K-8 and Western High School, following in her mother's footsteps, who graduated from AO in 1953. Both of her sons also attended AO, Western Middle, and Western High, making her an avid Warriors fan. Some even say she bleeds blue!
Dr. Robin Finberg joined ABSS in 2014 and has held several key positions, including Executive Director of K-12 Curriculum and Professional Learning, Chief Learning Officer, Chief Elementary Officer, and Executive Director of Middle, Alternative, & Virtual Schools. With an impressive background in education spanning over 25 years, she has been instrumental in shaping the district's academic programs and supporting professional growth among staff. Before joining ABSS, Dr. Finberg served as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal in Rockingham County School System.
Both Dr. Maness and Dr. Finberg hold multiple degrees from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, showcasing their lifelong commitment to learning and excellence in education. Dr. Maness earned her Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, Ed.S. in Educational Administration, M.Ed. in Elementary Education, and B.S. in Home Economics with a Child Development major and K-4 Certificate. Dr. Finberg holds an Ed.D., Specialist in Education, MSA, and BS, all from UNCG.
ABSS Interim Superintendent Dr. William Harrison expressed his gratitude for their service, stating, "Dr. Maness and Dr. Finberg have been pillars of our school community, consistently going above and beyond to ensure the success of our students and staff. Their leadership, expertise, and dedication will be greatly missed, but their legacy will continue to inspire us all."
As they embark on this new chapter, the ABSS community extends its heartfelt thanks and best wishes to Dr. Jean Maness and Dr. Robin Finberg for their unwavering commitment to education and the countless lives they have touched throughout their remarkable careers.