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Dare County Schools proudly announces the 2026–2027 Teachers of the Year from across the district following Teacher Appreciation Week. Chosen by their peers, these exceptional educators stand out for their dedication, leadership, creativity in the classroom, and unwavering commitment to student success.
2026-27 Teachers of the Year
- Cape Hatteras Elementary – Jillian Willis
- Cape Hatteras Secondary – Nathan Snead
- Dare Early College – Anna Thomas
- First Flight Elementary – Penny Pugh
- First Flight Middle – Kaley Kiffner
- First Flight High – Evan Mechak
- Kitty Hawk Elementary – Nicole Farrell
- Manteo Elementary – Mariela Martinez
- Manteo Middle – Nicole Boyd
- Manteo High – Leslie Erickson
- Nags Head Elementary – Sara Adaros
Dare County Schools Superintendent Steve Basnight congratulates this year’s cohort, stating, “This incredible group of Dare County Schools professionals is a shining example of the quality of educators we have throughout our district. To be chosen by your peers as the representative of all the things that make our teachers so special, is truly an honor to be cherished and celebrated. On a more personal note, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the things you do each day that may go unnoticed, but that make you the wonderful teachers you are. You are truly special people! Congratulations!”
A committee, consisting of former teachers of the year, licensed teachers and support staff from across the district, will conduct interviews with each school’s representative over the summer to select the Teacher of the Year for the entire district.
The chosen Teacher of the Year will be formally announced at Dare County Schools’ convocation in August and move on to represent the district at the regional level.
The mission of the North Carolina Teacher of the Year Program is to promote the profession through advocacy and support while recognizing outstanding teaching professionals who are implementing best practices in classrooms across North Carolina.