Latest news with #MooreCountySchools
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Moore Schools' Locklair named regional superintendent of the year
CARTHAGE — Moore County Schools Superintendent Tim Locklair was named the 2025-2026 Regional Superintendent of the Year for the Sandhills Region (Region 4). Locklair is now a finalist for the prestigious A. Craig Phillips State Superintendent of the Year Award, joining seven other regional representatives in the state-level competition. "This award is a testament to the collective effort of all who are committed to ensuring the success and well-being of every student," Locklair said in a release. "I look forward to continuing our work together to create even greater opportunities for our students and our community.' Each year, superintendents from the Sandhills Regional Education Consortium select from among its 13 leaders a superintendent who has demonstrated exemplary leadership to serve as its Regional Superintendent of the Year. This person then competes for the title of State Superintendent of the Year. 'Locklair is considered a Leader among Leaders and he has the highest respect among his peers in the Sandhills and colleagues across this state," said Ron Hargrave, executive director of the Sandhills Regional Education Consortium. Under his leadership, Moore County Schools has promoted the diverse public school choices available through its 'MCS Choices' campaign. These choices include in-person, virtual and Blend+Ed options (a partnership with homeschool families) designed to meet every student's needs. The district now ranks in the top 10 of North Carolina's 115 districts for both Grade Level Proficiency and Career and Technical Education credential attainment. Locklair has 30 years of experience in public education. A Moore County native, he moved to the area at age 11 and graduated from Pinecrest High School. After earning a bachelor of science in education from Western Carolina University, he began his career as a social studies teacher, football and baseball coach, and was later an assistant principal at Pinecrest High School. Locklair has held various leadership roles, including principal of West Middle School in Montgomery County, as well as Apex Middle School and Holly Springs High School in Wake County. He also served as Area Superintendent for Western Wake County in Wake County Public Schools, where he oversaw 26 schools and more than 2,000 employees. He rejoined Moore County Schools in 2016 as the chief officer for Academic and Student Support Services, managing several departments, including curriculum, student services, and school improvement. MCS will launch its 24th school, Moore Innovative High School, in the fall with its inaugural class of 70 students. This project, funded by a $25 million appropriation from the North Carolina state budget, will provide students with the opportunity to earn both a high school diploma and an associate's degree, meeting local workforce needs and preparing students for high-demand jobs in industries like advanced manufacturing, health care, and more.
Yahoo
19-04-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Moore County Schools' Synan wins award
The North Carolina School Superintendents' Association and the North Carolina Alliance for School Leadership Development announced that Jamie Synan is the recipient of the Dr. Samuel Houston Leadership Award. Jack Hoke, executive director of the North Carolina School Superintendents' Association, said that Synan exemplifies the traits that have guided Houston's career in educational leadership. 'She has a commitment to continuous improvement, high standards of ethical conduct, strategic planning, improving student performance and meeting the needs of the 21st century workforce,' he said. 'I look forward to Ms. Synan serving as Deputy Superintendent of the Moore County Schools effective July 1.' He noted that Synan has 25 years of experience in public education and has served as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, director of student support services and a chief academic officer. She is currently the assistant superintendent for academics and student support services for Moore County Schools. Synan earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Elmira College, a master's degree in educational leadership from High Point University, and an educational specialist degree in education administration and supervision from East Carolina University. Houston is president and CEO of the North Carolina Science, Mathematics, and Technology Education Center. He served as superintendent of the Mooresville Graded School District for 10 years where he opened the first year-round school in North Carolina. Houston has been a champion for strategic planning, student performance and accountability, meeting the needs of the 21st century workforce, skills for the STEM world and building education partnerships, a release states. He also served as the first executive director of the University of North Carolina Center for Leadership Development.
Yahoo
12-04-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Moore County names educators of the year
CARTHAGE — Moore County Schools recently announced the 2025-2026 district-level award recipients for Alternate Teacher of the Year, Teacher of the Year and Principal of the Year. These exceptional educators exemplify the passion, dedication, and leadership that elevate student success and inspire school communities across the district. COX Melissa Cox, a fourth-grade teacher at Highfalls Elementary School, was selected as Alternate Teacher of the Year. Known for her enthusiasm, adaptability and student-centered approach, Cox made a seamless transition from second to fourth grade this year and has continued to deliver engaging lessons with what has been described as a 'positive urgency.' 'Words can't truly express how honored and humbled I am to be selected as Alternate Teacher of the Year,' Cox said. 'This recognition is incredibly meaningful, and it fills my heart with so much gratitude. To be acknowledged for something that I love so much is truly special. The real reward is the joy I experience daily working with my amazing students and their supportive families. Their enthusiasm, curiosity and growth make every challenge worthwhile. I feel incredibly fortunate to have found a profession that I love so deeply, and this award just adds an extra layer of sweetness to an already fulfilling journey.' ROWLAND Diana Rowland, a dedicated educator at Vass-Lakeview Elementary School, was named Teacher of the Year. Rowland is widely recognized for her innovative, data-informed instruction and her ability to cultivate a classroom environment where curiosity is encouraged and students are empowered to explore and thrive. 'This recognition is a reflection of the amazing students I get to teach, the incredible team I work alongside every day, and the unwavering support of my family,' Rowland said. 'I'm grateful to represent MCS and excited to keep doing what I love—helping students grow and shine! Thank you!' Rowland will represent Moore County Schools in the Sandhills Region Teacher of the Year competition. MACPHERSON Julie MacPherson, principal of Sandhills Farm Life Elementary School, was selected as the Principal of the Year. With over 20 years of service in Moore County Schools—including leadership roles at the elementary, middle and preschool levels—MacPherson has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to academic excellence, student growth and school improvement. Her leadership has contributed to her school exceeding growth for two consecutive years and moving from a C-rated to a B-rated school—within just a few points of achieving an A rating. 'This award inspires me to continue the important work of striving for our students to reach their full potential,' MacPherson said. She will represent Moore County Schools in the Sandhills Region competition for Regional Principal of the Year.
