About Us

CATA serves grades 9-12 and is located in Monroe. We are a magnet high school with six academies: Information Systems, Pre-Engineering, Medical Science, Performing Arts, Transportation Systems and International Academy. Ninth and tenth grades from across the district apply for a spot in one of the academies each year. Ninth-graders are selected based on a lottery for all academies except dance, theatre and music production and recording arts; those three academies participate in an audition process. Tenth-graders are selected on a first-come, first-served basis. Tenth graders applying to the Performing Arts Academy also participate in an audition process.

Address: Central Academy of Technology & Arts, 600 Brewer Drive, Monroe, NC 28112
Phone: 704-296-3088
Fax: 704-296-3090
Staff Directory
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Fast Facts

Traditional Calendar
Start Bell: 9:05 a.m.
End Bell: 3:45 p.m.
Early Release Bell: 12:45 p.m.
Detailed Schedule
Mascot: Cougars
Colors: Navy, maroon, and gold
Mission Statement: The mission of Central Academy of Technology & Arts is to prepare students to be informed, capable, and compassionate global citizens by providing an environment that fosters respect, confidence, growth, curiosity, creativity, critical thought, and knowledge.

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Meet Our School Leaders

Alanna Smith (Principal)

About Mrs. Smith

Mrs. Smith is a proud Union County native and graduate of Forest Hills High School. She has been part of UCPS for more than 12 years, beginning her career as a teacher, testing coordinator and coach before moving into school leadership. After earning her master’s in educational leadership from Queens University of Charlotte, she served as an Assistant Principal at Weddington High School starting in the summer of 2021. She was then honored as the 2025 UCPS Assistant Principal of the Year.

In July 2025, Mrs. Smith became Principal of Central Academy of Technology & Arts. She is honored to be serving in this role alongside the students, teachers and parents who make up this wonderful community.

Outside of school, Mrs. Smith enjoys spending time with her husband, Cory, and their two boys, Bryson and Weston.

Contact Mrs. Smith

Email: alanna.smith@ucps.k12.nc.us

Dareion Malone (Assistant Principal)

About Mr. Malone

Dareion Malone began his career in education in 2013 after a career in corporate America. He has served as a chorus director at Hopewell High School in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, UNC Charlotte, and Marvin Ridge High School in Union County. He was named the 2020–2021 Union County Public Schools Teacher of the Year and later served as an assistant principal at Sun Valley High School before being named Assistant Principal of Central Academy of Technology & Arts in July 2025.

Dareion leads with a belief that strong relationships and high expectations create the conditions for students and teachers to thrive. He is passionate about supporting fine arts, mentoring staff, and promoting equity and opportunity for all students. A lifelong musician who began singing and playing piano in childhood, Dareion brings creativity, collaboration, and care to his work both in schools and in the community.

Born in Byhalia, Mississippi, Dareion holds a bachelor of science in business administration from Rust College, a bachelor of music education from UNC Charlotte, and a master of school administration from UNC Charlotte.

Contact Mr. Malone

Email: dareion.malone@ucps.k12.nc.us

Thomas Stewart (Assistant Principal)

About Mr. Stewart

Thomas Stewart grew up in Albany, New York, before heading to New Hampshire for college. In 2007, he relocated to Charlotte, North Carolina, to begin his career in education. He spent five years teaching at Benton Heights Elementary and then transitioned to teaching math at Monroe Middle School for three years.

In 2012, Thomas earned his Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and moved into administration, serving as an assistant principal at Monroe Middle for seven years. Currently, he is an assistant principal at Central Academy of Technology & Arts, where he supports 11th and 12th grade students.

With nearly two decades in education, Thomas is passionate about building strong relationships, fostering a safe and supportive learning environment, and helping students prepare for life after high school.

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