PENDER COUNTY, N.C. – Pender County Schools is proud to announce that Miranda Wells, a Career and Technical Education (CTE) teacher at Topsail High School, is a finalist for the 2025 Burroughs Wellcome Fund NC CTE Teacher of the Year Award. Ms. Wells is currently attending the prestigious recognition event at Western Carolina University, where the winner will be announced this Thursday, February 20.
This statewide honor recognizes educators who demonstrate excellence, innovation, and a deep commitment to preparing students for success in career and technical fields. Ms. Wells, who was also a finalist in 2024, continues to make a lasting impact through her dedication to health science education, mentorship of fellow teachers, and leadership as CTE department chair at Topsail High.
Superintendent Dr. Brad Breedlove praised Ms. Wells’ contributions, stating, "Ms. Wells exemplifies the best of Career and Technical Education in Pender County Schools. Her passion for student success and innovation in the classroom make her a truly deserving finalist. We are proud to have her represent our district at the state level."
Pender County Schools Career Technical Education Director Dominique Bates also highlighted Wells’ leadership, saying, "Miranda Wells is an outstanding educator who consistently goes above and beyond for her students. Her innovative teaching methods and dedication to career readiness have transformed the CTE program at Topsail High and across our district. We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and excited to see her recognized at the state level."
Ms. Wells is among 24 outstanding educators from across North Carolina who were selected for this prestigious honor.