This CTE Month, we’re proud to highlight our 3E Pathway: Enlisted and celebrate PCS graduates who are serving with purpose.
Meet Robert Simmons, a proud PCS graduate currently serving as a Combat Medic in the United States Army. Robert shared that he is committed to training and learning every day so that when the moment comes to act, he is ready to help others at their most critical time.
While in high school, Robert completed Marketing and Sports Marketing courses through CTE. These classes helped him see that there are many career options beyond the obvious paths and encouraged him to think broadly about his future.
Robert credits Coach Sid as an important mentor who helped build his confidence and consistently pushed him to believe in himself. That encouragement continues to guide him in his role today.
As a combat medic, Robert’s goal is clear: to be someone others can depend on in difficult moments—and to teach fellow soldiers how to do the same. He also shared an important lesson he carries with him daily: stay calm under pressure and focus on doing the next best thing when challenges arise.
💬 Robert’s advice to students:
Give your full effort to whatever you’re interested in. Don’t be afraid to try hard—because you’ll never reach your potential if you hold back.
👏 We are proud to recognize Robert Simmons as a PCS CTE Enlisted success story and thank him for his service, leadership, and commitment to helping others.
#WhereAreTheyNowWednesday #PCSCTE #3EPathway #Enlisted #CTEMonth #ServeWithPurpose

Mr. Kennard MacVaugh teaches K–5 STEM at North Topsail Elementary. Staff share that he has been a great fit in this role and has helped students stay curious, creative, and engaged in hands-on learning. His lessons give students a chance to build, test ideas, solve problems, and work through challenges using critical thinking skills.
Mr. MacVaugh also supports the school beyond his own classroom. He has led Science Olympiad for several years and works with grade levels to share science ideas and help connect STEM learning to what students are doing in other classes. Teachers appreciate having someone who can help strengthen science instruction across the school.
What stands out most about Mr. MacVaugh is how encouraging he is with both students and staff. He’s someone people go to when they need help fixing something, working through a problem, or just needing a quick word of support. He also makes time for students who need a break during the day, whether that’s a short walk and talk or a quick check-in.
One staff member shared that students often talk in PE about what they’re learning in STEM and how much they enjoy the class. During a lesson on force, rotation, and motion, students were able to connect the conversation back to what they had learned with Mr. MacVaugh. Another example is the way students seek him out each morning—one student makes it a point to greet him with a hug at car line every day.
Thank you, Mr. MacVaugh, for supporting students in so many ways at North Topsail Elementary. 💛

From February 17–19, Topsail High School will host the SHED and VOLT Competitions, hands-on Career and Technical Education events that challenge students to apply their classroom learning in real-world settings.
SHED teams work together to design and build a shed within a set timeframe, demonstrating skills in construction, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management.
VOLT teams compete in an electrical wiring challenge, showcasing technical knowledge, safety practices, and precision under pressure.
Our students will compete against five other teams from across the Southeast region, working alongside industry professionals and being evaluated on both skill and craftsmanship.
We invite our community to come out and support our students as they showcase their talents, connect with industry partners, and demonstrate what CTE is all about. Come cheer them on, ask questions, and see skilled trades education in action!





Pender County students and families are invited to a Career Connection Open House hosted by Fairway Ford, in partnership with Cape Fear Community College and Pender High School.
Come explore hands-on career opportunities, learn about the automotive technician pathway, and see how education connects directly to employment. You can read more here - https://www.pender.k12.nc.us/article/2693847

We’re excited to announce that Pender County Schools Job Shadow Day is happening on Friday, February 27, 2026, and we want YOU to sign up!
Job Shadow Day gives students the opportunity to visit a workplace and see what a professional’s day is really like—learning beyond the classroom and into the real world.
👣 Who Can Participate?
All 7th–12th grade students are invited to join.
📝 How to Get Started:
Talk with your family and choose a job to visit (family, friends, or local businesses are welcome!)
Pick up an application from a CTE teacher or school counselor, or download it online
Join the Job Shadow Day Google Classroom (Code: w337uydp)
📅 Application Deadline:
Submit your completed application with required signatures to your school counselor by 2/20/26.
🔍 Why Job Shadow Day Matters:
Helps students explore career interests
Connects classroom learning to real-world careers
Supports informed postsecondary decisions
Provides meaningful workforce exposure
🎉 Last year, more than 700 PCS students participated, and we’re excited to make Job Shadow Day 2026 even bigger and better!
✅ Students who participate will receive an excused educational opportunity absence.
✨ Don’t miss this chance to explore your future—sign up today!
#JobShadowDay #PCSCTE #CTEWorks #CareerExploration #FutureReady

Pender County Schools gives a heartfelt THANK YOU to the amazing bus drivers who safely transport our students to and from school each day. Your dedication, patience, and care make a huge difference in the lives of our children. 💚👦👧
From early mornings to late afternoons, you keep our wheels turning—and our students moving forward! 🛑👏

This week we’re recognizing Mrs. Susan Hunter, Treasurer at Burgaw Middle School.
Mrs. Hunter starts her day at the front desk, welcoming staff, substitutes, students, and families as they come into the building. She handles a long list of responsibilities with a steady attitude and is always ready to jump in when something needs attention.
In addition to her treasurer duties, Mrs. Hunter helps wherever she’s needed—covering the front office, assisting with nurse needs, helping with data questions, and supporting teachers throughout the day. She is patient, dependable, and makes time to answer questions or help problem-solve without hesitation.
Mrs. Hunter is kind and approachable, and she helps set a welcoming tone for the entire front office. People know they can come to her with concerns and leave feeling supported.
💛💙 Thank you, Mrs. Hunter, for all you do to support Burgaw Middle School and the people who walk through the front doors each day.

Today we celebrate our Middle School Business & Marketing CTE teachers! 💼📊
These educators help students build skills in entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, leadership, and professionalism—skills that matter in every career field. From creating business plans to developing real-world problem-solving skills, they prepare students to lead, innovate, and succeed.
👏 Thank you for teaching students how to think critically, communicate confidently, and turn ideas into action.
#CTETeacherHighlight #BusinessAndMarketing #CTEWorks #PCSCTE






Today we celebrate our High School Business & Marketing CTE teachers! 💼📊
These educators help students build skills in entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, leadership, and professionalism—skills that matter in every career field. From creating business plans to developing real-world problem-solving skills, they prepare students to lead, innovate, and succeed.
👏 Thank you for teaching students how to think critically, communicate confidently, and turn ideas into action.
#CTETeacherHighlight #BusinessAndMarketing #CTEWorks #PCSCTE







Mae Jemison
CTE Cluster: STEM | Health Science | Engineering
Black History in CTE Spotlight 🚀🩺
Dr. Mae Jemison is a physician, engineer, and the first Black woman to travel into space. Her career blends science, health, and innovation—showing students that they don’t have to choose just one passion.
📍 Local Connection:
PCS CTE STEM and Health Science pathways introduce students to careers in medicine, engineering, and science, helping them explore big dreams that start right here in our classrooms.
💡 CTE opens doors to careers that change the world.


🌟 Student Spotlight 🌟
Travis is an 8th grader at Cape Fear Middle School, recognized for his hard work and leadership.
Travis was nominated for being a student others can look up to. He is a football captain and plays baseball, and the nomination shared that he has a good reputation with both classmates and teachers. Travis understands that people pay attention to how he acts, and he makes an effort to include others, give good advice, and help his peers stay on track.
Outside of school, Travis enjoys football 🏈 and dirtbike riding 🏍️. His favorite food is steak 🥩, and his favorite color is black. He has pets named Gator, Glitter, Hunter, and Rowdy 🐾. One fun fact—Travis bought his first car when he was 9 years old 🚗.
🖤 Thank you, Travis, for the leadership you show at Cape Fear Middle School.

This CTE Month, we’re proud to highlight our 3E Pathway: Enrolled and celebrate PCS graduates who are continuing their education and chasing their purpose.
🎓 Meet Nora Simmons, a proud graduate of Topsail High School and a current student at University of North Carolina Wilmington, where she is majoring in Middle Grades Education. Nora is also gaining hands-on experience through an internship at Scotts Hill Baptist Church, working with middle and high school students.
While at Topsail, Nora participated in Foods I & II and a Project Management Internship through CTE. These experiences helped her discover the importance of finding work she enjoys and showed her how dedication and effort lead to meaningful opportunities.
Inspired by her teachers and motivated by her love for working with students, Nora is now preparing to give back as a future educator—pouring into the next generation just as others poured into her.
💬 Her advice to current students:
Don’t settle for less. Challenge yourself, work hard, and pursue what you want to accomplish.
👏 We are proud to celebrate Nora as a PCS CTE Enrolled success story and a shining example of where CTE can lead.
#WhereAreTheyNowWednesday #PCSCTE #3EPathway #Enrolled #CTEMonth #FutureEducator

Ms. Amanda Oberle teaches 5th grade ELA at Surf City Elementary. She creates a classroom where students feel comfortable reading aloud, sharing their thinking, and taking part in discussions. She also encourages students to take ownership of their work and treat each other with respect, which helps build a strong classroom community.
Visitors often notice how engaged students are during reading circles and small-group activities. Students work together, support one another, and stay focused on the lesson. The room is structured, but still allows students to feel confident and involved.
Ms. Oberle is also known for bringing a fun personality into the school day. One example staff shared is her tradition of wearing a different holiday outfit each day in December. It’s a small thing, but it brings smiles and helps students feel connected.
Thank you, Ms. Oberle, for the positive environment you create for students at Surf City Elementary. 💛

From February 17–19, Topsail High School will host the SHED and VOLT Competitions, hands-on Career and Technical Education events that challenge students to apply their classroom learning in real-world settings.
SHED teams work together to design and build a shed within a set timeframe, demonstrating skills in construction, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management.
VOLT teams compete in an electrical wiring challenge, showcasing technical knowledge, safety practices, and precision under pressure.
Our students will compete against five other teams from across the Southeast region, working alongside industry professionals and being evaluated on both skill and craftsmanship.
We invite our community to come out and support our students as they showcase their talents, connect with industry partners, and demonstrate what CTE is all about. Come cheer them on, ask questions, and see skilled trades education in action!







We’re excited to announce that Pender County Schools Job Shadow Day is happening on Friday, February 27, 2026, and we want YOU to sign up!
Job Shadow Day gives students the opportunity to visit a workplace and see what a professional’s day is really like—learning beyond the classroom and into the real world.
👣 Who Can Participate?
All 7th–12th grade students are invited to join.
📝 How to Get Started:
Talk with your family and choose a job to visit (family, friends, or local businesses are welcome!)
Pick up an application from a CTE teacher or school counselor, or download it online
Join the Job Shadow Day Google Classroom (Code: w337uydp)
📅 Application Deadline:
Submit your completed application with required signatures to your school counselor by 2/20/26.
🔍 Why Job Shadow Day Matters:
Helps students explore career interests
Connects classroom learning to real-world careers
Supports informed postsecondary decisions
Provides meaningful workforce exposure
🎉 Last year, more than 700 PCS students participated, and we’re excited to make Job Shadow Day 2026 even bigger and better!
✅ Students who participate will receive an excused educational opportunity absence.
✨ Don’t miss this chance to explore your future—sign up today!
#JobShadowDay #PCSCTE #CTEWorks #CareerExploration #FutureReady






Pender County Schools celebrates the dedicated school counselors who support our students' academic success, emotional well-being, and future planning every single day. 🙌💼 From listening ears to guiding hands—you make a lasting impact!
Thank you for helping our students dream big, grow strong, and stay on course. 🌟💬

Pender County Schools Kindergarten Registration for 2026-27 is now Open.
Apply Now!

Join us on March 11th from 4:30–7:00 p.m. at Heide Trask High School for a fun and informative evening for families with children ages 3–5!
🎠 This year’s theme is CARNIVAL, and we can’t wait to welcome you!
Come meet our PCS staff, connect with community partners, and enjoy:
🎈 Games & entertainment
🤝 Family resources
📚 Preschool & Kindergarten information
📝 Kindergarten Registration Support Available On-Site!
📌 Online registration opens February 2, 2026.
For more information, visit our website: https://www.pender.k12.nc.us/page/enroll
We look forward to helping your family get ready for a great school year! 🎉
🎪✨ Registro de Kindergarten y Noche Informativa de Preescolar ✨🎪
Acompáñenos el 11 de marzo de 4:30 a 7:00 p.m. en Heide Trask High School para una tarde divertida e informativa para familias con niños de 3 a 5 años.
🎠 El tema de este año es CARNAVAL, ¡y estamos emocionados de darles la bienvenida!
Venga a conocer a nuestro personal de PCS, conectarse con socios comunitarios y disfrutar de:
🎈 Juegos y entretenimiento
🤝 Recursos para las familias
📚 Información sobre preescolar y kindergarten
📝 ¡Habrá apoyo disponible en el lugar para el registro de Kindergarten!
📌 El registro en línea abre el 2 de febrero de 2026.
Para más información, visite nuestro sitio web:
https://www.pender.k12.nc.us/page/enroll
¡Esperamos ayudar a su familia a prepararse para un excelente año escolar! 🎉


