New Bern, NC – Claudia Casey, Principal of Tucker Creek Middle School, has been selected as the 2019-2020 Principal of the Year for Craven County Schools. In her role as Principal of the Year, she will serve as the local advisor to the Board of Education and will represent Craven County Schools in local, regional and state events. Casey was one of three finalists that interviewed with a local selection committee on October 8th.
During the selection process, Casey stated, “As a parent, a teacher and an administrator, I’ve always felt strongly about setting the example and modeling what I expect.” When asked about an initiative that she feels has been successful under her leadership, she stated, “When I reflect on the early days of becoming a principal, I remember walking through silent hallways and seeing stark white walls. I imagined a school filled with inspiration from children through artwork, photographs, and student work. At Tucker Creek Middle School student artwork now adorns the walls, students and staff wear Tucker Creek Middle School apparel many days of the week, teachers plan and work together throughout the summer to prepare for the next year. Music plays in our café and karaoke Fridays lure even our parents in for lunch! Our Lego Lounge in the café provides students an opportunity to use their imagination and “create” while having lunch. Lunch book clubs assemble in the media center each day. Oh, what a difference a couple of years makes. Most importantly, Tucker Creek has become a happy, inspiring place of learning for students, staff and our community. Students have led many of the changes through sharing their ideas and their inspirations.”
Casey’s story was shared as she stated, “I am humbled to be selected as a candidate for Craven County Principal of the Year! Though my career did not begin in education, I am grateful that my diverse work experiences have led me to discover my passion for working with children as well as with the many professionals who impact children every day.” Casey is the granddaughter of a principal and one of many educators in her family.
When Claudia Casey became principal of Tucker Creek Middle School, she filled the halls with positivity artwork, created a new school logo and developed a new mantra, “Make your mark Mustang.” Congratulations to Ms. Casey for this very deserving recognition. We are very proud of you and all you have accomplished as you “make your mark mustang!”
Jennifer Wagener, Director of Public Relations, Craven County Schools