🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | SURF CITY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
For Karla Shand, principal of Surf City Elementary School, a great school day comes down to some simple but meaningful things: smiling students, everyone following expectations and the school community together.
Ms. Shand describes herself as a born leader — who might also be a little too talkative! 😊 But when asked who deserves more recognition, she turns the attention to someone else.
She gives a special shoutout to the school’s custodian, recognizing the hard work, positive attitude and smile she brings every day. It’s a reminder that the people who help keep a school running deserve to be celebrated, too.
And her idea of a peaceful afternoon away from school? A trip to the beach — with or without company. 🏖️ Sometimes, a little quiet time by the water is just right.
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. Shand, for all you do for the Surf City Elementary School community! 💙 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/dOmW7IYZ_ms
For Karla Shand, principal of Surf City Elementary School, a great school day comes down to some simple but meaningful things: smiling students, everyone following expectations and the school community together.
Ms. Shand describes herself as a born leader — who might also be a little too talkative! 😊 But when asked who deserves more recognition, she turns the attention to someone else.
She gives a special shoutout to the school’s custodian, recognizing the hard work, positive attitude and smile she brings every day. It’s a reminder that the people who help keep a school running deserve to be celebrated, too.
And her idea of a peaceful afternoon away from school? A trip to the beach — with or without company. 🏖️ Sometimes, a little quiet time by the water is just right.
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. Shand, for all you do for the Surf City Elementary School community! 💙 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/dOmW7IYZ_ms
🌱💙 Teacher Tuesday: Ms. Tammy Meadows — Surf City Elementary
Ms. Tammy Meadows teaches at Surf City Elementary and has more than seven years of teaching experience. Colleagues describe her as welcoming, professional, and someone who brings a positive attitude to the classroom each day.
Ms. Meadows looks for ways to make learning hands-on and meaningful for her students. One example is a "garden center" she created to help children learn about growing food while also practicing responsibility and commitment. Activities like this give students opportunities to learn new skills and understand the importance of caring for something over time.
What stands out about Ms. Meadows is the care she puts into her classroom and the relationships she builds with those around her. One colleague shared how much they've learned from working alongside her and appreciates her willingness to share ideas and support others.
💛🌻 Thank you, Ms. Meadows, for the time, creativity, and care you bring to your students and colleagues at Surf City Elementary!
Ms. Tammy Meadows teaches at Surf City Elementary and has more than seven years of teaching experience. Colleagues describe her as welcoming, professional, and someone who brings a positive attitude to the classroom each day.
Ms. Meadows looks for ways to make learning hands-on and meaningful for her students. One example is a "garden center" she created to help children learn about growing food while also practicing responsibility and commitment. Activities like this give students opportunities to learn new skills and understand the importance of caring for something over time.
What stands out about Ms. Meadows is the care she puts into her classroom and the relationships she builds with those around her. One colleague shared how much they've learned from working alongside her and appreciates her willingness to share ideas and support others.
💛🌻 Thank you, Ms. Meadows, for the time, creativity, and care you bring to your students and colleagues at Surf City Elementary!
📢 Join the Aramark team at Pender County School District!
We're hiring:
✅ Food Service Workers
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Make a difference in students' lives while building a rewarding career in school nutrition. If you're passionate about serving your community and creating a positive impact, we'd love to hear from you!
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https://aramarkcareers.com/UnitedStates/job/Burgaw-Food-Service-Worker-Pender-County-Sch-Dist-NC-28425/1405294600/
🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | SURF CITY MIDDLE SCHOOL
Middle school comes with big feelings — and Crystal Hall, principal of Surf City Middle School, wants adults to remember the importance of patience.
Ms. Hall says what may look like a grumpy mood or a lack of interest can be a student working through emotions they feel deeply. Sometimes, the best thing adults can do is step back and give them time to process.
She also offers a glimpse of the work behind the principal’s desk. From class schedules and student movement to individual situations, each day brings decisions that help shape the school experience.
Looking ahead, Ms. Hall believes today’s students will work in careers and develop things we haven’t yet imagined. Preparing them for that unknown is a challenge, but she has confidence they will rise to meet it.
And on a lighter note, one meal that gets her vote? A great cheeseburger and fries with lemon-pepper salt. 🍔🍟 Those who know, know!
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. Hall, for all you do for the Surf City Middle School community! 💙 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/1rXwYdAxs9w
Middle school comes with big feelings — and Crystal Hall, principal of Surf City Middle School, wants adults to remember the importance of patience.
Ms. Hall says what may look like a grumpy mood or a lack of interest can be a student working through emotions they feel deeply. Sometimes, the best thing adults can do is step back and give them time to process.
She also offers a glimpse of the work behind the principal’s desk. From class schedules and student movement to individual situations, each day brings decisions that help shape the school experience.
Looking ahead, Ms. Hall believes today’s students will work in careers and develop things we haven’t yet imagined. Preparing them for that unknown is a challenge, but she has confidence they will rise to meet it.
And on a lighter note, one meal that gets her vote? A great cheeseburger and fries with lemon-pepper salt. 🍔🍟 Those who know, know!
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. Hall, for all you do for the Surf City Middle School community! 💙 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/1rXwYdAxs9w
📱 Stay connected with Pender County Schools wherever you are!
The PCS App makes it easy to keep up with district and school news, important announcements, calendars, events and notifications — all in one place. Whether you’re planning the week ahead or just want to make sure you don’t miss an update, the app puts PCS information right at your fingertips.
✅ Download the PCS App
✅ Select your school(s)
✅ Turn on notifications
✅ Stay connected
Take a minute this weekend to make sure you have the app and your notifications are set the way you want them. 💙📲
The PCS App makes it easy to keep up with district and school news, important announcements, calendars, events and notifications — all in one place. Whether you’re planning the week ahead or just want to make sure you don’t miss an update, the app puts PCS information right at your fingertips.
✅ Download the PCS App
✅ Select your school(s)
✅ Turn on notifications
✅ Stay connected
Take a minute this weekend to make sure you have the app and your notifications are set the way you want them. 💙📲
🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | SOUTH TOPSAIL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
For Kathryn Bates, principal of South Topsail Elementary School, the first day of school is more than the start of a new year — it’s a reminder of why she does this work.
Seeing students, families and staff come back together after summer break, full of excitement and smiles, makes that day especially meaningful.
That energy continues in the everyday moments, too. Ms. Bates enjoys welcoming students at the front doors, where their smiles and positive attitudes help get her own day started. ☀️
She describes herself as someone willing to jump in wherever she’s needed. But the classroom still holds a special place in her heart. She misses teaching and values opportunities to be with students.
And her must-have school supply growing up? A Trapper Keeper! Getting to choose the color herself made it even more special. 📒 Some school-day memories stay with you long after you’ve moved to the principal’s office.
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. Bates, for all you do for the South Topsail Elementary School community! 💙 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/i97SBomUL4Q
For Kathryn Bates, principal of South Topsail Elementary School, the first day of school is more than the start of a new year — it’s a reminder of why she does this work.
Seeing students, families and staff come back together after summer break, full of excitement and smiles, makes that day especially meaningful.
That energy continues in the everyday moments, too. Ms. Bates enjoys welcoming students at the front doors, where their smiles and positive attitudes help get her own day started. ☀️
She describes herself as someone willing to jump in wherever she’s needed. But the classroom still holds a special place in her heart. She misses teaching and values opportunities to be with students.
And her must-have school supply growing up? A Trapper Keeper! Getting to choose the color herself made it even more special. 📒 Some school-day memories stay with you long after you’ve moved to the principal’s office.
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. Bates, for all you do for the South Topsail Elementary School community! 💙 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/i97SBomUL4Q
🌟 Feature Friday: Employee Spotlight 🌟
This week we’re recognizing Ms. Susannah Ward, District Spanish Interpreter and Translator, who serves Pender County Schools through the Central Office and Rocky Point Elementary School.
Ms. Ward plays an important role in helping Spanish-speaking families communicate with our schools. From interpreting meetings and making phone calls to translating documents and assisting with student assessments, she helps ensure families have access to the information and support they need.
Her work often goes beyond those responsibilities. Ms. Ward takes time to listen to students, families, and colleagues, and she's always willing to help when someone needs assistance. Staff members who work closely with her appreciate her patience, kindness, and willingness to make time for others, even on her busiest days.
Over the years, she has built strong relationships with the families and staff she serves. Much of her work happens behind the scenes, but it makes a difference in helping our schools communicate with and support our community.
💛💙 Thank you, Ms. Ward, for the care you show our students and families and for the important work you do across Pender County Schools.
This week we’re recognizing Ms. Susannah Ward, District Spanish Interpreter and Translator, who serves Pender County Schools through the Central Office and Rocky Point Elementary School.
Ms. Ward plays an important role in helping Spanish-speaking families communicate with our schools. From interpreting meetings and making phone calls to translating documents and assisting with student assessments, she helps ensure families have access to the information and support they need.
Her work often goes beyond those responsibilities. Ms. Ward takes time to listen to students, families, and colleagues, and she's always willing to help when someone needs assistance. Staff members who work closely with her appreciate her patience, kindness, and willingness to make time for others, even on her busiest days.
Over the years, she has built strong relationships with the families and staff she serves. Much of her work happens behind the scenes, but it makes a difference in helping our schools communicate with and support our community.
💛💙 Thank you, Ms. Ward, for the care you show our students and families and for the important work you do across Pender County Schools.
All schools across Pender County offered a rich and creamy CHICKEN ALFREDO entree this past Wednesday!
It was served alongside Parmesan Garlic Green Beans, Texas Toast, and Honeydew Melon.
It was pasta-tively a delicious hit with the students :)
It was served alongside Parmesan Garlic Green Beans, Texas Toast, and Honeydew Melon.
It was pasta-tively a delicious hit with the students :)
🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | TOPSAIL HIGH SCHOOL
Where would Dr. Michael Sasscer, principal of Topsail High School, most like to spend his time?
In the classroom, right where the learning is happening.
Seeing students learn brings him joy, and he believes the first impression a student has when meeting a teacher matters. Those connections are an important part of the school experience.
Finding your voice, thinking big and looking for solutions are also important to Dr. Sasscer. His hope is that students make their time at Topsail High their own — finding where they fit, letting their talents shine and building confidence in their skills and abilities.
And one thing he doesn’t want to leave home without? His lunch. As he puts it, a day without food would leave him “hangry.” 🥪😄
At the heart of his answers is a clear goal: helping students take ownership of their education and leave feeling confident about what comes next.
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. Sasscer, for all you do for the Topsail High School community! 💙 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/vdIjyc0AIKo
Where would Dr. Michael Sasscer, principal of Topsail High School, most like to spend his time?
In the classroom, right where the learning is happening.
Seeing students learn brings him joy, and he believes the first impression a student has when meeting a teacher matters. Those connections are an important part of the school experience.
Finding your voice, thinking big and looking for solutions are also important to Dr. Sasscer. His hope is that students make their time at Topsail High their own — finding where they fit, letting their talents shine and building confidence in their skills and abilities.
And one thing he doesn’t want to leave home without? His lunch. As he puts it, a day without food would leave him “hangry.” 🥪😄
At the heart of his answers is a clear goal: helping students take ownership of their education and leave feeling confident about what comes next.
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. Sasscer, for all you do for the Topsail High School community! 💙 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/vdIjyc0AIKo
🌟 PCS VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT 🌟
This week's PCS Volunteer Spotlight recognizes Connie Batson, a familiar and much-loved face at South Topsail Elementary School! 💙💛
Known affectionately as "Mrs. Connie," she volunteers at least once a week in a first-grade classroom, helping students strengthen their reading fluency and master tricky words. 📚
But Mrs. Connie does much more than help students with their reading. She takes the time to build meaningful relationships with every child she works with, celebrating their progress, listening to their stories and occasionally surprising them with a little treat for their hard work!
One of her favorite parts of the week is hearing about each student's weekend plans. She also loves reconnecting with students from previous years and seeing how much they've grown.
When she's not volunteering, substitute teaching, tending to her garden or spending time with her great-granddaughter, Mrs. Connie continues to be a valued part of the South Topsail Elementary family.
👏 Thank you, Mrs. Connie, for sharing your time, kindness and encouragement with our students. Your dedication to helping young readers grow makes a difference every week!
This week's PCS Volunteer Spotlight recognizes Connie Batson, a familiar and much-loved face at South Topsail Elementary School! 💙💛
Known affectionately as "Mrs. Connie," she volunteers at least once a week in a first-grade classroom, helping students strengthen their reading fluency and master tricky words. 📚
But Mrs. Connie does much more than help students with their reading. She takes the time to build meaningful relationships with every child she works with, celebrating their progress, listening to their stories and occasionally surprising them with a little treat for their hard work!
One of her favorite parts of the week is hearing about each student's weekend plans. She also loves reconnecting with students from previous years and seeing how much they've grown.
When she's not volunteering, substitute teaching, tending to her garden or spending time with her great-granddaughter, Mrs. Connie continues to be a valued part of the South Topsail Elementary family.
👏 Thank you, Mrs. Connie, for sharing your time, kindness and encouragement with our students. Your dedication to helping young readers grow makes a difference every week!
🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | NORTH TOPSAIL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
For Jill Robertson, principal of North Topsail Elementary School, the best compliment is knowing that students feel safe and loved when they come to school.
She wants every child to walk through the doors feeling proud to be part of the North Topsail community — and to carry that feeling of being loved into the classroom.
Getting to know Ms. Robertson also means learning a few things about the person behind the principal’s desk. Her favorite books growing up were the Little House on the Prairie series. 📚 And while her desk is pretty tidy, she admits the rest of her office includes a few piles. Organized piles, of course — she knows where things are! 😊
When it’s time to get away, choosing between the beach and the mountains depends on the season. She loves a beach day, but the mountains are hard to beat this time of year. 🍂
Whatever the season, her hopes for students remain the same: feel safe, feel proud of their school and know they are loved.
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. Robertson, for all you do for the North Topsail Elementary School community! 💙 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/ji2RECOocTQ
For Jill Robertson, principal of North Topsail Elementary School, the best compliment is knowing that students feel safe and loved when they come to school.
She wants every child to walk through the doors feeling proud to be part of the North Topsail community — and to carry that feeling of being loved into the classroom.
Getting to know Ms. Robertson also means learning a few things about the person behind the principal’s desk. Her favorite books growing up were the Little House on the Prairie series. 📚 And while her desk is pretty tidy, she admits the rest of her office includes a few piles. Organized piles, of course — she knows where things are! 😊
When it’s time to get away, choosing between the beach and the mountains depends on the season. She loves a beach day, but the mountains are hard to beat this time of year. 🍂
Whatever the season, her hopes for students remain the same: feel safe, feel proud of their school and know they are loved.
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. Robertson, for all you do for the North Topsail Elementary School community! 💙 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/ji2RECOocTQ
🌟 Student Spotlight 🌟
Blair is a student at Topsail High School, recognized for academic excellence, kindness, and leadership.
Blair is an active and engaged student who consistently participates in class discussions and takes pride in her work. Her AP Research teacher, Dr. Kellie Henry, shared that Blair is thoughtful, dependable, and manages her time well while balancing her academic responsibilities with involvement in school activities. 📚
Blair is also known for treating others with kindness and respect. She leads by example, demonstrates integrity in her work, and contributes to a positive classroom environment.
Outside of school, Blair enjoys playing tennis 🎾, reading 📚, crafting 🎨, and coffee ☕. Her favorite food is burrito bowls 🌯, and her favorite color is yellow 💛. She also has a giant German Wirehaired Pointer named Lenny 🐶.
One fun fact—despite her many talents, Blair says she can't whistle! 😄
💛 Thank you, Blair, for your hard work, kindness, and leadership at Topsail High School!
Blair is a student at Topsail High School, recognized for academic excellence, kindness, and leadership.
Blair is an active and engaged student who consistently participates in class discussions and takes pride in her work. Her AP Research teacher, Dr. Kellie Henry, shared that Blair is thoughtful, dependable, and manages her time well while balancing her academic responsibilities with involvement in school activities. 📚
Blair is also known for treating others with kindness and respect. She leads by example, demonstrates integrity in her work, and contributes to a positive classroom environment.
Outside of school, Blair enjoys playing tennis 🎾, reading 📚, crafting 🎨, and coffee ☕. Her favorite food is burrito bowls 🌯, and her favorite color is yellow 💛. She also has a giant German Wirehaired Pointer named Lenny 🐶.
One fun fact—despite her many talents, Blair says she can't whistle! 😄
💛 Thank you, Blair, for your hard work, kindness, and leadership at Topsail High School!
NIKKI BRAUNE | PENDER INNOVATIVE LEARNING ACADEMY
🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | PENDER INNOVATIVE LEARNING ACADEMY
At Pender Innovative Learning Academy, success doesn’t always follow a traditional path, and Principal Nikki Braune wouldn’t have it any other way.
Ms. Braune says success at PILA is measured one student at a time. Students come to the school with different stories, different needs and different goals, and the staff works to help each of them find a pathway forward.
That approach is producing results. PILA has been designated a Progressing School for the second consecutive year, an accomplishment that reflects the work taking place throughout the school.
But some of the most important lessons Ms. Braune has learned have come directly from her students. They’ve taught her that sometimes a second chance isn’t enough. It may take a third or fourth, but given enough opportunities, everyone can find a way to get it right.
She also wishes more people understood the students behind PILA’s doors. They may be taking a different route to their education, but they’re learning, growing and finding success.
For Ms. Braune, the goal is that every student leaves PILA knowing they are good at something, and knowing they can be successful in life. 💙
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. Braune, for believing in students and helping them discover what they’re capable of! - YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/avo3o55brrw
🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | PENDER INNOVATIVE LEARNING ACADEMY
At Pender Innovative Learning Academy, success doesn’t always follow a traditional path, and Principal Nikki Braune wouldn’t have it any other way.
Ms. Braune says success at PILA is measured one student at a time. Students come to the school with different stories, different needs and different goals, and the staff works to help each of them find a pathway forward.
That approach is producing results. PILA has been designated a Progressing School for the second consecutive year, an accomplishment that reflects the work taking place throughout the school.
But some of the most important lessons Ms. Braune has learned have come directly from her students. They’ve taught her that sometimes a second chance isn’t enough. It may take a third or fourth, but given enough opportunities, everyone can find a way to get it right.
She also wishes more people understood the students behind PILA’s doors. They may be taking a different route to their education, but they’re learning, growing and finding success.
For Ms. Braune, the goal is that every student leaves PILA knowing they are good at something, and knowing they can be successful in life. 💙
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. Braune, for believing in students and helping them discover what they’re capable of! - YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/avo3o55brrw
A warm welcome starts in the cafeteria! 🍂
Our Child Nutrition teams welcome students each morning with breakfast to start the school day. During the colder months, hot chocolate will be offered once a week for students to enjoy alongside their meal.
Thank you to our cafeteria staff for the care they put into preparing meals and serving our students every day! 💙
💙📚 Teacher Tuesday: Mr. Jason Barbour — Cape Fear Middle School
Mr. Jason Barbour teaches at Cape Fear Middle School and is in his fifth year of teaching. He is known for setting high expectations for his students and finding different ways to help them understand the material and succeed in the classroom.
Mr. Barbour believes every student is capable of learning and works to create an environment where students are encouraged to do their best. He also maintains regular communication with families, keeping them informed and involved in their child's education.
What stands out most about Mr. Barbour is his attention to what's happening in his classroom. He is observant, addresses concerns when they arise, and works to make sure students have a safe and respectful place to learn.
One colleague shared that they've seen Mr. Barbour step in on multiple occasions to address bullying and reinforce expectations for how students treat one another. He takes those situations seriously while continuing to encourage students to make good choices and stay focused on their learning.
💛 Thank you, Mr. Barbour, for the support, accountability, and care you provide to students at Cape Fear Middle School!
Mr. Jason Barbour teaches at Cape Fear Middle School and is in his fifth year of teaching. He is known for setting high expectations for his students and finding different ways to help them understand the material and succeed in the classroom.
Mr. Barbour believes every student is capable of learning and works to create an environment where students are encouraged to do their best. He also maintains regular communication with families, keeping them informed and involved in their child's education.
What stands out most about Mr. Barbour is his attention to what's happening in his classroom. He is observant, addresses concerns when they arise, and works to make sure students have a safe and respectful place to learn.
One colleague shared that they've seen Mr. Barbour step in on multiple occasions to address bullying and reinforce expectations for how students treat one another. He takes those situations seriously while continuing to encourage students to make good choices and stay focused on their learning.
💛 Thank you, Mr. Barbour, for the support, accountability, and care you provide to students at Cape Fear Middle School!
🫧 Free family fun is coming to Maple Hill!
Pender County Parks & Recreation is bringing its Parked and Recreation mobile program to Maple Hill School! Families are invited to enjoy yard games, bubbles, chalk and more during this free event for all ages.
📅 Wednesday, October 21
🕓 4–6 p.m.
📍 Maple Hill School
545 Maple Hill School Road, Maple Hill
Bring the family for an afternoon of play and time together in the community!
📞 Questions? Contact Pender County Parks & Recreation at 910-259-1330.
Pender County Parks & Recreation is bringing its Parked and Recreation mobile program to Maple Hill School! Families are invited to enjoy yard games, bubbles, chalk and more during this free event for all ages.
📅 Wednesday, October 21
🕓 4–6 p.m.
📍 Maple Hill School
545 Maple Hill School Road, Maple Hill
Bring the family for an afternoon of play and time together in the community!
📞 Questions? Contact Pender County Parks & Recreation at 910-259-1330.
RHONDA SMITH | CAPE FEAR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | CAPE FEAR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
For Rhonda Smith, principal of Cape Fear Elementary School, making sure every student knows they belong begins with something as simple as saying, “Good morning.”
Ms. Smith loves spending mornings in the hallways, greeting students as they arrive from the cafeteria or step off the bus. She knows some children may not have heard those words before leaving home, and some may not even want to be at school that morning. She wants them to know someone is glad they’re there.
Her own childhood also helps shape the way she leads. Growing up in a farming family, she remembers not always having the things other students had. That experience has stayed with her and helps drive her commitment to understanding the needs of her students and helping provide what they need to succeed.
Working in an elementary school has also given her a new appreciation for the science of reading. She says watching teachers build those early foundations has made such an impression that she’d happily spend a year back in first grade learning right alongside the students. 📚
When she isn’t at school, don’t be surprised to find Ms. Smith outside, mowing grass, trimming bushes, planting or doing just about anything that lets her get a little sweaty and dirty. 🌱
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. Smith, for making sure Cape Fear Elementary students know every morning that they are welcomed, valued and wanted! 💙 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/GeYxm2FVkd4
🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | CAPE FEAR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
For Rhonda Smith, principal of Cape Fear Elementary School, making sure every student knows they belong begins with something as simple as saying, “Good morning.”
Ms. Smith loves spending mornings in the hallways, greeting students as they arrive from the cafeteria or step off the bus. She knows some children may not have heard those words before leaving home, and some may not even want to be at school that morning. She wants them to know someone is glad they’re there.
Her own childhood also helps shape the way she leads. Growing up in a farming family, she remembers not always having the things other students had. That experience has stayed with her and helps drive her commitment to understanding the needs of her students and helping provide what they need to succeed.
Working in an elementary school has also given her a new appreciation for the science of reading. She says watching teachers build those early foundations has made such an impression that she’d happily spend a year back in first grade learning right alongside the students. 📚
When she isn’t at school, don’t be surprised to find Ms. Smith outside, mowing grass, trimming bushes, planting or doing just about anything that lets her get a little sweaty and dirty. 🌱
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. Smith, for making sure Cape Fear Elementary students know every morning that they are welcomed, valued and wanted! 💙 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/GeYxm2FVkd4
🧱 PCS CTE students are building futures, brick by brick!
Our Pender and Topsail High School students swept the Genesis Block Foundation’s Youth Entrepreneurship Shark Tank Competition, pitching original business ideas with confidence and creativity. Students across PCS are also exploring healthcare careers, earning Stop the Bleed and OSHA 10 credentials, learning about law and ethics, and building skills in engineering, robotics, health science, and career planning.
From middle school classrooms to community partnerships, PCS CTE students learn by doing and connect their interests to future opportunities. We’re proud of our students and the educators who help them grow! 💙🦈
Read more in the PCS CTE Connections Fall 2026 newsletter. - https://app.smore.com/n/dnb18
Our Pender and Topsail High School students swept the Genesis Block Foundation’s Youth Entrepreneurship Shark Tank Competition, pitching original business ideas with confidence and creativity. Students across PCS are also exploring healthcare careers, earning Stop the Bleed and OSHA 10 credentials, learning about law and ethics, and building skills in engineering, robotics, health science, and career planning.
From middle school classrooms to community partnerships, PCS CTE students learn by doing and connect their interests to future opportunities. We’re proud of our students and the educators who help them grow! 💙🦈
Read more in the PCS CTE Connections Fall 2026 newsletter. - https://app.smore.com/n/dnb18
