Moore County Schools hosted its third annual STEM and Technology Awards Day on May 28, recognizing accomplishments in technology education from across the district. Interim Superintendent Jenny Purvis delivered the keynote address, highlighting the district’s commitment to STEM education and its role in preparing students for a dynamic and evolving workforce.
A standout moment of the event was the presentation of the prestigious Frick Technology Achievement Award to two seniors: Emma Morgan of North Moore High School and Reece Carlson of Pinecrest High School. Both students were recognized for their accomplishments to date and their clear vision for future success. The financial award is made possible by Pinehurst native and former IBM executive Ed Frick, who has partnered with Moore County Schools for more than five years to champion student success.
“If I can do it, anyone can do it,” said Frick in a school district news release. “You just need to seize the opportunity, make a plan, and work hard.”
The event also celebrated the West Pine Middle School robotics team, “Zero Sugar Cherry Dr. Pepper 2,” for taking first place at the Middle School Robotics Competition on May 1 at Pinecrest High School. Purvis and Robotics Program Coordinator Will Allred presented the recognition. The team, led by coach Kenneth Holloman, earned the competition’s highest score by demonstrating exceptional skill in programming, engineering, and problem-solving.
Kathy Slate of The Community Learning Center at Pinckney was recognized as the 2026 STEM and Computer Science Teacher of the Year. Since joining Moore County Schools in 2003, Slate has empowered students through innovative STEM instruction and competitive technology opportunities. The award includes a financial component to support and advance STEM education in her classroom.
“Moore County Schools remains committed to fostering student talent and equipping learners to take advantage of the limitless opportunities presented by an increasingly technology-driven world,” said the school district in a news release. “Will Herring, Assistant Director for Technology, emphasized that while the future will continue to evolve, students must be innovative, adaptable, resourceful, and creative to thrive. Through daily instruction and hands-on learning opportunities, Moore County Schools staff work diligently to prepare students for tomorrow’s workforce by developing both foundational skills and solutions-oriented mindsets.”
Feature photo: The team Zero Sugar Cherry Dr. Pepper 2 of West Pine Middle School won the district’s Middle School Robotics Competition on May 1 at Pinecrest High School. Left to right: Coach Kenneth Holloman, Jaxon Walsh, Kane VanHulle, Jordan Caudell, Alexander Stephens, and Robotics Program Coordinator Will Allred.
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