Pender County Schools is highlighting meaningful progress in student achievement following the release of statewide accountability results from the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.
For the 2024-25 school year, 15 of the district’s 18 schools met or exceeded growth expectations. In addition, PCS cut the number of low-performing schools in half, decreasing from six in 2023-24 to just three in 2024-25.
Several schools showed notable improvement. Burgaw Middle, Malpass Corner Elementary, and West Pender Middle all exited low-performing status, reflecting the hard work of students, staff, and families. Pender Innovative Learning Academy (PILA), which operates under an alternative accountability model, earned the highest distinction of “Progressing”. Schools across the district also showed steady gains in reading and math, with all elementary schools meeting or exceeding growth in reading. Middle school End-of-Grade scores in both reading and math improved districtwide.
At the high school level, PCS students earned more than 7,400 Career and Technical Education (CTE) credentials with an 88% attainment rate, providing students with valuable skills for future success. Math III proficiency increased by 10 percentage points, while ACT and WorkKeys results also improved. The district’s graduation rate remains in the mid-90s, consistently above the state average.
While progress is evident, district leaders also recognize areas that require continued attention. New state standards in science resulted in a dip in performance for grade 5, grade 8, and Biology assessments. Addressing science instruction, along with providing targeted support for the district’s three schools still identified as low-performing, will be priorities moving forward.
Next steps for PCS include:
Completing and posting School Improvement Plans by November 2025.
Expanding support in math and English Language Arts through targeted resources, tutoring, and instructional strategies.
Providing professional development for teachers and administrators on new curriculum and standards.
Implementing science-specific supports to strengthen instruction under the new standards.
Enhancing services for exceptional students.
Superintendent Dr. Brad Breedlove noted both the progress and the ongoing work ahead, "These results reflect the dedication of our teachers, students, and families. We are seeing steady growth across the district, and while we acknowledge there is still work to be done, our focus remains on providing every student with the resources and support they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond."