New Hanover County Schools Announces 2025-2026 Educator of the Year Finalists

Apr 25 2025

New Hanover County Schools Announces 2025-2026 Educator of the Year Finalists

WILMINGTON, NC – New Hanover County Schools (NHCS) is thrilled to announce the finalists for the 2025-2026 Educator of the Year awards, celebrating the exceptional teachers and school leaders who inspire, empower, and elevate our students every day.

Each school across the district nominated an outstanding Teacher of the Year, and from this talented pool, a dedicated committee has selected top finalists who represent the very best in instructional excellence, leadership, and student support.

This year’s celebration also includes exciting additions for the first time. NHCS is recognizing outstanding leadership at all levels with the introduction of the Assistant Principal of the Year award and continued recognition for Principal of the Year.

2025-2026 Educator of the Year Finalists

Elementary School

Kelly Balcome, 5th Grade – Ogden Elementary
Kimberley Ciamillo, 2nd Grade – Holly Tree Elementary
Kelsey Stott, Kindergarten – Murrayville Elementary
Desiree Traylor, 1st Grade – Pine Valley Elementary
Ashley Zatt, 3rd Grade – Porters Neck Elementary

Middle School

Lauren Bennett, Science – Emma B. Trask Middle
Lori Jerread, Spanish – Charles P. Murray Middle
Benjamin Lord, Social Studies – Myrtle Grove Middle

High School

Jessica Harvey, Social Studies – Emsley A. Laney High
Amanda Penegar, Digital Design, Game Art & 3D Modeling – Eugene Ashley High
Kitt Starnes, Social Studies – Isaac Bear Early College High

Assistant Principal of the Year Finalists

Alicia Chapman – Holly Shelter Middle
Michelle Kornegay – Eugene Ashley High

Principal of the Year Finalists

Cyndy Bliss – Myrtle Grove Middle
Rosemarie Wheeler – Dr. Hubert Eaton Sr Elementary

The winners in each category, including Elementary, Middle, and High School Educators of the Year, the Overall Educator of the Year, Assistant Principal of the Year, and Principal of the Year, will be announced at the NHCS Celebration of Excellence Banquet on May 8, 2025.

Stay tuned as we honor these inspiring educators and leaders shaping the future of New Hanover County Schools!