Baton Elementary

Melissa Costin, Principal
Baton Elementary School
Home of the Baton Bears

Melissa Costin is proud to serve as the principal of Baton Elementary School, bringing with her a heart for servant leadership, a deep commitment to student growth, and a strong belief in the power of community. A passionate educator with a background in English and Secondary Education, Mrs. Costin earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Appalachian State University—Go Mountaineers!—and later completed her Master of School Administration at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington.

Originally from eastern North Carolina, Mrs. Costin and her family relocated to the foothills of western North Carolina in 2007. She and her husband Brian, a teacher at Caldwell Applied Sciences Academy, are proud parents to their son Caleb, a sophomore at Appalachian State University.

Mrs. Costin brings a blend of strategy and compassion to her role. She asks the tough questions, embraces honest feedback, and believes that clarity, kindness, and high expectations can coexist. As a reflective leader committed to growth—for herself, her staff, and every student she serves—she looks forward to continuing Baton’s legacy of excellence.