BURGAW, NC - The Pender County Schools Board of Education met on May 12, 2026, to review and approve a variety of items related to district operations, instructional resources, facilities, transportation, and long-range planning.
The meeting began with recognitions celebrating outstanding students, staff, and school initiatives across the district. Honorees included educators recognized by NCCAT, Battle of the Books participants, student mental health awareness leaders, and Special Olympics volunteers.
Superintendent Dr. Brad Breedlove shared updates on the close of the school year, upcoming graduation ceremonies, and the district’s recently presented local budget request. He highlighted the district’s continued focus on teacher recruitment and retention, competitive compensation, and capital improvements.
J.H. Lea K–8 and Facility Updates
Board members received construction updates for the new J.H. Lea K–8 campus, including progress reports showing the project remains on schedule and on budget. Design teams also presented updated interior concepts featuring coastal-inspired colors, graphics, and themed learning spaces intended to reflect the local environment.
The Board approved several project-related items connected to the new campus, including additional covered canopies for student pickup and drop-off areas to improve protection during inclement weather. The Board also approved multiple change orders and monthly construction payment applications associated with ongoing work at the site.
Additional facilities action included approval to replace a failing chiller system at Cape Fear Elementary and Middle School to improve reliability ahead of the upcoming school year.
Academic and Instructional Approvals
The Board approved several curriculum and instructional renewals designed to support student learning across grade levels.
Approved items included:
Renewal of the STAR Renaissance Learning platform for student assessment and intervention support in reading and mathematics
A three-year renewal of Eureka Math² instructional resources for grades K–5
A three-year renewal of i-Ready Math and Reading resources for grades 6–8
Renewal of Fundations literacy resources for elementary students
District leaders noted that these resources support ongoing academic growth, individualized learning, and literacy development aligned with district goals and state standards.
Career and Technical Education
The Board approved the district’s 2026–2027 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Local Plan, allowing PCS to continue receiving federal Perkins funding. District staff shared updates highlighting strong graduation rates among CTE concentrators, increased credential attainment, and plans to expand future offerings, including robotics and artificial intelligence coursework.
Transportation and Operations
Transportation leaders presented proposed bell schedule adjustments for the Topsail feeder pattern to address traffic and routing concerns. Following discussion, the Board voted to table the proposal until the June meeting to allow for additional community feedback.
The Board also approved the sale of unused district equipment and select transportation vehicles through GovDeals as part of ongoing fleet and warehouse management efforts.
Staff Support and Safety
Board members discussed employee recruitment and retention challenges related to custodial staffing and reviewed a proposed annual CPI adjustment for HES custodial services. Action on the proposal was tabled until June.
The Board also unanimously approved a motion directing staff to develop an action plan to expand CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) training opportunities for all teachers and staff districtwide.
The meeting concluded with comments from Board members recognizing staff dedication, student achievements, and the work taking place across Pender County Schools as the district approaches graduation season and the end of the academic year.