CELEBRATING A STRONG SPRING ACROSS PCS 🌷📚
There is a lot to celebrate across Pender County Schools as we move into April. This week’s newsletter highlights the strong work happening in our schools each day, from student accomplishments and school events to the educators and staff members who continue to make a difference across the district. It has been a full and encouraging week across PCS, and we are proud to share these moments with our families and community. Thank you for the continued support you show our schools, students, and staff. 💙 As you look through this week’s stories, we hope you enjoy seeing the many ways our school communities continue to grow, learn, and celebrate together. Before we get to those highlights, here is an important reminder about tomorrow’s Good Friday holiday and next week’s spring break schedule.
CELEBRATING GROWTH, GUIDANCE, AND LEADERSHIP
Pender County Schools is proud to recognize three outstanding educators for the difference they are making in their schools and classrooms. At South Topsail Elementary, Beginning Teacher of the Month Brice Williams brings a lifelong passion for teaching to kindergarten each day. Inspired by her mother, a fifth grade teacher, Brice knew from a young age that education was the path for her. That calling was also shaped by helping her sister with Down syndrome grow in both school and life skills, an experience that strengthened her commitment to helping others. Now in her third year of teaching, Brice is grateful to support young learners as they grow in so many ways.
At Topsail High School, Mentor of the Month Caitlyn Bachman continues to lead through both teaching and service. A longtime visual arts educator, National Board Certified Teacher, and active mentor, Caitlyn has spent years supporting beginning teachers, student interns, and National Board candidates while also contributing at the state level through standards work and leadership in art education. Her experience and steady guidance continue to make an impact at THS and beyond.
We also celebrate Trailblazer of the Month Collin Chicoine, whose path from New Hampshire to North Carolina has included teaching science, technical education, and now fourth grade. Collin says one of the biggest lessons he has learned is the importance of being open to feedback and willing to adjust when plans do not work, recognizing that each student learns in different ways. Together, these three educators reflect the strong support, leadership, and care found across PCS. 🍎📚👏
PCS CAREER FAIR SUPPORTS RECRUITMENT AND FUTURE EDUCATOR PATHWAYS
Pender County Schools recently held a successful Career Fair, bringing together school-based teams, Central Office staff, and community partners to help connect with future teachers and support staff for the upcoming school year. Events like this help strengthen Pathways to Education Partnerships and support IA to Teacher Pathways, while also giving prospective candidates a chance to learn more about working in PCS. The newsletter’s recent entries use a straightforward, community-focused style that highlights school efforts, partnerships, and district support in much the same way.
A special thank you goes to our higher education partners at UNCW, CFCC, UNCP, and ECU, along with Brown Dog Coffee, TITAN Concession Stand, JROTC students, Heide Trask High School, the PCS Maintenance Department, and the many PCS departments that hosted tables and welcomed attendees. It was a true team effort and a great example of the collaboration that helps move our district forward. The event also received outside attention, with the newsletter noting coverage from WECT and the Pender-Topsail Post.
PENDER COUNTY SCHOOLS HOLDS THIRD ANNUAL AGRICULTURE DAY
Pender County Schools held its third annual Agriculture Day at Penderlea Farms, giving nearly 900 fifth-grade students from across the district a chance to learn more about agriculture through hands-on activities and demonstrations. The event included every PCS fifth grader and brought together staff, students, and community partners to help students better understand how agriculture connects to daily life and to the local community. Agriculture Day was led and coordinated by Deanna Taylor, Pender County Schools’ Special Populations Coordinator. Student leaders and teacher advisors from all three high schools were part of the day, with representation from FFA, HOSA, and FCCLA. Their involvement helped support activities and gave younger students a chance to interact with older students involved in school organizations and career-focused programs. Read more about this years event HERE
TAES STEM DAY TAKES OFF WITH COMMUNITY SUPPORT 🚀⭐
Topsail Annandale Elementary’s STEM Day continues to be a favorite event of the year for students, and this year’s Outer Space theme gave them plenty to be excited about. 🪐✨ Held during the school day so every student could take part, the event gave classes across the school a chance to explore STEM in ways that were hands-on, engaging, and accessible for all. Orchestrated by Ms. Michelle Lee, STEM Day was built around space exploration and included a full rotation of activities for students at every grade level. More than 100 parent volunteers helped this year, working alongside school staff to lead stations and support the day’s activities. One of the highlights for students was getting to see their parents step into the role of “teacher,” which made the experience even more meaningful. 💙 Students also had the chance to take part in special mobile learning experiences throughout the day. Fourth graders visited a space-themed mobile museum from the NC Children’s Museum. Kindergarten and third grade students explored a mobile planetarium with Sturgeon City Environmental Education Center. First and second grade students joined Science Alliance for an interactive Astronomy Adventures program focused on constellations. 🌎🔭 Held the same day as the Artemis II rocket launch, the event was a fitting way to build even more excitement around STEM, discovery, and future possibilities. It also showed what can happen when a school community comes together to create something special for students. A special thank you to the NC Children’s Museum, Sturgeon City Environmental Education Center, Science Alliance, the TAES PTA, and the many parent volunteers and staff members who helped make STEM Day possible. 👩🚀📚
PECHS Student Earns Spot in Highly Selective Medical Program
Pender Early College High School (PECHS) is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievement of student Erica Harvey, who has been accepted into Cape Fear Community College’s (CFCC) Medical Laboratory Technology program. This selective program admits only 14 students each year, making Erica’s acceptance a remarkable accomplishment. Her hard work, dedication, and commitment to academic excellence have truly paid off, and she represents the very best of the PECHS community. You can read more about Erica's story HERE
Booked, Busy, and Victorious: Pope Takes the Title!
C.F. Pope Elementary School has done it! After weeks of dedication, excitement, and community support, our students and staff have triumphed in the PCS March Reading Challenge Tournament, claiming the championship title. This victory wasn’t just about reading—it was about proving that our students and staff are beyond capable of accountability. Every member of our school community went above and beyond, demonstrating grace, integrity, and determination at every turn. Read more about their accomplishment HERE
Volunteers Needed for BMS End-of-Grade Testing
Volunteers will serve as proctors to help ensure a smooth and successful testing environment. If you are interested, please contact Assistant Principal Ms. Shanika Murphy at shanika_murphy@pender.k12.nc.us for more information. Please note that all volunteers must complete a background check and proctor training prior to testing. Your time and support make a difference—we appreciate your help!
Blood Drive Success!
This past Wednesday, Pender High hosted our annual blood drive with the American Red Cross and it was a total success! The goal for the drive was to receive a total of 32 pints, but our ROTC program gathered 56 entire pints of blood; did you know that’s enough to save almost 18 lives? Thank you to all of the kind donors who literally gave a piece of themselves to support. You are so incredibly appreciated. Also, with our ROTC program reaching its goal, we are proud and hopeful that a Pender High School student will be selected for an American Red Cross scholarship as well!
2026 GRADUATION SCHEDULE
Pender County Public Schools is proud to honor our graduating seniors. Find all the details you need for commencement ceremonies, including dates, times, and locations for each high school.
🍎SCHOOL LUNCH MENUS🍕
You can find school lunch menus for each grade level by following THIS LINK
WEEKLY ATHLETICS SCHEDULE
PIRATES CELEBRATE BIG SEASON WITH NC COURAGE VISIT ⚽🏴☠️
The Topsail Middle School Lady Pirates recently had the chance to attend an NC Courage professional soccer game in the Triangle, giving them a chance to see where the game can lead when you are a strong teammate, a hard worker, and a good person on and off the pitch. ⚽💙 During the trip, the team learned more about player development, community outreach, and the importance of setting a good example for others. It was also a well-earned way to celebrate an outstanding season. The Lady Pirates finished undefeated and did not allow a single goal all season long. 🏆👏 What a great way to represent TMS. Go Pirates!!! 🏴☠️
From C.F. Pope Elementary - 📚💙 School Librarian Appreciation 💙📚 Today we proudly celebrate our amazing Media Coordinator, Mrs. Borders! 🐾✨ Mrs. Borders is the heart of our media center—creating a space where imagination grows, curiosity is sparked, and a love for reading comes to life. From helping students discover their next favorite book to supporting teachers and fostering a culture of literacy across our school, her impact is felt in every corner of our building. Thank you, Mrs. Borders, for your dedication, creativity, and the care you pour into our students each and every day. You truly help our Panthers learn, explore, and dream big! 💙📖
From Rocky Point Elementary - Today we celebrated our March Golden Ram Awards. This celebrates lur staff members who go about and beyond for our students every single day! These teachers consistently show up with heart, high expectations, and a whole lot of love for our kids. Help us give them a BIG congratulations. Leadership: Ms. Peters Curriculum: Ms. Bartlett Creativity: Ms. Marino Child Advocate: Ms. Bishop
From Penderlea School - 🐝💡 Learning in Action: Leader in Me at Its Best! 💡🐝 Today, several of our Penderlea staff members visited Porters Neck Elementary School to experience their Leadership Day—and it did not disappoint! From the moment they walked in, it was clear: students were leading. Students served as tour guides, shared their goals, and demonstrated real ownership of their learning. This experience reinforced what we believe—when we build leadership in students, we are developing confident learners who take ownership and lead their own growth. As we continue our journey toward becoming a Leader in Me school, we are excited about what’s ahead for Penderlea. Penderlea is Building Leaders.
From Malpass Corner Elementary - Our Kindergarten Eagles are leveling up their math skills! 🦅✨ Today, our young learners explored teen numbers by practicing how to count on from ten and identify the extra ones. They worked hard to understand that teen numbers are made up of a group of ten and some more ones—what a big concept for little minds! We are so proud of the growth and excitement happening in our classrooms. Keep soaring, Kindergarten! 💙📚
From Surf City Elementary - Wearing blue in support of World Autism Awareness Day. 💙
AND...💜One way for us to celebrate the challenges and triumphs of our military-connected children.
From Cape Fear Elementary - 🎉Congratulations to our March Staff Member of the Month, ✨Mrs. Huckaby! 🎨 Mrs. Huckaby inspires countless students through her passion for art and love of learning. Her creativity leaves a lasting impact on our students, staff, and the entire community. Her dedication and hard work do not go unnoticed—we are so grateful for everything you do at CFE! Thank you, Mrs. Huckaby, for making a difference every day!💙🐻
AND...Kindergarteners in Mrs Rogers’ and Mrs. Marx’s classes recently created drawings of what makes them happiest! Those special creations were then brought to life by our talented fifth grade Sewing Buddies students, who spent the past three months carefully stitching each one into a one-of-a-kind stuffed animal. Today, we celebrated their hard work with a fun-filled gathering complete with music, popsicles, chalk, and time to just enjoy being together. The excitement was contagious—kindergartners were thrilled to see their drawings turned into 3D treasures, and the fifth graders were incredibly proud to share what they created. It was such a meaningful moment of creativity, collaboration, and community across grade levels!
From Pender Early College - Shout out to the Pender County Schools Teen Court Team over the weekend! at the Teen Court Summit. Aiden won Best Defendant and was able to take home a trophy, and Alana won Summit Spirit after being nominated by other counties based on her good sportsmanship.
AND...Our county ROCAME team brought home the trophy for the third year in a row! With students from West Pender Middle, Penderlea, Topsail High, and PECHS, it was truly a student-led county partnership. Our PCS team represented us with leadership, sportsmanship, and team spirit. Congrats to our winners and thank you to ROCAME for putting on this event!
From North Topsail Elementary - Our 4th and 5th graders had an incredible hands-on learning experience with Ms. Kimberly from Marine CSI! 🐢🌊 Students explored how scientists identify different species by using dichotomous keys and field guides, just like real marine biologists. Through these activities, they learned to observe key characteristics, such as shell shape, size, and patterns, to identify different types of sea turtles accurately. Who knew science could feel like solving a mystery? 🔍🐢
From Topsail Annandale Elementary - Our kindergarteners had an amazing time exploring and learning at the Children’s Museum! 🚌✨ From hands-on exhibits to imaginative play, our little learners were fully engaged while building creativity, curiosity, and problem-solving skills. It was a day full of discovery, laughter, and unforgettable memories. We love seeing learning come to life beyond the classroom! 💙
AND...Ready for a techy dose of cuteness and curiosity? 🤖💙 Students in every grade practiced hands-on coding with Blue-Bot in class. 10 bots were funded by a Bright Ideas Grant from JOEMC and 4 more were donated by our amazing TAES PTA. Our students are coding, collaborating, and having fun with Blue-Bot! They’ll be out in action at STEM Day on Wednesday, April 1! ✨
From Surf City Middle - Seventh graders at Surf City Middle School are discovering more about themselves and their futures using NCcareers.org. Through interactive tools, students are identifying their interests and connecting them to potential careers, high school electives, and future opportunities. This important step in the NC Career Development Plan helps students begin thinking about their goals and the pathways to achieve them. A big thank you to SCMS counselor Ms. Smith and seventh-grade social studies teachers Ms. Donahue, Mr. Scott, and Mr. Hinman for helping facilitate this experience. Be sure to ask your student about their interests—you might be surprised by what they discover! ✨
AND...🐣🎨 Congratulations to the winners of Surf City Middle School’s Annual Egg Decorating Contest! 🎨🐣 Our students did an egg-cellent job showing off their creativity in this year’s contest! Students were challenged to use at least 3 eggs in their design and write a description explaining their artistic process and what their artwork was about. We were so impressed by the imagination, effort, and craftsmanship from everyone who entered! 🏆 Winners: 🥇 1st Place: Maddie Battley — “Flower Shop” 🥈 2nd Place: Anna Sipe — “Anna Sipe’s Egg Exhibition” 🥉 3rd Place: Ava Dalton — “My Little Garden” 🌟 Honorable Mention: Emise Butanis — “Under Water” 🎉 Congratulations to all of our winners and to every student who entered! Every participant received a certificate, candy, and 20 Frenzy Points for their hard work and creativity. 🎁 Our winners also received a bucket full of Easter goodies and Starbucks gift cards! We are so proud of all of our talented student artists at Surf City Middle School! Stop by the Media Center before Thursday to see these egg-mazing creations 💙🦈
From Pender High - 🎉Congrats to our Seniors!
From West Pender Middle - In Mrs. Nelson’s 6th grade ELA class, students used the STEAL strategy to characterize different chips in a fun, hands-on way. 🧠✨ Now they’re ready to apply these skills to Hoot! 📚
AND...Mrs. Happy’s 8th grade students enjoyed a special visit from two pottery artists who shared their talents and inspired creativity in the classroom. Students even had the chance to create pieces on the pottery wheel!
From Cape Fear Middle - 📚 CAPE FEAR MIDDLE SCHOOL GRIZZLIES CELEBRATE SCHOOL LIBRARY MONTH! 🐻 April is School Library Month and the Cape Fear Middle School Grizzlies are CELEBRATING! 🎉 Our library is the heart of our school — a place where imaginations run wild and every Grizzly can find their next great adventure! 📖✨ We want to give a huge shoutout to our incredible librarian, Ms. Sova, for inspiring a love of reading and learning every single day! 🙌❤️ This month, stop in, grab a book, and celebrate the magic that lives on every shelf! 🌟🐻
From Topsail High - The Topsail High School Band had an outstanding and memorable weekend as 50 of its members traveled to Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Colonial Williamsburg this past weekend. During the trip, the band earned Excellent ratings for their performance. This is an impressive accomplishment considering the ensemble had only two hours of full-group rehearsal time to prepare. In addition to their performance, students had the opportunity to explore Colonial Williamsburg. The trip also included time to enjoy the attractions and rides at Busch Gardens. We are incredibly proud of these students for their hard work, exemplary behavior, and the way they continue to grow both as musicians and as young leaders.
From Preschool - FIELD DAY!!
🎉 We may be on break, but Penderlea Day is Almost Here! 🎉 Mark your calendars for April 11th from 10 AM – 2 PM and join us for a day of fun, food, and community spirit—all while supporting our students! All proceeds from this event will go directly back to Penderlea School to benefit our students. 🌭 Delicious food – hot dogs, wings, snacks & more! 🎯 Games, Crafts, & a fun kids' zone 🎶 Live entertainment 🚜 Touch-a-Truck 🛍️ Vendors 🎨 Student Art Display We need YOUR help to make this event a success! If you're interested in: ✅ Volunteering ✅ Being a vendor ✅ Performing on stage 📧 Contact us at pls_info@pender.k12.nc.us for more details. Come out, bring your family, and have fun! We can’t wait to see you there! 📍 Penderlea School 11 Garden Rd, Willard, NC 28478
We are excited to invite all families to our Transition Night on April 20th! Our two sessions will be: Session A - 4:00pm - 4:45pm Session B - 4:45pm - 5:30pm This special evening will begin with an introduction to an exciting change for our school as we become a Leader in Me School next year. Families will learn how this approach will help develop leadership, responsibility, and strong character in our students. After the presentation, families will have the opportunity to: • Visit the next grade level your child will be entering • Meet teachers • Learn about expectations for the upcoming school year • Enjoy light snacks together We hope you will join us for this important and engaging evening as we prepare for a successful year ahead!
We (Surf City Elementary) are planning our First Annual Military Kids Ball!💜 To make this event truly memorable, we need your support. How You Can Help 🍪 Desserts & Drinks Needed. Items may be dropped off anytime on Thursday, April 23rd OR if you know of a business willing to sponsor or donate food, please let us know. 🎁 Gift Basket Donations 🔗 http://bit.ly/4sptUys 🤝 Volunteers Needed 🔗 https://bit.ly/4slRGv4 🎀 Decorations & Special Donations. Our color theme is Purple, and the symbolic flower is the Dandelion. We welcome any decoration donations that align with this theme. 🎶 DJ Needed. Know “that guy” who would love to DJ for a great cause? We are seeking donated or discounted DJ services for the evening.
Pender-Topsail Post - Front Page
Credits:
Created with images by Vitalii Vodolazskyi - "Speech bubble with the phrase What is new.,Curiosity and communication." • mnirat - "Close-up photos of black graduates hats" • Uuganbayar - "What else word written under torn paper concept." • manit - "Hand of young business using smartphone, Social media concept."