MOREHEAD CITY, NC – Carteret County Public Schools celebrated its top educators, administration and support staff on Friday at a sponsored event, held at Morehead City Country Club. The annual Employee of the Year Luncheon honors individuals who have been nominated by their peers for their dedication, professionalism, and service. Schools in the Western part of the county swept each category, even with the rigorous nature of the selection process, involving different district interview teams for each employee category. Impact presentations as well as direct classroom observations were a part of the process for many individuals as well. Winners were announced by administrators and community partners following recognition of each individual nominee.
"This is one of the most meaningful events of the year because it gives us the opportunity to say thank you to the people who represent the very best of Carteret County Public Schools," said Board Chair, Ms. Katie Statler. "From classrooms to cafeterias, buses to offices... your work changes lives and strengthens our community.”
Superintendent Richie Paylor echoed these sentiments, adding, "You have set a high standard of excellence across our district. Your leadership, service, and commitment reflect the very best of who we are as a school system.”
2026-2027 Award Winners
Classified Employee of the Year: Timmie Raynor, Choices Coordinator & Bus Driver, Newport Middle School Mr. Raynor is recognized as someone who is trusted and who helps students engage in meaningful reflection. At the event, he was praised for his calm demeanor and his constant effort to build positive relationships.
"Mr. Raynor takes the time to understand where the child is coming from,” said Newport Middle School Principal, Mr. Wade Reifsnyder, “and he continuously works with the child to make better choices. Many students seek him out, and several of our students have identified him as a trusted adult in our building. Finally, after a long day on the bus and school, he usually also attends our athletic events. His work ethic and his dedication to our school is top notch.”
Certified Employee of the Year: Su-Lin Banks, School Counselor, Newport Elementary School Ms. Banks is a respected leader not only in the district but across the state, having helped write the new school counselor essential standards for North Carolina.
Kim Krohn, Director of Student Services noted, "Ms. Banks exemplifies professionalism, organization, and leadership, always prioritizing the well-being, growth, and success of every child she serves. She also serves as a mentor to other elementary counselors, generously sharing her knowledge and experience to strengthen the overall quality of counseling services.”
Assistant Principal of the Year: Kalen Biggers, Croatan High School Ms. Biggers was honored for her ability to foster a culture of trust and accountability while approaching each day with a mindset focused on growth and learning.
Croatan High School Principal Chris Davis said Ms. Biggers is, “an instructional leader whose impact is felt in every classroom. She is a dependable and thoughtful team member who contributes to a culture of trust and accountability, while maintaining a positive presence that impacts both students and staff.”
Principal of the Year: Chris Davis, Croatan High School Mr. Davis was praised for strength in leadership, and a principal with a clear and measurable vision and mission, one that empowers teachers as leaders and fosters a culture grounded in high expectations for both students and staff.
What stood out most to the selection committee was Mr. Davis’s, “deep understanding of teachers, not just who they are, but what they do and how they do it. Every interaction is intentional, strengthening culture and building a shared sense of responsibility. There is no question about the focus, as what is best for students serves as the North Star guiding every decision.”
Teacher of the Year: Caroline Shults, 3rd Grade Teacher, Newport Elementary School Ms. Shults is known for creating a dynamic learning experience where students are active, enthusiastic participants.
The interview committee and classroom observers noted, "Step inside her classroom and you immediately feel the energy. Purposeful chants, spirited cheers, and meaningful engagement are all carefully woven into instruction so that learning sticks and understanding deepens. Every moment is intentional, and every student is actively involved, challenged, and supported in her classroom.”
The highlight of the afternoon occurred when Ms. Shults was presented with the keys to a brand-new, fully-electric Chevy Equinox, courtesy of Kurtis Chevrolet. The vehicle is provided to the Teacher of the Year at no charge for one full year, including the cost of insurance.
While CCPS is incredibly proud of all of our winners, CCPS also extends its deepest gratitude to all of our community sponsors who made this event possible.
Gold Sponsor: Carteret County Farm Bureau
Silver Sponsors: Plain Jane’s Cleaning and Janitorial Supply
Vehicle Sponsor: Kurtis Chevrolet
Award Sponsors: RE/MAX Ocean Properties, Kirkman Whitford Law Firm, Chick-fil-A, Hite and Associates, and Frank Door Company.
Partner Sponsors: Carteret Education Foundation, 21CS, Safrit’s Building Supply, Sanborn Orthodontics, and The Smile Makers
Organizational Thanks: Sandy’s Florist and the Morehead City Country Club Events Team