News and Events

Dare County Schools is pleased to announce several leadership appointments for the 2026–27 school year. These administrators bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their new roles and will help support staff members and student success across the district.

"We are pleased to announce these additions to our building-level administrative teams. Each of these appointments reflects our ongoing commitment to strengthening our capacity to increase student learning, while providing meaningful leadership opportunities for our educators to grow and excel professionally. I am confident that their experience, dedication, and leadership will positively impact our schools, and I look forward to their continued contributions to the success of Dare County Schools," said Dare County Schools Superintendent Steve Basnight. 

Cape Hatteras Secondary School

Julianna Gorges has been promoted from teaching and learning facilitator to assistant principal at Cape Hatteras Secondary School.

Gorges recently completed her administrative internship at Cape Hatteras Secondary School and will earn her master's degree in school administration this summer. In her current role, she has provided instructional coaching and support to both experienced and beginning teachers to strengthen classroom practices and improve student outcomes. Her secondary-level experience and strong relationships with students and staff at Cape Hatteras Secondary School make her well-prepared for this leadership role. 

Dare Learning Academy

Matt McGough has been named coordinator of Dare Learning Academy following the retirement of L'Tanya Murray.

McGough currently serves as assistant principal at First Flight Middle School, where he has been a member of the leadership team since 2022. He holds a bachelor's degree in social work and a master's degree in school administration from East Carolina University. Prior to entering school administration, he served as a child protective services worker and later as a district social worker for Dare County Schools. His experience supporting students and families, combined with his relationship-building skills, will be a tremendous asset to Dare Learning Academy.

First Flight Middle School

Christina Parks has been named assistant principal at First Flight Middle School.

Parks currently serves as assistant principal at Camden County High School and brings nearly five years of administrative experience and 14 years of classroom teaching experience in northeastern North Carolina. A Marine veteran, she is a strong instructional leader who values data-informed decision-making and student-centered growth. Her leadership experience and commitment to continuous school improvement will complement the strong instructional culture at First Flight Middle School under Principal Diane Childress.

First Flight High School

Amber Patsel has been appointed assistant principal at First Flight High School.

Patsel currently serves as an athletic trainer and health and physical education teacher at Manteo High School. She has nine years of experience in education and has served as a classroom teacher and certified athletic trainer. Patsel was named Manteo High School's 2023 Teacher of the Year and has advised both the Sports Medicine Student Assistants and HOSA clubs. She is currently pursuing her master's degree in school administration and is expected to graduate in 2027. Her leadership skills, student-centered approach and experience working with student-athletes will be valuable additions to the First Flight High School leadership team as she joins Principal Joe Tyson and Assistant Principal Samantha Reynolds. 

Dare County Schools is confident these leadership appointments will have a positive impact on the students, staff and families they serve. The district will work closely with each school to ensure a smooth transition as these leaders begin their new roles.