
My name is Miriam Harvey, and I am elated to be appointed as the new principal here at James Love Elementary School. I have been in the education system for 15 years, beginning my career as a business teacher at Hunter Huss High School in Gastonia, NC, where I also served as the Dean of Students. My next career move was as an assistant principal at Crest High School and Graham Elementary School, and I ultimately became the principal at East Elementary.
I am originally from West Palm Beach, FL. I earned a B.A. in Business Management from the University of Phoenix and a Master's Degree in School Leadership from Grand Canyon University.
I have two sons, 26 and 25; Rae (26) is a graduate of Western Carolina University, where he earned a B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Communications. He is currently an Education Organizer for Rocketship Public Schools in Washington, D.C. Marion (25) is a graduate of UNCG (University of North Carolina at Greensboro), where he earned a B.S. in Business Administration with a concentration in Management with a minor in Sociology. He is currently a Business Analyst for a top corporation.
I enjoy spending time with my family, attending church, skating, and singing with my sisters (Bessie and Angela) in my spare time.
My mental mission statement, which serves as a constant reminder to myself and others, is:
- Always strive for greatness.
- Never give up.
- Never doubt yourself because there is greatness inside you.
I am so grateful that you trust me with your child; I am beyond thankful for entrusting me with their future. Their future concerns are my present responsibility and that I take very seriously here at James Love Elementary.
Ms. Miriam D. Harvey
Principal, James Love Elementary School
704-476-8385 ext. 7711

My name is MaShonda Surratt, and I am honored to join the James Love Family as an assistant principal and embark on a new journey in my professional career. Returning to James Love, where I started as a teacher assistant, fills me with excitement and gratitude.
My roots are in Shelby, North Carolina, where I attended James Love Elementary and graduated from Shelby High School. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Limestone College and my Master of School Administration from Gardner-Webb University. I have served in various roles throughout my 24 years in education, including teacher assistant, teacher, Title I Coordinator, and assistant principal. I have spent the majority of my career in Cleveland County Schools.
I cherish my role as a mother of three beautiful daughters, Imani (25), Azariah (17), and MaLaya (13). I enjoy reading, listening to music, traveling, and spending time with loved ones. Making a positive impact on the lives of those around me is essential to me, and I am thrilled to be able to serve the students, staff, and families at James Love Elementary. Here's to a successful and memorable school year!