West Craven Teacher Nominated for State CTE Award

Hope Mauney recognized as a top CTE educator in North Carolina

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:24am

A high-contrast, silkscreen-style grid of brightly colored educational supplies and tools, representing the hands-on, career-focused approach of CTE teachers like Hope Mauney.A vibrant celebration of the innovative teaching methods and real-world focus that make CTE educators like Hope Mauney stand out in North Carolina.New Bern Today

Craven County Schools is celebrating one of its own, as Hope Mauney, a Career & Technical Education (CTE) teacher at West Craven Middle School, has been nominated for the NCCAT 2027 Burroughs Wellcome Fund NC CTE Teacher of the Year Award. The nomination places Mauney among top educators across North Carolina, all recognized for their impact in the classroom and dedication to student success.

Why it matters

The award highlights the importance of career-focused learning in schools and honors outstanding CTE teachers who are making a lasting difference for their students. Mauney's nomination showcases the excellence in education that Craven County Schools is known for.

The details

Hope Mauney has been nominated for the prestigious NCCAT 2027 Burroughs Wellcome Fund NC CTE Teacher of the Year Award. From nominees across the state, 24 educators will be selected as regional finalists and invited to participate in a week of professional development, with the overall winner announced during a statewide event.

  • Mauney has been nominated for the 2027 award.

The players

Hope Mauney

A Career & Technical Education (CTE) teacher at West Craven Middle School in Craven County, North Carolina.

Holly Tolston

The CTE Director for Craven County Schools, who praised Mauney's innovative teaching and commitment to real-world skills.

Dr. Matthew Cheeseman

The Superintendent of Craven County Schools, who said Mauney's recognition is well deserved and represents the excellence in education that the district is known for.

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What they’re saying

“Hope Mauney exemplifies the very best of Career & Technical Education. Her innovative teaching and commitment to real-world skills make a lasting difference for her students every day.”

— Holly Tolston, CTE Director, Craven County Schools

“We are incredibly proud of Mrs. Mauney. Her passion for student success and excellence in education truly represent what Craven County Schools is all about.”

— Dr. Matthew Cheeseman, Superintendent, Craven County Schools

What’s next

From the pool of nominees, 24 educators will be selected as regional finalists and invited to participate in a week of professional development. The overall winner of the NCCAT 2027 Burroughs Wellcome Fund NC CTE Teacher of the Year Award will be announced during a statewide event.

The takeaway

Mauney's nomination for this prestigious award showcases the exceptional talent and dedication of CTE teachers in Craven County Schools, who are preparing students for success in career-focused learning and real-world skills.