LCPS announces finalists for 2025-2026 Teacher of the Year
Finalists (L-R): Tara Carroll (South Lenoir), April Modlin (Northwest), Beverly McLawhorn (Pink Hill), Deshona Ingram (Southwood)
Each school year brings a special moment when we get to shine a light on the incredible educators who go above and beyond for their students. Our teachers are the heart of Lenoir County Public Schools, and we are thrilled to recognize them through the annual Teacher of the Year award.
Teachers at each of our 17 schools and Pre-K programs are chosen by their peers to represent their school in this prestigious competition. To qualify, nominees must hold a Standard Professional 2 continuing license and have at least four years of experience in their subject area. They also submit a portfolio that showcases their journey in education, their teaching philosophy, and the professional growth they have pursued along the way.
“This year's competition was truly amazing because there were 18 qualified, professional, dedicated, and enthusiastic candidates,” said the Director of Human Resources, Pam Heath. “The competition was so strong and close that the panel of judges chose to recommend four finalists instead of the typical three that are normally selected to move forward in the competition.”
Congratulations to Tara Carroll from South Lenoir High School, April Modlin from Northwest Elementary School, Beverly McLawhorn from Pink Hill Elementary School, and Deshona Ingram from Southwood Elementary School for being selected as this year’s finalists.
Back Row (L-R): Hollie Ayers (Banks), Allyson Heath (Moss Hill), Tara Carroll (South Lenoir), Elizabeth Hamm (Frink), Mattie Sowers (Rochelle), Deshona Ingram (Southwood), Robert Paulk (North Lenoir), John Munoz (Northeast), Briana Rogers (CSS), Katie McRae
Front Row (L-R): Prishonda Daniels (Kinston), Jennifer Bell (Southeast), Jessica Miller (La Grange), Beverly McLawhorn (Pink Hill), April Modlin (Northwest), Madelyn Coates (Woodington), Samantha Harper (ECHS), Toni Smith (Pink Hill Pre-K)
Next, these outstanding teachers will take part in classroom observations in March, where judges will spend 45 minutes watching them in action. Then, the moment we’ve all been waiting for—the 2025-2026 LCPS Teacher of the Year will be revealed at the LCPS Teacher/Employee of the Year Banquet on April 10.
This special evening will also recognize all of our amazing Teacher of the Year candidates, as well as honor our Teacher Assistant of the Year and Non-Instructional Classified Employee of the Year.