Kelly Peterson, an English teacher at Burgaw Middle School, has been named the Kenneth I. Lanier, Jr. Honored Educator Scholar for 2026–2027.
The scholarship, awarded through the Development Foundation of the North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching (NCCAT), Inc., honors the educational legacy of Kenneth I. Lanier, Jr., a Burgaw High School graduate and longtime public servant who served on the Pender County Board of Education for 20 years. During his service, Mr. Lanier helped lead several key projects that supported the growth of education in Pender County, including the opening of multiple schools.
Each year, the Kenneth I. Lanier, Jr. Honored Educator Scholarship provides a public school teacher from Pender County Schools the opportunity to attend an NCCAT seminar of their choice. The scholarship covers all costs associated with participation, including instruction, materials, food and lodging, travel, and substitute teacher expenses. In addition, the selected educator receives a $250 award to support classroom needs.
Dr. Breedlove congratulated Ms. Peterson on the honor, calling the recognition a testament to her dedication to students and commitment to excellence in education.
“Mr. Lanier’s legacy of service and leadership in Pender County makes this honor especially meaningful, and it is clear that your work at Burgaw Middle School reflects those same values,” Dr. Breedlove shared. “Your impact on students and your school community is truly appreciated.”
Ms. Peterson’s selection reflects the important work happening each day in classrooms across Pender County Schools. Through her commitment to students, literacy, and school community, she continues to make a meaningful difference at Burgaw Middle School.
