🎄💫 Amazing work, Abigail Smith from Burgaw Middle School! Last night, the Board of Education celebrated your holiday art, which will help spread joy through our PCS Holiday Cards. 🎉❤️ Keep shining bright! #OnePender
❄️🖌️ A big round of applause for Geneva Streeter from North Topsail Elementary! Your festive design was honored at the Board of Education meeting and will bring holiday cheer through the PCS Holiday Cards! 🎅🎁 We’re so proud of you! #OnePender
🎨✨ Congratulations, Camille McEwan from Surf City Middle School! Your stunning holiday artwork was recognized at last night’s Board of Education meeting and will be featured on the Pender County Schools Holiday Cards! 🎄🌟 Thank you for sharing your creativity! #OnePender
🌟 Student Spotlight: Alliz!🌟
Alliz, a 7th grader at Burgaw Middle School, has been recognized by her ESL Tutor, Fabianna Seri, for her determination and drive to succeed. A self-motivated and responsible student, Alliz approaches each day with a positive attitude and a strong work ethic.
Her dedication doesn’t go unnoticed—Alliz sets an excellent example for her peers, modeling good behavior and demonstrating what hard work can achieve.
Here’s a little more about Alliz:
🍔 Favorite food: Cheeseburger
🖤 Favorite colors: Black and Purple
⚽ Hobbies: Soccer
🐾 Pets: A Shih-Tzu named Oreo
📚 Interesting fact: Her new favorite subjects are Math and Science!
Thank you, Alliz, for showing us what it means to strive for success and inspire others along the way!
TEACHER TUESDAY - Max Scheinfield, Math Teacher at Pender Early College High School! ✏️📚
With 13 years of teaching experience, Mr. Scheinfield is passionate about inspiring students in grades 9-12. His journey into education was sparked by two profound experiences: a calculus teacher who created a collaborative and supportive classroom environment and his volunteer work as a tutor at a homeless shelter during his younger years. These experiences instilled in him a commitment to making every student feel valued and supported. 🌟
Mr. Scheinfield’s favorite subject to teach is Math 3, as it allows him to prepare students for the challenges of college-level math at Cape Fear Community College. He finds immense satisfaction in helping students succeed during this critical academic phase. His students’ outstanding results speak to his dedication, with nearly 100% proficiency on the Math 3 EOC exam over the past three semesters—a testament to his impactful teaching and their hard work. 🎓👏
Outside of the classroom, Mr. Scheinfield enjoys exploring the outdoors and spending time at the beach. One of his favorite hobbies is reading, especially epic fantasy novels that transport him to other worlds and inspiring sports non-fiction stories. 📖🌄
At home, Mr. Scheinfield and his wife, Allie (a veterinarian), share their lives with a host of animals: Violet (Golden Retriever), Opal (Black Lab), four cats (Monty, Rey, Ginny, and Fig), and two horses (Will and King). 🐾🐴
His favorite recent travel destination was Kalispell, MT, and Glacier National Park, where he experienced nature at its best. 🏔️✈️
Guided by the motto, “Math is not a spectator sport,” Mr. Scheinfield emphasizes the importance of active participation in math class. He believes that engagement and effort are key to students achieving lasting success in mathematics and beyond. 🧮✨
🌟 Feature Friday: William Greenleaf - West Pender Middle School! 🌟
This week, we’re excited to spotlight the contributions of Mr. William Greenleaf, who wears many hats at West Pender Middle School. As an 8th Grade Math Teacher, School Improvement Team (SIT) Chair, Boys Soccer Coach, and 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year, Mr. Greenleaf’s impact reaches every corner of the school community.
In the classroom, Mr. Greenleaf’s passion for teaching shines as he works tirelessly to ensure his students excel in math and gain confidence in their abilities. Beyond academics, he leads by example as the SIT Chair, fostering collaboration and driving meaningful improvements for the school. And as the Boys Soccer Coach, he’s a mentor and role model, teaching his players the value of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.
Mr. Greenleaf’s positivity and dedication extend to his colleagues, creating an environment of collaboration and support. His leadership inspires others to strive for excellence, and his enthusiasm is contagious.
Thank you, Mr. Greenleaf, for your commitment to your students, your team, and your school. You are a true leader and a cornerstone of the West Pender Middle community! 🌟
🏈Football Friday!📢
Congratulations to the Pender High Patriots for advancing to the quarterfinals of the NCHSAA 1A football championships! 🎉The 10-3 Patriots will face off against the 11-1 Tarboro Vikings tonight at 7:00 PM ⚡PHS has won 5-straight and is averaging a state best 52.6 PPG 🌟 📣#GoPatriots
🔗 Get connected! If you’ve downloaded the PCS app but aren’t linked to your child’s teacher in “Rooms,” ask them for the “Magic Code” and instructions to get started.
Need additional help? Visit: https://info.apptegy.com/for-parents-and-guardians
#OnePender
📲 Stay connected with Pender County Schools! Download our app for the latest updates and direct communication with your child's teacher.
Android: https://bit.ly/3GDfClN
iPhone: https://apple.co/3GzVlgM
#OnePender
🌟 Student Spotlight: Victoria! 🌟
Victoria, an 8th-grade student at Topsail Middle, has been recognized by her ELA teacher, Laura Nicholson, for her kindness, perseverance, and what she calls "academic grit." Victoria embodies a never-give-up attitude, tackling challenges head-on and showing courage in her learning journey.
What sets Victoria apart is her selflessness. Without being asked, she has become a mentor to a classmate who needs extra guidance. She balances her own work with helping her friend stay on task, showcasing care and leadership that positively impacts her class.
Here’s a little more about Victoria:
🥩 Favorite food: Steak
🌊 Favorite color: Teal
💃 Hobbies: Dance—Jazz, Hip Hop, Ballet, Lyrical at Point Your Toes studio
🐾 Pets: 4 bunnies, 3 dogs, 1 cat, and 1 leopard gecko!
🦴 Interesting fact: She broke the same leg twice!
Thank you, Victoria, for inspiring us with your perseverance, kindness, and dedication to helping others! 💛💙
👩🏫TEACHER TUESDAY - Ruth Gourley, STEAM Specialist at Malpass Corner Elementary 🌟
Ms. Gourley teaches grades K-5 at Malpass Corner Elementary and has been inspiring young minds for nine years. Her passion for education stems from her love of helping children experience those “light bulb” moments when they grasp new knowledge. 💡✨
As a self-proclaimed science nerd, Ms. Gourley’s favorite subject to teach is science. She enjoys sparking curiosity and making learning exciting for her students. Her proudest accomplishment is becoming a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) specialist, a role that allows her to bring innovative, hands-on learning experiences to her classroom. 🔬🎨
When she’s not teaching, Ms. Gourley enjoys relaxing at the beach, watching movies, and listening to music. At home, she shares her life with two very spoiled house cats who bring her endless joy. 🐾
Her dream travel destination is Cozumel, Mexico—a place she hopes to explore one day. 🌴✈️
Ms. Gourley’s teaching philosophy, *“Student-centered and hands-on,”* reflects her commitment to engaging her students in meaningful and interactive learning experiences. She strives to create an environment where students are at the heart of every lesson. 💡👏
🎁✨ Today is Giving Tuesday! ✨🎁
Join us in supporting the Pender Education Partnership (PEP) and our incredible educators! Your tax-deductible donation today can help fund over 40 educator mini-grants—creative projects that bring learning to life in Pender County Schools.
💡 Let's make this holiday season brighter for our students and teachers by giving them the tools to succeed.
💻 Donate Now: https://bit.ly/3XiraFa
Every contribution makes a difference. Thank you for helping us support our educators and students! ❤️
BMS 8th graders completed another milestone in the NC Career Development Plan by working on high school course planning. Ms. Harrell, PHS counselor, and Ms. Simmons, middle school career development counselor, joined Ms. Messick's classes to talk about how high school is different from middle school, tips for success, and to help students plan high school electives. They stored their plans in a high school career development Google classroom so the plans can roll up with them. Ask them to show you their plan!
🌟 Feature Friday: Courtney Bongiorno, School Counselor at West Pender Middle School!🌟
This week, we’re thrilled to highlight the work of Mrs. Courtney Bongiorno, the heart and soul of student support at West Pender Middle. As a school counselor, Mrs. Bongiorno doesn’t just do her job—she transforms it. Whether she’s offering a listening ear, creating comprehensive Career Development Plans in collaboration with CTE and CFCC liaisons, or leading impactful lessons on bullying, mental health, and academic planning, her dedication to students shines through every day.
Her ability to guide students through personal challenges and help them dream big for their futures is truly inspiring. Mrs. Bongiorno’s hands-on approach ensures every student feels supported and prepared to succeed, both in school and beyond.
And it’s not just her students who benefit—Mrs. Bongiorno is a pillar of positivity for her colleagues, too. As a member of the Climate Committee, she’s always finding creative ways to bring people together and uplift the team. Whether it’s planning a fun activity or simply sharing an encouraging word, her smile and enthusiasm light up the school.
Mrs. Bongiorno, your impact on West Pender Middle is immeasurable. Thank you for your care, and leadership. You are a source of inspiration for your colleagues. 🌟 #OnePender
This Thanksgiving, we are grateful for our incredible Pender County Schools family—students, staff, parents, and community members who make a difference every day. 🦃🍁✨
As we gather around our tables, let’s celebrate the spirit of #OnePender and the countless blessings that unite us.
From all of us at PCS, we wish you a joyful and safe Thanksgiving! 🧡
🌟Student Spotlight: Sophia🌟
Sophia, a 2nd grader at CF Pope Elementary, stands out for her kindness, leadership, and hard work. Her teacher, Ms. Katie Billig, describes Sophia as a positive role model who never gives up—even when the work is challenging.
Sophia’s kindness shines in her everyday actions. If she notices someone feeling upset, she’s the first to offer a hug, check in, and help them feel better. Whether assisting her teacher or classmates, Sophia is always willing to lend a helping hand. Her positive attitude and encouragement inspire others to persevere and make good choices.
Here’s a little more about Sophia:
🍗 Favorite food: Bojangles
💜 Favorite color: Purple
🏀 Hobbies: Playing sports
🐾 Pets: Bear and Daisy (her two dogs)
👩👧 Interesting fact: Sophia is a twin!
Thank you, Sophia, for being a shining example of kindness and determination at CF Pope Elementary!
WECT has named the Pender Patriots as this weeks All Star Team of the Week. The Patriots will host Gates County in the third round of the Class 1A football playoffs on Friday - https://www.wect.com/2024/11/25/pender-high-school-named-all-star-team-week/
TEACHER TUESDAY - Joseph Altergott, Career Exploration Teacher at Topsail Middle School🌟👨🏫
Mr. Altergott teaches grades 6-8 at Topsail Middle School and is in his third year of teaching. His journey into education began with coaching high school sports, where he discovered a passion for helping students and thriving in an educational environment. 🏈📚
His favorite subject to teach is Exploring Careers and Employment. With topics that change weekly, he especially enjoys seeing students interact with VR headsets to explore various careers. Witnessing their curiosity and excitement is a highlight for him. 🎮💼
Among his accomplishments, Mr. Altergott was proud to be named Pender County CTE Teacher of the Month last October. Another special teaching moment for him is when past students recognize him and take the time to say hello. 🌟
Outside the classroom, Mr. Altergott loves spending time at home with his family, watching football, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures. He’s also a fan of both sports and video games. At home, he shares his life with Belle, a beloved Chihuahua. 🐾
His dream travel destination is taking his family to a football game in Chicago, a trip he hopes to make someday. 🏟️
Mr. Altergott lives by the motto, “Yesterday is over, focus on today,” a philosophy that guides his commitment to his students and inspires him to make each day meaningful. 💡
