This evening, Cumberland County Schools (CCS) honored its top educators and school administrators during the Premier Professionals 'Of the Year' Gala. This prestigious event, held at Embassy Suites, recognized the dedication and excellence of the district’s teachers, principals and assistant principals. Attendees included district leaders, school staff and the Board of Education.
“Our Premier Professionals exemplify the commitment, innovation and passion that drive student success in Cumberland County Schools,” said CCS Superintendent Dr. Marvin Connelly, Jr. “These honorees are not just educators; they are leaders who inspire and uplift our students every day.”
2025 Principal of the Year
Dr. Shanessa Fenner was celebrated as the highly sought after 2025 Principal of the Year! Dr. Fenner started her CCS career in 2002 as an assistant principal at Max Abbott Middle School before becoming the principal at William T. Brown Elementary School, where she presently serves. She earned her doctorate of education in 2010 from Fayetteville State University.
According to Dr. Fenner, her servant leadership style fosters an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect within her school, as she leads by example. "My attitude is consistent and I am very visible, approachable and accessible at all times," said Fenner.
2025 Assistant Principal of the Year
Jernise Flood Rucker was recognized as the 2025 Assistant Principal of the Year. Rucker began working in education in 2008, the year she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Birth-Kindergarten Education from Fayetteville State University. She began working for Cumberland County Schools as a 3rd-grade teacher and grade-level chair at Westarea Elementary School in 2014. Rucker received a masters degree in School Administration, from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke in 2019.
She currently serves as the assistant principal at Westarea Elementary School and is pursuing a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from Fayetteville State University.
2025 Teacher of the Year
Alianna Sigler, a standout educator known for her student-centered approach and dedication, was named the 2025 Teacher of the Year. Sigler has served as an EC teacher at Elizabeth Cashwell Elementary School for the past two years. Overall, Sigler has nine years of experience in teaching.
Sigler works to build strong partnerships with the parents of her students. "I understand that as a teacher, I am an important stakeholder in the well-being of the students I teach," said Sigler. "I am not only an advocate for them, but also a partner and an advocate for their parent(s)."
2025 Teacher of the Year Runners-Up
Shannon Edwards, a teacher at Cape Fear High School was recognized as the first runner-up. The second runner-up was Sara Coursey, a teacher at Long Hill Elementary School.
2025 Beginning Teacher of the Year
Haleigh Baker was honored as the 2025 Beginning Teacher of the Year. Baker is known for her passion for teaching and innovative classroom practices. She integrates music, art and movement into her lessons, creating a supportive learning environment for her students. Her dedication is shown through significant contributions to school-wide initiatives and programs. Baker currently serves as a math teacher at Cumberland International Early College High School.
Event Sponsors and Supporters
The success of the 2025 Premier Professionals Gala was made possible by the generous support of LaFayette Ford Lincoln, Olde Fayetteville Insurance & Financial Services Inc., ESS, Fayetteville Marksmen, Jostens, Lifetouch, Embassy Suites and the E.E. Smith High School Jazz Band. Their contributions underscore the strong community partnerships that enrich the educational experience in Cumberland County Schools.
View the prizes for each winner here. Photos from tonight’s gala will be available here later tonight.
