Administrative Team
About the Administrative Team
About Dr. Sarena
Dr. Sarena attended East Carolina University with the NC Teaching Fellows Scholarship and upon graduating, taught high school dance, gymnastics, and healthful living for over 10 years. Dr. Sarena earned her National Board Certification, a Master’s of School Administration, and was honored as Burke County’s Teacher of the Year. Recently, she obtained her doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from Western Carolina University.
After leaving the classroom, Dr. Sarena served as an Instructional Coach, Principal, and Director. While at the North Carolina School for the Deaf, she was recognized as the STEM Administrator of the Year by the NC SMT Center. This invaluable experience deepened her love for comprehensive, integrated studies and culturally-responsive leadership.
When she can, Dr. Sarena enjoys reading, traveling, and seeking new adventures with her husband and twin daughters.
About Ms. Hollis
This is Ms. Hollis’ fourth year as K-4 Director. She joined our staff in the 2009 school year, as a third grade teacher. Ms. Hollis was voted Teacher of the Year at ArtSpace in 2011. Before working at ArtSpace, Ms. Hollis taught with Asheville City Schools as well as in the Chicago area. Ms. Hollis holds a B.A. in Sociology from Tulane University, and her teaching licensure through Western Carolina University. Hollis loves hiking the mountains of Western North Carolina with her husband and two sons. She is an avid runner and will be completing her first half marathon this school year.
About Mr. Esteve
Mr. Esteve was born in Spain, near Barcelona. He moved to the USA in1995, lived in California, and finally settled in the mountains of WNC. He has a degree in Economics and Finance from UNC-Asheville and came to ArtSpace in June of 2019 after a 15-year career in banking. His connection to ArtSpace goes back to 2008 when his son started in Kindergarten. Mr. Esteve enjoys all kinds of outdoor activities, from hiking to mountain biking, as well as cooking Spanish food.
About Mr. Rob
Rob has been at ArtSpace since the fall of 2011. During his time here he has worked as an EC Assistant Teacher, and EC Teacher, the Student Support Coordinator, and now as the Middle School Director. He completed his undergraduate degree from Millersville University of Pennsylvania and completed the Master's Level Teaching Certification Program at Western Carolina University with an emphasis in Special Education. Rob also performs regularly as a musician outside of school hours and also enjoys spending time with his wife and their two dogs.