The best of Cumberland County’s educators were honored Monday at the 2026 Premier Professionals Gala.
“This event is all about celebration,” Superintendent Eric Bracy told those in attendance. “This is about those who remind us why we do this work every day.”
The event, held at the Embassy Suites-Fayetteville/Fort Bragg, honored the school district’s teachers and administrators.
“Our Premier Professionals remind us what it means to be anchored in excellence,” Bracy said. “They set the standard for teaching and leadership, showing how passion and purpose can change the outcome of a student’s life.”
Manzell Spencer Jr., who teaches seventh grade social studies at Douglas Byrd Middle School, was honored as the 2026 Teacher of the Year. The five-year teacher was chosen for his talents integrating the “voices of students and real-world connections.”
Spencer drew laughter and applause as he prepared for his acceptance speech.
His last interview in the selection process was on July 31 “but I would be lying if I said I wasn’t prepared,” Spencer said, reaching inside his coat and pulling out his notes.
“This is an incredible honor, but the honor is not in the title but in the impact [on students],” he said. “I believe in building relationships before delivering content, using student voice as a starting point and designing lessons that reflect the world my students live in, not just one found in textbooks.”
The Principal of the Year went to Latrecia Allen of John Griffin Middle School. She began her career in Cumberland County in 2013 as a teacher at William H. Owen Elementary School, before working in administration and serving as assistant principal and then principal.
“As principal of John Griffin Middle School, my leadership philosophy — every child, every chance and every day — drives our commitment to instructional rigor, cultural relevance and personalized learning,” Allen said.
The Assistant Principal of the Year was Katelyn Lovette, who is at Sunnyside Elementary School. According to the school district, Lovette began working as an educator in 2014, teaching at Rockfish Elementary School.
“We, as public educators, have been entrusted with our nation’s greatest asset, our children,” Lovette said. “It is not just our job, but our responsibility, to ensure that the education we provide to them is of excellent quality and will prepare them for their future.”
Amber Autry, a science teacher at Cape Fear High School, was recognized as Beginning Teacher of the Year. Autry is in her second year of teaching, standing out because of “her clarity, energy and rapport with students,” according to CCS. She was praised by principal Jason Jordan for her management and leadership skills in the classroom.
“Her thoughtful approach to teaching and her strong rapport with students have quickly made her a respected and valued member of our staff,” Jordan said.
Kelly Osornio, a teacher at Cape Fear High School, was named the first runner-up for Teacher of the Year, while Jennifer Guy of Terry Sanford High School was named the second runner-up.
