11-04-2025
South Lenoir High School teacher earns Lenoir County Teacher of the Year
LENOIR COUNTY, N.C. (WNCT) — Tara Carroll, teacher at South Lenoir High School, was named the 2025-2026 Lenoir County Public Schools Teacher of the Year.
'My passion for teaching and math started in my sophomore high school math class at North Lenoir,' Carroll said. 'In my 20 years of teaching, I've taught over 2,000 students, and that seems so crazy to say—but I promise, I did the math.'
As a teacher, Carroll is known for creating a nurturing, energetic, and inclusive classroom culture so every student feels valued and empowered.
'Every student still wants to be loved and praised,' Carroll said. 'And that's the classroom culture I try to create—where we can all leave our worries behind and just do some math together. Because in that hour and a half, we are all together in the same moment for the same purpose: to teach, to learn, to push ourselves and to reach our full potential.'
Carroll was also highlighted for her extensive leadership, noting her service on the School Improvement Board and her role as a mentor to beginning teachers. She is also a National Board-Certified Teacher, which is a testament to her commitment to the profession.
'Mrs. Carroll winning LCPS teacher of the year is such a proud moment for her and for South Lenoir High School,' said South Lenoir High School principal Elizabeth Pierce. 'It reflects the excellence and dedication we strive for each day as a school and as a school district. She has a deep commitment to student success and a passion for education that is shown throughout our entire school community. She creates an environment where students can enjoy the learning process and feel excited about being at school. She exemplifies the very best of what it means to be an educator.'
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