🎉 Shoutout to Mr. Monroe at Burgaw Middle School for making Career Exploration FUN with a competitive vocab Kahoot! 🏆 Students battled through some tough questions—like “What’s a Dosimetrist?” (We know it now! 🙌)
And the trick question of the day:
👉 Which career professional is most likely to be bitten?
• Pediatrician
• Veterinarian
• Childcare Worker
• ALL of the Above 👀
Congrats to the Top 3 winners who walked away with prizes! 🎁💡 Way to make learning exciting, Mr. Monroe!
#CareerExploration #Kahoot #BMSTakesTheLead
🌟 Student Spotlight 🌟
Meet Malachi, a 12th grader at Pender High School, who is being recognized for his academic excellence and positive influence on his school community. Known for his dedication to learning, Malachi consistently demonstrates curiosity, hard work, and a genuine love of knowledge. Whether it’s excelling in the classroom, collaborating on group projects, or taking initiative through independent study, Malachi sets a powerful example for his peers.
Beyond academics, Malachi is a leader who uplifts those around him. He mentors and encourages classmates, always offering supportive words and motivating others to strive for their best. His welcoming spirit—he “meets no strangers”—has made him a trusted friend and role model at PHS. His impact also extends into the community, where he enjoys assisting older adults through his church and neighborhood.
Outside of school, Malachi enjoys football, basketball, and working on cars. His favorite foods are Chinese and Mexican cuisine, his favorite color is green, and he’s a proud dog owner of a Yorkie Poo named Teddy. Fun fact: while Malachi is an introvert at heart, his kindness and encouragement shine through, inspiring everyone around him. 💚🐾
💛💙 Congratulations, Malachi—you are an outstanding example of Patriot pride!
Meet Malachi, a 12th grader at Pender High School, who is being recognized for his academic excellence and positive influence on his school community. Known for his dedication to learning, Malachi consistently demonstrates curiosity, hard work, and a genuine love of knowledge. Whether it’s excelling in the classroom, collaborating on group projects, or taking initiative through independent study, Malachi sets a powerful example for his peers.
Beyond academics, Malachi is a leader who uplifts those around him. He mentors and encourages classmates, always offering supportive words and motivating others to strive for their best. His welcoming spirit—he “meets no strangers”—has made him a trusted friend and role model at PHS. His impact also extends into the community, where he enjoys assisting older adults through his church and neighborhood.
Outside of school, Malachi enjoys football, basketball, and working on cars. His favorite foods are Chinese and Mexican cuisine, his favorite color is green, and he’s a proud dog owner of a Yorkie Poo named Teddy. Fun fact: while Malachi is an introvert at heart, his kindness and encouragement shine through, inspiring everyone around him. 💚🐾
💛💙 Congratulations, Malachi—you are an outstanding example of Patriot pride!
🎓Is your student considering a future at a U.S. Service Academy?
Mark your calendar for Saturday, September 20, 2025, as U.S. Senator Ted Budd hosts a Service Academy Day for North Carolina families.
This free event is a great opportunity for high school students and their parents to explore what it takes to attend one of the five prestigious U.S. military service academies. Representatives will be on hand to answer questions and share key information about eligibility, nominations, and the application process.
📍 Open to all high school students and families
Mark your calendar for Saturday, September 20, 2025, as U.S. Senator Ted Budd hosts a Service Academy Day for North Carolina families.
This free event is a great opportunity for high school students and their parents to explore what it takes to attend one of the five prestigious U.S. military service academies. Representatives will be on hand to answer questions and share key information about eligibility, nominations, and the application process.
📍 Open to all high school students and families
🌟Feature Friday🌟
This week, we’re shining a light on Mr. Bobby Simmons, Principal of Cape Fear Middle School! Now in his 5th year leading CFMS, Mr. Simmons has built more than just a school—he’s built a family. Under his leadership, the school has seen steady improvements in test scores, thanks to the strong relationships he fosters with his teachers and staff.
Known for creating a welcoming and supportive environment, Mr. Simmons leads with balance. He gives his staff the freedom to do their jobs while also holding high expectations. Beyond academics, he’s the type of leader who’s quick with a joke, fires up the grill to cook for his team, and steps in to support his staff in any way he can.
Mr. Simmons’ impact is felt daily at CFMS, where his leadership, positivity, and dedication continue to make a difference for both staff and students. Thank you, Mr. Simmons, for your commitment to the Cape Fear Middle School family and to Pender County Schools! 💙💛
This week, we’re shining a light on Mr. Bobby Simmons, Principal of Cape Fear Middle School! Now in his 5th year leading CFMS, Mr. Simmons has built more than just a school—he’s built a family. Under his leadership, the school has seen steady improvements in test scores, thanks to the strong relationships he fosters with his teachers and staff.
Known for creating a welcoming and supportive environment, Mr. Simmons leads with balance. He gives his staff the freedom to do their jobs while also holding high expectations. Beyond academics, he’s the type of leader who’s quick with a joke, fires up the grill to cook for his team, and steps in to support his staff in any way he can.
Mr. Simmons’ impact is felt daily at CFMS, where his leadership, positivity, and dedication continue to make a difference for both staff and students. Thank you, Mr. Simmons, for your commitment to the Cape Fear Middle School family and to Pender County Schools! 💙💛
👏From bus drivers and custodians to office staff and support specialists—every PCS employee makes a difference. Feature Friday is our chance to recognize them.
Nominate an outstanding PCS employee and help us say THANK YOU! 🎉 https://forms.gle/8RXYHnoJjvHq1aMk7
👏Desde choferes de autobús y personal de limpieza hasta el personal de oficina y especialistas de apoyo—cada empleado de PCS marca la diferencia. El Viernes de Estrellas es nuestra oportunidad de reconocerlos.
Nombra a un empleado destacado de PCS y ayúdanos a decir 🎉 https://forms.gle/8RXYHnoJjvHq1aMk7
Nominate an outstanding PCS employee and help us say THANK YOU! 🎉 https://forms.gle/8RXYHnoJjvHq1aMk7
👏Desde choferes de autobús y personal de limpieza hasta el personal de oficina y especialistas de apoyo—cada empleado de PCS marca la diferencia. El Viernes de Estrellas es nuestra oportunidad de reconocerlos.
Nombra a un empleado destacado de PCS y ayúdanos a decir 🎉 https://forms.gle/8RXYHnoJjvHq1aMk7
✨ Career Development in Action at Penderlea Middle School! ✨
Over the past two days, our PCS CTE Middle School Career Development Coordinator, Mrs. Simmons, teamed up with PLS counselor Ms. Thompson and media coordinator Ms. Hounshel to guide students through important steps in their career development journey. 🚀
📘 6th Grade – Skills Inventory
💡 7th Grade – Interest Inventory
🌟 8th Grade – Work Values
Students explored who they are, what they enjoy, and what they value most—all essential components in planning for future success. By taking it one grade at a time (half a grade each day), every student had the chance to reflect and build a strong foundation for their career pathway.
Penderlea students are already taking steps toward becoming Enrolled, Enlisted, or Employed after graduation! 🎓💼
#CareerReady #CTE #PenderleaPride #OnePender
🍎 It’s back—Teacher Tuesday!
Each week, we highlight the amazing educators who make PCS such a special place to learn and grow.
Do you know a teacher who goes above and beyond? Nominate them today! https://forms.gle/f4YpmMdkentnxEFM8
¡Está de regreso—Martes de Maestros!
Cada semana destacamos a los increíbles educadores que hacen de PCS un lugar tan especial para aprender y crecer.
¿Conoces a un maestro que siempre da más de lo esperado? ¡Nóminalo hoy! https://forms.gle/f4YpmMdkentnxEFM8
Each week, we highlight the amazing educators who make PCS such a special place to learn and grow.
Do you know a teacher who goes above and beyond? Nominate them today! https://forms.gle/f4YpmMdkentnxEFM8
¡Está de regreso—Martes de Maestros!
Cada semana destacamos a los increíbles educadores que hacen de PCS un lugar tan especial para aprender y crecer.
¿Conoces a un maestro que siempre da más de lo esperado? ¡Nóminalo hoy! https://forms.gle/f4YpmMdkentnxEFM8
💡 Who says students don’t learn real-life skills in school? Not at West Pender Middle School in Mr. Chung’s Business classroom! Today, students dove into the world of mortgages—a real-world financial skill that connects directly to their future. 🏡💰 What makes this lesson even better is how it ties into core subjects: 📊 Math – calculating interest rates, payments, and budgets ✍️ English – reading complex texts, writing responses, and practicing communication 🌍 Social Studies – understanding the economic systems and how money impacts communities and families Mr. Chung keeps students engaged with reading, writing, thinking, and speaking every day—building skills they’ll use for a lifetime. 🌟 #OnePender #RealLifeLearning #CTE #BusinessEducation
🌟 Student Spotlight 🌟
Meet Kyndall , a 9th grader at Heide Trask High School, who is already making her mark as a well-rounded student-athlete and leader. A former four-sport standout at Cape Fear Middle and recipient of the Scholar Athlete of the Year award, Kyndall now competes in volleyball and has her sights set on three sports during high school. Along with her athletic commitments, she is thriving in the rigorous CAP program, participates in Beta Club and FCA, completed the IHEAL program at UNCW, and plans to join HOSA this year.
Kyndall’s leadership and involvement shine throughout the Titan community. Through Beta Club, she models academic excellence and service, while in FCA, she uplifts her peers through encouragement and faith. Her experience in IHEAL demonstrates her commitment to growth and bringing new ideas back to her school. Known for her positivity and strong work ethic, she sets an inspiring example for fellow students by excelling both in the classroom and on the court.
When she’s not busy with school or sports, Kyndall enjoys playing the ukulele, reading, and spending time with her pets, Harley the dog and Cali the cat. Her favorite food is Taco Bell, her favorite color is blue, and here’s a fun fact, she’s a huge Hamilton fan who can recite many of the songs by heart! 🎶
💛💙 Way to go, Kyndall, you truly represent what it means to be a Titan role model!
Meet Kyndall , a 9th grader at Heide Trask High School, who is already making her mark as a well-rounded student-athlete and leader. A former four-sport standout at Cape Fear Middle and recipient of the Scholar Athlete of the Year award, Kyndall now competes in volleyball and has her sights set on three sports during high school. Along with her athletic commitments, she is thriving in the rigorous CAP program, participates in Beta Club and FCA, completed the IHEAL program at UNCW, and plans to join HOSA this year.
Kyndall’s leadership and involvement shine throughout the Titan community. Through Beta Club, she models academic excellence and service, while in FCA, she uplifts her peers through encouragement and faith. Her experience in IHEAL demonstrates her commitment to growth and bringing new ideas back to her school. Known for her positivity and strong work ethic, she sets an inspiring example for fellow students by excelling both in the classroom and on the court.
When she’s not busy with school or sports, Kyndall enjoys playing the ukulele, reading, and spending time with her pets, Harley the dog and Cali the cat. Her favorite food is Taco Bell, her favorite color is blue, and here’s a fun fact, she’s a huge Hamilton fan who can recite many of the songs by heart! 🎶
💛💙 Way to go, Kyndall, you truly represent what it means to be a Titan role model!
https://youtube.com/shorts/_h28GNYOVbw
🌟Meet Kensely Minor, the new STEM teacher at C.F. Pope Elementary! A proud graduate of the University of Maryland, Ms. Minor comes to Pender County Schools after more than 10 years in the corporate world, where she worked in human resources. She’s also a PCS parent, and after spending time as a substitute teacher last year, she discovered a passion for teaching that led her to the classroom full-time.
Her first week of school was full of energy, excitement, and hands-on learning. “The kids were really excited for the new specials program and STEM, so we had a great week,” Ms. Minor shared. Students jumped right into designing and building cars, and she’s already working on ways to tailor lessons for grades K-5. “They like the hands-on experience, and they’re very engaged in STEM,” she explained.
Looking ahead, Ms. Minor has big plans for her students. “I really want to get the kids into coding and robotics, even add some agriculture into STEM, so we have big plans,” she said. More than anything, she values the connections she’s already making. “Just getting to know the kids on a personal level—week one, I’ve already created some relationships, and that’s been great.” We are proud to welcome Ms. Minor to our PCS family! 💙💛
🌟Meet Kensely Minor, the new STEM teacher at C.F. Pope Elementary! A proud graduate of the University of Maryland, Ms. Minor comes to Pender County Schools after more than 10 years in the corporate world, where she worked in human resources. She’s also a PCS parent, and after spending time as a substitute teacher last year, she discovered a passion for teaching that led her to the classroom full-time.
Her first week of school was full of energy, excitement, and hands-on learning. “The kids were really excited for the new specials program and STEM, so we had a great week,” Ms. Minor shared. Students jumped right into designing and building cars, and she’s already working on ways to tailor lessons for grades K-5. “They like the hands-on experience, and they’re very engaged in STEM,” she explained.
Looking ahead, Ms. Minor has big plans for her students. “I really want to get the kids into coding and robotics, even add some agriculture into STEM, so we have big plans,” she said. More than anything, she values the connections she’s already making. “Just getting to know the kids on a personal level—week one, I’ve already created some relationships, and that’s been great.” We are proud to welcome Ms. Minor to our PCS family! 💙💛
Student Spotlight
🌟Do you know a PCS student who deserves the spotlight? 🌟
We’re looking for students who inspire, achieve, lead, and make a difference in their schools and community.
Nominate a student today and help us share their story with the PCS family!💙💛 Nominate Here - https://forms.gle/TyCZKWRnNorAkUsJA
🌟¿Conoces a un estudiante de PCS que merece ser destacado? 🌟
Buscamos estudiantes que inspiren, logren, lideren y marquen la diferencia en su escuela y comunidad.
¡Nomina a un estudiante hoy y ayúdanos a compartir su historia con la familia PCS!💙💛 https://forms.gle/TyCZKWRnNorAkUsJA
🌟Do you know a PCS student who deserves the spotlight? 🌟
We’re looking for students who inspire, achieve, lead, and make a difference in their schools and community.
Nominate a student today and help us share their story with the PCS family!💙💛 Nominate Here - https://forms.gle/TyCZKWRnNorAkUsJA
🌟¿Conoces a un estudiante de PCS que merece ser destacado? 🌟
Buscamos estudiantes que inspiren, logren, lideren y marquen la diferencia en su escuela y comunidad.
¡Nomina a un estudiante hoy y ayúdanos a compartir su historia con la familia PCS!💙💛 https://forms.gle/TyCZKWRnNorAkUsJA
👷♂️🔨 Hands-On Learning at Its Best! 🔨👷♂️
Meet Mr. Mark Munroe, one of our outstanding PCS CTE teachers, guiding students in Core Construction and Safety in Carpentry. His classroom is more than tools and wood—it’s a place where real-world skills meet academics.
Students are not only learning how to measure, cut, and build, but also applying math concepts like fractions and geometry and English skills like reading technical instructions and writing reflections. 📐✏️📚
This is what Career & Technical Education is all about—connecting the classroom to future careers while keeping learning engaging, relevant, and hands-on! 💪
#OnePender #PCSProud #CTEWorks #HandsOnLearning
🚨🤩 Pender County Schools is officially going CRAZY for CTE! 🚨🤩
This first week back, our classrooms are buzzing with energy, excitement, and hands-on learning. From culinary creations 🍴, drone flying ✈️, and CPR skills 🫀, to 3D modeling 💻, interest surveys on career pathways 🎯, and JROTC Raider practice 💪—our students are diving headfirst into opportunities that prepare them to be enrolled, enlisted, or employed after graduation.
This week, it’s all about raising awareness for the power of CTE, and trust us—you’re going to want to see what our students and teachers are up to!
🎥📸 Check out the video and photos below to see just how CRAZY we’re going for CTE in Pender County Schools!
CLICK HERE FOR THE VIDEO:
https://youtube.com/shorts/YlENQpynmfY?si=TCz9HcF0xxZsdJQg
#CrazyForCTE #CTEWorks #OnePender #CareerReady
Just a reminder that in observance of the Labor Day holiday, Pender County Schools will be closed Monday, September 1!
🌼 HTHS FFA Fall Mum Sale – Pre-Orders Now Open! 🌼
HTHS FFA is excited to announce that our Fall Mum Sale is now open for pre-orders! 🎉 We have a limited supply this year, so be sure to get your order in by September 11th.
✨ Details:
🌸 6 beautiful colors, 2 sizes
💲 $12 or $24 each (depending on size)
📍 Pick-up: Heide Trask High School Greenhouse
📅 Pick-up Dates: September 22 – October 3
(Exact delivery date will be confirmed by Johnson Nursery after our order is placed on September 12.)
Thank you for supporting HTHS FFA! 💛
📧 To place your order, contact:
Mrs. Rogowiecka – joanna_rogowiecka@pender.k12.nc.us
(Room 310)
Mr. Mitchell – mcarthur_mitchell@pender.k12.nc.us
(Room 221)
HTHS FFA is excited to announce that our Fall Mum Sale is now open for pre-orders! 🎉 We have a limited supply this year, so be sure to get your order in by September 11th.
✨ Details:
🌸 6 beautiful colors, 2 sizes
💲 $12 or $24 each (depending on size)
📍 Pick-up: Heide Trask High School Greenhouse
📅 Pick-up Dates: September 22 – October 3
(Exact delivery date will be confirmed by Johnson Nursery after our order is placed on September 12.)
Thank you for supporting HTHS FFA! 💛
📧 To place your order, contact:
Mrs. Rogowiecka – joanna_rogowiecka@pender.k12.nc.us
(Room 310)
Mr. Mitchell – mcarthur_mitchell@pender.k12.nc.us
(Room 221)
🚀🔥 PCS CTE is off to an incredible start! 🔥🚀
It’s only been 3 days and our CTE courses are already in full swing! From get-to-know-you activities to 3D modeling & animation projects, our classrooms are buzzing with energy. Students are practicing knife & cutting skills, diving into CPR training, exploring future pathways with NCCareers interest surveys, and learning about opportunities in FFA.
Our JROTC Raiders are already training hard, bulletin boards are popping with creativity, and engagement is at an all-time high. 💡🙌
A huge shoutout to our CTE teachers who are absolutely killing it 👏👏 and to our students who are jumping right in. If this is just the beginning… we can only imagine how amazing this school year is going to be! 💯✨
#OnePender #CTEWorks #CommittedtotheCommitment
🚨 We’re Hiring! 🚨
Heide Trask High School is looking for a passionate and dynamic Food & Nutrition Teacher to join our CTE team! 🍳🥗🍎
Do you love teaching students real-world skills they can use every day? Do you enjoy sparking curiosity about healthy living, cooking, and nutrition? This is your chance to make a lasting impact while inspiring the next generation of chefs, health professionals, and food lovers!
✨ Why Join Us?
✅ Supportive school community
✅ State-of-the-art CTE programs
✅ Opportunity to grow future leaders in nutrition & wellness
📍 Location: Heide Trask High School, Rocky Point, NC
📚 Course Area: Food & Nutrition
If you’re ready to combine your passion for food with the power of education, apply today and be part of something special at Trask!
👉 Apply Here: https://www.applitrack.com/pender/onlineapp/
Contact: Dominique Bates: dominique_bates@pender.k12.nc.us
#PCSCTE #HeideTraskHighSchool #TeachingOpportunity #CTECareers #FoodAndNutrition
Heide Trask High School is looking for a passionate and dynamic Food & Nutrition Teacher to join our CTE team! 🍳🥗🍎
Do you love teaching students real-world skills they can use every day? Do you enjoy sparking curiosity about healthy living, cooking, and nutrition? This is your chance to make a lasting impact while inspiring the next generation of chefs, health professionals, and food lovers!
✨ Why Join Us?
✅ Supportive school community
✅ State-of-the-art CTE programs
✅ Opportunity to grow future leaders in nutrition & wellness
📍 Location: Heide Trask High School, Rocky Point, NC
📚 Course Area: Food & Nutrition
If you’re ready to combine your passion for food with the power of education, apply today and be part of something special at Trask!
👉 Apply Here: https://www.applitrack.com/pender/onlineapp/
Contact: Dominique Bates: dominique_bates@pender.k12.nc.us
#PCSCTE #HeideTraskHighSchool #TeachingOpportunity #CTECareers #FoodAndNutrition
📅 It may be early in the school year, but it’s never too early to plan ahead!
If you have a 7th or 8th grade student who may be interested in dual enrollment opportunities, now is the perfect time to learn more.
🌟 Dual enrollment through Cape Fear Community College gives eligible students the chance to:
✅ Take college-level courses while in high school
✅ Get a tuition-free head start on college education
✅ Transition seamlessly from high school to college
Families can ask questions and get details about:
🎓 College Accelerated Program
🎓 Pender Early College High School
🎓 Career & College Promise
👉 Don’t miss these opportunities to start planning your student’s future!
If you have a 7th or 8th grade student who may be interested in dual enrollment opportunities, now is the perfect time to learn more.
🌟 Dual enrollment through Cape Fear Community College gives eligible students the chance to:
✅ Take college-level courses while in high school
✅ Get a tuition-free head start on college education
✅ Transition seamlessly from high school to college
Families can ask questions and get details about:
🎓 College Accelerated Program
🎓 Pender Early College High School
🎓 Career & College Promise
👉 Don’t miss these opportunities to start planning your student’s future!
