You did it, Pender County Schools — 1 million minutes! 🎉
Since October, our students and families have read their way to an amazing milestone in the Million Minute Reading Challenge.
That’s 1 million minutes of bedtime stories, favorite books, read-alouds, and reading time at home — and we think that deserves a big celebration.
Now let’s keep it going.
We’re officially extending the challenge and setting our sights on 2 million minutes by May. We’ve come a long way, but we’re not finished yet.
Keep reading, keep logging your minutes, and let’s finish the school year strong!
Next stop: 2 million. 📚

¡Lo lograron, Pender County Schools: 1 millón de minutos! 🎉
Desde octubre, nuestros estudiantes y familias han leído hasta alcanzar una meta increíble en el Desafío de Lectura del Millón de Minutos.
Eso significa 1 millón de minutos de cuentos antes de dormir, libros favoritos, lecturas en voz alta y tiempo de lectura en casa, y creemos que eso merece una gran celebración.
Ahora, sigamos adelante.
Oficialmente vamos a extender el desafío y ahora nuestra nueva meta es llegar a 2 millones de minutos para mayo. Hemos avanzado muchísimo, pero todavía no hemos terminado.
¡Sigan leyendo, sigan registrando sus minutos y terminemos el año escolar con fuerza!
Próxima meta: 2 millones. 📚

about 1 month ago, Bob Fankboner
two million minutes reading challenge (English)
two million minutes reading challenge (Spanish)
Good afternoon Pender County Schools families,

Due to the threat of severe weather expected on Monday, March 16, 2026, Pender County Schools will operate on a remote learning and work day for all staff and students on the traditional calendar, as well as for Pender Early College.

Please note that Penderlea School is on Spring Break at this time.

Forecasts continue to show the potential for severe storms, including damaging wind gusts and possible tornadoes, during the day on Monday. Out of an abundance of caution and to help ensure the safety of our students, staff, and families, we have made the decision to move to remote learning and remote work for the day.

More information regarding teacher communication, assignments, and expectations for the remote learning day will be shared by your child’s school.

We encourage all families to continue monitoring local weather conditions and to stay safe.

Thank you for your understanding.
about 1 month ago, Pender County Schools
WEATHER ALERT
🌟 Feature Friday: Employee Spotlight 🌟

This week we’re recognizing Ms. Susan Hunter, Treasurer at Burgaw Middle School.

Ms. Hunter is a great example of teamwork. When staff members have been out for extended periods of time, she has stepped in to help cover additional roles and responsibilities without hesitation. She took on the extra work because she knew the school needed support, and she did it with a positive attitude.

Her willingness to help wherever needed makes a real difference for the staff and students at Burgaw Middle.

💛💙 Thank you, Ms. Hunter, for being dependable, flexible, and always willing to support your school community.
about 1 month ago, Bob Fankboner
feature friday susan hunter burgaw middle school
Comfort food favorite! 🍗🥔

Our Popcorn Chicken Mashed Potato Bowl is stacked with mashed potatoes, sweet corn, crispy popcorn chicken, and cheddar cheese. Don’t forget the fresh fruit & veggie options on the side!

about 1 month ago, Aramark
Mashed Potato Bowl
🌟 Student Spotlight 🌟

Madison is a student at Burgaw Middle School, nominated by her 6th grade teacher, Miss Foster, for academic excellence, athletic excellence, and the positive way she contributes in the classroom.

Madison is a consistent, engaged student who is always ready to participate. She shares her ideas during class discussions and helps keep conversations going in a thoughtful way. Miss Foster also shared that Madison is naturally kind and inclusive. She makes an effort to talk with others, build friendships across the classroom, and help classmates feel comfortable.

Madison also balances schoolwork with her commitment to athletics. She plays softball and takes both academics and her sport seriously. Her attitude and work ethic are a good example for other students.

Outside of school, Madison enjoys playing softball 🥎 and spending time with friends. Her favorite food is cheesecake 🍰, and her favorite color is pink 💗. She has quite a few pets at home—over 25 fish 🐠, 4 chickens 🐔, 2 dogs 🐶, and 2 hamsters 🐹.

One fun fact: Madison has played softball for four years and has earned 10 medals and 4 rings.

💗 Thank you, Madison, for the positive energy and effort you bring to Burgaw Middle School.
about 1 month ago, Bob Fankboner
student spotlight madison burgaw middle
🎪 Today’s the day! Join us from 4:30–7:00 p.m. at Heide Trask High School for our Kindergarten Registration & Preschool Information Event!

Families with children ages 3–5 are invited to enjoy free Carnival-themed fun, meet PCS staff, and connect with community partners.

Registering on-site? Please bring required documents.
Learn more: https://www.pender.k12.nc.us/page/enroll


🎪 ¡Hoy es el día! Acompáñenos de 4:30 a 7:00 p.m. en Heide Trask High School para nuestro Evento de Inscripción de Kindergarten e Información Preescolar.

Las familias con niños de 3 a 5 años están invitadas a disfrutar gratis de la diversión con tema de carnaval, conocer al personal de PCS y conectarse con organizaciones comunitarias.

¿Va a inscribirse en persona? Por favor traiga los documentos requeridos.
Más información: https://www.pender.k12.nc.us/page/enroll
about 1 month ago, Bob Fankboner
KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION ANDPRESCHOOL INFO EVENT
KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION ANDPRESCHOOL INFO EVENT
🚨 Reminder for PCS Families
Have you completed the 2026–27 Student Ridership Survey?
If your child will need bus transportation next school year — or if transportation plans are changing — please take a moment to fill out the survey.
📍 Survey Link: https://forms.gle/Hpe3gS6GzEzTqAzG9
Thank you for helping us prepare for a smooth start!

🚨 Recordatorio para las familias de PCS
¿Ya completó la Encuesta de Transporte Estudiantil para 2026–27?
Si su hijo(a) necesitará transporte en autobús el próximo año escolar — o si sus planes de transporte han cambiado — por favor complete la encuesta.
📍 Enlace de la encuesta: https://forms.gle/Hpe3gS6GzEzTqAzG9
¡Gracias por ayudarnos a preparar un comienzo sin contratiempos!
about 1 month ago, Bob Fankboner
2026-27 bus ridership survey (English)
2026-27 bus ridership survey (Spanish)
Teacher Tuesday: Ms. Chelsea D’Zurilla — Surf City Elementary

Ms. Chelsea D’Zurilla teaches K–2 EC at Surf City Elementary. She is known for her patient and caring approach with students. She takes time to build strong relationships and adjusts her instruction so each child can access learning in a way that works for them. Families and staff share that students feel safe and supported in her classroom.

Ms. D’Zurilla is attentive to the needs of her students, especially those who require additional support throughout the day. With a schedule that shifts as students come and go for services, she keeps instruction consistent and organized. She works closely with her Instructional Assistants to ensure centers and small-group activities run smoothly and with purpose.

One staff member shared that Ms. D’Zurilla handles challenging moments with calm and care. When a student becomes overwhelmed, she responds with steady reassurance and helps them regulate without drawing negative attention. She focuses on preserving student dignity while guiding them back to learning.

Thank you, Ms. D’Zurilla, for the thoughtful support you provide to students and staff at Surf City Elementary. 💛✅
about 1 month ago, Bob Fankboner
teacher tuesday chelsea d'zurilla
🎪 Reminder! Join us this Wednesday, March 11, from 4:30–7:00 p.m. at Heide Trask High School for our Kindergarten Registration & Preschool Information Event!

Families with children ages 3–5 are invited to meet PCS staff, connect with community partners, and enjoy free Carnival-themed fun.

Need to register on-site? Please bring your child’s birth certificate, proof of residency, health assessment, immunization records, and parent/guardian photo ID.

Learn more: https://www.pender.k12.nc.us/page/enroll


🎪 ¡Recordatorio! Acompáñenos este miércoles 11 de marzo, de 4:30 a 7:00 p.m. en Heide Trask High School para nuestro Evento de Inscripción de Kindergarten e Información Preescolar.

Las familias con niños de 3 a 5 años están invitadas a conocer al personal de PCS, conectarse con organizaciones comunitarias y disfrutar de diversión gratis con tema de carnaval.

¿Necesita inscribirse en persona? Por favor traiga el certificado de nacimiento del niño, comprobante de residencia, evaluación de salud, registro de vacunas y una identificación con foto del padre/madre o tutor.

Más información:https://www.pender.k12.nc.us/page/enroll
about 1 month ago, Bob Fankboner
kindergarten event
kindergarten event
Weekly PCS Newsletter https://new.express.adobe.com/webpage/NUJGIazBQxcbw Have a great weekend!
about 1 month ago, Bob Fankboner
PCS Weekly Newsletter
📚🍊 Read Across America Week! 🍊📚

This week we followed the food journey of The Very Hungry Caterpillar, ending the story the sweetest way with oranges!

Chef Jeff stopped by Cape Fear Elementary to hand out fresh orange slices and bring some fun and smiles to the students. It was a great way to celebrate reading, healthy foods, and a classic story loved by so many! 🐛🍊📖
about 1 month ago, Aramark
Very Hungry Caterpillar
Jeff Handing Out Oranges
Caterpillar
RPE Butterfly
🌟 Feature Friday: Employee Spotlight 🌟

This week we’re recognizing Mrs. Deirdre Preston, Guidance Counselor at Topsail Annandale Elementary School.

Mrs. Preston stepped into her role as our full-time school counselor this year, and she has taken on a wide range of responsibilities in a short amount of time. She supports our work with 504 plans and MTSS, leads small groups, provides classroom guidance lessons, and meets with students individually as needed. For someone new to the position, she has handled these responsibilities with focus and care.

Mrs. Preston works hard to support students, staff, and families. She is patient and thoughtful in her approach, and she communicates clearly with families, even when conversations are difficult. Students know they have a safe place to talk, and staff know they can reach out to her for support.

She has quickly become an important part of our team at TAES.

💛💙 Thank you, Mrs. Preston, for the steady support you provide to our students and school community.
about 1 month ago, Bob Fankboner
feature friday deirdre preston topsail annandale elementary
Day 2 of CTE Professional Development: Turning Ideas into Action! Day 2 of our Pender County Schools CTE Professional Development was all about collaboration, creativity, and commitment to our students’ futures. Teachers spent the day diving deeper into strategies that strengthen literacy in CTE classrooms, sharing ideas through PLC collaboration, and bringing energy to activities like the Tassel Dash. The conversations were powerful. The ideas were practical. And the focus stayed exactly where it belongs—helping students gain the skills and confidence to become enrolled, enlisted, or employed after graduation. It’s inspiring to watch our CTE teachers learn from one another, challenge their thinking, and walk away with strategies they can implement immediately in their classrooms. Thank you to every teacher who showed up with enthusiasm, shared their expertise, and continues to pour into our students every day. The momentum is real, and the impact is just getting started. #CTE #OnePender #ClassroomsToCareers #CTEMonth #LevelUp
about 1 month ago, Career and Technical Education Department
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🥟 PHOTO DUMPLING! 🥟
Rolling into spring with Chicken & Vegetable Dumplings, served with fried rice and plenty of fresh fruit & vegetable options!
about 1 month ago, Aramark
RPE Dumplings
TMS Dumplings
CFEM Dumplings
Pender County Schools is aware of a recent phishing incident involving three staff email accounts (sharon_lewis@pender.k12.nc.us, lisa_troy@pender.k12.nc.us, and jill_robertson@pender.k12.nc.us). These accounts were used to send phishing emails to contacts inside and outside our school community.

Our Technology Services Department responded immediately and secured the accounts. At this time, our investigation has found no evidence of activity beyond the sending of additional phishing emails, and there is no evidence that student or staff data was accessed.

If you received an email that appears to include a “Google Drive” file link or asks you to download a file, do not click the link or download anything. Please delete the email. If you clicked a link or downloaded a file, delete any downloaded files and run a security scan on your device. As a best practice, we also encourage enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) on important personal accounts.

Questions or concerns? Please contact Pender County Schools Technology Services at 910-259-2187.

Las Escuelas del Condado de Pender están al tanto de un incidente reciente de phishing (suplantación de identidad) relacionado con tres cuentas de correo electrónico del personal (sharon_lewis@pender.k12.nc.us
, lisa_troy@pender.k12.nc.us
y jill_robertson@pender.k12.nc.us
). Estas cuentas se utilizaron para enviar correos electrónicos fraudulentos a contactos dentro y fuera de nuestra comunidad escolar.

Nuestro Departamento de Servicios de Tecnología respondió de inmediato y aseguró las cuentas. Hasta este momento, nuestra investigación no ha encontrado evidencia de actividad más allá del envío de correos de phishing adicionales, y no hay evidencia de que se haya accedido a datos de estudiantes o del personal.

Si recibió un correo electrónico que parece incluir un enlace a un archivo de “Google Drive” o le pide descargar un archivo, no haga clic en el enlace ni descargue nada. Por favor, elimine el correo. Si hizo clic en un enlace o descargó un archivo, elimine cualquier archivo descargado y ejecute un análisis de seguridad en su dispositivo. Como buena práctica de seguridad, también recomendamos habilitar la autenticación de dos factores (2FA) en cuentas personales importantes.

¿Preguntas o inquietudes? Comuníquese con el Departamento de Servicios de Tecnología de las Escuelas del Condado de Pender 910-259-2187
about 1 month ago, Bob Fankboner
technology alert
High Tides & Good Vibes – Day 1 in the Books! 🌊 Day 1 of our CTE Professional Development at High Tides & Good Vibes was an incredible start! Today was filled with meaningful collaboration, new ideas, and powerful conversations about how we continue to strengthen learning experiences for our students across Pender County Schools. Our teachers leaned into sessions focused on literacy in CTE, building strong professional networks, and sharing strategies that help students grow and succeed. The energy in the room was amazing, and it was inspiring to see educators learning from one another and pushing each other to level up for our students. When passionate educators come together with a shared purpose, great things happen. We’re grateful for this amazing group of CTE teachers who continue to invest in their craft and in our students’ futures. Looking forward to Day 2 tomorrow as we keep the momentum going! 🚀 #PenderCTE #HighTidesGoodVibes #OnePender #CTEMonth #ClassroomsToCareers
about 1 month ago, Career and Technical Education Department
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🌟 Student Spotlight 🌟

Nikki is an 8th grader at Burgaw Middle School and is known around BMS for her positive attitude. She comes to school with a smile, and she has a way of making others feel noticed and included. Staff shared that Nikki brings a lot of joy to the school day and is someone many students and adults enjoy being around.

Outside of school, Nikki likes to watch TV 📺 and play video games 🎮 with her big brother. Her favorite foods are cauliflower 🥦 and spaghetti 🍝. Her favorite colors are pink, blue, and purple 💗💙💜. She has chickens 🐔 and a dog named Jacob 🐶.

One fun fact: Nikki was excited to share that she’s been to Chili’s 🌶️, and she got to go over the summer with Ms. Gingrich.

💗 Thank you, Nikki, for being a bright spot at Burgaw Middle School.
about 1 month ago, Bob Fankboner
student spotlight nikki
We went BANANAS! 🍌
Keep your eyes peeled 👀 for this Yogurt Banana Split popping up again soon in your cafeteria!
about 1 month ago, Aramark
Banana Split Parfait
Banana Split Parfait
Banana Split Parfait Preparation
🚍🏁 Roadeo day = skills, precision, and a whole lot of pride!
Today, Pender County Schools hosted the School Bus Roadeo at Heide Trask High School, with teams rolling in from Pender, Brunswick, and New Hanover counties.
Shoutout to our Pender County top 3 finishers:
🥇 Teresa Coston
🥈 Kevin Whaley
🥉 Arthur McIntyre
We’re cheering you on as you head to the District Roadeo on April 21 in Cumberland County! 💙💛
about 1 month ago, Bob Fankboner
2026 school bus roadeo
Teacher Tuesday: Ms. Brennon Register — South Topsail Elementary

Ms. Brennon Register teaches 2nd grade at STES and is in her second year of teaching. Families and staff share that she works hard to make sure students feel supported and able to succeed. She builds a classroom where students know what is expected, feel encouraged, and can grow both academically and socially.

Ms. Register is intentional with her instruction and uses student data to guide her planning. She looks closely at student progress, adjusts lessons as needed, and provides support through small groups and targeted practice. Families also appreciate her consistent communication and the way she keeps parents informed about learning and progress.

One example shared in her nomination described how she noticed several students struggling with a specific skill. She responded by changing her small-group instruction and creating activities to focus on that area. Over time, those students showed measurable growth and became more confident participating in class. She also took time to encourage them along the way and recognize their progress.

Ms. Register is also described as a team player who participates in meetings, collaborates with colleagues, and supports schoolwide efforts.

Thank you, Ms. Register, for your commitment to students and families at STES. 💛
about 1 month ago, Bob Fankboner
teacher tuesday brennon register