📅Just eight days left in the shortest month of the year. On paper, February is quick. In real life, it sometimes feels like it likes to take the scenic route. Between winter weather, schedule changes, and a full calendar of activities, so far the month has certainly stayed busy across our schools, and there doesn't appear to be any slowdown. As we head into the final stretch of the month, there’s still plenty of great work happening in our classrooms and throughout the district. Thank you for staying flexible, focused, and supportive. We may be ready to turn the page to March, but there’s still a lot to celebrate before February wraps up. 💙💛
MAKING MEMORIES AT J.H. LEA SCHOOL
Pender County Schools marked a major milestone in the construction of the new J.H. Lea School with a traditional topping ceremony celebrating the placement of the final structural beam. Construction began following a groundbreaking on August 21, 2024, and the project continues moving forward through the partnership of Pender County Schools, Pender County government, Bordeaux Construction, and MBP (project management). As part of the ceremony, guests had the opportunity to sign the final beam before it was lifted into place. The new J.H. Lea School is scheduled for completion in August 2027 and will provide modern learning spaces designed to support students and serve the community for years to come. You can read more about the event HERE
WHERE IN THE W🌎RLD IS DR. BREEDLOVE?
Dr. Breedlove is taking PCS global! Through a special ECU grant opportunity, he will be traveling to Wales to visit schools and explore international education practices, and we’re inviting our students to be part of the journey. From February 23–27, 2026, PCS will launch 🌍 Where in the World is Dr. Breedlove? Students across the district have been asked to submit one thoughtful question for a chance to have it answered by Dr. Breedlove in a special video vlog recorded abroad. Selected responses will be shared with schools to air during morning news and announcements that week, giving students a unique window into schools around the world. Stay tuned!!
ROAD TO THE CHAMPIONSHIP: PCS March Reading Tournament 2026
Get ready to turn the page and tip off something exciting! PCS has launched the 📚🏀 Road to the Championship: PCS March Reading Tournament 2026 — a bracket-style showdown where schools compete by logging voluntary reading minutes. From February 15 through March 28, students and staff across the district, including Central Office, are invited to join the fun and help their school advance through each round:
- Round 1 (Feb. 15–28)
- Sweet Sixteen (March 1–7)
- Elite 8 (March 8–14)
- Final Four (March 15–21)
- Championship Week (March 22–28)
Minutes must be logged within each round’s official dates to count, and scores reset at the start of every new round. Schools advance based on average reading minutes per student and staff member, ensuring a fair competition regardless of size. The last school standing at the end of Champion Week will be crowned our 2026 Tournament Champion! The winning school will earn a student celebration and a staff appreciation event, with additional recognitions shared along the way. So grab a book, log your minutes, and cheer on your school. Every page counts! 📖✨ Let’s make this a fun, district-wide celebration of reading as we race toward the championship!
JOB SHADOW DAY SCHEDULED FOR FEBRUARY 27, 2026
Pender County Schools is excited to share details about our upcoming districtwide Job Shadow Day, scheduled for Friday, February 27, 2026. This initiative reflects our continued commitment to career exploration, workforce development, and meaningful real-world learning experiences for students. Last year, more than 700 students participated, and the district is looking forward to an even greater impact this year. On February 27, students in grades 7–12 will have the opportunity to spend the day shadowing a professional in a career field of interest, either in person or virtually, while earning an excused educational opportunity absence. Student Participation Requirements Students who wish to participate must:
- Secure a job shadow placement with a family member, family friend, or business contact (virtual options are available)
- Complete the Job Shadow Parent/Student Agreement
- Submit the completed agreement to the school counselor by Friday, February 20, 2026
- Join the Job Shadow Day Google Classroom (Code: w337uydp)
- Attend the experience and take a photo with the host/mentor
- Complete the post-experience Google Form in the Classroom and upload the photo for attendance verification
Interested in Hosting a Student? Business owners and community partners who would like to host a student for the day may participate by completing the Host Interest Form. Event Schedule
- Middle School: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM (full day optional)
- High School: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Pender County Schools appreciates the support of families, businesses, and community partners in making Job Shadow Day a meaningful experience for students as they explore future career pathways.
Pender County Schools Launches Parent ProTech Digital Safety Resource
Pender County Schools is excited to officially launch Parent ProTech, a free digital safety and technology resource for all PCS families. Parent ProTech offers an on-demand library of short, easy-to-understand videos and guides designed to help families navigate today’s digital world together. Topics include:
- Online safety and digital citizenship
- Social media, gaming, and streaming platforms
- Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies
- Healthy screen time habits and device use
The platform also includes conversation starters to support meaningful discussions between parents and children about the technology they use every day. Click HERE to read more about how to get started.
THS EARNS SECOND PLACE IN REGIONAL VOLT COMPETITION
From February 17–19, Topsail High School hosted the SHED and VOLT Competitions, hands-on Career and Technical Education (CTE) events that challenge students to apply classroom learning in real-world, high-skill environments. Topsail High School earned second place in this year’s annual VOLT Competition, competing against five other teams from across the Southeast region. The event tests students’ technical knowledge, safety practices, precision, and ability to perform under pressure in a timed, industry-modeled electrical wiring challenge. Students work alongside industry professionals and are evaluated not only on the functionality of their work, but also on craftsmanship and adherence to safety standards. You can read more about the event HERE.
THAT'S A WRAP!
The 2026 SHED Competition has wrapped up, and what a great three days it was! 🔨🏗️ Students from six schools rolled up their sleeves and put their skills to work, building not only quality sheds but also valuable connections with contractors and industry professionals. A few students even walked away with job offers, a clear reminder that hands-on learning can open real doors. Congratulations to Jacksonville High School for earning first place, followed by West Brunswick High School in second and Croatan High School in third. It was encouraging to see families, teachers, CTE leaders, Board members, and Dr. Breedlove out supporting students throughout the event. Thank you to Revel 42 Golf Carts for helping transport visitors around the grounds and to Connect for Success NC for once again hosting an event that creates meaningful workforce opportunities. Our underclassmen are already talking about next year’s competition. If you’re interested in purchasing one of the student-built sheds, several are still available for $4,000, including delivery and setup. Contact Mrs. Fargo at siobhan_fargo@pender.k12.nc.us for more information. 💙💛
CELEBRATING OUR EDUCATORS: BT, MENTOR, AND PILLAR OF PRACTICE HONOREES
Pender County Schools is proud to recognize three outstanding educators who continue to make a difference in the lives of students and staff. Heide Trask High School’s Beginning Teacher of the Month, Fabianna Seri, brings a unique perspective shaped by her experience as a first-generation American and her journey from ESL tutor to full-time teacher. Inspired by her parents’ belief in education and supported by her family, she is currently completing her ESL certification through UNCC. Mrs. Seri is passionate about helping students build confidence in academic English while understanding the cultural richness of their community. Her goal is simple but powerful: to ensure students feel confident, capable, and proud of their place in a country full of opportunity.
At Penderlea, Mentor of the Month Christopher Black leads with heart and purpose. A first-generation college graduate, Mr. Black is committed to supporting beginning teachers with patience and understanding, often reflecting on his own first year in the classroom to guide others. Alongside his work as an educator, he and his wife serve as foster parents and are raising their young son, Augustus. Meanwhile, Rocky Point Elementary's Krystal Long was recognized as the Pillar of Practice for Advocacy. Inspired by her son’s autism diagnosis, Mrs. Long became a teacher to ensure every child has a voice and feels safe and supported at school. Together, these educators represent the compassion, resilience, and dedication that define Pender County Schools. 💙💛
ROCKY POINT RAMS FIND THEIR RHYTHM
Step inside the music room and you’ll quickly discover that our Rams learning here is anything but ordinary. Rather than simply sitting and singing, students actively engage with music through movement, creativity, and hands-on exploration. The classroom is filled with energy as students dance, play instruments, and experience music in ways that make learning both meaningful and fun. With a wide variety of instruments available, every visit becomes an opportunity for students to discover new sounds, develop skills, and express themselves. Read more about this story HERE
FAIRWAY FORD, PCS, AND CFCC PARTNER TO CONNECT STUDENTS WITH AUTOMOTIVE CAREERS
Pender County Schools is continuing to strengthen career pathways for students through a new partnership opportunity with Fairway Ford and Cape Fear Community College. Fairway Ford will host a Career Connection Open House on Tuesday, February 25, 2026, from 5:30–7:30 p.m. at its Burgaw dealership, located at 444 U.S. Highway 117 North. The February 25th open house will include a guided tour of the dealership, opportunities to meet staff, and hands-on career exploration for students interested in the automotive industry. Rising and current juniors and seniors who are considering enrollment in the Automotive Technician Program at Pender High School are especially encouraged to attend. You can RSVP and read more HERE
🍎SCHOOL LUNCH MENUS🍕
You can find school lunch menus for each grade level by following THIS LINK
WEEKLY ATHLETICS SCHEDULE
From Surf City Middle - It's SRO Day! Thanks so much to Officer Wyke for all he does for our school! He's the BEST!
AND...On Thursday Feb 12, SCMC took part in "No One Eats Alone Day" at lunch to build new connections and raise awareness to combat social isolation. Students participated in a "Connect the Dots" mural in which they identified their unique characteristics and interests while comparing how similar they are to their classmates.
From Cape Fear Middle - Grizzlies Unleash Their Competitive Spirit! Today in gym class, Cape Fear Middle School students played a riveting game of capture the flag! Our Grizzlies used strategy and cunning to outmaneuver their opponents, showing incredible teamwork and sportsmanship along the way. From lightning-fast sprints to clever defensive plays, our students proved that physical education is about more than just exercise—it's about building leadership skills, communication, and the ability to think on your feet. The gym was filled with cheers, laughter, and that unbeatable energy that makes middle school PE unforgettable! Way to go, Grizzlies! Keep bringing that competitive spirit and teamwork to everything you do!
AND...CFCC North Campus hosted our 7th grade STEM students today. Not only did they get to explore the campus, the Mechatronics Dept and Engineering Dept spent some time with our students giving them some exposure to potential careers!
From Penderlea School - Did someone say snow day fun? Today our 21st Century After School program played “Snow In It To Win It” — and the students had an absolute blast! From teamwork to friendly competition, the room was full of laughter and high fives.
From Malpass Corner Elementary - Feeling the MCE Pride! I received a special treat from Mr. Hales, and it absolutely made my day! This new MCE sign is lighting up my office and has me feeling energized and excited for Monday. There’s nothing better than starting the week with school pride shining bright. We are ready to work hard, make the day magical, and create amazing moments for our Eagles!
From Rocky Point Elementary - Our can pop tab challenge is continuing! Thank you to our wonderful students for bringing in their tabs! Please consider saving pop tabs and sending them in with your child as a part of a community service project in which our school is collecting pop tabs from cans for the remainder of the school year to donate to the Ronald McDonald House. Collecting can pop tabs supports the operating costs of providing a home away from home for families with sick children. Please begin collecting and sending in tabs from soda, food and pet food cans! Let’s work together to collect as many pop tabs as possible!
From West Pender Middle - Test prep, turned into a game! Ms. Christoff’s 6th grade Social Studies students rocked a football frenzy review to get ready for their upcoming test — teamwork, buzzer excitement, and lots of smiles!
From Pender Early College High - Pictures from the PECHS Winter Formal. Special thanks to our PECHS PTA!
From Cape Fear Elementary - Mrs Robertson's class is continuing their study on insects. This included following step by step directions on how to paint a bee, constructing bee boxes, identifying the characteristics of an insect, number line math with jumping, write the room, life cycles, and much more.
AND...Our 5th graders headed out to cheer on the Fayetteville Marksmen! This field trip brings our science standards to life as students see force and motion, momentum, and friction in action on the ice. Learning + hockey = a winning combination!
From Pender High - The PHS Medical Assisting class had an incredible opportunity this week as they visited Cape Fear Community College to explore careers in the medical field. Students toured the wide range of healthcare programs offered at CFCC and gained valuable insight into the many pathways available to them after graduation. One of the highlights of the visit was hands-on experience in stenography, where students were able to see firsthand how specialized skills play a vital role in the medical profession.
From Topsail High - What an incredible first day of the SHED Competition at Topsail High! We have two days left, so come out and see the competition in action as our students continue building and competing against schools from across the Southeast! Tomorrow, our VOLT Competition kicks off where students will test their skills by wiring an electrical panel — showcasing precision, safety, and technical expertise. A HUGE thank you to our lunch sponsor, Fish and Loaves, who not only fed all of our competitors, contractors, and event personnel, but also treated the Topsail High staff today. We are so grateful for your support! We currently have 5 sheds still available for purchase. Cost: $4,000 (includes delivery and setup)
From South Topsail Elementary - Meteorologist Mr. Ian Boatman came to speak to 1st grade students today about weather and how to prepare when weather can become powerful. This was a great connection to our Wit and Wisdom and science curriculum! Thank you Mr. Boatman!
From North Topsail Elementary - Wishing the best of luck to our Science Olympiad team as they compete at Heide Trask High School on Saturday! Your dedication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills are real-world strengths that will serve you well beyond the competition. We are so proud of our students and thankful for our staff that is supporting them!!
From Topsail Middle - Proud moment for our school community: two members have published books and copies are now available in the school library. Mr. Collins, our CTE teacher, authored Magic of Fren, and 8th grader Sam Bartholomew published Legend Keeper: Legend of the Demon Brute. Both titles are available on Amazon — and we also encourage staff and students to borrow our library copies. Celebrating and supporting authors at every stage fosters a strong culture of literacy and creativity.
Topsail High School Band is hosting our 7th Annual Mattress Fundraiser on Saturday, March 21st, from 10am-4pm. Please invite family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, and anyone else you can think of. We need your help to find just one person who is already planning on buying a mattress and get them to come to the event. Not only will they get a great deal, but they’ll also sleep better knowing their purchase supports the Band. Watch this video! More information can be found here: FB EVENT LINK
Pender-Topsail Post - Front Page
Port City Daily - Pender schools to look at policies following booster club arrest
WWAY - Pender County Board of Education clarifies role of parent organizations
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