Cumberland County Schools (CCS) recently hosted the Premier Professionals 'Of the Year' Gala to honor outstanding teachers, principals, and assistant principals. The event, held at Embassy Suites–Fayetteville/Fort Bragg, celebrated the dedication and positive impact these educators have on students' lives. Superintendent Dr. Eric Bracy commended the honorees for setting a high standard of excellence and for their passion and purpose.

Principal of the Year – Dr. Latreicia Allen, John Griffin Middle School

Assistant Principal of the Year – Katelyn Lovette, Sunnyside Elementary

Teacher of the Year – Manzell Spencer, Jr., Douglas Byrd Middle School

Beginning Teacher of the Year – Amber Autry, Cape Fear High School

In addition to the prestigious community awards and recognition, local sponsors showed their appreciation and support for the recipients' hard work by donating the following prizes:

Beginning Teacher of the Year

• A trophy-award and flowers from CCS

• An iPad from CCS

• $200 from CCS

• $200 from Olde Fayetteville Insurance and Financial Services, Inc.

• A set of season passes from Fayetteville Marksmen pro hockey

• $100 gift card from School Tools of Fayetteville

• $25 gift card from Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen

Teacher of the Year

• A trophy-award and a plant from CCS

• $300 from CCS

• $500 from Olde Fayetteville Insurance and Financial Services, Inc.

• $3,000 from LaFayette Ford & LaFayette Lincoln ($1,000 for personal use and $2,000 for his/her school)

• A commemorative custom-designed CCS’ Teacher of the Year ring from Jostens

• A set of season passes from Fayetteville Marksmen pro hockey

• A night’s stay at Embassy Suites-Fayetteville/Fort Bragg

• $100 gift card to Luigi’s Italian Chophouse and Bar

Assistant Principal of the Year

• A trophy award and flowers from CCS

• A rolling desk from CCS

• $400 from CCS

• $500 from Olde Fayetteville Insurance and Financial Services, Inc., for personal use.

• A set of season passes from Fayetteville Marksmen pro hockey

• $25 gift card to Blue Moon Cafe

Principal of the Year

• A trophy award  and flowers from CCS

• $500 from CCS

• $4,500 from LaFayette Ford & LaFayette Lincoln ($1,500 for personal use and $3,000 for his/her school)

• A commemorative custom-designed CCS’ Principal of the Year ring from Jostens

• A set of season passes from Fayetteville Marksmen pro hockey

• A night’s stay at Embassy Suites-Fayetteville/Fort Bragg

• $135 gift card for a facial and massage at The Venetian European Spa & Salon

Many more prizes were given to finalists and runner-ups for each category.