Dear River Bend Elementary Families,

It is with great excitement and heartfelt enthusiasm that I introduce myself as the new principal of River Bend Elementary School. I am truly honored to join this amazing school community and look forward to partnering with you to ensure the continued success and growth of our students.

With a Bachelor's degree in Child Development and more than two decades of experience in education, I bring a deep understanding of how children grow, learn, and thrive. I spent eight wonderful years in the classroom, and although my title has changed, I will always be a teacher at heart. For the past 14 years, I have served in various leadership roles, each one deepening my passion for education and helping shape me into the leader I am today.

At the core of my educational philosophy is the belief that strong family-school partnerships are essential to student success. I am committed to fostering a school environment where families feel welcomed, valued, and engaged. I also believe in empowering our teachers with the support and resources they need to be their best—because when our teachers thrive, our students do too.

Together, we will celebrate achievements, overcome challenges, and create meaningful learning experiences for every child.

I look forward to meeting each of you and working together to make this school year a great one. Please don’t hesitate to reach out—I welcome your thoughts, questions, and involvement.

Warmly,
Mrs. Smalls
Principal, River Bend Elementary School

My name is Audrey Pierce. I am the daughter of the late George & Lillian Pierce. I was born in Brooklyn, NY but raised in Whiteville, NC. I was the first in my immediate family to graduate from high school. My parents taught me the value of hard work, discipline and to treat others the way that I want to be treated. I am a graduate of Winston-Salem State University, NC A& T and East Carolina. I am a former National Board-Certified teacher with 28 years of experience. I have two sons, Amari and Javier, one daughter, Austin, and a step-son, Bryon. 

I love watching sports with my sons and shopping with my daughter. I am a huge Pittsburgh Steelers and UNC Tarheels fan. My favorite pastimes are going to the beach, taking photos and shopping! Some of my favorite foods are crab legs, chocolate, and lasagna! Some of my favorite things are candles, shoes, and jewelry! I love working at River Bend Elementary School. It is a place where students are expected to do their best, and they feel loved & supported by staff, families and the community. I feel very blessed to be a part of the "Beaver" family.