Moore County Schools announced the 2025-2026 district-level award recipients for Alternate Teacher of the Year, Teacher of the Year, and Principal of the Year.

“These exceptional educators exemplify the passion, dedication, and leadership that elevate student success and inspire school communities across the district,” said the school district in a media release.

Melissa Cox Named Alternate Teacher of the Year

Melissa Cox, a fourth-grade teacher at Highfalls Elementary School, has been selected as the 2025-2026 Alternate Teacher of the Year. Known for her enthusiasm, adaptability, and student-centered approach, Cox made a seamless transition from second to fourth grade this year and has continued to deliver engaging lessons with what has been described as a “positive urgency,” said the district.

“Words can’t truly express how honored and humbled I am to be selected as Alternate Teacher of the Year,” said Cox. “This recognition is incredibly meaningful, and it fills my heart with so much gratitude. To be acknowledged for something that I love so much is truly special. The real reward is the joy I experience daily working with my amazing students and their supportive families. Their enthusiasm, curiosity, and growth make every challenge worthwhile. I feel incredibly fortunate to have found a profession that I love so deeply, and this award just adds an extra layer of sweetness to an already fulfilling journey.”

Diana Rowland Named Teacher of the Year

Diana Rowland, a dedicated educator at Vass-Lakeview Elementary School, has been named the 2025-2026 Moore County Schools Teacher of the Year. Rowland is widely recognized for her innovative, data-informed instruction and her ability to cultivate a classroom environment where curiosity is encouraged and students are empowered to explore and thrive, said the district.

“Thank you so much for this incredible honor,” Rowland said. “I’m truly humbled to be named Moore County Schools Teacher of the Year. This recognition is a reflection of the amazing students I get to teach, the incredible team I work alongside every day, and the unwavering support of my family. I’m grateful to represent MCS and excited to keep doing what I love—helping students grow and shine! Thank you!”

As Teacher of the Year, Rowland will represent Moore County Schools in the Sandhills Region Teacher of the Year competition.

Julie MacPherson Named Principal of the Year

Julie MacPherson, principal of Sandhills Farm Life Elementary School, has been selected as the 2025-2026 Moore County Schools Principal of the Year. With over 20 years of service in Moore County Schools—including leadership roles at the elementary, middle, and preschool levels—MacPherson has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to academic excellence, student growth, and school improvement, according to the district.

Her leadership has contributed to her school exceeding growth for two consecutive years and moving from a C-rated to a B-rated school—within just a few points of achieving an A rating.

“What an incredible honor this is to be named Principal of the Year!” MacPherson shared. “This isn’t just about me, though; it’s a reflection of the incredible students who inspire me daily, the dedicated teachers and staff who pour their hearts into their work, and the supportive parents who partner with us. I am so fortunate to be surrounded by a community at Sandhills Farm Life that, for over 165 years, has shared a passion for family, tradition, academic excellence, and loving children first. This award inspires me to continue the important work of striving for our students to reach their full potential.”

MacPherson will represent Moore County Schools in the Sandhills Region competition for Regional Principal of the Year.

“As Superintendent of Moore County Schools, I am thrilled to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Melissa Cox, Diana Rowland, and Julie MacPherson for their exceptional dedication and contributions to our district,” Superintendent Dr. Tim Locklair stated. “Their passion for education, unwavering commitment to student success, and innovative leadership truly embody the spirit of excellence we strive for in our schools. We are immensely proud to have such outstanding individuals representing Moore County Schools as the Alternate Teacher of the Year, Teacher of the Year, and Principal of the Year for 2025-26.

“Their impact on our students, parents, staff, and community is immeasurable, and I have no doubt that they will continue to inspire and empower those around them for years to come.”

Feature photo: L to R: Board Chair Dr. Robin Calcutt, Melissa Cox, Diana Rowland, Julie MacPherson, and Superintendent Dr. Tim Locklair.

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Contributed article and photo.