Cumberland County Schools (CCS) rolled out the red carpet tonight for the Premier Professionals ‘Of the Year’ Gala, a celebration honoring the district’s most exceptional educators and school leaders.
Held at Embassy Suites–Fayetteville/Fort Bragg, the event highlighted the passion, dedication and impact of teachers, principals and assistant principals who make a difference in the lives of students each day. District leadership, Board of Education members and staff joined together in a spirited evening of recognition for these remarkable professionals.
“Our Premier Professionals remind us what it means to be anchored in excellence,” said CCS Superintendent Dr. Eric Bracy. “They set the standard for teaching and leadership, showing how passion and purpose can change the outcome of a student’s life.”
2026 Principal of the Year
Dr. Latreicia Allen was named the 2026 Principal of the Year, one of the district’s most prestigious honors. Dr. Allen began her CCS journey in 2013 as a teacher at William H. Owen Elementary School before moving into leadership at the school as assistant principal and later serving as the principal. She currently serves as the principal at John Griffin Middle School. She earned her Doctor of Education from Fayetteville State University in 2022.
At John Griffin Middle, Dr. Allen is known for connecting leadership responsibilities to the broader mission and vision of the school, helping staff see how their efforts drive success. "As principal of John Griffin Middle School, my leadership philosophy, every child, every chance, every day, drives our commitment to instructional rigor, cultural relevance and personalized learning," said Dr. Allen.
2026 Principal of the Year Dr. Latreicia Allen
2026 Assistant Principal of the Year
Katelyn Lovette received the distinction of 2026 Assistant Principal of the Year. She began her career in education in 2014 as a teacher at Rockfish Elementary School and now serves as assistant principal at Sunnyside Elementary. Lovette holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Averett University and a master’s degree in School Administration from UNC Pembroke.
Lovette sees her work as more than a job. “We, as public educators, have been entrusted with our nation’s greatest asset, our children,” said Lovette. “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.”
2026 Assistant Principal of the Year Katelyn Lovette
2026 Teacher of the Year
Douglas Byrd Middle School’s Manzell Spencer, Jr. was honored as the 2026 Teacher of the Year. A creative and dedicated educator with five years of experience in the classroom, Spencer is recognized for weaving the student voice and real-world connections into his lessons.
"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 the one found in textbooks," said Spencer.
2026 Teacher of the Year Manzell Spencer, Jr.
2026 Teacher of the Year Runners-Up
Cape Fear High School teacher Kelly Osornio was announced as the first runner-up, while Terry Sanford High School’s Jennifer Guy was named the second runner-up.
2026 Beginning Teacher of the Year
Amber Autry, a science teacher at Cape Fear High School, earned the title of 2026 Beginning Teacher of the Year. Entering only her second year of teaching, Autry has already distinguished herself because of her clarity, energy and rapport with students.
Cape Fear High School Principal Dr. Jason Jordan praised her leadership in the classroom. “Amber demonstrated a natural ability to lead, managing her students with confidence and creating a structured, respectful learning environment,” said Dr. Jordan. “Her thoughtful approach to teaching and her strong rapport with students have quickly made her a respected and valued member of our staff.”
2026 Beginning Teacher of the Year Amber Autry
View the prizes for each winner here. Photos from tonight’s gala will be available below later this evening.