💙📚 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
🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | TOPSAIL MIDDLE SCHOOL
For Dr. Alan McNaughton, principal of Topsail Middle School, connecting with students sometimes means being willing to have a little fun — even if that means showing up with pink hair! 💗
Dr. McNaughton recently joined students and staff in recognizing Breast Cancer Awareness Month, sporting pink hair for the occasion. He says one of his favorite things about middle school students is their willingness to have fun and be a little silly, and he enjoys joining right in.
He also understands that middle school can be an intimidating experience. His advice for incoming students? Remember that everyone is nervous, make friends and understand that friendships may change as you grow.
Dr. McNaughton also wants families to recognize the work teachers put into making learning engaging. Behind those fun classroom activities are hours of planning, preparation and dedication that often extend well beyond the school day.
And this year carries special meaning for the Topsail Middle School community. As the school prepares to transition to the new J.H. Lea Elementary and Middle School next year, Dr. McNaughton and his staff are embracing the opportunity to celebrate the legacy Topsail Middle has built in the Hampstead community.
It's a year of celebrating the past while looking forward to an exciting new chapter. 🏫
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. McNaughton, for all you do for the Topsail Middle School community! 💙 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/v-QRvc2ZIds
For Dr. Alan McNaughton, principal of Topsail Middle School, connecting with students sometimes means being willing to have a little fun — even if that means showing up with pink hair! 💗
Dr. McNaughton recently joined students and staff in recognizing Breast Cancer Awareness Month, sporting pink hair for the occasion. He says one of his favorite things about middle school students is their willingness to have fun and be a little silly, and he enjoys joining right in.
He also understands that middle school can be an intimidating experience. His advice for incoming students? Remember that everyone is nervous, make friends and understand that friendships may change as you grow.
Dr. McNaughton also wants families to recognize the work teachers put into making learning engaging. Behind those fun classroom activities are hours of planning, preparation and dedication that often extend well beyond the school day.
And this year carries special meaning for the Topsail Middle School community. As the school prepares to transition to the new J.H. Lea Elementary and Middle School next year, Dr. McNaughton and his staff are embracing the opportunity to celebrate the legacy Topsail Middle has built in the Hampstead community.
It's a year of celebrating the past while looking forward to an exciting new chapter. 🏫
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. McNaughton, for all you do for the Topsail Middle School community! 💙 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/v-QRvc2ZIds
🌟 Feature Friday: Employee Spotlight 🌟
This week we’re recognizing Dr. Ashley Goodlett, Principal at West Pender Middle School.
Dr. Goodlett is in her first year leading West Pender Middle, and she has worked to build relationships with students and staff while establishing a clear direction for the school. She approaches her responsibilities with patience, consistency, and a focus on helping both students and teachers succeed.
Colleagues appreciate her down-to-earth personality and the respect she shows to those around her. She takes time to listen, encourages her staff, and brings a positive attitude to her work each day.
As she continues settling into her role, Dr. Goodlett is focused on building a supportive school environment and helping West Pender Middle move forward.
💛💙 Thank you, Dr. Goodlett, for your leadership and the care you show to the students and staff at West Pender Middle School.
This week we’re recognizing Dr. Ashley Goodlett, Principal at West Pender Middle School.
Dr. Goodlett is in her first year leading West Pender Middle, and she has worked to build relationships with students and staff while establishing a clear direction for the school. She approaches her responsibilities with patience, consistency, and a focus on helping both students and teachers succeed.
Colleagues appreciate her down-to-earth personality and the respect she shows to those around her. She takes time to listen, encourages her staff, and brings a positive attitude to her work each day.
As she continues settling into her role, Dr. Goodlett is focused on building a supportive school environment and helping West Pender Middle move forward.
💛💙 Thank you, Dr. Goodlett, for your leadership and the care you show to the students and staff at West Pender Middle School.
📅 Help shape the 2027-2028 school calendar!
Pender County Schools is seeking feedback from parents, guardians and community members on draft calendar options for the 2027-2028 school year.
Please review the proposed calendars, rank your choices and share any additional comments or suggestions. The survey also includes an opportunity to provide feedback on the possibility of additional early-release days to support required professional development.
You can view the calendars here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LNzPohIGnPe9JpDBa58JhEPLms854dtN/view
🗓️ Survey closes October 31 at 6:00 p.m.
🔗 Take the survey: https://forms.gle/5XeGXC9KYxAHU9CM7
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback as we plan for the 2027-2028 school year.
_________________________________________________________
📅 ¡Ayude a dar forma al calendario escolar 2027-2028!
Las Escuelas del Condado de Pender están solicitando comentarios de padres, tutores y miembros de la comunidad sobre las opciones preliminares del calendario escolar para el año escolar 2027-2028.
Por favor, revise los calendarios propuestos, clasifique sus opciones en orden de preferencia y comparta cualquier comentario o sugerencia adicional. La encuesta también incluye una oportunidad para brindar su opinión sobre la posibilidad de agregar días adicionales de salida temprana para apoyar el desarrollo profesional requerido.
Puede ver los calendarios aquí:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LNzPohIGnPe9JpDBa58JhEPLms854dtN/view
🗓️ La encuesta cerrará el 31 de octubre a las 6:00 p. m.
🔗 Complete la encuesta aquí:
https://forms.gle/5XeGXC9KYxAHU9CM7
Gracias por tomarse el tiempo para compartir sus comentarios mientras planificamos el año escolar 2027-2028.
Pender County Schools is seeking feedback from parents, guardians and community members on draft calendar options for the 2027-2028 school year.
Please review the proposed calendars, rank your choices and share any additional comments or suggestions. The survey also includes an opportunity to provide feedback on the possibility of additional early-release days to support required professional development.
You can view the calendars here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LNzPohIGnPe9JpDBa58JhEPLms854dtN/view
🗓️ Survey closes October 31 at 6:00 p.m.
🔗 Take the survey: https://forms.gle/5XeGXC9KYxAHU9CM7
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback as we plan for the 2027-2028 school year.
_________________________________________________________
📅 ¡Ayude a dar forma al calendario escolar 2027-2028!
Las Escuelas del Condado de Pender están solicitando comentarios de padres, tutores y miembros de la comunidad sobre las opciones preliminares del calendario escolar para el año escolar 2027-2028.
Por favor, revise los calendarios propuestos, clasifique sus opciones en orden de preferencia y comparta cualquier comentario o sugerencia adicional. La encuesta también incluye una oportunidad para brindar su opinión sobre la posibilidad de agregar días adicionales de salida temprana para apoyar el desarrollo profesional requerido.
Puede ver los calendarios aquí:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LNzPohIGnPe9JpDBa58JhEPLms854dtN/view
🗓️ La encuesta cerrará el 31 de octubre a las 6:00 p. m.
🔗 Complete la encuesta aquí:
https://forms.gle/5XeGXC9KYxAHU9CM7
Gracias por tomarse el tiempo para compartir sus comentarios mientras planificamos el año escolar 2027-2028.
📣 Special Education Parent Meeting
Parents of students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) are invited to an optional virtual meeting hosted by the Pender County Schools Exceptional Children’s Department.
The Division of Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities, formerly known as the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, will provide an overview of vocational services, explain how it works with schools, and share available services and additional resources.
📅 Friday, October 23, 2026
🕘 9–10 a.m.
💻 Join on Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/qpt-wpfp-ihv
This session is open to all parents of students with IEPs. Participation is optional.
Questions? Contact the Exceptional Children’s Department:
📞 910-259-2187
📧 kendy_walker@pender.k12.nc.us or summer_mills@pender.k12.nc.us
📣 Reunión para padres de estudiantes de Educación Especial
Los padres de estudiantes con Programas de Educación Individualizados (IEP, por sus siglas en inglés) están invitados a una reunión virtual opcional organizada por el Departamento de Niños Excepcionales de las Escuelas del Condado de Pender.
La División de Empleo e Independencia para Personas con Discapacidades, anteriormente conocida como la División de Servicios de Rehabilitación Vocacional, ofrecerá información sobre los servicios vocacionales, explicará cómo colabora con las escuelas y compartirá los servicios y recursos disponibles para apoyar a los estudiantes.
📅 Viernes, 23 de octubre de 2026
🕘 De 9:00 a 10:00 a. m.
💻 Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/qpt-wpfp-ihv
Esta reunión está abierta a todos los padres de estudiantes con IEP. La participación es voluntaria.
¿Tiene preguntas? Comuníquese con el Departamento de Niños Excepcionales:
📞 910-259-2187
📧 kendy_walker@pender.k12.nc.us o summer_mills@pender.k12.nc.us
Parents of students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) are invited to an optional virtual meeting hosted by the Pender County Schools Exceptional Children’s Department.
The Division of Employment and Independence for People with Disabilities, formerly known as the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, will provide an overview of vocational services, explain how it works with schools, and share available services and additional resources.
📅 Friday, October 23, 2026
🕘 9–10 a.m.
💻 Join on Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/qpt-wpfp-ihv
This session is open to all parents of students with IEPs. Participation is optional.
Questions? Contact the Exceptional Children’s Department:
📞 910-259-2187
📧 kendy_walker@pender.k12.nc.us or summer_mills@pender.k12.nc.us
📣 Reunión para padres de estudiantes de Educación Especial
Los padres de estudiantes con Programas de Educación Individualizados (IEP, por sus siglas en inglés) están invitados a una reunión virtual opcional organizada por el Departamento de Niños Excepcionales de las Escuelas del Condado de Pender.
La División de Empleo e Independencia para Personas con Discapacidades, anteriormente conocida como la División de Servicios de Rehabilitación Vocacional, ofrecerá información sobre los servicios vocacionales, explicará cómo colabora con las escuelas y compartirá los servicios y recursos disponibles para apoyar a los estudiantes.
📅 Viernes, 23 de octubre de 2026
🕘 De 9:00 a 10:00 a. m.
💻 Google Meet: https://meet.google.com/qpt-wpfp-ihv
Esta reunión está abierta a todos los padres de estudiantes con IEP. La participación es voluntaria.
¿Tiene preguntas? Comuníquese con el Departamento de Niños Excepcionales:
📞 910-259-2187
📧 kendy_walker@pender.k12.nc.us o summer_mills@pender.k12.nc.us
Come one, come all!! The Cafeteria Circus has been in town this week celebrating National School Lunch Week 🎪🎪
and Child Nutrition Staff has had a ton of fun clowning around in the kitchen and serving up show-stopping meals for the students in Pender County! 🤡🍔🍓🥙
Happy National School Lunch Week from our circus crew to yours!🤹♀️🍕✨ #CafeteriaCircus #NSLW26 #SchoolLunch
and Child Nutrition Staff has had a ton of fun clowning around in the kitchen and serving up show-stopping meals for the students in Pender County! 🤡🍔🍓🥙
Happy National School Lunch Week from our circus crew to yours!🤹♀️🍕✨ #CafeteriaCircus #NSLW26 #SchoolLunch
APRIL PERKINS | ROCKY POINT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | ROCKY POINT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
April Perkins may be the proud principal of Rocky Point Elementary School today, but as a student she was the quiet kid hoping the teacher wouldn’t call on her. 😊
These days, Mrs. Perkins enjoys a school filled with the sounds of students and staff learning, talking and working together. And while students know her kind and caring side, she says there’s another side they may not see quite as often — she’s very competitive.
Whether it’s school data or sports, that competitive streak is always there, even if she doesn’t show it every day. 🏆
Away from school, music is one of her favorite ways to unwind. Her playlist can jump from Christian music to hip-hop to country, and she says that variety helps tell the story of who she is. 🎶
But what matters most is the culture she and her staff are building at Rocky Point Elementary.
“Our school is a place that loves every child,” Mrs. Perkins says, with a commitment to helping students succeed not only while they’re at Rocky Point, but throughout their lives.
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, Mrs. Perkins, for all you do for the Rocky Point Elementary School community! 💙 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/ElJ_wHhSDm8
🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | ROCKY POINT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
April Perkins may be the proud principal of Rocky Point Elementary School today, but as a student she was the quiet kid hoping the teacher wouldn’t call on her. 😊
These days, Mrs. Perkins enjoys a school filled with the sounds of students and staff learning, talking and working together. And while students know her kind and caring side, she says there’s another side they may not see quite as often — she’s very competitive.
Whether it’s school data or sports, that competitive streak is always there, even if she doesn’t show it every day. 🏆
Away from school, music is one of her favorite ways to unwind. Her playlist can jump from Christian music to hip-hop to country, and she says that variety helps tell the story of who she is. 🎶
But what matters most is the culture she and her staff are building at Rocky Point Elementary.
“Our school is a place that loves every child,” Mrs. Perkins says, with a commitment to helping students succeed not only while they’re at Rocky Point, but throughout their lives.
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, Mrs. Perkins, for all you do for the Rocky Point Elementary School community! 💙 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/ElJ_wHhSDm8
📣 Pender County residents—your voice matters!
Pender County Schools encourages our families and neighbors who live in Pender County to participate in the 2026 Pender County Community Health Survey. Make your voice heard and share your perspective on health in our community!
📱 Scan the QR code on the flyer to complete the survey. It is available in English and Spanish.
Please help spread the word by sharing this opportunity with friends, family and neighbors!
📣 ¡Residentes del condado de Pender: su opinión cuenta!
Las Escuelas del Condado de Pender invitan a nuestras familias y vecinos que viven en el condado a participar en la Encuesta de Salud Comunitaria del Condado de Pender 2026. ¡Haga oír su voz y comparta su perspectiva sobre la salud en nuestra comunidad!
📱 Escanee el código QR del volante para completar la encuesta. Está disponible en español e inglés.
¡Ayúdenos a difundir esta oportunidad compartiéndola con amigos, familiares y vecinos!
Pender County Schools encourages our families and neighbors who live in Pender County to participate in the 2026 Pender County Community Health Survey. Make your voice heard and share your perspective on health in our community!
📱 Scan the QR code on the flyer to complete the survey. It is available in English and Spanish.
Please help spread the word by sharing this opportunity with friends, family and neighbors!
📣 ¡Residentes del condado de Pender: su opinión cuenta!
Las Escuelas del Condado de Pender invitan a nuestras familias y vecinos que viven en el condado a participar en la Encuesta de Salud Comunitaria del Condado de Pender 2026. ¡Haga oír su voz y comparta su perspectiva sobre la salud en nuestra comunidad!
📱 Escanee el código QR del volante para completar la encuesta. Está disponible en español e inglés.
¡Ayúdenos a difundir esta oportunidad compartiéndola con amigos, familiares y vecinos!
🌟 PCS VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT 🌟
Some people volunteer when they have time. Courtney Fowler volunteers like it’s her calling. 💙💛
This week’s PCS Volunteer Spotlight recognizes Courtney for her dedication to students, teachers and families across three school communities. She has served as PTO president at Topsail Annandale Elementary, Topsail Middle and now Topsail High School, supporting families throughout their children’s educational journeys.
Through her work organizing Boosterthon fundraisers and other school efforts, Courtney has helped raise more than $100,000 for our schools! From planning and coordinating volunteers to following up on pledges and organizing celebrations, she helps bring each effort to life.
But that number tells only part of the story. Behind it are countless emails, late-night supply runs, phone calls and quiet solutions when something doesn’t go as planned. When a teacher needs classroom resources, a student needs support or an event needs another set of hands, Courtney is often the first to say yes and the last to head home.
Her motivation isn’t recognition. It’s her belief in our students and the teachers who work with them every day. Thousands of students have benefited from her efforts, often without knowing the person working behind the scenes.
👏 Thank you, Courtney, for your generosity, energy and willingness to keep showing up for our school communities. Your dedication makes a difference, and we are grateful for you!
Burgaw Middle School students had a meaningful opportunity to learn about ethics and careers in the legal system from the Honorable Judge James Faison of Pender County.
Judge Faison connected his message to the students’ Digital Literacy curriculum, emphasizing that “being honest, being fair, showing up to work, and doing what is right is ethics.” His words offered students a practical reminder that ethical choices matter in school, online, at work, and in everyday life. The conversation also gave students a closer look at careers in the legal system and encouraged them to consider how their own values can shape their future.
Thank you, Judge Faison, for sharing your time and experience with our students. A special thank-you to Burgaw community member and substitute teacher, Ms. McIntyre, and the Burgaw Middle School team for coordinating this valuable learning opportunity for students!
Judge Faison connected his message to the students’ Digital Literacy curriculum, emphasizing that “being honest, being fair, showing up to work, and doing what is right is ethics.” His words offered students a practical reminder that ethical choices matter in school, online, at work, and in everyday life. The conversation also gave students a closer look at careers in the legal system and encouraged them to consider how their own values can shape their future.
Thank you, Judge Faison, for sharing your time and experience with our students. A special thank-you to Burgaw community member and substitute teacher, Ms. McIntyre, and the Burgaw Middle School team for coordinating this valuable learning opportunity for students!
🍎 Behind the Plate: Penderlea School
“Pizza, pizza, pizza!” 🍕
Cafeteria manager Kimberly Brown says pepperoni pizza brings plenty of excitement to Penderlea’s lunch line. Her favorite part of the day? Seeing students come in smiling and happy.
Behind those meals is a team working each day to prepare safe, quality food and follow the menus and food safety guidelines that guide their work.
During National School Lunch Week, we’re celebrating Kimberly and the Penderlea cafeteria team. Thank you for the care you put into every school day! YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/dSc-lEeV5jw?feature=share
“Pizza, pizza, pizza!” 🍕
Cafeteria manager Kimberly Brown says pepperoni pizza brings plenty of excitement to Penderlea’s lunch line. Her favorite part of the day? Seeing students come in smiling and happy.
Behind those meals is a team working each day to prepare safe, quality food and follow the menus and food safety guidelines that guide their work.
During National School Lunch Week, we’re celebrating Kimberly and the Penderlea cafeteria team. Thank you for the care you put into every school day! YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/dSc-lEeV5jw?feature=share
🩺🚑 Exploring healthcare careers. Learning skills that can save lives!
Students from across all PCS high schools attended the Healthcare Career Explorers Program at Novant Health’s Scotts Hill facility, connecting classroom learning to the world of emergency care!
Students earned their Stop the Bleed certificates, learning how to respond to life-threatening bleeding and provide critical help before emergency responders arrive. They also heard from a panel of Novant Health emergency and trauma personnel, gaining insight into healthcare careers, the teamwork behind emergency care, and the preparation it takes to serve patients when every second counts.
These experiences help students discover their interests, build confidence, and see the possibilities for their future in healthcare. Today’s career explorers could become tomorrow’s healthcare professionals! 💙
Thank you to our Novant Health partners for investing in our students and opening doors to meaningful careers!
#PCSCTE #NovantHealth #HealthcareCareerExplorers #StopTheBleed #CareerExploration #EnrolledEnlistedEmployed
Great conversations start with listening. 🍎
Today, Pender County Schools held its first Superintendent Teacher Advisory Council meeting of the school year at Heide Trask High School.
The council is made up of the Teacher of the Year from each school across the district, giving these educators an opportunity to bring the perspectives of their schools directly into conversations with Superintendent Dr. Brad Breedlove.
Today’s discussion centered on the PCS Strategic Plan, what’s working, where we’re making progress and where there may still be gaps or opportunities to improve.
These conversations help ensure the voices of our teachers are part of the work moving Pender County Schools forward.
Thank you to our Teachers of the Year for sharing their insight, experiences and ideas!
Today, Pender County Schools held its first Superintendent Teacher Advisory Council meeting of the school year at Heide Trask High School.
The council is made up of the Teacher of the Year from each school across the district, giving these educators an opportunity to bring the perspectives of their schools directly into conversations with Superintendent Dr. Brad Breedlove.
Today’s discussion centered on the PCS Strategic Plan, what’s working, where we’re making progress and where there may still be gaps or opportunities to improve.
These conversations help ensure the voices of our teachers are part of the work moving Pender County Schools forward.
Thank you to our Teachers of the Year for sharing their insight, experiences and ideas!
🤖 Build it. Test it. Stack it!
Mr. Henry’s class at Topsail High School is putting their VEX robots into action! After building their robots, students are now taking on stacking games that challenge them to move, position, and stack objects with precision. 🏗️
Every round gives students a chance to test their designs, troubleshoot challenges, and make adjustments. They’re exploring how balance, control, and robot design affect performance while building teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
From figuring out why a stack falls to finding a better way to pick up and place an object, students are learning that engineering takes patience, creativity, and persistence. One adjustment—and one successful stack—at a time! 💪
#PCSCTE #TopsailHighSchool #VEXRobotics #HandsOnLearning #FutureEngineers #BrickByBrick
JEREMY MORTENSEN | BURGAW MIDDLE SCHOOL
🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | BURGAW MIDDLE SCHOOL
For Jeremy Mortensen, principal of Burgaw Middle School, one teacher from his own middle school years still influences the way he thinks about education today.
Mr. Mortensen remembers his math teacher, Mr. Rivers, not only as an amazing teacher, but as someone who took the time to get outside the classroom and play football with students. It’s a memory he shares with his own staff today: think about your favorite teacher — and try to be that person for your students.
One of the things he appreciates most about middle school students is their creativity and willingness to be themselves. He enjoys being out in the hallways and classrooms, seeing students, handing out fist bumps and simply being part of the culture of the school.
And there’s plenty his students may not know about him. Mr. Mortensen grew up near Niagara Falls in Canada 🇨🇦, received his education in Australia 🇦🇺 and was recruited from there to teach in North Carolina.
Away from school, you might find him golfing, surfing or playing a little hockey. And if there’s music playing? There’s a good chance it’s Metallica. 🤘🎸
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, Mr. Mortensen, for all you do for the Burgaw Middle School community! 💙 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/v_wVsKnOkpQ
🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | BURGAW MIDDLE SCHOOL
For Jeremy Mortensen, principal of Burgaw Middle School, one teacher from his own middle school years still influences the way he thinks about education today.
Mr. Mortensen remembers his math teacher, Mr. Rivers, not only as an amazing teacher, but as someone who took the time to get outside the classroom and play football with students. It’s a memory he shares with his own staff today: think about your favorite teacher — and try to be that person for your students.
One of the things he appreciates most about middle school students is their creativity and willingness to be themselves. He enjoys being out in the hallways and classrooms, seeing students, handing out fist bumps and simply being part of the culture of the school.
And there’s plenty his students may not know about him. Mr. Mortensen grew up near Niagara Falls in Canada 🇨🇦, received his education in Australia 🇦🇺 and was recruited from there to teach in North Carolina.
Away from school, you might find him golfing, surfing or playing a little hockey. And if there’s music playing? There’s a good chance it’s Metallica. 🤘🎸
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, Mr. Mortensen, for all you do for the Burgaw Middle School community! 💙 YouTube Link - https://youtube.com/shorts/v_wVsKnOkpQ
🌟 Student Spotlight 🌟
Chase is a 5th grader at North Topsail Elementary, recognized for his academic success, leadership, and kindness toward others.
Chase works hard in the classroom and takes pride in his learning. He participates in discussions, shares his ideas, and is quick to help classmates who may be struggling. Rather than simply giving someone an answer, he helps them understand directions or think through their work. 📚
That same approach carries over outside of academics. Chase includes others, encourages his classmates, and treats people with kindness and respect. He follows school expectations and leads by example, showing that leadership doesn’t always mean being the loudest person in the room.
Outside of school, Chase enjoys playing hockey 🏒. His favorite food is pizza 🍕, and his favorite color is blue 💙. He also has a Husky/German Shepherd named Darla 🐶.
One fun fact—Chase was born in New Jersey.
💙 Thank you, Chase, for being a supportive friend and setting a positive example at North Topsail Elementary!
Chase is a 5th grader at North Topsail Elementary, recognized for his academic success, leadership, and kindness toward others.
Chase works hard in the classroom and takes pride in his learning. He participates in discussions, shares his ideas, and is quick to help classmates who may be struggling. Rather than simply giving someone an answer, he helps them understand directions or think through their work. 📚
That same approach carries over outside of academics. Chase includes others, encourages his classmates, and treats people with kindness and respect. He follows school expectations and leads by example, showing that leadership doesn’t always mean being the loudest person in the room.
Outside of school, Chase enjoys playing hockey 🏒. His favorite food is pizza 🍕, and his favorite color is blue 💙. He also has a Husky/German Shepherd named Darla 🐶.
One fun fact—Chase was born in New Jersey.
💙 Thank you, Chase, for being a supportive friend and setting a positive example at North Topsail Elementary!
