North Carolina Central University partnered with the Innovation Project to launch a new scholarship program. This initiative aims to support aspiring principals in small, high-need districts across North Carolina.
The Recruitment, Retention, and Promotion of Effective Educators scholarship program will provide over $1.5 million in scholarships to prepare educators for leadership roles through NCCU’s online Master of School Administration program.
The RRP scholarship program covers full tuition for the two-year MSA program, which is funded by the U.S. Department of Education and the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction.
During the first year, participants can continue contributing in their current classrooms. In the second year, they will transition into principal intern roles, which will provide them with valuable hands-on experience in leadership. Salary assistance will also be available for participants during their second year.
Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon emphasized the importance of empowering educators to lead in high-need districts. “Our collaboration with the Innovation Project is a powerful step in empowering educators to lead and transform high-need districts,” said Chancellor Dixon. “At NCCU, we are dedicated to preparing leaders who will not only excel in their roles but also make a lasting impact on the communities they serve.”
Recently, NCCU hosted an orientation for the first cohort of 16 educators selected from eight TIP member districts.
“With strong support, great teachers can become great principals. North Carolina Central University has been the perfect partner to help TIP build this program,” said Sharon Contreras, Ph.D., CEO of TIP. “The interview process was especially dynamic and illuminated those candidates with the potential to do the work our students need and deserve. I’m thrilled with the outcome, and I look forward to seeing these professionals advance in their careers and continue to serve in smaller districts.”
Scholarship Recipients
The selected scholarship recipients, who committed to fulfilling a five-year service obligation in their respective districts, include:
- Cecelia Aguilar, Warren County School District
- Trevor Beverly, Lexington City Schools
- James Brown, Warren County School District
- Qua’Shana Brown, Edgecombe County Public Schools
- Sylvia Carver, Elizabeth City – Pasquotank Public Schools
- Wilonda Gillespie-Cates, Vance County Public Schools
- J’Vonn Davis, Elizabeth City – Pasquotank Public Schools
- Megan Gentry, Mt. Airy School District
- Pamela Jordan, Warren County School District
- Ashley Knowles, Sampson County Schools
- Brandon Powell, Sampson County Schools
- Jennivise Lindsay, Vance County Public Schools
- Kenya Raynor, Edgecombe County Public Schools
- Elaine Reales, Mt. Airy School District
- West Scherer, Asheboro City Schools
- Danielle Wissner, Elizabeth City – Pasquotank Public Schools
