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. She obtained her doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from Western Carolina University, with a research focus on innovative public charter schools.
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 Mr. Esteve
Esteve was born in Spain, near Barcelona. He moved to the USA in 1995, 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. Esteve enjoys all kinds of outdoor activities, from hiking to mountain biking, as well as cooking Spanish food.
About Ms. Edie
Edie, a native North Carolinian, is thrilled to join the ArtSpace school community. Over two decades of educational leadership experiences have afforded her invaluable training in innovative, experiential education. Within the past decade, she has helped establish four local alternative schools, most recently serving as Director of Mountain Discovery Charter School, a K-8 Expeditionary Learning school located near the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Swain Co, NC. Edie attended Mars Hill University for her BA in English and Art, graduated Cum Laude, and continued with graduate studies in English and Experiential Education at Wake Forest University.
About Mr. Tim
Tim is coming to ArtSpace with a diverse background in educational leadership. He has served all ages from kindergarten to high school with a passion for student success through relationship building and innovation. Outside of work, Tim is a proud father, avid runner, and escape room enthusiast.
About Ms. Alicia
A licensed school counselor with a Master’s from Boston College, Alicia brings a wealth of experience in both counseling and leadership. Her previous work includes leading the counseling department at the largest middle school in Hawaii, coordinating 504 plans, and supporting a wide range of student needs across K–8 settings. Since joining ArtSpace, Alicia has quickly become a trusted and compassionate advocate for students and families. She is excited to continue building systems of support that ensure every student is seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.