BURGAW, N.C. — Jeremy Mortensen has been named the next principal of Burgaw Middle School.
Mr. Mortensen was approved by the Pender County Board of Education during a special meeting on July 21, 2026. He will take over leadership of Burgaw Middle School following Brian Allen’s appointment as principal of Heide Trask High School.
Mr. Mortensen is an experienced educator with more than 15 years in school administration. He served this past year as an assistant principal at Topsail Middle School and has also held leadership roles in New Hanover County, including assistant principal and director of a charter school.
Mr. Mortensen began his career as a teacher in North Carolina before moving to California, where he continued serving students and families as a teacher, assistant principal and principal. He and his family returned to North Carolina in 2020.
“I am honored to join the Burgaw Middle School community and grateful for the opportunity to serve its students, staff and families,” Mr. Mortensen said. “I look forward to building relationships, supporting teachers and staff, and helping create a school environment where students feel connected, challenged and supported.”
Superintendent Dr. Brad Breedlove said Mr. Mortensen’s leadership experience and commitment to school community stood out throughout the process.
“Mr. Mortensen brings valuable experience as a school leader and a deep understanding of the importance of relationships in student success,” Dr. Breedlove said. “We are excited to welcome him to Pender County Schools and look forward to the positive impact he will have at Burgaw Middle School.”
Outside of school, Mr. Mortensen enjoys spending time with his wife and family, including their two golden retrievers. His son serves in the Navy, and his daughter recently graduated from Oregon State University. In his spare time, he enjoys traveling, hiking, golfing and surfing.
