The first day I ever met Melanie Shaver was memorable — as are most days with the superintendent I have come to learn.
In spring 2022, Shaver was the principal of Foothills Community School in McDowell County.
As soon as I walked in the front door of the school — a middle grades, project-based learning, STEM-focused magnet school — a pig scampered up to greet me.
That’s right, a real, live pig. “Kris P. Bacon” was the name of this therapy pet, which roamed the school and seemed integral to school culture.
Maggie Shaver — Shaver’s daughter and a student at the school — followed up the greeting and stayed with me for the rest of the school visit. I didn’t sit down with the then-principal until the end of day.
“I’ve never been at a school where students have more choice and opportunities,” said Lori Poteat, a math teacher.
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“They’ll amaze you,” said Shaver about students presented with opportunities to engage in learning, to share their thinking, and to demonstrate how they can apply their knowledge.
Just weeks later, July 1, 2022, was Shaver’s first day as a superintendent in Hyde County.
She first built a school culture and now she is building a district culture known and respected for investing and empowering students.
From Hyde County to Wales, it has been remarkable to watch Shaver’s leadership and ongoing commitment to students unfold.
As a parent, principal, superintendent, and community schools advocate, Shaver is transforming the experience of being a student.
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NCAE’s Superintendent of the Year
Last month, Hyde County Schools announced that Shaver has been named the 2026 North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE) Superintendent of the Year, according to a press release issued by the district.
The award recognizes extraordinary leadership, assertive advocacy for public education, and a profound commitment to student success, educator empowerment, and community engagement.
In presenting the award, NCAE Regional Director Rita Jackson-Gilbert described Dr. Shaver as a transformational leader whose work has “elevated student achievement, empowered educators, and strengthened the entire Hyde County community.”
Since becoming superintendent, Dr. Shaver has led Hyde County Schools with a bold vision rooted in equity, innovation, relationships, and instructional excellence. Under her leadership, the district has continued to expand opportunities for students in one of North Carolina’s most unique and rural educational settings, proving that geography and size do not define potential.
“Dr. Shaver understands that every child; regardless of zip code, socioeconomic status or circumstance, deserves access to rigorous and meaningful learning experiences,” Jackson-Gilbert shared during the ceremony. “Her leadership reflects not only excellence in administration, but excellence in instructional expertise, innovation, advocacy, and high quality service to children and families.”
Throughout her tenure, Dr. Shaver has remained deeply engaged in classrooms and instructional practices, working alongside teachers and staff to strengthen teaching and learning across the district. Her leadership has focused on building teacher capacity, fostering collaboration, and creating systems of support that allow both students and educators to thrive.
But perhaps what distinguishes Dr. Shaver most is the heart behind her leadership.
In Hyde County Schools, relationships matter. Community matters. People matter. Dr. Shaver has cultivated a culture where educators feel valued, students feel seen, and families know they belong. Her leadership has brought people together around a shared purpose: ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed and every educator has the support to make that success possible.
Dr. Shaver has also become widely recognized for her innovative and forward-thinking approach to leadership. Through expanded communication efforts, strengthened partnerships, strategic planning initiatives, and creative solutions tailored to rural education, she has positioned Hyde County Schools as a model of what is possible when vision, advocacy, and dedication align.
“This recognition is not just about one person,” said Ms. Gilbert. “It reflects the incredible students, educators, staff, families, and communities that make Hyde County Schools so special. Dr. Shaver leads with humility, integrity, and purpose, and this award is a testament to the impact she has made across our district and beyond.”
The North Carolina Association of Educators highlighted Dr. Shaver’s ongoing commitment to advocacy and professional collaboration, noting that her leadership exemplifies the values of strong public schools, professional respect for educators, and equitable opportunities for all students.
As Hyde County Schools celebrates this extraordinary achievement, the district also celebrates the legacy of leadership Dr. Shaver continues to build which is rooted in service, compassion, innovation, and an unshakable belief in the power of public education.
— Hyde County Schools press release
Hyde County Schools featured in EdNC
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