🌟 Feature Friday: Employee Spotlight 🌟
This week we’re recognizing Ms. Missy Daniel, TIMS Coordinator in the Transportation Department.
Missy has been a reliable support when it comes to working through difficult transportation situations, especially for students experiencing homelessness. Part of our work is making sure students can stay at their school of origin whenever possible, and Missy plays a big role in helping make that happen.
She consistently helps find workable solutions and makes sure routes are in place so students can get to school safely and on time. Just as important, she handles challenging situations with a calm, professional attitude and is always pleasant to work with.
💛💙 Thank you, Missy, for the steady support you provide and for helping take care of our students and families in a real and practical way.
This week we’re recognizing Ms. Missy Daniel, TIMS Coordinator in the Transportation Department.
Missy has been a reliable support when it comes to working through difficult transportation situations, especially for students experiencing homelessness. Part of our work is making sure students can stay at their school of origin whenever possible, and Missy plays a big role in helping make that happen.
She consistently helps find workable solutions and makes sure routes are in place so students can get to school safely and on time. Just as important, she handles challenging situations with a calm, professional attitude and is always pleasant to work with.
💛💙 Thank you, Missy, for the steady support you provide and for helping take care of our students and families in a real and practical way.
🌟 PCS CTE Teacher Highlight | Health Science
We are proud to celebrate our Health Science CTE teachers! 🩺💙
These teachers prepare students for careers in healthcare, medicine, and human services, while emphasizing compassion, professionalism, and lifelong learning.
👏 Thank you for shaping the next generation of caregivers and healthcare professionals who will make a difference in our communities.
#CTETeacherHighlight #HealthScience #FutureHealthcare #PCSCTE
We are proud to celebrate our Health Science CTE teachers! 🩺💙
These teachers prepare students for careers in healthcare, medicine, and human services, while emphasizing compassion, professionalism, and lifelong learning.
👏 Thank you for shaping the next generation of caregivers and healthcare professionals who will make a difference in our communities.
#CTETeacherHighlight #HealthScience #FutureHealthcare #PCSCTE
Yesterday marked the conclusion of this year’s SHED Competition, and what an incredible three days it has been! 🔨🏗️
Every student who participated should be extremely proud of their hard work, dedication, and craftsmanship. Beyond building sheds, students built connections — networking with contractors, learning from industry professionals, and even receiving job offers along the way!
Congratulations to our top teams:
🥇 Jacksonville High School – 1st Place
🥈 West Brunswick High School – 2nd Place
🥉 Croatan High School – 3rd Place
A huge thank you to today’s lunch sponsor, Cape Fear Seafood Company, for keeping everyone fueled for the final day!
It was exciting to see parents, students, teachers, CTE Directors, Board members, and Dr. Breedlove out on the field supporting all six schools that participated in this outstanding event. The energy and community pride were truly unmatched. 💙💛
Special thanks to Revel 42 Golf Carts for providing golf carts to help transport visitors around the grounds and over to see Be Pro Be Proud in action. Your support made a big difference!
We also extend our gratitude to Connect for Success NC for hosting another fantastic event and continuing to create meaningful workforce opportunities for our students.
📌 Mark your calendars now!
SHED: February 9–11, 2027
VOLT: February 10, 2027
Our underclassmen are already eager to spend the next year fine-tuning their skills to return stronger than ever!
There are still sheds available for purchase — $4,000 includes delivery and setup.
For more information, reach out to Mrs. Fargo at siobhan_fargo@pender.k12.nc.us.
Thank you to everyone who made this event such a success! 👏🔨⚡
Every student who participated should be extremely proud of their hard work, dedication, and craftsmanship. Beyond building sheds, students built connections — networking with contractors, learning from industry professionals, and even receiving job offers along the way!
Congratulations to our top teams:
🥇 Jacksonville High School – 1st Place
🥈 West Brunswick High School – 2nd Place
🥉 Croatan High School – 3rd Place
A huge thank you to today’s lunch sponsor, Cape Fear Seafood Company, for keeping everyone fueled for the final day!
It was exciting to see parents, students, teachers, CTE Directors, Board members, and Dr. Breedlove out on the field supporting all six schools that participated in this outstanding event. The energy and community pride were truly unmatched. 💙💛
Special thanks to Revel 42 Golf Carts for providing golf carts to help transport visitors around the grounds and over to see Be Pro Be Proud in action. Your support made a big difference!
We also extend our gratitude to Connect for Success NC for hosting another fantastic event and continuing to create meaningful workforce opportunities for our students.
📌 Mark your calendars now!
SHED: February 9–11, 2027
VOLT: February 10, 2027
Our underclassmen are already eager to spend the next year fine-tuning their skills to return stronger than ever!
There are still sheds available for purchase — $4,000 includes delivery and setup.
For more information, reach out to Mrs. Fargo at siobhan_fargo@pender.k12.nc.us.
Thank you to everyone who made this event such a success! 👏🔨⚡
🌟 PCS CTE Teacher Highlight | Agriculture
We’re proud to highlight our Agriculture CTE teachers! 🌱🚜
From plant and animal science to leadership through FFA, these educators teach students the importance of sustainability, responsibility, and hands-on learning. They connect classrooms to farms, food systems, and future careers.
👏 Thank you for growing knowledge, character, and opportunity—one student at a time.
#CTETeacherHighlight #AgEducation #FFA #PCSCTE
We’re proud to highlight our Agriculture CTE teachers! 🌱🚜
From plant and animal science to leadership through FFA, these educators teach students the importance of sustainability, responsibility, and hands-on learning. They connect classrooms to farms, food systems, and future careers.
👏 Thank you for growing knowledge, character, and opportunity—one student at a time.
#CTETeacherHighlight #AgEducation #FFA #PCSCTE
Just a reminder...
Pender Early College is hosting an information session TONIGHT for any students interested in transferring to PECHS. Parents may also find this extremely helpful. The online session begins at 6:00 PM
Google Meet joining info https://meet.google.com/qwv-sugj-bip
Black History in CTE Presents:
Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett – Health Science & Biotechnology
CTE Cluster: Health Science | STEM | Biotechnology
Black History in CTE Spotlight 🧬🩺
Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett is a leading immunologist who played a key role in developing the COVID-19 vaccine. Her work highlights the power of science, perseverance, and purpose.
📍 Local Connection:
PCS Health Science and STEM programs expose students to biotechnology, medical research, and healthcare careers, preparing them for high-demand fields across North Carolina.
🧠 CTE saves lives—today and tomorrow.
Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett – Health Science & Biotechnology
CTE Cluster: Health Science | STEM | Biotechnology
Black History in CTE Spotlight 🧬🩺
Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett is a leading immunologist who played a key role in developing the COVID-19 vaccine. Her work highlights the power of science, perseverance, and purpose.
📍 Local Connection:
PCS Health Science and STEM programs expose students to biotechnology, medical research, and healthcare careers, preparing them for high-demand fields across North Carolina.
🧠 CTE saves lives—today and tomorrow.
Topsail High School takes home a second-place win in our annual VOLT competition!
Tucker Smith and Korey McKinley, students in Mr. English’s carpentry class, proudly represented Topsail in this year’s event. They were teamed up with LJ Electrical Company and mentored after school and on weekends to prepare for the competition.
What makes this achievement even more impressive is that neither student has taken an electrical class. We are incredibly proud of their hard work, dedication, and willingness to step outside their comfort zones.
A huge shoutout to Mr. English for advocating for our future workforce in the trades and for bringing Connect For Success NC back for year two of VOLT and year three of SHED!
Congratulations to everyone involved on this outstanding accomplishment!
Tucker Smith and Korey McKinley, students in Mr. English’s carpentry class, proudly represented Topsail in this year’s event. They were teamed up with LJ Electrical Company and mentored after school and on weekends to prepare for the competition.
What makes this achievement even more impressive is that neither student has taken an electrical class. We are incredibly proud of their hard work, dedication, and willingness to step outside their comfort zones.
A huge shoutout to Mr. English for advocating for our future workforce in the trades and for bringing Connect For Success NC back for year two of VOLT and year three of SHED!
Congratulations to everyone involved on this outstanding accomplishment!
🌟 Student Spotlight 🌟
Melissa is a 5th grader at Rocky Point Elementary, nominated by her music teacher, Laura Black, for leadership, kindness, and artistic talent.
Melissa is a hard-working student in both her homeroom and specials classes. Last year, she served as a student leader in the Rocky Point PALS Club, where she helped staff and students during morning arrival. Teachers describe her as responsible and dependable, and she sets a positive example for younger students at school.
Melissa is also a dedicated musician. She joined the orchestra program in 2023 and has spent the past two years learning the violin 🎻. This year, she will take on a leadership role in orchestra by helping new students as they begin learning a string instrument.
Outside of school, Melissa enjoys drawing 🎨. Her favorite food is lasagna 🍽️, and her favorite color is aqua 💧. She has a dog named Jack 🐶 and also has fish 🐟. One interesting fact about Melissa is that she enjoys spending time with her friends and family.
💙 Thank you, Melissa, for being a kind leader and a great example at Rocky Point Elementary.
Melissa is a 5th grader at Rocky Point Elementary, nominated by her music teacher, Laura Black, for leadership, kindness, and artistic talent.
Melissa is a hard-working student in both her homeroom and specials classes. Last year, she served as a student leader in the Rocky Point PALS Club, where she helped staff and students during morning arrival. Teachers describe her as responsible and dependable, and she sets a positive example for younger students at school.
Melissa is also a dedicated musician. She joined the orchestra program in 2023 and has spent the past two years learning the violin 🎻. This year, she will take on a leadership role in orchestra by helping new students as they begin learning a string instrument.
Outside of school, Melissa enjoys drawing 🎨. Her favorite food is lasagna 🍽️, and her favorite color is aqua 💧. She has a dog named Jack 🐶 and also has fish 🐟. One interesting fact about Melissa is that she enjoys spending time with her friends and family.
💙 Thank you, Melissa, for being a kind leader and a great example at Rocky Point Elementary.
🌟 Where Are They Now? Wednesdays | 3E Spotlight: Employed 🌟
This CTE Month, we’re proud to highlight our 3E Pathway: Employed and celebrate PCS graduates who are putting their skills to work in meaningful careers.
🚒 Meet Nathan Simmons, a proud PCS graduate currently working as a firefighter. Nathan shared that what he enjoys most about his career is being able to use hands-on skills to help people, especially in moments when it matters most.
While in high school, Nathan completed both the Horticulture and Carpentry CTE pathways. Through hands-on projects, working with tools, and learning the importance of doing things the right way, he gained skills and confidence that directly prepared him for the workforce. These experiences helped him realize that a hands-on career was the right fit for him.
As Nathan explored career options, conversations with his grandfather—who served as a firefighter in Midwest City—sparked his interest in the field. Seeing how hands-on skills could be used to serve others ultimately led him to pursue a career in firefighting.
💬 Nathan’s advice to PCS students:
Don’t choose a career just to make others happy. Choose something you can truly see yourself enjoying.
He also shared an important lesson from his journey: whatever goal you set, make sure you’re giving it your full effort.
👏 We are proud to celebrate Nathan Simmons as a PCS CTE Employed success story and a powerful example of how CTE prepares students for real-world careers that make a difference.
#WhereAreTheyNowWednesday #PCSCTE #3EPathway #Employed #CTEMonth #CareerReady
This CTE Month, we’re proud to highlight our 3E Pathway: Employed and celebrate PCS graduates who are putting their skills to work in meaningful careers.
🚒 Meet Nathan Simmons, a proud PCS graduate currently working as a firefighter. Nathan shared that what he enjoys most about his career is being able to use hands-on skills to help people, especially in moments when it matters most.
While in high school, Nathan completed both the Horticulture and Carpentry CTE pathways. Through hands-on projects, working with tools, and learning the importance of doing things the right way, he gained skills and confidence that directly prepared him for the workforce. These experiences helped him realize that a hands-on career was the right fit for him.
As Nathan explored career options, conversations with his grandfather—who served as a firefighter in Midwest City—sparked his interest in the field. Seeing how hands-on skills could be used to serve others ultimately led him to pursue a career in firefighting.
💬 Nathan’s advice to PCS students:
Don’t choose a career just to make others happy. Choose something you can truly see yourself enjoying.
He also shared an important lesson from his journey: whatever goal you set, make sure you’re giving it your full effort.
👏 We are proud to celebrate Nathan Simmons as a PCS CTE Employed success story and a powerful example of how CTE prepares students for real-world careers that make a difference.
#WhereAreTheyNowWednesday #PCSCTE #3EPathway #Employed #CTEMonth #CareerReady
💙TEACHER TUESDAY📘
Ms. Jennifer Simmons is an EC teacher at North Topsail Elementary. One family shared how much of a difference she has made for their child both academically and personally. They said Ms. Simmons creates a space where their son can learn, grow, and also feel comfortable being himself.
Parents appreciate that she balances high expectations with kindness and patience. She encourages students to work through areas that are difficult, but she also notices their strengths outside of academics and takes time to build confidence in those areas too. Families say their child has shown growth in both academics and behavior because of the support and encouragement she provides.
What stands out most about Ms. Simmons is her genuine nature and the way she partners with families. A parent shared that during their child’s IEP meeting, Ms. Simmons spoke about their son in a way that really meant a lot to them. She shared personal strengths she had noticed, showing that she takes time to know students as individuals—not just as learners in the classroom.
Thank you, Ms. Simmons, for the care you show your students and for working closely with families at North Topsail Elementary. 💛
Ms. Jennifer Simmons is an EC teacher at North Topsail Elementary. One family shared how much of a difference she has made for their child both academically and personally. They said Ms. Simmons creates a space where their son can learn, grow, and also feel comfortable being himself.
Parents appreciate that she balances high expectations with kindness and patience. She encourages students to work through areas that are difficult, but she also notices their strengths outside of academics and takes time to build confidence in those areas too. Families say their child has shown growth in both academics and behavior because of the support and encouragement she provides.
What stands out most about Ms. Simmons is her genuine nature and the way she partners with families. A parent shared that during their child’s IEP meeting, Ms. Simmons spoke about their son in a way that really meant a lot to them. She shared personal strengths she had noticed, showing that she takes time to know students as individuals—not just as learners in the classroom.
Thank you, Ms. Simmons, for the care you show your students and for working closely with families at North Topsail Elementary. 💛
🎉 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
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
👮♂️💙 Happy National School Resource Officer Day! 🛡️🏫
Pender County Schools thanks our dedicated SROs who help keep our campuses safe, build strong relationships with students, and serve as trusted mentors and protectors. 🙌
Your presence, professionalism, and care mean so much to our school communities. Today—and every day—we appreciate all you do! 👏🚓
Pender County Schools thanks our dedicated SROs who help keep our campuses safe, build strong relationships with students, and serve as trusted mentors and protectors. 🙌
Your presence, professionalism, and care mean so much to our school communities. Today—and every day—we appreciate all you do! 👏🚓
🌟 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.
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.
🌟 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
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
.🌟 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
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
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.
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.
🌟 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.
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.
🌟 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
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
💙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. 💛
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. 💛
