The North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching (NCCAT) has announced 27 finalists for the 2026 Burroughs Wellcome Fund NC Beginning Teacher of the Year Award, according to a press release.
In the release, State Superintendent Maurice “Mo” Green said the state must recognize young educators at a time when recruitment and retention is more critical than ever.
“These 27 finalists have chosen one of society’s most noble professions, and they deserve our reverence for dedicating their talents to North Carolina’s children,” Green said. “Their commitment gives me great hope for the future of public education in North Carolina.”
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Finalists attend a professional development week in March at the Truist Leadership Institute in Greensboro. The winner will be announced during a ceremony at the Brendle Recital Hall in Wake Forest University’s Scales Fine Arts Center on March 12.
NCCAT Executive Director M. Brock Womble said each finalist has proven to be committed to their students, schools, and communities.
“Their work exemplifies the best of teaching and highlights the critical role educators play in shaping our future,” Womble said in the release. “Congratulations to all our finalists—North Carolina is proud of you.”
The Beginning Teacher of the Year receives a $5,000 cash prize and instructional supply funds for their school. The winner also participates in a GoGlobal NC professional development trip in 2027. The runner-up receives a $2,000 prize, and all finalists have costs covered to attend the professional development week.
Alfred Mays, chief diversity officer at the Burroughs Wellcome Fund, said this kind of support for educators is crucial for the state’s students and schools.
“This award recognizes the passion, talent, and commitment of beginning teachers who inspire their students and communities,” Mays said. “These finalists represent the future of education in our state, and we are honored to celebrate their achievements.”
Below are the 27 finalists. You can read more about them in the section below.
- Anna Sophia Steinki, Alamance-Burlington Schools
- Lindsay Annis, Beaufort County Schools
- Sarah Hersee, Brevard Academy
- Kennedy Elmore, Cabarrus County Schools
- Georgia Juhnke, Caldwell County Schools
- Zoe Couloumbis, Capital Encore Academy
- Amanda (Mandy) Rundgren, Carolina Charter Academy
- Emma Poovey, Catawba County Schools
- Arjge Brothers, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
- Morgan Dudley, Cherokee County Schools
- Amber Autry, Cumberland County Schools
- Lydia Surprenant, Currituck County Schools
- Kaitlyn Fletcher, Davie County Schools
- Lena Dallas, Haywood County Schools
- Sarah Schwartz, Henderson County Public Schools
- Marquitta Lassiter, Hertford County Schools
- Lillian (Lily) Hartsell, Lenoir County Public Schools
- Caroline Beam, Lincoln County Schools
- Erica (Sydney) Puente, Nash County Public Schools
- Allison Hancock, New Hanover County Schools
- Rebeckah Goras, Orange County Schools
- Sophia Foster, Pender County Schools
- Ashley Hutchins, Randolph County Schools
- Rhyane Jacobs, Public Schools of Robeson County
- Molly Todd, Wake County Schools
- Hester Claire Linville, Watauga County Schools
- Ellie McPherson, Whiteville City Schools
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Meet the finalists
Anna Sophia Steinki, Alamance-Burlington Schools
Steinki is a teacher at R. Homer Andrews Elementary School. In an Instagram post, the district said: “You’d think she had many more years of experience with how she handles herself in her classroom. … You can see the students respect her greatly and were eager to celebrate her.”
Lindsay Annis, Beaufort County Schools
Annis is a social studies teacher at Northside High School.
“I love getting to know my students and supporting them both in and outside the classroom,” her teacher page says.
“Your passion for history and commitment to your students continue to inspire!” Beaufort County said in a Facebook post.
Sarah Hersee, Brevard Academy
Hersee is a third grade teacher at Brevard Academy, where she previously worked as an outdoor education teacher.
“This prestigious statewide recognition honors early-career educators who exemplify excellence, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to students—and Ms. Hersee truly represents the very best of BA,” Brevard Academy said in a social media post. “Ms. Hersee’s passion, professionalism, and reflective approach to teaching make a lasting impact on our students every single day. We are excited to see her work recognized on the state level and grateful she’s part of our Bulldog family.”
Kennedy Elmore, Cabarrus County Schools
Elmore teaches English language arts at Cox Mill High School, where the district says she is already a “standout educator.”
At Cox Mill, the district said in a press release that “Elmore is recognized for her ability to connect with students, her innovative instruction, and her reflective approach to growth.”
“Kennedy exemplifies the kind of teacher every student deserves—thoughtful, adaptable, and deeply committed to learning,” said Cox Mill Principal Christopher Myers. “She brings both heart and strategy into the classroom, creating a space where students feel challenged, supported, and a sense of belonging.”
Georgia Juhnke, Caldwell County Schools
Juhnke teaches at Caldwell Applied Sciences Academy.
“This massive honor recognizes North Carolina’s very best early-career teachers,” the district wrote in a social media post. “We are so lucky to have Mrs. Juhnke on CCS’ team of talented, passionate educators.”
Zoe Couloumbis, Capital Encore Academy
Couloumbis is the academy’s K-7 dance teacher.
“Through her passion for dance and movement arts, Ms. Couloumbis brings creativity, confidence, and joy to the classroom every day. We are so proud of her work and thrilled to see it recognized. Congratulations!” the academy wrote in a social media post.
Amanda (Mandy) Rundgren, Carolina Charter Academy
Rundgren, a third grade teacher, was recognized as Carolina Charter Academy’s Beginning Teacher of the Year, according to a September social media post.
“Thank you, Ms. Rundgren, for your dedication, passion, and inspiring our students every day,” the school wrote.
Emma Poovey, Catawba County Schools
Poovey teaches at Claremont Elementary School.
“Congratulations on this well-deserved honor—we are so proud of you!” her district posted on social media.
Arjge Brothers, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
Brothers is a third grade teacher at University Park Creative Arts School.
“Teaching has been a journey,” said Brothers in a press release. “But it has pushed me to evolve as a person. My students push me to be a better version of myself and create a more well-rounded teacher. This recognition is less about me and more about my kids because I care about what they’re going to be when they grow up. So this day is in celebration of all their hard work.”
Her school’s principal, Shanna Rae, said Brothers was “born to teach.”
“Her dedication is second to none and she takes on so many responsibilities because that’s just who she is,” Rae said. “As she progresses through the process, I know she’ll take it all the way because her work speaks for itself.”
Morgan Dudley, Cherokee County Schools
Dudley teaches Aviation and Drone Technology at the Cherokee County Schools of Innovation, according to a social media post from her school.
“Congratulations Ms. Morgan Dudley!” the school said in the post. “Cherokee County is proud, North Carolina is watching, and our students are soaring because of you.”
Amber Autry, Cumberland County Schools
Autry, who teaches at Cape Fear High School, was named Cumberland County Schools’ 2026 Beginning Teacher of the Year in September.
“This prestigious recognition highlights Autry’s outstanding contributions to the teaching profession and her dedication to serving students and the broader Cumberland County Schools community,” according to a district press release.
Lydia Surprenant, Currituck County Schools
Surprenant teaches at Currituck County Middle School.
“Her willingness to assist fellow teachers, support student clubs, and coach sports highlights her leadership, teamwork, and dedication to the students, staff, and families of CCMS,” said Helen Taylor, principal of Currituck County Middle School, in a press release.
“CCS celebrates Ms. Surprenant for her remarkable achievement and unwavering dedication to her students and school community,” the release said. “Being named a finalist for this distinguished honor speaks to her passion for teaching, and the district eagerly anticipates supporting her at the state level.”
Kaitlyn Fletcher, Davie County Schools
Fletcher teaches sixth grade math at North Davie Middle School.
“Ms. Fletcher, who is a Davie County High School and Western Carolina University graduate, began her teaching career last year at Central Davie Academy, where she quickly distinguished herself through her dedication to students, innovation, instructional excellence, and ability to inspire students,” the district wrote in a social media post. “We are proud of you!!!”
Lena Dallas, Haywood County Schools
Dallas, a fifth grade teacher at Bethel Elementary School, was named Haywood County Schools’ Beginning Teacher of the Year in October.
“Her enthusiasm, creativity, and care for her students shine through every single day,” the district said in a Facebook post.
Sarah Schwartz, Henderson County Public Schools
Schwartz is a third grade teacher at Mills River Elementary School.
“Ms. Schwartz demonstrates remarkable leadership and initiative in all she does,” Mills River Principal Chad Auten said in a September press release. “Whether she is collaborating with grade-level teams, contributing to curriculum development, or engaging families, she consistently goes above and beyond. Her colleagues comment often on her positive spirit, her willingness to learn, and her ability to inspire those around her.”
Marquitta Lassiter, Hertford County Schools
Lassiter is teaches at Riverview Elementary School.
“Ms. Lassiter has distinguished herself through her commitment to instructional excellence, innovation in the classroom, and her ability to inspire and support every learner she serves,” the district wrote in a social media post. “Her passion for teaching and unwavering focus on student success exemplify the very best of the profession.”
Lillian (Lily) Hartsell, Lenoir County Public Schools
Hartsell is a seventh grade history teacher at E.B. Frink Middle School and the district’s Beginning Teacher of the Year.
“Known for her passion for history and creative approach to teaching, Ms. Hartsell brings lessons to life for her students every day,” according to a social media post from her district. “Walk into her classroom and you might find her dressed as a medieval plague doctor or Queen Elizabeth, or see students working in collaborative groups, building debates using primary sources. Her classroom is a true playground for learning, where curiosity and critical thinking thrive.
Caroline Beam, Lincoln County Schools
Beam, an English teacher at West Lincoln High School, “is already making a big impact in her classroom and school community,” according to a district social media post.
“Her energy, passion for teaching, and dedication to her students shine through every day,” the post says.
Erica (Sydney) Puente, Nash County Public Schools
Puente is a fifth grade teacher at Bailey Elementary School. In a press release, Puente said she became a teacher to make a difference in students’ lives.
“I’ve always been passionate about helping children grow, not just academically, but also socially and emotionally,” Puente said. “Teaching allows me to build relationships, inspire curiosity, and help students develop confidence in themselves as learners.”
Her school’s principal, Linda Cooper, praised Puente’s dedication and skill.
“Her commitment to teaching and learning is evident in everything she does. She consistently works to create strong, meaningful relationships with her students, helping each one reach their full potential,” Cooper said.
Allison Hancock, New Hanover County Schools
Hancock is a K-5 music teacher at the Annie Snipes Academy of Arts and Design.
Rebeckah Goras, Orange County Schools
Goras, an Exceptional Children’s teacher at A.L. Stanback Middle School, was named her district’s Beginning Teacher of the Year in September, according to a social media post.
“Ms. Goras represents the passion, talent, and dedication that will shape the future of education in OCS,” Superintendent Dr. Danielle Jones said. “She has quickly made a difference at A.L. Stanback Middle School by building strong connections with students, staff, and families. We are excited to see her continue to grow and inspire others in the years ahead.”
Sophia Foster, Pender County Schools
Foster is a sixth grade English language arts teacher at Burgaw Middle School and Pender County’s 2025-26 Beginning Teacher of the Year.
“I’m really grateful for the opportunity,” Foster said in a press release. “Teaching in Pender County has been a meaningful way to start my career, and I’ve learned so much from my students and colleagues at Burgaw Middle School.”
Burgaw Middle School Principal Brian Allen said, “Our school family is very proud of Ms. Foster. We know she will continue to represent Burgaw Middle School and Pender County Schools well, and we look forward to supporting her along the way.”
Ashley Hutchins, Randolph County Schools
In a monthly update, Randolph County Schools Superintendent Dr. Stephen Gainey congratulated Hutchins on the announcement.
“I just want to congratulate Ashley and thank her for the great job she does every day at Wheatmore Middle School,” Gainey said. “We are so grateful to have you as a member of our staff in the Randolph County school system, and specifically at Wheatmore Middle School, and we wish you well as you move through the remainder part of this process. Good luck, Ashley!
Rhyane Jacobs, Public Schools of Robeson County
Jacobs teaches at Union Chapel Elementary School.
“As a beginning teacher, this award motivates me to carry on my work and reach even greater heights as an educator in my career. This title is for my students—to remind them that no matter where they come from or what they look like, they have every opportunity to achieve greatness,” Jacobs said in a press release from the district.
“Being named a finalist for NCCAT’s Beginning Teacher of the Year Award is a significant achievement and a reflection of Ms. Jacobs’ dedication to her students and passion for teaching,” PSRC Superintendent Dr. Freddie Williamson said. “We are proud to have educators in our district who exemplify excellence and leadership early in their careers.”
Molly Todd, Wake County Schools
In May, Todd was also recognized as a 2024-25 Diane Kent-Parker 1st Year Teacher Award Winner.
Hester Claire Linville, Watauga County Schools
Linville is a kindergarten teacher at Hardin Park School.
“We are SO proud of Ms. Hester Claire Linville,” Watauga County Schools posted on social media. “Congratulations on this well-deserved and prestigious honor!”
Ellie McPherson, Whiteville City Schools
McPherson is a first grade teacher at Whiteville Primary School.
“Whiteville Primary is Wolfcub Proud of Miss Ellie McPherson, first grade teacher, being named as one of the 27 finalists in the state for the Burroughs Wellcome Fund NC Beginning Teacher of the Year! Congratulations Miss McPherson!” her school posted on social media.
Editor’s note: Karen Sumner’s name was corrected in the featured photo.
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