NCPS Principal of the Year Finalists

Leon Dupree

SCHOOL: Rocky Mount Middle School

HOMETOWN: Macclesfield

EDUCATION: bachelor of science in communication, master’s of school administration and doctorate in educational leadership, East Carolina University

YEARS IN EDUCATION: 22

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN EDUCATOR: My desire to use my life experiences to support others in achieving their goals motivated me to pursue a career in education.

Kimberly Rascoe

SCHOOL: Center for Industry, Technology and Innovation (CITI) High School

HOMETOWN: Kelford in Bertie County

EDUCATION: bachelor of science in mathematics, Elizabeth City State University; master of arts in educational leadership, Gardner-Webb University

YEARS IN EDUCATION: 22

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN EDUCATOR: I truly live and believe in Nelson Mandela’s quote, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” I became an educator to not only provide knowledge to students but also to empower them to think critically, pursue their passions, and contribute meaningfully to society.

Allen M. Wilson

SCHOOL: Bailey Elementary School

HOMETOWN: Rocky Mount

EDUCATION: bachelor of science in biology, N.C. Wesleyan University; master’s in executive leadership and doctorate in educational leadership, Gardner-Webb University.

YEARS IN EDUCATION: 10

WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN EDUCATOR: Education was a calling that I was meant to pursue. It is such a rewarding career in which I am able to build relationships with students, staff, and community members to make a positive difference. I consider it an honor to serve the families of Nash County Public Schools as a principal.