Teacher Tuesday: Ms. Trudy Carmichael — Surf City Elementary
💙🍎
Ms. Trudy Carmichael is a teacher at Surf City Elementary and has been with the school for three years. Families and staff share that she creates a classroom where students feel comfortable, supported, and ready to learn. She builds strong relationships with her students and sets clear expectations, helping them grow both academically and personally. Many of her former students return to visit, which speaks to the connection she builds.
Ms. Carmichael also works closely with families. She communicates regularly and makes sure parents feel informed and included in their child’s progress. Families say they trust her and appreciate the care she shows their children each day.
What stands out most about Ms. Carmichael is her commitment to growing as an educator. While teaching full time, she is also working toward a degree in school administration. She supports her team by helping beginning teachers, sharing resources, and offering guidance when needed. She also works with a student teacher in her classroom, helping them learn day-to-day teaching practices.
Thank you, Ms. Carmichael, for the support you provide to students, families, and staff at Surf City Elementary. 💛✅
💙🍎
Ms. Trudy Carmichael is a teacher at Surf City Elementary and has been with the school for three years. Families and staff share that she creates a classroom where students feel comfortable, supported, and ready to learn. She builds strong relationships with her students and sets clear expectations, helping them grow both academically and personally. Many of her former students return to visit, which speaks to the connection she builds.
Ms. Carmichael also works closely with families. She communicates regularly and makes sure parents feel informed and included in their child’s progress. Families say they trust her and appreciate the care she shows their children each day.
What stands out most about Ms. Carmichael is her commitment to growing as an educator. While teaching full time, she is also working toward a degree in school administration. She supports her team by helping beginning teachers, sharing resources, and offering guidance when needed. She also works with a student teacher in her classroom, helping them learn day-to-day teaching practices.
Thank you, Ms. Carmichael, for the support you provide to students, families, and staff at Surf City Elementary. 💛✅
So proud doesn’t even begin to cover it! 💙
Our Certified Medical Assistant students from Pender High School are spending their Spring Break doing something truly incredible—gaining real-world clinical experience at sites including Black River (Burgaw), Atkinson, Maple Hill, and Destiny Total Health Care.
While many are relaxing, these students are showing what commitment, discipline, and purpose really look like. They are choosing to invest in themselves, earn valuable clinical hours, and take meaningful steps toward their future in healthcare.
As CMA teacher Jamie Garris shared, “I wish I could fully put into words how proud I am of our Medical Assisting students. Many of them have dedicated part of—if not their entire—Spring Break to gaining clinical experience and bettering themselves.”
They are doing BIG things, and I just had to share a glimpse of the excellence happening behind the scenes. The future of healthcare is in great hands! 👏🩺 #CTEWorks #FutureReady #PenderProud
Our Certified Medical Assistant students from Pender High School are spending their Spring Break doing something truly incredible—gaining real-world clinical experience at sites including Black River (Burgaw), Atkinson, Maple Hill, and Destiny Total Health Care.
While many are relaxing, these students are showing what commitment, discipline, and purpose really look like. They are choosing to invest in themselves, earn valuable clinical hours, and take meaningful steps toward their future in healthcare.
As CMA teacher Jamie Garris shared, “I wish I could fully put into words how proud I am of our Medical Assisting students. Many of them have dedicated part of—if not their entire—Spring Break to gaining clinical experience and bettering themselves.”
They are doing BIG things, and I just had to share a glimpse of the excellence happening behind the scenes. The future of healthcare is in great hands! 👏🩺 #CTEWorks #FutureReady #PenderProud
💙💛 Friendly reminder, Pender County families! 💛💙
Preschool applications for Pender County Schools remain open! 📅
If you live in Pender County and your child will be 3 or 4 years old by August 31, 2026, your family may be eligible to apply for our preschool program 🎒✨
Our preschool program offers:
⭐ Free, full-day, high-quality instruction
⭐ State licensed teachers
⭐ Support for all developmental levels
⭐ Fun activities and socialization
Please help us spread the word to families in our community 🤝
Scan the QR code in the graphic for more information and application details.
Questions? Call 910-259-7603 ☎️
💙💛 Recordatorio amistoso para las familias del condado de Pender. 💛💙
¡Las solicitudes para el programa preescolar de Pender County Schools continúan abiertas! 📅
Si vive en el condado de Pender y su hijo o hija tendrá 3 o 4 años para el 31 de agosto de 2026, su familia podría ser elegible para solicitar ingreso a nuestro programa preescolar 🎒✨
Nuestro programa preescolar ofrece:
⭐ Instrucción gratuita, de día completo y de alta calidad
⭐ Maestros con licencia estatal
⭐ Apoyo para todos los niveles de desarrollo
⭐ Actividades divertidas y socialización
Por favor, ayúdenos a compartir esta información con las familias de nuestra comunidad 🤝
Escanee el código QR en la imagen para obtener más información y detalles sobre la solicitud.
¿Preguntas? Llame al 910-259-7603 ☎️
Preschool applications for Pender County Schools remain open! 📅
If you live in Pender County and your child will be 3 or 4 years old by August 31, 2026, your family may be eligible to apply for our preschool program 🎒✨
Our preschool program offers:
⭐ Free, full-day, high-quality instruction
⭐ State licensed teachers
⭐ Support for all developmental levels
⭐ Fun activities and socialization
Please help us spread the word to families in our community 🤝
Scan the QR code in the graphic for more information and application details.
Questions? Call 910-259-7603 ☎️
💙💛 Recordatorio amistoso para las familias del condado de Pender. 💛💙
¡Las solicitudes para el programa preescolar de Pender County Schools continúan abiertas! 📅
Si vive en el condado de Pender y su hijo o hija tendrá 3 o 4 años para el 31 de agosto de 2026, su familia podría ser elegible para solicitar ingreso a nuestro programa preescolar 🎒✨
Nuestro programa preescolar ofrece:
⭐ Instrucción gratuita, de día completo y de alta calidad
⭐ Maestros con licencia estatal
⭐ Apoyo para todos los niveles de desarrollo
⭐ Actividades divertidas y socialización
Por favor, ayúdenos a compartir esta información con las familias de nuestra comunidad 🤝
Escanee el código QR en la imagen para obtener más información y detalles sobre la solicitud.
¿Preguntas? Llame al 910-259-7603 ☎️
Pender Early College High School is growing something special! 🌱
Support the PECHS Garden Club at their Plant Sale Fundraiser, open to students, parents, and the community. Stop by April 6–10 from 10:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. at the picnic table area on the CFCC Burgaw Campus, 100 Industrial Dr., Burgaw.
Shoppers can find starter plants including tomatoes, peppers, herbs, native plants, flowers, and succulents, along with crafts and 3D-printed items. Come out and support our students while helping their garden club continue to grow!
Support the PECHS Garden Club at their Plant Sale Fundraiser, open to students, parents, and the community. Stop by April 6–10 from 10:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. at the picnic table area on the CFCC Burgaw Campus, 100 Industrial Dr., Burgaw.
Shoppers can find starter plants including tomatoes, peppers, herbs, native plants, flowers, and succulents, along with crafts and 3D-printed items. Come out and support our students while helping their garden club continue to grow!
🎉🏫 It’s Assistant Principals Week! 👏💼
Pender County Schools is proud to celebrate our amazing assistant principals who lead with dedication, compassion, and a deep commitment to student success. 💙 Whether supporting staff, encouraging students, or keeping things running smoothly—you are essential to our schools!
Thank you for all you do to inspire, guide, and lead every day. We appreciate you! 🌟🙌
Pender County Schools is proud to celebrate our amazing assistant principals who lead with dedication, compassion, and a deep commitment to student success. 💙 Whether supporting staff, encouraging students, or keeping things running smoothly—you are essential to our schools!
Thank you for all you do to inspire, guide, and lead every day. We appreciate you! 🌟🙌
🌟 Feature Friday: Employee Spotlight 🌟
This week we’re recognizing Ms. Anna Hayes, Treasurer at Cape Fear Middle School.
Ms. Hayes has been part of Pender County Schools for 50 years. She is a product of our district and has worked at several schools over the years, including Burgaw Elementary, C.F. Pope, Malpass Corner, and now Cape Fear Middle School.
In her current role, she helps keep things running smoothly and supports staff with the day-to-day needs of the school. Many staff members look to her for guidance or just someone to talk to, and she’s always willing to listen and help where she can.
She’s a steady presence in the building and someone people know they can count on.
💛💙 Thank you, Ms. Hayes, for your years of service and for the role you continue to play at Cape Fear Middle School.
This week we’re recognizing Ms. Anna Hayes, Treasurer at Cape Fear Middle School.
Ms. Hayes has been part of Pender County Schools for 50 years. She is a product of our district and has worked at several schools over the years, including Burgaw Elementary, C.F. Pope, Malpass Corner, and now Cape Fear Middle School.
In her current role, she helps keep things running smoothly and supports staff with the day-to-day needs of the school. Many staff members look to her for guidance or just someone to talk to, and she’s always willing to listen and help where she can.
She’s a steady presence in the building and someone people know they can count on.
💛💙 Thank you, Ms. Hayes, for your years of service and for the role you continue to play at Cape Fear Middle School.
Weekly PCS Newsletter (one day early 😉 ) - https://new.express.adobe.com/webpage/N8WZR2QJjkqth - Have a great weekend and Spring Break (if it applies)!! 🌷🌸
This sandwich is certainly cheesy on the eyes!
Elementary schools served up grilled cheese sandwiches along with fruit and veggies this week.
Elementary schools served up grilled cheese sandwiches along with fruit and veggies this week.
🌟 Student Spotlight 🌟
Dahlia is an 8th grader at Surf City Middle School, recognized for her academics, leadership, kindness, and artistic talent.
Dahlia stays involved in several areas at school. She is a member of the National Junior Honor Society and Student Council, and she is already earning high school credits. She also participates in the school band and has been part of the talent show, where she earned first place in 2025 for music.
Outside of the classroom, Dahlia is active in her community. She volunteers as a youth minister at Emma Anderson and helps at the Surf City Community Garden. She also plays volleyball through Parks and Recreation and has been recognized for her artwork, including earning awards in the Surf City Middle School art contest.
Dahlia often encourages other students to explore music, especially guitar and vocals, and she serves as a positive example for younger and new students.
In her free time, she enjoys music 🎸, painting 🎨, volleyball 🏐, skateboarding 🛹, baking 🍪, and working on fashion projects. Her favorite food is pasta 🍝, and her favorite color is maroon. She has a Great Dane named Sylvie 🐶.
One interesting note—many of Dahlia’s skills, including guitar, painting, skateboarding, and baking, are self-taught.
❤️ Thank you, Dahlia, for your involvement and contributions at Surf City Middle School.
Dahlia is an 8th grader at Surf City Middle School, recognized for her academics, leadership, kindness, and artistic talent.
Dahlia stays involved in several areas at school. She is a member of the National Junior Honor Society and Student Council, and she is already earning high school credits. She also participates in the school band and has been part of the talent show, where she earned first place in 2025 for music.
Outside of the classroom, Dahlia is active in her community. She volunteers as a youth minister at Emma Anderson and helps at the Surf City Community Garden. She also plays volleyball through Parks and Recreation and has been recognized for her artwork, including earning awards in the Surf City Middle School art contest.
Dahlia often encourages other students to explore music, especially guitar and vocals, and she serves as a positive example for younger and new students.
In her free time, she enjoys music 🎸, painting 🎨, volleyball 🏐, skateboarding 🛹, baking 🍪, and working on fashion projects. Her favorite food is pasta 🍝, and her favorite color is maroon. She has a Great Dane named Sylvie 🐶.
One interesting note—many of Dahlia’s skills, including guitar, painting, skateboarding, and baking, are self-taught.
❤️ Thank you, Dahlia, for your involvement and contributions at Surf City Middle School.
Teacher Tuesday: Ms. Latrice Shiver — Burgaw Middle School
Ms. Latrice Shiver teaches 8th grade math at Burgaw Middle School and is in her 4th year of teaching. She is known for careful planning, strong instruction, and making sure students understand what they are learning. She sets clear expectations and provides the support students need to be successful.
Ms. Shiver’s classroom is structured and focused. Students know what is expected, and learning stays at the center of the day. Staff also describe her as reliable, team-oriented, and committed to the school community.
Ms. Shiver supports BMS beyond the classroom as well. She organized the “12 Days of Christmas” for faculty and staff to bring some encouragement during a busy time of year. She also helped recognize BMS bus drivers during Bus Driver Appreciation by providing a luncheon to thank them for their work.
Thank you, Ms. Shiver, for your work with students and the support you provide to the Burgaw Middle School community. 💛
Ms. Latrice Shiver teaches 8th grade math at Burgaw Middle School and is in her 4th year of teaching. She is known for careful planning, strong instruction, and making sure students understand what they are learning. She sets clear expectations and provides the support students need to be successful.
Ms. Shiver’s classroom is structured and focused. Students know what is expected, and learning stays at the center of the day. Staff also describe her as reliable, team-oriented, and committed to the school community.
Ms. Shiver supports BMS beyond the classroom as well. She organized the “12 Days of Christmas” for faculty and staff to bring some encouragement during a busy time of year. She also helped recognize BMS bus drivers during Bus Driver Appreciation by providing a luncheon to thank them for their work.
Thank you, Ms. Shiver, for your work with students and the support you provide to the Burgaw Middle School community. 💛
🏆📚 The championship trophy made its way to C.F. Pope Elementary today, and it was a good chance to celebrate what this school accomplished in the Road to the Championship: PCS March Reading Tournament 2026.
C.F. Pope earned this win. Students brought real energy to the tournament and made reading part of the school day in every way they could. That kind of excitement helped carry the Panthers all the way to the top. 💙🐾
For a school with the sixth smallest student population out of our 19 schools, this was HUGE - like a 15 seed knocking off a two!! Congrats to C.F. Pope Elementary and their community on a well-deserved championship. 🎉
C.F. Pope earned this win. Students brought real energy to the tournament and made reading part of the school day in every way they could. That kind of excitement helped carry the Panthers all the way to the top. 💙🐾
For a school with the sixth smallest student population out of our 19 schools, this was HUGE - like a 15 seed knocking off a two!! Congrats to C.F. Pope Elementary and their community on a well-deserved championship. 🎉
🎒✨ Kindergarten Registration is here! ✨🎒
Pender County Schools invites families to attend K Screener Day at all school sites on June 2 & 3 from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM 🏫
Bring your future student for registration support and screening assistance! ✅
Children must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2026.
Please bring:
📌 Proof of residency
📌 Certified birth certificate
Scan the QR code on the flyer or visit the district website to enroll today! 📲
🎒✨ ¡Ya llegó la inscripción para kindergarten! ✨🎒
Pender County Schools invita a las familias a asistir al Día de Evaluación de Kínder en todas las escuelas el 2 y 3 de junio de 9:00 a. m. a 5:00 p. m. 🏫
¡Traiga a su estudiante para recibir ayuda con la inscripción y el proceso de evaluación! ✅
Los niños deben tener 5 años cumplidos en o antes del 31 de agosto de 2026.
Favor de traer:
📌 Comprobante de residencia
📌 Acta de nacimiento certificada
Escanee el código QR en el volante o visite el sitio web del distrito para inscribirse hoy mismo. 📲
Pender County Schools invites families to attend K Screener Day at all school sites on June 2 & 3 from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM 🏫
Bring your future student for registration support and screening assistance! ✅
Children must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2026.
Please bring:
📌 Proof of residency
📌 Certified birth certificate
Scan the QR code on the flyer or visit the district website to enroll today! 📲
🎒✨ ¡Ya llegó la inscripción para kindergarten! ✨🎒
Pender County Schools invita a las familias a asistir al Día de Evaluación de Kínder en todas las escuelas el 2 y 3 de junio de 9:00 a. m. a 5:00 p. m. 🏫
¡Traiga a su estudiante para recibir ayuda con la inscripción y el proceso de evaluación! ✅
Los niños deben tener 5 años cumplidos en o antes del 31 de agosto de 2026.
Favor de traer:
📌 Comprobante de residencia
📌 Acta de nacimiento certificada
Escanee el código QR en el volante o visite el sitio web del distrito para inscribirse hoy mismo. 📲
📚🏆 Congratulations to C.F. Pope Elementary, winner of the Road to the Championship: PCS March Reading Tournament 2026.
This was a big accomplishment for C.F. Pope. Out of our 19 schools, C.F. Pope has the sixth smallest student population, but their students showed just how much this meant to them. We heard that reading quickly became the top priority across the school, with students choosing to read during lunch, recess, and any free time they had. 📖💙
That kind of buy-in says a lot. C.F. Pope turned this into a true Cinderella story and a bracket-busting run through the tournament. Students, staff, and families all played a part in helping the Panthers finish on top. 🐾🏀
Thank you to every school that took part and helped keep the focus on reading throughout March.
Great job, C.F. Pope Elementary. Enjoy your shining moment. 🎉
This was a big accomplishment for C.F. Pope. Out of our 19 schools, C.F. Pope has the sixth smallest student population, but their students showed just how much this meant to them. We heard that reading quickly became the top priority across the school, with students choosing to read during lunch, recess, and any free time they had. 📖💙
That kind of buy-in says a lot. C.F. Pope turned this into a true Cinderella story and a bracket-busting run through the tournament. Students, staff, and families all played a part in helping the Panthers finish on top. 🐾🏀
Thank you to every school that took part and helped keep the focus on reading throughout March.
Great job, C.F. Pope Elementary. Enjoy your shining moment. 🎉
🌟 Feature Friday: Employee Spotlight 🌟
This week we’re recognizing Ms. Cheryl Holt, Federal Programs Administrative Assistant in Federal Programs/Student Support.
Ms. Holt has served Pender County Schools for almost 27 years, and her knowledge and consistency have been a strong support for many people across the district. She helps ensure Federal Programs work is handled correctly and stays on track, especially when it comes to Title I.
Cheryl keeps budgets updated and shares regular information with Title I principals so they have a clear picture of current expenses and projected costs. Several principals have shared that the budget support they’ve received in recent years has been the best they’ve had.
She also supports district programs in practical ways, including ordering materials for Science Olympiad. This takes a major task off staff members’ plates and allows them to focus more on students.
Cheryl is known for being responsive, helpful, and easy to work with. She’s always willing to answer questions, share what she knows, and step in when something needs to be handled.
💛💙 Thank you, Ms. Holt, for your years of service and for the steady support you provide to schools, staff, and students across Pender County Schools.
This week we’re recognizing Ms. Cheryl Holt, Federal Programs Administrative Assistant in Federal Programs/Student Support.
Ms. Holt has served Pender County Schools for almost 27 years, and her knowledge and consistency have been a strong support for many people across the district. She helps ensure Federal Programs work is handled correctly and stays on track, especially when it comes to Title I.
Cheryl keeps budgets updated and shares regular information with Title I principals so they have a clear picture of current expenses and projected costs. Several principals have shared that the budget support they’ve received in recent years has been the best they’ve had.
She also supports district programs in practical ways, including ordering materials for Science Olympiad. This takes a major task off staff members’ plates and allows them to focus more on students.
Cheryl is known for being responsive, helpful, and easy to work with. She’s always willing to answer questions, share what she knows, and step in when something needs to be handled.
💛💙 Thank you, Ms. Holt, for your years of service and for the steady support you provide to schools, staff, and students across Pender County Schools.
Today, we are incredibly proud of the leadership and service in action at Heide Trask High School!
Under the guidance of Mrs. Faison Lambe, our outstanding HOSA students took the lead in hosting a Blood Connection Blood Drive—demonstrating what it truly means to serve others and make a real-world impact.
From organizing logistics to encouraging donors, our students stepped up as leaders, showing compassion, professionalism, and a commitment to a cause greater than themselves. This is more than an event—it’s a life-saving opportunity and a powerful example of students using their skills to influence the moment and impact the future.
We are grateful for Mrs. Lambe’s leadership and for our HOSA students who continue to represent Heide Trask High School and Pender County Schools with excellence.
Because of you, lives will be changed. ❤️
#CTEInAction #StudentLeaders #HOSA #ServeOthers #OnePender #ClassroomsToCareers
We are proud to celebrate an incredible achievement!
NC HOSA has bestowed its highest honor, Honorary Life Membership, to Mrs. Miranda Wells. With over 25 years of dedication to NC HOSA, Mrs. Wells has made a lasting impact—advising one of the founding middle school chapters, serving on the Board of Directors, leading competitive events, earning the Gold Star Advisor distinction every single year since 2007 and so much more.
Her influence spans every level—local, regional, state, and international—and her impact can be seen in the countless healthcare professionals who have walked through her classroom.
Mrs. Wells goes above and beyond for her students, ensuring fundraising efforts so that no student has to worry about the cost of participation—only the opportunity to compete. She sees potential in students long before they see it in themselves and shows up for them fully, consistently, and without hesitation.
Congratulations, Mrs. Wells, on this well-deserved honor! 💙
Students in our elementary and middle schools today had fun enjoying BREAKFAST FOR LUNCH!
🌟 Student Spotlight 🌟
Wyatt is being recognized for his strong academics, leadership, and the way he treats others.
Wyatt sets high standards for himself and works hard in school. He has been involved in Beta Club and National Honor Society, and he was also one of the first students to receive the Pender Patriot Award.
He is also known for being kind, humble, and willing to help others both in and out of school. Wyatt volunteers through school service projects and has helped with events like pancake breakfasts and community clean-up efforts around Burgaw. Teachers and peers describe him as easy to work with and someone who contributes in a steady, positive way.
Outside of school, Wyatt enjoys reading 📚, playing multiple instruments 🎶, and video gaming 🎮. His favorite food is steak 🥩, and his favorite color is blue 💙. He has several pets—his dog Brownie 🐶, a bearded dragon named Dragon 🦎, and two birds named Blue and Banana 🐦.
One interesting fact about Wyatt: he was born at 26 weeks, weighing 1 pound 11 ounces, and spent about two and a half months in the NICU.
💙 Thank you, Wyatt, for being a positive example through your work, attitude, and service to others.
Wyatt is being recognized for his strong academics, leadership, and the way he treats others.
Wyatt sets high standards for himself and works hard in school. He has been involved in Beta Club and National Honor Society, and he was also one of the first students to receive the Pender Patriot Award.
He is also known for being kind, humble, and willing to help others both in and out of school. Wyatt volunteers through school service projects and has helped with events like pancake breakfasts and community clean-up efforts around Burgaw. Teachers and peers describe him as easy to work with and someone who contributes in a steady, positive way.
Outside of school, Wyatt enjoys reading 📚, playing multiple instruments 🎶, and video gaming 🎮. His favorite food is steak 🥩, and his favorite color is blue 💙. He has several pets—his dog Brownie 🐶, a bearded dragon named Dragon 🦎, and two birds named Blue and Banana 🐦.
One interesting fact about Wyatt: he was born at 26 weeks, weighing 1 pound 11 ounces, and spent about two and a half months in the NICU.
💙 Thank you, Wyatt, for being a positive example through your work, attitude, and service to others.
⏳ Don’t Forget!
The Student Ridership Survey for 2026–27 will remain open through the end of this school year.
Every family should:
✔ Return the transportation letter (if no changes are needed)
OR
✔ Submit updates using the online survey
📍 Complete the survey here: https://forms.gle/Hpe3gS6GzEzTqAzG9
We appreciate your partnership!
⏳ ¡No lo olvide!
La Encuesta de Transporte Estudiantil para 2026–27 estará disponible hasta el final de este año escolar.
Cada familia debe:
✔ Devolver la carta de transporte (si no hay cambios)
O
✔ Enviar actualizaciones mediante la encuesta en línea
📍 Complete la encuesta aquí: https://forms.gle/Hpe3gS6GzEzTqAzG9
¡Agradecemos su colaboración!
The Student Ridership Survey for 2026–27 will remain open through the end of this school year.
Every family should:
✔ Return the transportation letter (if no changes are needed)
OR
✔ Submit updates using the online survey
📍 Complete the survey here: https://forms.gle/Hpe3gS6GzEzTqAzG9
We appreciate your partnership!
⏳ ¡No lo olvide!
La Encuesta de Transporte Estudiantil para 2026–27 estará disponible hasta el final de este año escolar.
Cada familia debe:
✔ Devolver la carta de transporte (si no hay cambios)
O
✔ Enviar actualizaciones mediante la encuesta en línea
📍 Complete la encuesta aquí: https://forms.gle/Hpe3gS6GzEzTqAzG9
¡Agradecemos su colaboración!
