Cumberland County Schools -

Cumberland County Schools (CCS) proudly celebrates Chris Lucas, an Academically/Intellectually Gifted (AIG) consultant at Cape Fear and Westover high schools, for being recognized as the 2025 North Carolina Association for the Gifted and Talented (NCAGT) Outstanding Teacher of the Gifted.

The prestigious award recognizes educators for their commitment to gifted education, highlighting their dedication to academic excellence, support networks, professional development and expanded advanced coursework.

Lucas was recognized during the 50th Annual NCAGT Conference awards ceremony today at the Embassy Suites & Convention Center in Concord, North Carolina.

He shared what this award means to him. “It is an honor to serve the students and families at Cape Fear High School and Westover High School," said Lucas. "The award is a representation of the amazing level of support both schools and our district's gifted department have provided. That support has allowed for vital growth in access to advanced coursework, academic development and personalized learning to match our young scholars’ unique interests and abilities."

For more information about the district gifted education programs, click here.