🍎 Teacher Tuesday Spotlight 🍎
Meet Ms. Andrea Swepson, a Speech-Language Pathologist at Topsail Annandale Elementary, who has dedicated 26 years to education (20 in NC). Ms. Swepson is being recognized for her expertise, compassion, and the way she goes above and beyond to support both students and families. She helps teachers address functional communication needs, guides families in understanding speech therapy services, and makes speech sessions fun, interactive, and goal-oriented. Her students take ownership of their progress and celebrate every milestone along the way.
What stands out most about Ms. Swepson is her authenticity and her willingness to share her expertise with others. She’s a trusted mentor and colleague, always stepping in to assist with IEP paperwork, interventions, and teacher support. One recent example shows her heart in action: when a student failed a hearing test and parents struggled to find an ENT, Ms. Swepson located one through the county. The student received necessary surgery, recovered, and no longer needed speech services—thanks to her determination and care.
💛💙 Thank you, Ms. Swepson, for your professionalism, mentorship, and dedication to helping students find their voice and thrive. You are a true asset to Topsail Annandale Elementary and Pender County Schools!
Meet Ms. Andrea Swepson, a Speech-Language Pathologist at Topsail Annandale Elementary, who has dedicated 26 years to education (20 in NC). Ms. Swepson is being recognized for her expertise, compassion, and the way she goes above and beyond to support both students and families. She helps teachers address functional communication needs, guides families in understanding speech therapy services, and makes speech sessions fun, interactive, and goal-oriented. Her students take ownership of their progress and celebrate every milestone along the way.
What stands out most about Ms. Swepson is her authenticity and her willingness to share her expertise with others. She’s a trusted mentor and colleague, always stepping in to assist with IEP paperwork, interventions, and teacher support. One recent example shows her heart in action: when a student failed a hearing test and parents struggled to find an ENT, Ms. Swepson located one through the county. The student received necessary surgery, recovered, and no longer needed speech services—thanks to her determination and care.
💛💙 Thank you, Ms. Swepson, for your professionalism, mentorship, and dedication to helping students find their voice and thrive. You are a true asset to Topsail Annandale Elementary and Pender County Schools!
📣✨ October is National Principals Month! ✨📣
All month long, we’ll be celebrating the incredible principals of Pender County Schools by sharing short video spotlights. 🎥
From what inspired them to lead, to their favorite memories from school, to the advice they’d give their younger selves — you’ll get a chance to see the heart, humor, and humanity behind the title “Principal.” 💙💛
Stay tuned throughout October as we feature principals from across our district. We can’t wait for you to hear their stories and get to know them even better! YouTube link - https://youtube.com/shorts/zTf44tBLYI4?feature=share
All month long, we’ll be celebrating the incredible principals of Pender County Schools by sharing short video spotlights. 🎥
From what inspired them to lead, to their favorite memories from school, to the advice they’d give their younger selves — you’ll get a chance to see the heart, humor, and humanity behind the title “Principal.” 💙💛
Stay tuned throughout October as we feature principals from across our district. We can’t wait for you to hear their stories and get to know them even better! YouTube link - https://youtube.com/shorts/zTf44tBLYI4?feature=share
🚨 Hands-On Learning in Action! 🌊
Today, our Topsail High School Public Safety II students put their skills to the test by learning flood control techniques — including the proper use and placement of sandbags to help prevent water damage during emergencies. 💪
Through this hands-on experience, students gained valuable insight into disaster preparedness, teamwork, and real-world problem-solving — all essential skills for future first responders! 👮♂️🚒
#CTEWorks #PublicSafety #HandsOnLearning #TopsailHighSchool #OnePender #ClassroomsToCareers
📣✨ October is National Principals Month! ✨📣
All month long, we’ll be celebrating the incredible principals of Pender County Schools by sharing short video spotlights. 🎥
From what inspired them to lead, to their favorite memories from school, to the advice they’d give their younger selves — you’ll get a chance to see the heart, humor, and humanity behind the title “Principal.” 💙💛
Stay tuned throughout October as we feature principals from across our district. We can’t wait for you to hear their stories and get to know them even better! YouTube link - https://youtu.be/zREKtE8ZQK0
All month long, we’ll be celebrating the incredible principals of Pender County Schools by sharing short video spotlights. 🎥
From what inspired them to lead, to their favorite memories from school, to the advice they’d give their younger selves — you’ll get a chance to see the heart, humor, and humanity behind the title “Principal.” 💙💛
Stay tuned throughout October as we feature principals from across our district. We can’t wait for you to hear their stories and get to know them even better! YouTube link - https://youtu.be/zREKtE8ZQK0
🏅 Happy National Coaches Day! 🏅
Today we celebrate our coaches across Pender County Schools who inspire, mentor, and motivate our student-athletes every single day. 🙌
From early morning practices to late-night games, our coaches teach lessons that go far beyond the field — teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. 💪⚽🏀⚾🏐
Thank you for the countless hours you give to help our students grow as athletes and as people. PCS is proud of you! 💙💛
Today we celebrate our coaches across Pender County Schools who inspire, mentor, and motivate our student-athletes every single day. 🙌
From early morning practices to late-night games, our coaches teach lessons that go far beyond the field — teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. 💪⚽🏀⚾🏐
Thank you for the countless hours you give to help our students grow as athletes and as people. PCS is proud of you! 💙💛
💚 Mental Health Awareness Week | October 6–11 💚
At Pender County Schools, we believe that taking care of our minds is just as important as taking care of our bodies. This week, we’re raising awareness about mental health and reminding students, staff, and families that it’s okay to ask for help, check in on a friend, and take time for self-care. 💭✨
Together, we can break the stigma and create a culture where everyone feels supported. If you or someone you know needs help, reach out—support is here. 💚
At Pender County Schools, we believe that taking care of our minds is just as important as taking care of our bodies. This week, we’re raising awareness about mental health and reminding students, staff, and families that it’s okay to ask for help, check in on a friend, and take time for self-care. 💭✨
Together, we can break the stigma and create a culture where everyone feels supported. If you or someone you know needs help, reach out—support is here. 💚
🌟 Feature Friday: Adriana Perez🌟
This week we’re proud to recognize Ms. Adriana Perez, Family Liaison & Student Support at Rocky Point Elementary School. Adriana has been a dedicated part of the Rocky Point community for years, first as a supportive parent and stakeholder, and now in her vital role as Family Liaison. With so many Spanish-speaking families at RPES, Adriana serves as a translator for parents and students, ensuring that language is never a barrier to engagement. From Curriculum Night to Winter Concerts to Hispanic Heritage Night, she plays a key role in connecting families to their school community.
One of her biggest contributions has been helping coordinate the annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration, held each October. She works closely with families and community partners to highlight culture and tradition, including helping organize Rocky Point’s “Bailadores del Sol” dance group, where students learn and perform Hispanic dances for the school community.
Adriana’s influence extends well beyond events. She is known for her warmth, kindness, and willingness to help with anything—from translating in classrooms, to supporting students in the hallway, to calling parents and encouraging engagement. Her positive energy shines daily, making Rocky Point Elementary a stronger, more connected school community.
💛💙 Thank you, Adriana, for your dedication, your heart for families, and the countless ways you uplift Rocky Point Elementary!
This week we’re proud to recognize Ms. Adriana Perez, Family Liaison & Student Support at Rocky Point Elementary School. Adriana has been a dedicated part of the Rocky Point community for years, first as a supportive parent and stakeholder, and now in her vital role as Family Liaison. With so many Spanish-speaking families at RPES, Adriana serves as a translator for parents and students, ensuring that language is never a barrier to engagement. From Curriculum Night to Winter Concerts to Hispanic Heritage Night, she plays a key role in connecting families to their school community.
One of her biggest contributions has been helping coordinate the annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration, held each October. She works closely with families and community partners to highlight culture and tradition, including helping organize Rocky Point’s “Bailadores del Sol” dance group, where students learn and perform Hispanic dances for the school community.
Adriana’s influence extends well beyond events. She is known for her warmth, kindness, and willingness to help with anything—from translating in classrooms, to supporting students in the hallway, to calling parents and encouraging engagement. Her positive energy shines daily, making Rocky Point Elementary a stronger, more connected school community.
💛💙 Thank you, Adriana, for your dedication, your heart for families, and the countless ways you uplift Rocky Point Elementary!
Join us in celebrating National School Lunch Week! Menus for the week are inspired by our "Taste the World" initiative.
Additionally, ALL schools will be providing free breakfast and lunch 10/13-10/17. No cost, no sign-up, just send your students to the cafeteria for their free meals!!
📣✨ October is National Principals Month! ✨📣
All month long, we’ll be celebrating the incredible principals of Pender County Schools by sharing short video spotlights. 🎥
From what inspired them to lead, to their favorite memories from school, to the advice they’d give their younger selves — you’ll get a chance to see the heart, humor, and humanity behind the title “Principal.” 💙💛
Stay tuned throughout October as we feature principals from across our district. We can’t wait for you to hear their stories and get to know them even better! https://youtube.com/shorts/q2h_aTHeHCA
All month long, we’ll be celebrating the incredible principals of Pender County Schools by sharing short video spotlights. 🎥
From what inspired them to lead, to their favorite memories from school, to the advice they’d give their younger selves — you’ll get a chance to see the heart, humor, and humanity behind the title “Principal.” 💙💛
Stay tuned throughout October as we feature principals from across our district. We can’t wait for you to hear their stories and get to know them even better! https://youtube.com/shorts/q2h_aTHeHCA
🌟👩🏫 Next up in our National Principals Month spotlight series…
Meet Kathryn Bates, principal at South Topsail Elementary! 🐬💛💙
In her video, you’ll hear what inspired her journey into school leadership, what brings her joy each day, and even a few fun surprises about her along the way.
Join us in celebrating Mrs. Bates and the incredible work she does for her students, staff, and the South Topsail community! 🙌 VIDEO LINK - https://youtu.be/t8bgg1k-PFc
Meet Kathryn Bates, principal at South Topsail Elementary! 🐬💛💙
In her video, you’ll hear what inspired her journey into school leadership, what brings her joy each day, and even a few fun surprises about her along the way.
Join us in celebrating Mrs. Bates and the incredible work she does for her students, staff, and the South Topsail community! 🙌 VIDEO LINK - https://youtu.be/t8bgg1k-PFc
🌟 Student Spotlight - Lane | 2nd grade| STES🌟
Meet Lane, a 2nd grader at South Topsail Elementary School, who is being recognized for his kindness and caring heart. Lane is always mindful of others’ feelings and goes out of his way to help classmates, friends, and family. At just 7 years old, he makes sure to tell his family every evening how much he loves them and is always willing to lend a hand with any task or chore—big or small.
Lane’s kindness shines in the classroom, too. He cannot stand to see a classmate upset and does everything he can to brighten their day. His warm smile and friendly nature make him a friend to all and a positive influence at STES.
Outside of school, Lane enjoys music, riding his dirt bike, fishing, hunting, and kayaking. His favorite food is steak, his favorite color is blue, and here’s a fun fact—Lane loves to sing all types of music, and he’s really good at it! 🎶
Meet Lane, a 2nd grader at South Topsail Elementary School, who is being recognized for his kindness and caring heart. Lane is always mindful of others’ feelings and goes out of his way to help classmates, friends, and family. At just 7 years old, he makes sure to tell his family every evening how much he loves them and is always willing to lend a hand with any task or chore—big or small.
Lane’s kindness shines in the classroom, too. He cannot stand to see a classmate upset and does everything he can to brighten their day. His warm smile and friendly nature make him a friend to all and a positive influence at STES.
Outside of school, Lane enjoys music, riding his dirt bike, fishing, hunting, and kayaking. His favorite food is steak, his favorite color is blue, and here’s a fun fact—Lane loves to sing all types of music, and he’s really good at it! 🎶
📣✨ October is National Principals Month! ✨📣
All month long, we’ll be celebrating the incredible principals of Pender County Schools by sharing short video spotlights. 🎥
From what inspired them to lead, to their favorite memories from school, to the advice they’d give their younger selves — you’ll get a chance to see the heart, humor, and humanity behind the title “Principal.” 💙💛
Stay tuned throughout October as we feature principals from across our district. We can’t wait for you to hear their stories and get to know them even better! 🙌 We'll start with Stephen Harris, principal at Penderlea School - https://youtu.be/wNwaIY_2HDU
All month long, we’ll be celebrating the incredible principals of Pender County Schools by sharing short video spotlights. 🎥
From what inspired them to lead, to their favorite memories from school, to the advice they’d give their younger selves — you’ll get a chance to see the heart, humor, and humanity behind the title “Principal.” 💙💛
Stay tuned throughout October as we feature principals from across our district. We can’t wait for you to hear their stories and get to know them even better! 🙌 We'll start with Stephen Harris, principal at Penderlea School - https://youtu.be/wNwaIY_2HDU
🚨📱 Hey Middle Schoolers! 📱🚨
Join Safe Haven for the Think Before You Send Challenge at Burgaw Middle School on Thursday, October 17, 2025, from 5–7 PM!
We’ll have:
🍕 Free food
🎉 Fun with friends
🎵 A TikTok Challenge
…and you’ll learn how to stay safe and smart online.
Don’t miss it! Bring your friends and let’s make it a great night.
🚨📱 ¡Hola estudiantes de middle school! 📱🚨
Únete a Safe Haven para el Think Before You Send Challenge en Burgaw Middle School el jueves, 17 de octubre de 2025, de 5 a 7 PM.
Tendremos:
🍕 Comida gratis
🎉 Diversión con amigos
🎵 ¡Un reto de TikTok!
…y aprenderás cómo estar seguro e inteligente en línea.
¡No te lo pierdas! Trae a tus amigos y hagamos que sea una gran noche.
Join Safe Haven for the Think Before You Send Challenge at Burgaw Middle School on Thursday, October 17, 2025, from 5–7 PM!
We’ll have:
🍕 Free food
🎉 Fun with friends
🎵 A TikTok Challenge
…and you’ll learn how to stay safe and smart online.
Don’t miss it! Bring your friends and let’s make it a great night.
🚨📱 ¡Hola estudiantes de middle school! 📱🚨
Únete a Safe Haven para el Think Before You Send Challenge en Burgaw Middle School el jueves, 17 de octubre de 2025, de 5 a 7 PM.
Tendremos:
🍕 Comida gratis
🎉 Diversión con amigos
🎵 ¡Un reto de TikTok!
…y aprenderás cómo estar seguro e inteligente en línea.
¡No te lo pierdas! Trae a tus amigos y hagamos que sea una gran noche.
🌟 October is Awareness Month in Pender County Schools! 🌟
All month long, PCS is highlighting important themes that impact our students, families, and staff:
💚 Mental Health Awareness Week
💛 Special Needs Awareness Week
🟧Bullying Prevention Week
❤️ Red Ribbon Week (Drug-Free Awareness)
Each week provides an opportunity for our schools to shine a light on these issues, encourage positive conversations, and support one another. Together, we’re building stronger, safer, and healthier school communities. 💪📚
All month long, PCS is highlighting important themes that impact our students, families, and staff:
💚 Mental Health Awareness Week
💛 Special Needs Awareness Week
🟧Bullying Prevention Week
❤️ Red Ribbon Week (Drug-Free Awareness)
Each week provides an opportunity for our schools to shine a light on these issues, encourage positive conversations, and support one another. Together, we’re building stronger, safer, and healthier school communities. 💪📚
🎉 October is National Principals Month! 🏫👩🏫👨🏫
Join us in celebrating the outstanding principals across Pender County Schools who lead with heart, vision, and commitment to student success. 📚 Their leadership inspires staff, supports families, and empowers every learner to grow and thrive! 🌟
Thank you for being the backbone of our schools and champions for our communities! 🙌
Join us in celebrating the outstanding principals across Pender County Schools who lead with heart, vision, and commitment to student success. 📚 Their leadership inspires staff, supports families, and empowers every learner to grow and thrive! 🌟
Thank you for being the backbone of our schools and champions for our communities! 🙌
📚✨ It starts at HOME! ✨📚
Pender County Schools is challenging families to help us reach ONE MILLION minutes of reading outside of school this year.
🛋️ 📖 Bedtime stories.
🚗 📱 Reading on the way to practice.
☀️ 📚 Quiet time at the park.
Every minute counts!
📚✨ ¡Todo empieza en CASA! ✨📚
Las Escuelas del Condado de Pender están retando a las familias a ayudarnos a alcanzar UN MILLÓN de minutos de lectura fuera de la escuela este año.
🛋️ 📖 Cuentos antes de dormir.
🚗 📱 Lectura de camino a la práctica.
☀️ 📚 Un rato tranquilo en el parque.
¡Cada minuto cuenta!
Pender County Schools is challenging families to help us reach ONE MILLION minutes of reading outside of school this year.
🛋️ 📖 Bedtime stories.
🚗 📱 Reading on the way to practice.
☀️ 📚 Quiet time at the park.
Every minute counts!
📚✨ ¡Todo empieza en CASA! ✨📚
Las Escuelas del Condado de Pender están retando a las familias a ayudarnos a alcanzar UN MILLÓN de minutos de lectura fuera de la escuela este año.
🛋️ 📖 Cuentos antes de dormir.
🚗 📱 Lectura de camino a la práctica.
☀️ 📚 Un rato tranquilo en el parque.
¡Cada minuto cuenta!
✨ What an amazing day of learning and collaboration! Our first group of CTE educators came together at CFCC North Campus for a powerful Professional Development Day focused on student success.
We dug into PLC work, explored data-driven practices, and gained strategies that will directly impact our classrooms. Huge thanks to our NCDPI CTE guests—Amanda Dixon, Nancy Cross, and Shannon Baker—for sharing their expertise and inspiring us to grow.
💡 Best part? We get to do it all again tomorrow with our 2nd group! 💙 #PenderCTE #OnePender #StudentSuccess
🍎 Teacher Tuesday Spotlight 🍎
Meet Ms. Lindsay Cantrell, a teacher at South Topsail Elementary School, who is being recognized for her creativity, patience, and welcoming personality. Ms. Cantrell has a gift for making learning fun, her classroom is full of energy, imagination, and excitement. From dressing up to leading silly songs and dances, she creates an environment where students feel engaged and eager to learn.
What stands out most about Ms. Cantrell is her ability to make every day an adventure. A colleague shared that as a para in her classroom, no two days were ever the same, students could always count on a new fun-filled activity and a patient teacher ready to support them every step of the way.
💛💙 Thank you, Ms. Cantrell, for your positivity, creativity, and the joy you bring to South Topsail Elementary. You make learning unforgettable!
Meet Ms. Lindsay Cantrell, a teacher at South Topsail Elementary School, who is being recognized for her creativity, patience, and welcoming personality. Ms. Cantrell has a gift for making learning fun, her classroom is full of energy, imagination, and excitement. From dressing up to leading silly songs and dances, she creates an environment where students feel engaged and eager to learn.
What stands out most about Ms. Cantrell is her ability to make every day an adventure. A colleague shared that as a para in her classroom, no two days were ever the same, students could always count on a new fun-filled activity and a patient teacher ready to support them every step of the way.
💛💙 Thank you, Ms. Cantrell, for your positivity, creativity, and the joy you bring to South Topsail Elementary. You make learning unforgettable!
📚✨ Big news for PCS educators!
The first-ever National Board Support Group in Pender County Schools has officially launched! This exciting step provides a collaborative space for teachers pursuing or renewing their National Board Certification to share strategies, resources, and encouragement.
Interested in joining? Reach out to Matthew_Yaeger@pender.k12.nc.us for more details and to get connected.
Together, we’re supporting teachers as they grow, lead, and inspire! 💡🍎
The first-ever National Board Support Group in Pender County Schools has officially launched! This exciting step provides a collaborative space for teachers pursuing or renewing their National Board Certification to share strategies, resources, and encouragement.
Interested in joining? Reach out to Matthew_Yaeger@pender.k12.nc.us for more details and to get connected.
Together, we’re supporting teachers as they grow, lead, and inspire! 💡🍎
