Blog

Aug 28, 2025

NELA’s Dr. Lisa Bass & Dr. Lacey Seaton were named Associate Directors of UCEA’s CIRCLE, along with Dr. Tim Drake as part of the leadership team! With partner universities, NC State continues to support rural school leaders & improving student outcomes!

Aug 27, 2025

Matt Bristow-Smith (NELA III) and NC Principal of the Year (2019) shares his perspective on the importance of North Carolina public schools in an EdNC article.

Aug 13, 2025

Dr. LaAlice Hopkins (NELA IV) has written a children’s book titled “Ben and Waffle: Best Friends.” Congratulations, LaAlice!

Jul 29, 2025

Laura Brown Austin (Southern 2024) received the Pride in Greene Award. This recognition is presented to an individual who exemplifies dedication to Greene County. We’re proud of Laura for demonstrating commitment, positivity, and community spirit!

May 8, 2025

Dr. Kendrick Alston (NELA Cohort II 2013 & NC State EdD graduate) shares about his career path and experience in the NELA program in this NC State College of Education article.

May 1, 2025

Matthew Hickson (DPLA 2018) has been working on the Modern Classrooms Leadership Summit and invites NELA graduates and current NELA students to attend! Click for more information.

Apr 30, 2025

Michael Warholick (Durham/Wake 2023) is 1 of 12 educators selected for the North Carolina Museum of Natural History Educators of Excellence South Africa Institute. The experience is focused on studying the ecosystems and connecting with South African educators.

Apr 30, 2025

Shelley Williams (NELA Cohort I) is the Director of The Clara Hearne Pre-K Center, which uses Conscious Discipline to teach young scholars emotional regulation skills. This method keeps students learning at school, rather than sending them home for challenging behaviors.

Feb 27, 2025

Dr. Kendrick Alston (NELA Cohort II 2013 & NC State EdD graduate) serves as principal of Foust Elementary School. A ribbon cutting marked Foust’s transition to a gaming and robotics school. Foust is the first elementary school in the state with this focus.

Feb 14, 2025

Congratulations to Fran Averre (Los Lobos 2026) who is a WCPSS 2024-25 Teacher of the Year semifinalist!