This Teacher Appreciation Week, we celebrate the educators and school leaders who help shape a stronger future for our region every single day.
The Endowment’s Education pillar is rooted in the goal of ensuring every child in New Hanover County has strong learning opportunities from birth through graduation. We pursue that goal by investing in initiatives that support early childhood, excellent teachers, whole-child learning, and students’ exploration of college and career pathways.
This goal cannot be reached without the extraordinary teachers, principals, and school staff who bring dedication, creativity, and care to students at every stage of their journey.
New Hanover County teachers do far more than deliver lessons. They inspire curiosity, build confidence, create safe and welcoming classrooms, and help young people discover what is possible for their lives. Their work reaches well beyond school walls, influencing families, strengthening neighborhoods, and helping build a healthier, more prosperous community for everyone.
Earlier this year, our President and CEO, Sophie Dagenais, and Dori Bishara participated in Principal for a Day, led by the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce and hosted by New Hanover County Schools, alongside community leaders from across the county. The experience provided an opportunity for leaders to listen, learn, and gain a deeper understanding of the realities educators and school leaders navigate each day. It also reinforced the importance of strong partnerships among schools, businesses, nonprofit organizations, families, and the community to support student success.
A special thank you to Gregory Elementary School for opening its doors and to Hilda de León for her leadership and partnership, not only in supporting this experience, but in the work she leads every day on behalf of her staff and students.
We are grateful for leaders who show up for students with patience, resilience, and purpose, often in ways that go unseen, but never unnoticed. Their commitment helps create the conditions for learning, growth, and opportunity for New Hanover County students.
This week, and every week, we thank the educators who make a lasting difference in the lives of young people in New Hanover County.
Our community is stronger because of you.
