Eastern Wayne Middle School teacher Amanda Holmes has been named the recipient of the prestigious Richard A. Schwartz NCCAT Honored Educator Scholarship. Amanda, who teaches 6th-8th grade Reading, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Life Skills in Wayne County Schools, is celebrated for her dedication to inspiring and shaping young minds. The Richard A. Schwartz NCCAT Honored Educator Scholarship recognizes the significant contributions of Richard A. Schwartz, a nationally renowned attorney and passionate advocate for North Carolina public education. Amanda (center) is pictured attending the NCCAT program, "Teaching the Holocaust: Resources and Reflections," in Washington, D.C.

Meadowlark Elementary School’s Fran Richardson, a dedicated Kindergarten teacher in Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, has been awarded the distinguished NCCAT Honored Educator Scholarship A. Craig Phillips Scholarship—Fund I. This scholarship commemorates Dr. A. Craig Phillips, who served as North Carolina's State Superintendent from 1968 to 1988. Honored Educator Scholarships (HES) provide selected teachers the opportunity to attend an NCCAT professional development program of their choice, with all expenses covered, including transportation and substitute teacher costs. Additionally, recipients receive $250 for use in their classrooms.

Educators seeking to enhance their skills and connect with peers have an array of engaging seminars to choose from at the North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching (NCCAT) this February. These programs are designed to empower teachers with innovative strategies and tools to succeed in the classroom. At NCCAT, we support and celebrate teachers—the foundation of student success. Join us this February and take your teaching to the next level! Apply today and join us.

NCCAT welcomed 81 participants from across North Carolina to its 2024 Literacy Leaders Conference, held November 14–15 at the Cullowhee campus. The event focused on empowering educators with evidence-based reading research to provide a clear foundation for student success. Attendees engaged in dynamic sessions, explored classroom-transforming practices, and collaborated with literacy leaders from across the state. NCCAT extends gratitude to the sponsors who made this impactful event possible: Scholastic, 95 Percent Group, Lexia Learning, and Great Minds.