The Education Impact Awards are the highest honors bestowed by the Carteret Education Foundation. Established in 2025 during the Foundation’s 25th Anniversary Celebration, these awards recognize individuals, alumni, partners, and community champions who have rendered significant and distinguished service to public education in Carteret County and beyond.

Each year, the Foundation honors those whose contributions have advanced learning, inspired innovation, and created lasting impact for students, educators, and our community.

The purpose of the Education Impact Awards is to celebrate excellence in education and acknowledge individuals and organizations whose extraordinary efforts strengthen the Carteret County Public School System. Honorees are selected based on their long-standing commitment, leadership, and measurable impact on the lives of students, educators, and families.

Award Categories

Alumni Award: Recognizes graduates of the Carteret County Public School System who have achieved distinction through leadership, service, or innovation and made a significant impact locally, statewide, nationally, or globally.
Eligibility: Must have graduated at least 10 years prior to nomination.

Employee Award: Honors former Carteret County Public School employees who dedicated their careers to advancing student success and enriching education.
Eligibility: Must have served a minimum of 20 years and been separated from employment for at least 5 years.

Individual Award: Recognizes community members who are not graduates or employees of CCPS but whose contributions have profoundly impacted the Foundation, the school system, and the lives of students.

Partner Award: Honors a business, organization, or foundation whose exceptional support has strengthened schools, empowered educators, and expanded opportunities for students across Carteret County.

Nomination & Selection Process

• During the inaugural year, nominations are submitted by the Carteret Education Foundation Board of Directors.

• Beginning in 2026, public nominations will also be accepted to ensure broad community representation.

• A confidential selection committee reviews all nominations and makes the final determination of honorees.

• In the event of a tie, the committee may select two honorees for a single category.

• Nominations that are not selected remain active for three years for future consideration.

Awards Presentation

The Education Impact Awards are presented annually at The Education Gala, the Foundation’s signature celebration of public education. The 2025 Education Gala will be held on:

Date: Saturday, November 8, 2025
Location: NC Aquarium, Pine Knoll Shores
Event Website: www.carteretef.org/gala. Tickets and Partnerships available. Donations can be made in honor of nominees to continue the work of the Foundation in our schools.

This unforgettable evening brings together educators, alumni, community leaders, and supporters to celebrate our honorees and inspire continued investment in Carteret County’s students and teachers.

For questions regarding nominations, event details, or sponsorship opportunities, please contact:

Erica Jones
Development Director
📧 erica@carteretef.org
🌐 (979)324-9567