West Brunswick agriculture teacher named finalist for state CTE Teacher of the Year award

Brunswick County Schools is proud to announce that Kelly Richardson, agriculture teacher at West Brunswick High School, has been named a finalist for the North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching 2027 Burroughs Wellcome Fund North Carolina Career and Technical Education Teacher of the Year Award.

Richardson is one of 24 finalists from across North Carolina recognized for excellence in career and technical education pathways and for their commitment to student success.

“In Brunswick County Schools, we see firsthand the impact that outstanding Career and Technical Education teachers have on the lives of students every day,” said Dawn Hollis, director of Career and Technical Education for Brunswick County Schools. “Kelly Richardson exemplifies the dedication, innovation and passion that make CTE programs successful. Her commitment to providing students with meaningful, hands-on learning experiences and preparing them for college, careers and lifelong success is truly exceptional.”

The award was developed by NCCAT, in partnership with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and the North Carolina Association for Career and Technical Education, to honor outstanding CTE educators, encourage teacher leadership and highlight the importance of CTE instruction in North Carolina public schools.

“Our mission at West Brunswick is to prepare students to be leaders and socially responsible citizens,” said Justin Hayes, principal of West Brunswick High School. “Kelly Richardson is the perfect example of that mission in action. Between her work as a CTE teacher and FFA advisor, she has built a culture that challenges students to excel while giving them the practical skills they need to succeed in the real world.”

Richardson will be recognized this summer during the Summer Conference Keynote and Awards Gala in Winston-Salem. She will continue in the award process this fall through NCCAT’s Career and Technical Education Teacher of the Year Program.

Finalists will attend a week of professional development from Oct. 26-30. The winner will be announced during a recognition event Oct. 29 at the Embassy Suites in Concord.

Brunswick County Schools congratulates Richardson on this well-deserved honor and thanks her for her continued dedication to students, West Brunswick High School and Career and Technical Education across the district.