Moore County Schools recognized the 2026-2027 Principal of the Year, Teacher of the Year, and Alternate Teacher of the Year at a banquet on April 21.
Kimberly Coe Named Principal of the Year
Kimberly Coe, principal of New Century Middle School, has been selected as the Moore County Schools Principal of the Year. With 16 years in education, Coe has served Moore County Schools in multiple roles, beginning as a Special Education teacher before moving into school leadership. She has led New Century Middle School since 2022, building a strong school culture focused on student growth, collaboration, and community connection, according to a district press release.
Coe was unanimously selected by her fellow principals, reflecting the respect and confidence her peers have in her leadership.
“I am deeply honored by this recognition, especially knowing it comes from my fellow principals, said Coe in the press release. “This work is never about one person. It is about the students we serve, the teachers and staff who give their best each day, and the families who trust us with their children. I am proud to be part of a community that is committed to doing what is best for students, and I look forward to continuing that work together.”
Coe will represent Moore County Schools in the Sandhills Region Principal of the Year competition.
Jennifer Cambria Named Teacher of the Year
Jennifer Cambria, a fifth-grade English Language Arts and Social Studies teacher at Southern Pines Elementary School, has been named the Moore County Schools Teacher of the Year. With 23 years of experience in education, Cambria brings a deep commitment to student-centered learning and building strong relationships with students and families, the press release said.
Cambria is widely recognized for designing engaging, hands-on learning experiences that foster curiosity, collaboration, and a love of learning. Her work includes leading professional development, supporting literacy instruction, and helping students achieve strong academic growth.
“This recognition is truly humbling,” said Cambria. “Teaching has always been about creating a classroom where students feel known, valued, and excited to learn. I have been fortunate to learn from incredible educators throughout my career, and I carry those lessons with me every day. I am grateful for my students, my colleagues, and this community that makes our work so meaningful.”
As Teacher of the Year, Cambria will represent Moore County Schools in the Sandhills Region Teacher of the Year competition.
William Frye Named Alternate Teacher of the Year
William Frye, an eighth-grade Social Studies teacher at New Century Middle School, has been selected as the Moore County Schools Alternate Teacher of the Year. Now in his fifth year in education, Frye is known for creating an engaging classroom environment where students think critically, participate in meaningful discussions, and connect their learning to the world around them, said the release.
In addition to his classroom work, Frye serves as the AYPYN Program Coordinator, a School Improvement Team representative, and a member of the Teacher Leadership Council. He is also actively involved in student life as an assistant coach for the boys basketball team.
“I am incredibly honored to be named Alternate Teacher of the Year,” said Frye. “Teaching is about helping students find meaning in what they are learning and building the confidence to engage with the world around them. I am grateful to work alongside colleagues who challenge and support me and to teach students who inspire me every day to continue growing as an educator. Everything that I do is for my students.”
“On behalf of the Moore County Schools Board of Education, I would like to congratulate Mr. Frye, Mrs. Cambria, and Mrs. Coe on this well-deserved recognition,” said School Board Chair Dr. Robin Calcutt. “These educators represent the very best of our district through their commitment to students, their leadership within their schools, and their dedication to continuous growth. We are proud of the impact they make each day and wish them the very best as they represent Moore County Schools at the regional level.”
Feature photo: William Frye (left), Jennifer Cambria, and Kimberly Coe.
Contributed article/photo.
