🌟 Feature Friday: Employee Spotlight 🌟

This week we’re recognizing Ms. Madison Catalano, EC Teacher (Grades 6–8) at Topsail Middle School.

As a new teacher, Ms. Catalano has already made a strong impression. She works hard to support her students and shows that she truly cares about their success. She plans engaging lessons, encourages students throughout the day, and brings a positive, steady attitude into the classroom.

Ms. Catalano is also a great coworker. She communicates well, includes others in the work, and is always willing to offer encouragement and support. Her approach helps create a team environment where people feel connected and supported.

💛💙 Thank you, Ms. Catalano, for the work you’re doing for students and for the positive impact you’re making at TMS.
17 days ago, Bob Fankboner
feature friday madison catalano
🌟 PCS CTE Teacher Highlight | Construction

Let’s give a big thank you to our Construction CTE teachers! 🛠️🏗️

Through hands-on projects and real-world skills, these educators teach building, design, safety, and craftsmanship—preparing students for high-demand careers in the skilled trades.

👏 Thank you for helping students build confidence, competence, and futures they can be proud of.

#CTETeacherHighlight #SkilledTrades #ConstructionCareers #PCSCTE
17 days ago, Career and Technical Education Department
cte
CTE
CTE
.🌟 PCS CTE Teacher Highlight | Public Safety

Today we recognize our Public Safety CTE teachers! 🚓🚒

These teachers prepare students for careers in law enforcement, firefighting, emergency management, and public service, emphasizing teamwork, discipline, and leadership.

👏 Thank you for instilling a sense of service and helping students learn what it means to protect and serve their communities.

#CTETeacherHighlight #PublicSafety #ServiceLeadership #PCSCTE
17 days ago, Career and Technical Education Department
cte
cte
cte
cte
CTE
Black History in CTE Presents
Michael Lomax (keep — strong leadership visuals)

CTE Cluster: Education & Training | Business Management | Leadership

Black History in CTE Spotlight 🎓
Dr. Michael Lomax, President and CEO of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), has spent his career expanding access to education, workforce readiness, and leadership opportunities for students nationwide.

📍 Local Connection:
PCS CTE programs focus on career readiness, leadership development, and postsecondary success, ensuring students are prepared for college, careers, and lifelong learning.

📘 CTE prepares students not just for jobs—but for leadership.
18 days ago, Career and Technical Education Department
CTE
CTE
🌟 Student Spotlight 🌟

Bethanny is an 11th grader at Pender High School, nominated by her mother for her academic success, dedication, and involvement in school activities.

Bethanny has been a straight A student since 7th grade. She has been a member of Beta Club for five years and was inducted into National Honor Society in 10th grade. She has also earned several recognitions, including awards at the National and State Beta Conventions and The Order of the Patriot, which is one of the highest honors given at Pender High School.

Outside of the classroom, Bethanny has been part of the winter and spring track teams since her freshman year and has competed at regionals twice. She also started her own small business in 2023 at age 14 called My Desires, making custom press-on nails and installing fairy hair.

Bethanny stays involved at school through volunteering whenever she has time. She helps with events, supports athletic meets, and takes time to assist with organizing and cleanup around campus. She was also elected Class Vice President in 2024.

Bethanny’s favorite food is chicken alfredo 🍝, and her favorite color is Carolina blue 💙. Her hobbies include tennis 🎾, shot put and discus 🥇, reading 📚, watching movies 🎬 (Star Wars, Marvel, Twilight, and Harry Potter), volunteering 🤝, baking 🍪, and doing nails 💅. She has three dogs—Thor, Jax, and Charlie Brown 🐾.

One fun fact: when Bethanny was about seven years old, she set up a table at her dad’s birthday party, sold her drawings for $1 each, and made $11 total (including one dollar she added herself) 🎨💵.

💙 Thank you, Bethanny, for the hard work and positive impact you bring to Pender High School.
19 days ago, Bob Fankboner
student spotlight bethany pender high
🌟 Where Are They Now? Wednesdays | 3E Spotlight: Enlisted 🌟

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
19 days ago, Career and Technical Education Department
CTE
💙TEACHER TUESDAY🔧

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. 💛
20 days ago, Bob Fankboner
teacher tuesday kennard mcvaugh
🔨⚡ SHED & VOLT Competitions are coming to Topsail High School! ⚡🔨

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!
20 days ago, Career and Technical Education Department
CTE
CTE
CTE
CTE
cte
Interested in automotive careers? 🔧🚗

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

21 days ago, Bob Fankboner
fairway ford career connection
🎉 Job Shadow Day is February 27 — Sign Up Now! 🎉

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
21 days ago, Career and Technical Education Department
CTE
🚌💛 It’s School Bus Driver Appreciation Week! 🙌🚦

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! 🛑👏
21 days ago, Bob Fankboner
2026 bus driver appreciation week
🌟 Feature Friday: Employee Spotlight 🌟

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.
24 days ago, Bob Fankboner
feature friday susan hunter
🌟 PCS CTE Teacher Highlight | Business & Marketing

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
24 days ago, Career and Technical Education Department
cte
cte
cte
cte
cte
cte
🌟 PCS CTE Teacher Highlight | Business & Marketing

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
24 days ago, Career and Technical Education Department
CTE
cte
cte
cte
cte
CTE
CTE
Black History in CTE:

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.
25 days ago, Career and Technical Education Department
CTE
CTE

🌟 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.

26 days ago, Bob Fankboner
student spotlight travis cape fear middle
🌟 Where Are They Now? Wednesdays | 3E Spotlight: Enrolled 🌟

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
26 days ago, Career and Technical Education Department
CTE
💙TEACHER TUESDAY📚

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. 💛
27 days ago, Bob Fankboner
teacher tuesday amanda oberle
🔨⚡ SHED & VOLT Competitions are coming to Topsail High School! ⚡🔨

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!
27 days ago, Career and Technical Education Department
CTE
CTE
CTE
CTE
CTE
Willard snow from the Yarborough's - thanks for sharing! #PCSsnow26
28 days ago, Bob Fankboner
PCSSnow26
PCSSnow26