🌟 Feature Friday🌟
Today we celebrate Keelin Reyes, an EC Instructional Assistant at Cape Fear Elementary, who is recognized for her dedication, advocacy, and the positive impact she makes on students and staff alike. Keelin consistently goes above and beyond her role, serving as a strong advocate for EC students while also supporting all children in the classroom. Her calm presence not only helps students feel more regulated but also inspires admiration and trust from those she works with every day.
Keelin’s influence extends beyond her direct work with students. She takes the time to ensure her colleagues are supported, checking in with teachers and staff to keep everyone aligned on EC support and classroom needs. Her guidance and willingness to share knowledge create a collaborative, encouraging environment where both students and colleagues thrive.
💛💙 Thank you, Keelin, for your commitment, compassion, and for being such an important part of the Cape Fear Elementary community!
Today we celebrate Keelin Reyes, an EC Instructional Assistant at Cape Fear Elementary, who is recognized for her dedication, advocacy, and the positive impact she makes on students and staff alike. Keelin consistently goes above and beyond her role, serving as a strong advocate for EC students while also supporting all children in the classroom. Her calm presence not only helps students feel more regulated but also inspires admiration and trust from those she works with every day.
Keelin’s influence extends beyond her direct work with students. She takes the time to ensure her colleagues are supported, checking in with teachers and staff to keep everyone aligned on EC support and classroom needs. Her guidance and willingness to share knowledge create a collaborative, encouraging environment where both students and colleagues thrive.
💛💙 Thank you, Keelin, for your commitment, compassion, and for being such an important part of the Cape Fear Elementary community!
🌱 Hands-on learning in action at Topsail High School!
Our Sustainable Agriculture students have been busy collecting soil samples around campus to study soil health and quality. This real-world activity helps them understand how soil impacts plant growth, sustainability, and future food production. 🌍🌾
Way to go Pirates—gaining skills today that will make a difference tomorrow! 👏💚
#SustainableAg #HandsOnLearning #CTE #PiratePride
🌟 Student Spotlight 🌟
Meet Brayden, a student at Topsail High School, recognized for his outstanding leadership and community engagement. Brayden is an active Boy Scout who leads his troop with kindness and sets a strong example for younger members by welcoming new scouts and always lending a helping hand. His dedication to service extends beyond scouting—he is also a committed member of the Topsail High JROTC, where he models responsibility and integrity.
At school, Brayden’s influence shines through athletics and leadership. He competes on the varsity track team, contributes to the JROTC program, and is known for making new students feel welcome. His peers value his positivity, trustworthiness, and the way he uplifts those around him.
Outside the classroom, Brayden enjoys running, fishing, Boy Scouts, and traveling—he’s already been to 31 states and 5 countries!
🏴☠️ Congratulations, Brayden!
Meet Brayden, a student at Topsail High School, recognized for his outstanding leadership and community engagement. Brayden is an active Boy Scout who leads his troop with kindness and sets a strong example for younger members by welcoming new scouts and always lending a helping hand. His dedication to service extends beyond scouting—he is also a committed member of the Topsail High JROTC, where he models responsibility and integrity.
At school, Brayden’s influence shines through athletics and leadership. He competes on the varsity track team, contributes to the JROTC program, and is known for making new students feel welcome. His peers value his positivity, trustworthiness, and the way he uplifts those around him.
Outside the classroom, Brayden enjoys running, fishing, Boy Scouts, and traveling—he’s already been to 31 states and 5 countries!
🏴☠️ Congratulations, Brayden!
🚀 Exciting News from PCS CTE!
Yesterday we kicked off Ice House Introduction training and launched Shark Tank prep with the amazing support of PHS graduate, Aarienne Hansley! 🎉
Our students are learning what it takes to think like an entrepreneur, pitch innovative ideas, and prepare for real-world opportunities. 💡💼
We are so proud to see our graduates coming back to inspire the next generation of leaders and innovators. 🙌
#OnePender #CTEWorks #Entrepreneurship #SharkTankPrep #PHSproud
Because I stink 🦨at scheduling posts while on vacation, it's a "Two-fer" Teacher Tuesday because they each deserve a story to match their name. I'm Sorry!!!
🍎 Teacher Tuesday Spotlight 🍎
Meet Ms. Maggie Gregory, a Kindergarten teacher at Topsail Annandale Elementary School, who is being celebrated for her kindness, caring nature, and the way she goes above and beyond for her students. With 5 years of teaching experience, Ms. Gregory has already made a lasting impact on both her students and their families.
What stands out most about Ms. Gregory is her sweet and nurturing personality. She not only supports her current students but continues to show kindness to former students as well. One parent shared that when their child became very sick, Ms. Gregory had the entire class make get well cards that meant the world to their family.
Thank you, Ms. Gregory, for your caring heart, dedication, and the joy you bring into your classroom each day. Your students are lucky to learn and grow in such a loving environment! 💛💙
🍎 Teacher Tuesday Spotlight 🍎
Meet Ms. Roseanna Robertson, a dedicated Preschool teacher at Cape Fear Elementary School with over 20 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. What began as a job when she was just 17 quickly grew into a passion and a lifelong career in nurturing and inspiring young learners.
Ms. Robertson’s favorite subject to teach is math, because it’s concrete, hands-on, and can be woven into fun and meaningful activities that support children’s overall development. One of her most cherished teaching moments came when a concerned parent saw her child flourish in preschool.
Outside the classroom, Ms. Robertson enjoys supporting her children’s activities, attending community events, and even traveling across the country to do pageant hair and makeup. At home, she shares life with her pets: Blue the black lab, Honey the golden goldendoodle, Charlie the orange tabby cat, and Gabby the beta fish. Her favorite destination is the Cayman Islands, and her teaching philosophy is simple but powerful: build a nurturing, community-centered classroom that lays the foundation for lifelong learning.
💛💙 Thank you, Ms. Robertson, for your dedication, heart, and impact on our youngest learners at Cape Fear Elementary!
🍎 Teacher Tuesday Spotlight 🍎
Meet Ms. Maggie Gregory, a Kindergarten teacher at Topsail Annandale Elementary School, who is being celebrated for her kindness, caring nature, and the way she goes above and beyond for her students. With 5 years of teaching experience, Ms. Gregory has already made a lasting impact on both her students and their families.
What stands out most about Ms. Gregory is her sweet and nurturing personality. She not only supports her current students but continues to show kindness to former students as well. One parent shared that when their child became very sick, Ms. Gregory had the entire class make get well cards that meant the world to their family.
Thank you, Ms. Gregory, for your caring heart, dedication, and the joy you bring into your classroom each day. Your students are lucky to learn and grow in such a loving environment! 💛💙
🍎 Teacher Tuesday Spotlight 🍎
Meet Ms. Roseanna Robertson, a dedicated Preschool teacher at Cape Fear Elementary School with over 20 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. What began as a job when she was just 17 quickly grew into a passion and a lifelong career in nurturing and inspiring young learners.
Ms. Robertson’s favorite subject to teach is math, because it’s concrete, hands-on, and can be woven into fun and meaningful activities that support children’s overall development. One of her most cherished teaching moments came when a concerned parent saw her child flourish in preschool.
Outside the classroom, Ms. Robertson enjoys supporting her children’s activities, attending community events, and even traveling across the country to do pageant hair and makeup. At home, she shares life with her pets: Blue the black lab, Honey the golden goldendoodle, Charlie the orange tabby cat, and Gabby the beta fish. Her favorite destination is the Cayman Islands, and her teaching philosophy is simple but powerful: build a nurturing, community-centered classroom that lays the foundation for lifelong learning.
💛💙 Thank you, Ms. Robertson, for your dedication, heart, and impact on our youngest learners at Cape Fear Elementary!
🧼💙 Let’s work together to keep PCS classrooms healthy!
✅ Encourage handwashing and covering coughs/sneezes
✅ Keep your child home if they have a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea
✅ Follow return-to-school guidelines for contagious illnesses like strep, pink eye, or chickenpox
By following these steps, we can limit the spread of germs and keep students learning. For more information, contact your school nurse or visit the CDC’s Infection Prevention Guidance for Schools: https://www.cdc.gov/orr/school-preparedness/infection-prevention/index.html
✅ Encourage handwashing and covering coughs/sneezes
✅ Keep your child home if they have a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea
✅ Follow return-to-school guidelines for contagious illnesses like strep, pink eye, or chickenpox
By following these steps, we can limit the spread of germs and keep students learning. For more information, contact your school nurse or visit the CDC’s Infection Prevention Guidance for Schools: https://www.cdc.gov/orr/school-preparedness/infection-prevention/index.html
🎃🍂 Get lost in the fun this fall! Join us at Tate Farm by the Pond for our Family-Friendly Corn Maze & Fall Festival on Saturday, Sept. 20th, 11 AM–6 PM.
🌽 Corn Maze • 🎃 Pumpkins • 🌸 Mums
🐐 Petting Zoo • 🚜 Hay Rides • 🍪 Fresh-Baked Desserts
🔥 S’mores by the Fire & more!
✨ Admission: $10 (ages 3 & up) — includes all attractions.
❤️ A portion of proceeds supports Special Olympics Pender County.
📍 5514 NC Hwy 11, Willard, NC
🌽 Corn Maze • 🎃 Pumpkins • 🌸 Mums
🐐 Petting Zoo • 🚜 Hay Rides • 🍪 Fresh-Baked Desserts
🔥 S’mores by the Fire & more!
✨ Admission: $10 (ages 3 & up) — includes all attractions.
❤️ A portion of proceeds supports Special Olympics Pender County.
📍 5514 NC Hwy 11, Willard, NC
🌟Feature Friday🌟
Today we’re celebrating Tammy Grafius, who serves in Payroll/Substitutes at the Topsail High School front office. Tammy is known for her caring spirit and dedication to helping others. When a colleague reached out late one evening, worried about finding a sub while caring for a sick child, Tammy’s response said it all: “You worry about that little guy, and I’ll take care of work.” That kind of compassion is what makes her such a valued part of the THS family.
Tammy’s impact goes far beyond the front office. She is a familiar face at sporting events, theater productions, and school activities, showing her love and support for Topsail students long after they graduate. Her enthusiasm, reliability, and heart for people make her a role model and a true representative of the Topsail community.
Thank you, Tammy, for all that you do for the students, staff, and families of Pender County Schools. 💛💙
Today we’re celebrating Tammy Grafius, who serves in Payroll/Substitutes at the Topsail High School front office. Tammy is known for her caring spirit and dedication to helping others. When a colleague reached out late one evening, worried about finding a sub while caring for a sick child, Tammy’s response said it all: “You worry about that little guy, and I’ll take care of work.” That kind of compassion is what makes her such a valued part of the THS family.
Tammy’s impact goes far beyond the front office. She is a familiar face at sporting events, theater productions, and school activities, showing her love and support for Topsail students long after they graduate. Her enthusiasm, reliability, and heart for people make her a role model and a true representative of the Topsail community.
Thank you, Tammy, for all that you do for the students, staff, and families of Pender County Schools. 💛💙
Today we pause to remember September 11, 2001 — a day of honor, bravery, loss, and unity. Pender County Schools stands in remembrance of all who were impacted. We will never forget.
🎉 Shoutout to Mr. Monroe at Burgaw Middle School for making Career Exploration FUN with a competitive vocab Kahoot! 🏆 Students battled through some tough questions—like “What’s a Dosimetrist?” (We know it now! 🙌)
And the trick question of the day:
👉 Which career professional is most likely to be bitten?
• Pediatrician
• Veterinarian
• Childcare Worker
• ALL of the Above 👀
Congrats to the Top 3 winners who walked away with prizes! 🎁💡 Way to make learning exciting, Mr. Monroe!
#CareerExploration #Kahoot #BMSTakesTheLead
🌟 Student Spotlight 🌟
Meet Malachi, a 12th grader at Pender High School, who is being recognized for his academic excellence and positive influence on his school community. Known for his dedication to learning, Malachi consistently demonstrates curiosity, hard work, and a genuine love of knowledge. Whether it’s excelling in the classroom, collaborating on group projects, or taking initiative through independent study, Malachi sets a powerful example for his peers.
Beyond academics, Malachi is a leader who uplifts those around him. He mentors and encourages classmates, always offering supportive words and motivating others to strive for their best. His welcoming spirit—he “meets no strangers”—has made him a trusted friend and role model at PHS. His impact also extends into the community, where he enjoys assisting older adults through his church and neighborhood.
Outside of school, Malachi enjoys football, basketball, and working on cars. His favorite foods are Chinese and Mexican cuisine, his favorite color is green, and he’s a proud dog owner of a Yorkie Poo named Teddy. Fun fact: while Malachi is an introvert at heart, his kindness and encouragement shine through, inspiring everyone around him. 💚🐾
💛💙 Congratulations, Malachi—you are an outstanding example of Patriot pride!
Meet Malachi, a 12th grader at Pender High School, who is being recognized for his academic excellence and positive influence on his school community. Known for his dedication to learning, Malachi consistently demonstrates curiosity, hard work, and a genuine love of knowledge. Whether it’s excelling in the classroom, collaborating on group projects, or taking initiative through independent study, Malachi sets a powerful example for his peers.
Beyond academics, Malachi is a leader who uplifts those around him. He mentors and encourages classmates, always offering supportive words and motivating others to strive for their best. His welcoming spirit—he “meets no strangers”—has made him a trusted friend and role model at PHS. His impact also extends into the community, where he enjoys assisting older adults through his church and neighborhood.
Outside of school, Malachi enjoys football, basketball, and working on cars. His favorite foods are Chinese and Mexican cuisine, his favorite color is green, and he’s a proud dog owner of a Yorkie Poo named Teddy. Fun fact: while Malachi is an introvert at heart, his kindness and encouragement shine through, inspiring everyone around him. 💚🐾
💛💙 Congratulations, Malachi—you are an outstanding example of Patriot pride!
🎓Is your student considering a future at a U.S. Service Academy?
Mark your calendar for Saturday, September 20, 2025, as U.S. Senator Ted Budd hosts a Service Academy Day for North Carolina families.
This free event is a great opportunity for high school students and their parents to explore what it takes to attend one of the five prestigious U.S. military service academies. Representatives will be on hand to answer questions and share key information about eligibility, nominations, and the application process.
📍 Open to all high school students and families
Mark your calendar for Saturday, September 20, 2025, as U.S. Senator Ted Budd hosts a Service Academy Day for North Carolina families.
This free event is a great opportunity for high school students and their parents to explore what it takes to attend one of the five prestigious U.S. military service academies. Representatives will be on hand to answer questions and share key information about eligibility, nominations, and the application process.
📍 Open to all high school students and families
🌟Feature Friday🌟
This week, we’re shining a light on Mr. Bobby Simmons, Principal of Cape Fear Middle School! Now in his 5th year leading CFMS, Mr. Simmons has built more than just a school—he’s built a family. Under his leadership, the school has seen steady improvements in test scores, thanks to the strong relationships he fosters with his teachers and staff.
Known for creating a welcoming and supportive environment, Mr. Simmons leads with balance. He gives his staff the freedom to do their jobs while also holding high expectations. Beyond academics, he’s the type of leader who’s quick with a joke, fires up the grill to cook for his team, and steps in to support his staff in any way he can.
Mr. Simmons’ impact is felt daily at CFMS, where his leadership, positivity, and dedication continue to make a difference for both staff and students. Thank you, Mr. Simmons, for your commitment to the Cape Fear Middle School family and to Pender County Schools! 💙💛
This week, we’re shining a light on Mr. Bobby Simmons, Principal of Cape Fear Middle School! Now in his 5th year leading CFMS, Mr. Simmons has built more than just a school—he’s built a family. Under his leadership, the school has seen steady improvements in test scores, thanks to the strong relationships he fosters with his teachers and staff.
Known for creating a welcoming and supportive environment, Mr. Simmons leads with balance. He gives his staff the freedom to do their jobs while also holding high expectations. Beyond academics, he’s the type of leader who’s quick with a joke, fires up the grill to cook for his team, and steps in to support his staff in any way he can.
Mr. Simmons’ impact is felt daily at CFMS, where his leadership, positivity, and dedication continue to make a difference for both staff and students. Thank you, Mr. Simmons, for your commitment to the Cape Fear Middle School family and to Pender County Schools! 💙💛
👏From bus drivers and custodians to office staff and support specialists—every PCS employee makes a difference. Feature Friday is our chance to recognize them.
Nominate an outstanding PCS employee and help us say THANK YOU! 🎉 https://forms.gle/8RXYHnoJjvHq1aMk7
👏Desde choferes de autobús y personal de limpieza hasta el personal de oficina y especialistas de apoyo—cada empleado de PCS marca la diferencia. El Viernes de Estrellas es nuestra oportunidad de reconocerlos.
Nombra a un empleado destacado de PCS y ayúdanos a decir 🎉 https://forms.gle/8RXYHnoJjvHq1aMk7
Nominate an outstanding PCS employee and help us say THANK YOU! 🎉 https://forms.gle/8RXYHnoJjvHq1aMk7
👏Desde choferes de autobús y personal de limpieza hasta el personal de oficina y especialistas de apoyo—cada empleado de PCS marca la diferencia. El Viernes de Estrellas es nuestra oportunidad de reconocerlos.
Nombra a un empleado destacado de PCS y ayúdanos a decir 🎉 https://forms.gle/8RXYHnoJjvHq1aMk7
✨ Career Development in Action at Penderlea Middle School! ✨
Over the past two days, our PCS CTE Middle School Career Development Coordinator, Mrs. Simmons, teamed up with PLS counselor Ms. Thompson and media coordinator Ms. Hounshel to guide students through important steps in their career development journey. 🚀
📘 6th Grade – Skills Inventory
💡 7th Grade – Interest Inventory
🌟 8th Grade – Work Values
Students explored who they are, what they enjoy, and what they value most—all essential components in planning for future success. By taking it one grade at a time (half a grade each day), every student had the chance to reflect and build a strong foundation for their career pathway.
Penderlea students are already taking steps toward becoming Enrolled, Enlisted, or Employed after graduation! 🎓💼
#CareerReady #CTE #PenderleaPride #OnePender
🍎 It’s back—Teacher Tuesday!
Each week, we highlight the amazing educators who make PCS such a special place to learn and grow.
Do you know a teacher who goes above and beyond? Nominate them today! https://forms.gle/f4YpmMdkentnxEFM8
¡Está de regreso—Martes de Maestros!
Cada semana destacamos a los increíbles educadores que hacen de PCS un lugar tan especial para aprender y crecer.
¿Conoces a un maestro que siempre da más de lo esperado? ¡Nóminalo hoy! https://forms.gle/f4YpmMdkentnxEFM8
Each week, we highlight the amazing educators who make PCS such a special place to learn and grow.
Do you know a teacher who goes above and beyond? Nominate them today! https://forms.gle/f4YpmMdkentnxEFM8
¡Está de regreso—Martes de Maestros!
Cada semana destacamos a los increíbles educadores que hacen de PCS un lugar tan especial para aprender y crecer.
¿Conoces a un maestro que siempre da más de lo esperado? ¡Nóminalo hoy! https://forms.gle/f4YpmMdkentnxEFM8
💡 Who says students don’t learn real-life skills in school? Not at West Pender Middle School in Mr. Chung’s Business classroom! Today, students dove into the world of mortgages—a real-world financial skill that connects directly to their future. 🏡💰 What makes this lesson even better is how it ties into core subjects: 📊 Math – calculating interest rates, payments, and budgets ✍️ English – reading complex texts, writing responses, and practicing communication 🌍 Social Studies – understanding the economic systems and how money impacts communities and families Mr. Chung keeps students engaged with reading, writing, thinking, and speaking every day—building skills they’ll use for a lifetime. 🌟 #OnePender #RealLifeLearning #CTE #BusinessEducation
🌟 Student Spotlight 🌟
Meet Kyndall , a 9th grader at Heide Trask High School, who is already making her mark as a well-rounded student-athlete and leader. A former four-sport standout at Cape Fear Middle and recipient of the Scholar Athlete of the Year award, Kyndall now competes in volleyball and has her sights set on three sports during high school. Along with her athletic commitments, she is thriving in the rigorous CAP program, participates in Beta Club and FCA, completed the IHEAL program at UNCW, and plans to join HOSA this year.
Kyndall’s leadership and involvement shine throughout the Titan community. Through Beta Club, she models academic excellence and service, while in FCA, she uplifts her peers through encouragement and faith. Her experience in IHEAL demonstrates her commitment to growth and bringing new ideas back to her school. Known for her positivity and strong work ethic, she sets an inspiring example for fellow students by excelling both in the classroom and on the court.
When she’s not busy with school or sports, Kyndall enjoys playing the ukulele, reading, and spending time with her pets, Harley the dog and Cali the cat. Her favorite food is Taco Bell, her favorite color is blue, and here’s a fun fact, she’s a huge Hamilton fan who can recite many of the songs by heart! 🎶
💛💙 Way to go, Kyndall, you truly represent what it means to be a Titan role model!
Meet Kyndall , a 9th grader at Heide Trask High School, who is already making her mark as a well-rounded student-athlete and leader. A former four-sport standout at Cape Fear Middle and recipient of the Scholar Athlete of the Year award, Kyndall now competes in volleyball and has her sights set on three sports during high school. Along with her athletic commitments, she is thriving in the rigorous CAP program, participates in Beta Club and FCA, completed the IHEAL program at UNCW, and plans to join HOSA this year.
Kyndall’s leadership and involvement shine throughout the Titan community. Through Beta Club, she models academic excellence and service, while in FCA, she uplifts her peers through encouragement and faith. Her experience in IHEAL demonstrates her commitment to growth and bringing new ideas back to her school. Known for her positivity and strong work ethic, she sets an inspiring example for fellow students by excelling both in the classroom and on the court.
When she’s not busy with school or sports, Kyndall enjoys playing the ukulele, reading, and spending time with her pets, Harley the dog and Cali the cat. Her favorite food is Taco Bell, her favorite color is blue, and here’s a fun fact, she’s a huge Hamilton fan who can recite many of the songs by heart! 🎶
💛💙 Way to go, Kyndall, you truly represent what it means to be a Titan role model!
https://youtube.com/shorts/_h28GNYOVbw
🌟Meet Kensely Minor, the new STEM teacher at C.F. Pope Elementary! A proud graduate of the University of Maryland, Ms. Minor comes to Pender County Schools after more than 10 years in the corporate world, where she worked in human resources. She’s also a PCS parent, and after spending time as a substitute teacher last year, she discovered a passion for teaching that led her to the classroom full-time.
Her first week of school was full of energy, excitement, and hands-on learning. “The kids were really excited for the new specials program and STEM, so we had a great week,” Ms. Minor shared. Students jumped right into designing and building cars, and she’s already working on ways to tailor lessons for grades K-5. “They like the hands-on experience, and they’re very engaged in STEM,” she explained.
Looking ahead, Ms. Minor has big plans for her students. “I really want to get the kids into coding and robotics, even add some agriculture into STEM, so we have big plans,” she said. More than anything, she values the connections she’s already making. “Just getting to know the kids on a personal level—week one, I’ve already created some relationships, and that’s been great.” We are proud to welcome Ms. Minor to our PCS family! 💙💛
🌟Meet Kensely Minor, the new STEM teacher at C.F. Pope Elementary! A proud graduate of the University of Maryland, Ms. Minor comes to Pender County Schools after more than 10 years in the corporate world, where she worked in human resources. She’s also a PCS parent, and after spending time as a substitute teacher last year, she discovered a passion for teaching that led her to the classroom full-time.
Her first week of school was full of energy, excitement, and hands-on learning. “The kids were really excited for the new specials program and STEM, so we had a great week,” Ms. Minor shared. Students jumped right into designing and building cars, and she’s already working on ways to tailor lessons for grades K-5. “They like the hands-on experience, and they’re very engaged in STEM,” she explained.
Looking ahead, Ms. Minor has big plans for her students. “I really want to get the kids into coding and robotics, even add some agriculture into STEM, so we have big plans,” she said. More than anything, she values the connections she’s already making. “Just getting to know the kids on a personal level—week one, I’ve already created some relationships, and that’s been great.” We are proud to welcome Ms. Minor to our PCS family! 💙💛
