Great conversations start with listening. 🍎

Today, Pender County Schools held its first Superintendent Teacher Advisory Council meeting of the school year at Heide Trask High School.

The council is made up of the Teacher of the Year from each school across the district, giving these educators an opportunity to bring the perspectives of their schools directly into conversations with Superintendent Dr. Brad Breedlove.

Today’s discussion centered on the PCS Strategic Plan, what’s working, where we’re making progress and where there may still be gaps or opportunities to improve.

These conversations help ensure the voices of our teachers are part of the work moving Pender County Schools forward.

Thank you to our Teachers of the Year for sharing their insight, experiences and ideas!
about 3 hours ago, Bob Fankboner
teacher advisory council
🤖 Build it. Test it. Stack it! Mr. Henry’s class at Topsail High School is putting their VEX robots into action! After building their robots, students are now taking on stacking games that challenge them to move, position, and stack objects with precision. 🏗️ Every round gives students a chance to test their designs, troubleshoot challenges, and make adjustments. They’re exploring how balance, control, and robot design affect performance while building teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. From figuring out why a stack falls to finding a better way to pick up and place an object, students are learning that engineering takes patience, creativity, and persistence. One adjustment—and one successful stack—at a time! 💪 #PCSCTE #TopsailHighSchool #VEXRobotics #HandsOnLearning #FutureEngineers #BrickByBrick
about 4 hours ago, Career and Technical Education Department
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JEREMY MORTENSEN | BURGAW MIDDLE SCHOOL

🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | BURGAW MIDDLE SCHOOL

For Jeremy Mortensen, principal of Burgaw Middle School, one teacher from his own middle school years still influences the way he thinks about education today.

Mr. Mortensen remembers his math teacher, Mr. Rivers, not only as an amazing teacher, but as someone who took the time to get outside the classroom and play football with students. It’s a memory he shares with his own staff today: think about your favorite teacher — and try to be that person for your students.

One of the things he appreciates most about middle school students is their creativity and willingness to be themselves. He enjoys being out in the hallways and classrooms, seeing students, handing out fist bumps and simply being part of the culture of the school.

And there’s plenty his students may not know about him. Mr. Mortensen grew up near Niagara Falls in Canada 🇨🇦, received his education in Australia 🇦🇺 and was recruited from there to teach in North Carolina.

Away from school, you might find him golfing, surfing or playing a little hockey. And if there’s music playing? There’s a good chance it’s Metallica. 🤘🎸

Throughout National Principals Month, we’re getting to know the people behind the principal’s desk and celebrating the leadership they bring to our schools each day.

Thank you, Mr. Mortensen, for all you do for the Burgaw Middle School community! 💙 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/v_wVsKnOkpQ
about 5 hours ago, Bob Fankboner
jeremy mortensen principal month 2026
🌟 Student Spotlight 🌟

Chase is a 5th grader at North Topsail Elementary, recognized for his academic success, leadership, and kindness toward others.

Chase works hard in the classroom and takes pride in his learning. He participates in discussions, shares his ideas, and is quick to help classmates who may be struggling. Rather than simply giving someone an answer, he helps them understand directions or think through their work. 📚

That same approach carries over outside of academics. Chase includes others, encourages his classmates, and treats people with kindness and respect. He follows school expectations and leads by example, showing that leadership doesn’t always mean being the loudest person in the room.

Outside of school, Chase enjoys playing hockey 🏒. His favorite food is pizza 🍕, and his favorite color is blue 💙. He also has a Husky/German Shepherd named Darla 🐶.

One fun fact—Chase was born in New Jersey.

💙 Thank you, Chase, for being a supportive friend and setting a positive example at North Topsail Elementary!
about 7 hours ago, Bob Fankboner
student spotlight chase NTE
🍎 Behind the Plate: Topsail High School

Burgers and pizza top the favorites list at the district’s largest school. For cafeteria manager Donna Giambalvo, the best part of the day is seeing the students, and she makes an effort to learn every name.

During National School Lunch Week, we’re taking you behind the scenes to meet the people preparing and serving our students’ meals.

Thank you to Donna and the Topsail High School cafeteria team for the work and care you bring to lunchtime every day! YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/CJdY7ArrADE
about 10 hours ago, Bob Fankboner
behind the plate
🍎💙 Teacher Tuesday: Kindergarten Team — South Topsail Elementary

This week's Teacher Tuesday recognizes the Kindergarten Team at South Topsail Elementary School! With experience ranging from beginning teachers to educators with 31 years in the classroom, this team works together to help the school's youngest students get off to a strong start.

The first few weeks of kindergarten are a big adjustment for students and families. From learning classroom routines to making new friends and becoming more independent, there's a lot for young learners to take in. The South Topsail kindergarten team has worked together to create a welcoming, structured environment where students feel comfortable and ready to learn.

Staff have already noticed the progress students are making. Children who were just learning how to navigate the school day are now following routines, participating in lessons, and growing more confident in the classroom. Teachers are also seeing academic growth as students build the skills they'll need throughout elementary school.

What stands out about this team is their consistency and willingness to work together. They understand that every child comes to kindergarten with different experiences and needs, and they take time to help each student adjust and make progress.

💛📚 Thank you to the South Topsail Elementary Kindergarten Team for the patience, teamwork, and care you bring to your classrooms each day. You're helping our youngest students build a strong foundation for the years ahead!
1 day ago, Bob Fankboner
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🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | MALPASS CORNER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

For Paula King-Jacobs, principal of Malpass Corner Elementary School, some of the best parts of the school day happen before classes even begin.

She especially enjoys morning car drop-off, when students arrive with smiles on their faces, excited to start the day. Being one of the first people to welcome them into the building is something she says makes that time of day especially meaningful.

Ms. King-Jacobs also has deep roots at Malpass Corner. As a student, one of her favorite recess activities was playing kickball there with her friends. And when she thinks back on the books she loved growing up, the characters from Sideways Stories from Wayside School still stand out for their fun and adventurous spirit. 📚

Something students may not know about their principal? She is definitely an early bird, often up around 2 or 3 in the morning and in the building before 6! ☀️

Most of all, Ms. King-Jacobs says her students teach her every day to be forgiving and loving. The hugs, high-fives and fist bumps she receives are daily reminders of the relationships that make Malpass Corner such a special place.

Throughout National Principals Month, we’re getting to know the people behind the principal’s desk and celebrating the leadership they bring to our schools each day.

Thank you, Ms. King-Jacobs, for all you do for the Malpass Corner Elementary School community! 💙 - https://youtube.com/shorts/NlH-gT_6Zms
1 day ago, Bob Fankboner
paula king-jacobs national principals month
🌟 Mentor of the Month: Tisha London 🌟

Please join us in celebrating Tisha London, a teacher at Malpass Corner Elementary and our latest Mentor of the Month!

Ms. London serves what Principal Paula King-Jacobs calls “our awesome adaptive students,” while also mentoring three Beginning Teachers. She has been part of the Pender County Schools family for several years, serving in different roles across the district and becoming a consistent, trusted presence for students and colleagues alike.

The relationships she builds with the teachers she mentors have a positive ripple effect, supporting not only those educators but also the students they serve each day.

We are incredibly grateful for Ms. London and all she does for her students, her Beginning Teachers and Pender County Schools. Congratulations, Ms. London, keep shining your light! 💙✨
1 day ago, Bob Fankboner
tisha london mces mentor of the month
Walking nachos are a student favorite at Surf City Elementary and Middle schools, but cafeteria manager Toni Toby’s favorite part of the day is seeing the smiling faces of students from pre-K through eighth grade. 😊

For National School Lunch Week, we stopped by the kitchen for a look at the work that goes into preparing lunch.

Thank you to the Surf City cafeteria team and school nutrition staff across Pender County Schools for keeping our students fed and ready to learn! 🍎 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/t8UKUdgJ_OE
1 day ago, Bob Fankboner
behind the plate
🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | PENDER EARLY COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL

For Dan Sidor, principal of Pender Early College High School, the heart of the school is in helping students challenge themselves, explore new opportunities and build a strong sense of character along the way.

With students coming from across Pender County and pursuing a wide range of pathways, Mr. Sidor says one of the biggest parts of the job is helping each student figure out what comes next. For some, that may mean earning an associate degree and transferring to a four-year college. For others, it could mean pursuing programs such as cosmetology, culinary arts or mechatronics through Cape Fear Community College.

He also believes the Pender Early College experience goes far beyond academics. Students are encouraged to serve, volunteer and connect with the community, building relationships and a deeper sense of purpose in what they are learning.

And if he could go back and try one more educational pathway himself? ✈️ He says the flight program at CFCC would be high on the list.

Throughout National Principals Month, we’re getting to know the people behind the principal’s desk and celebrating the leadership they bring to our schools each day.

Thank you, Mr. Sidor, for all you do for the Pender Early College community! 💙 - https://youtube.com/shorts/QUngRmeM5sw
2 days ago, Bob Fankboner
dan sidor national principals month
National School Lunch Week is here! 🍎🥗 This week, we celebrate the nutrition professionals who prepare and serve healthy meals that help students learn, grow, and stay energized. Thank you to our school cafeteria teams for serving students with care each day. 💙
3 days ago, Bob Fankboner
school lunch week
🦸‍♀️🌟 Saturday SuperHERO Spotlight! 🌟🦸‍♀️

Guess who won Carolina Quick Care’s Monthly Teacher Giveaway? Our extraordinary Health Science teacher at Heide Trask High School—Mrs. Dominique Faison-Lambe! 🎉

She received a $100 gift certificate to Teachers Pay Teachers to support the learning experiences she creates for our students!

Mrs. Faison-Lambe, thank you for helping students discover their potential and see a future in healthcare. You’re a superhero in our classrooms! 💙👏

Thank you, Carolina Quick Care, for celebrating and supporting our educators!

#SaturdaySuperHERO #PCSCTE #HeideTraskHighSchool #TeacherSpotlight #CarolinaQuickCare
4 days ago, Career and Technical Education Department
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Weekly PCS Newsletter https://new.express.adobe.com/webpage/PSJNnGIyeiEmf Have a great weekend!!
5 days ago, Bob Fankboner
PCS Weekly Newsletter
🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | WEST PENDER MIDDLE SCHOOL

For Dr. Ashley Goodlett, principal of West Pender Middle School, the middle school years are about much more than academics, they’re about connection, confidence and discovering the ability to lead.
Dr. Goodlett knows firsthand how important that support can be. Growing up in a military family, she attended two different middle schools and remembers a teacher who became “her person” during a challenging transition. That experience continues to shape the way she sees students today.

One thing she especially values about middle schoolers is their leadership potential. She believes students are capable of far more than they may realize, whether they’re leading a group, getting involved in activities or finding ways to make a difference beyond the classroom.

Her favorite part of the school day? Lunch, because it gives her a chance to sit with students, hear their stories and find out everything that has happened since they stepped off the bus. 😊

And something students may not know about their principal? Dr. Goodlett is a country girl at heart. She loves gardening and even knows her way around a tractor. 🚜

She describes West Pender Middle as one of Pender County’s “best-kept secrets,” with a close-knit, family atmosphere where students and staff truly get to know one another.

Throughout National Principals Month, we’re getting to know the people behind the principal’s desk and celebrating the leadership they bring to our schools each day.

Thank you, Dr. Goodlett, for all you do for the West Pender Middle School community! 💙 - https://youtube.com/shorts/8P2CWwL2nk0?feature=share
5 days ago, Bob Fankboner
dr. ashley goodlett national principal month
🌟 Feature Friday: Employee Spotlight 🌟

This week we’re recognizing Ms. Kelley Warren, Assistant Principal at Surf City Middle School.

Ms. Warren was nominated by a student who appreciates the time she takes to listen and offer support. Whether a student is facing a challenge or simply needs someone to talk to, she works to make sure students feel heard and comfortable asking for help.

A lot of the work of an assistant principal happens behind the scenes. Ms. Warren supports students, staff, and families throughout the school day while helping create an environment where students can learn, grow, and feel supported.

The student who nominated her pointed to her kindness, positive attitude, and encouragement as things that have made a difference in their experience at school.

💛💙 Thank you, Ms. Warren, for taking the time to listen and for the support you provide to students and staff at Surf City Middle School.
5 days ago, Bob Fankboner
FEATURE FRIDAY KELLEY WARREN SCM
To recognize the National School Lunch Program, serving nearly 30 million children each day, Pender County Schools is celebrating National School Lunch Week from October 12-16, 2026. The fun and creative campaign theme, “Cafeteria Circus: Where Healthy Choices Take Center Stage,” highlights the importance of a healthy school lunch to a student’s success both in and out of the classroom. Pender County is offering ALL STUDENT MEALS, both breakfast and lunch, AT NO COST during this week long carnival!

Please join the extravaganza and step up under the big top next week to celebrate all of our
spectacular child nutrition professionals who juggle & balance & dazzle all week long...helping to keep the show running here in Pender County!


Some of the fun meals offered next week include:
Clown Nose Strawberries
Ferris Wheel Whole Grain Waffles
Fire Breather Carrots
Tight Rope Red Pepper Strips
Strong Man Omelet
Clown Car Rib Sliders
Trapeze Chicken Sandwich
Doritos (whole grain reduced fat) Walkin-the-tightrope Tacos



5 days ago, Tamatha Carter
Broccoli circus performer juggling
Chicken drum-sticks
Milk strong man circus performer
Pear circus performer holding a ring
Popcorn box with clown face

It's CRUNCH time :)
All middle and high schools in Pender County are offering the Southwest Crunch Burger this week!
Chef Jeff was out in a few schools last week serving samples of this Limited Time Offer monthly special.
This is certainly nacho average burger....hope to see yall in the cafeteria!

High Schools - Tuesday and Thursday
Middle Schools - Friday

5 days ago, Tamatha Carter
Promo poster for the Southwest Crunch Burger
Chef Jeff at Surf City Middle serving samples of the Southwest Crunch Burger
🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | PENDERLEA SCHOOL

For Stephen Harris, principal of Penderlea School, one of the most rewarding parts of the job is seeing students grow from their very first days of kindergarten all the way through eighth grade.

At a K-8 school, that means watching younger students look up to their older classmates and seeing eighth graders grow into leaders, role models and mentors for the students coming behind them.

Mr. Harris says what makes Penderlea special is easy to identify: the community. From students and staff to families and community members, he sees a strong support system that helps make the school unique.

And when he thinks back to his own school days, some of his favorite memories come from wrestling meets, teammates and the camaraderie that came with being part of a team. These days, though, there may be one sport he wouldn’t mind mastering. ⛳

Throughout National Principals Month, we’re getting to know the people behind the principal’s desk and celebrating the leadership they bring to our schools each day.

Thank you, Mr. Harris, for all you do for the Penderlea School community! 💙 - https://youtube.com/shorts/9nHYZsqKVMI
6 days ago, Bob Fankboner
stephen harris national principals month
🎉 BIG NEWS FOR PENDER COUNTY SCHOOLS!

Dr. Brad Breedlove has been named the 2027 A. Craig Phillips North Carolina Superintendent of the Year!

Dr. Breedlove received the statewide honor today in Greensboro after previously being selected as the Region 2 — Southeast Superintendent of the Year.

This recognition reflects his leadership, his commitment to students and staff, and the work taking place every day across Pender County Schools.

Congratulations, Dr. Breedlove! 👏

More to come...
6 days ago, Bob Fankboner
dr brad breedlove named superintendent of the year
🍓🍌 A little measuring, a little mixing, and a whole lot of learning at Heide Trask! Mrs. Sanders’ Food and Nutrition students put their measuring and recipe-reading skills to the test with scratch-made quick breads! From strawberry and chocolate chip to banana nut and savory zucchini bread, students cooked up delicious results while building skills they can use for life. 🍞😋 Our students are blessed to have Mrs. Sanders—a teacher who brings learning to life through meaningful, hands-on experiences! 😇👏 #PCSCTE #HeideTrask #HandsOnLearning #CookingUpGreatness
6 days ago, Career and Technical Education Department
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