“I believe that all students have the capacity to learn and deserve a quality education… Lessons should be rigorous and infused with twenty-first century skills and content, so that students will develop skills to think critically, communicate effectively, collaborate successfully, and be creative,” Cary stated as part of her philosophy statement. “It is crucial for me to support my staff, protect my staff from distractions, trust my staff to make decisions that directly impact what they do, and provide the necessary resources for them to achieve our mission, which is to provide quality instruction to all students.”
Cary will now continue to compete with other local award recipients from the Northeast Region of the state. After the state selection process is completed, one principal will be selected as the 2012 North Carolina Principal of the Year in a program sponsored by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and Wachovia, a Wells Fargo Company.
Burt has worked in education for 9 years, where three of those years have been in administration. Throughout her work at Eastern, she has helped reduce out of school suspensions by 50 percent and increase Reading and Math proficiencies.
“You cannot teach enthusiasm to your students, teachers and parents that you serve; you have to infuse it. The only way you can do this is by leading through example,” Burt wrote as part of her philosophy statement. “When I think of the work we do as educators, nothing is more important than providing children with a positive and successful school experience, one that prepares them equitably for the 21st century.”
Cary and Burt received gifts from the Pitt County Educational Foundation, the Pitt County Principals and Assistant Principals Association, Robinson & Associates, Wal-Mart of Greenville, Mark III Employee Benefits Company, Sheetz, Inc., Texas Roadhouse, and the Xerox Sales Agency-Document Solutions East, Darrell Harrison, Owner. Cary received additional gifts from the Fresh Market, East Carolina University Athletic Ticket Office, Barnes & Nobles and Adam’s Auto Wash.
