LCPS posted the following on Facebook:

LCPS has officially started the process of selecting our 2025-2026 Teacher of the Year!

A huge congratulations to the 18 incredible educators who participated in this year’s interview process. Their dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to our students made this an incredibly tough decision. After an extensive round of interviews, four outstanding teachers have been selected to move forward to the next round.

Congratulations to our finalists Tara Carroll from South Lenoir High School, April Modlin from Northwest Elementary School, Beverly McLawhorn from Pink Hill Elementary School, and Deshona Ingram from Southwood Elementary School!

We couldn’t be prouder of all of our LCPS educators. Stay tuned for more updates and join us in celebrating the amazing teachers shaping the future of our district!

Back Row (L-R): Hollie Ayers (Banks), Allyson Heath (Moss Hill), Tara Carroll (South Lenoir), Elizabeth Hamm (Frink), Mattie Sowers (Rochelle), Deshona Ingram (Southwood), Robert Paulk (North Lenoir), John Munoz (Northeast), Briana Rogers (CSS), Katie McRae (LCLA)

Front Row (L-R): Prishonda Daniels (Kinston), Jennifer Bell (Southeast), Jessica Miller (La Grange), Beverly McLawhorn (Pink Hill), April Modlin (Northwest), Madelyn Coates (Woodington), Samantha Harper (ECHS), Toni Smith (Pink Hill Pre-K)

Finalists (L-R): Tara Carroll (South Lenoir), April Modlin (Northwest), Beverly McLawhorn (Pink Hill), Deshona Ingram (Southwood)