Bailey Elementary Teacher Named NCCAT Beginning Teacher of the Year Finalist

Nashville, NC — January 7, 2026 — The North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching (NCCAT) has selected Erica Puente, a fifth-grade teacher at Bailey Elementary School, as a finalist for the 2026 Burroughs Wellcome Fund NC Beginning Teacher of the Year Award.

Puente, who also serves as Nash County Public Schools’ Beginning Teacher of the Year for the 2025–2026 school year, is one of a select group of educators from across North Carolina chosen for this prestigious honor. The award recognizes outstanding beginning teachers who demonstrate excellence in the classroom, leadership potential, and a deep commitment to student success.

Now in her second year of teaching, Puente says she chose the profession out of a desire to make a meaningful difference in students’ lives.

“I’ve always been passionate about helping children grow, not just academically, but also socially and emotionally,” Puente said. “Teaching allows me to build relationships, inspire curiosity, and help students develop confidence in themselves as learners.”

At Bailey Elementary, Puente says the strong sense of community is what makes the school special.

“Our students are kind, resilient, and eager to grow,” she shared. “I love watching them have those ‘aha’ moments and seeing their confidence increase as they master new skills. Bailey is a place where students feel safe to take risks and truly add to their learning.”

As part of her selection, Puente has been invited to participate in NCCAT’s Beginning Teacher of the Year Program, held March 9–13, 2026, at the Truist Leadership Center in Greensboro, North Carolina. The weeklong program includes leadership development sessions, collaborative discussions, interviews, and opportunities for finalists to share best practices from their classrooms.

The official recognition event will take place on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Puente will also be recognized at the Nash County Board of Education Meeting on Thursday, January 8, 2026.

Puente credits Nash County Public Schools with providing strong support throughout her early career, including mentoring, professional development, and collaborative opportunities with colleagues.

“I’ve been encouraged to ask questions, reflect on my practice, and continuously improve,” Puente said. “That support has helped me grow professionally and feel confident in my role in the classroom.” 

Linda Cooper, Principal at Bailey Elementary, shares, "I am proud of Mrs. Puente’s accomplishments. It is remarkable to see such dedication and skill in a beginning teacher. Her commitment to teaching and learning is evident in everything she does. She consistently works to create strong, meaningful relationships with her students, helping each one reach their full potential."

District leaders praised Puente for her impact and dedication. “I am proud of Mrs. Puente for this well-deserved recognition,” said Dr. Sylvia Anthony-McGeachy, Director of Beginning Teachers for Nash County Public Schools. “She creates a classroom environment where students feel valued and supported. Her professionalism, collaboration with colleagues, and commitment to excellence make her a powerful example of the promise and potential of beginning teachers across our state.”

NCCAT representatives will also recognize Puente at an upcoming Nash County Public Schools Board of Education meeting later this school year.

Dr. Steve Ellis, Superintendent, goes on to say, “Erica Puente represents the best of Nash County Public Schools. Even in just her second year, she has made a meaningful impact through her dedication to students and excellence in the classroom. We are incredibly proud of her and this well-deserved recognition.”

Puente’s selection as a finalist highlights the district’s strong support for beginning teachers and the exceptional educators serving students across Nash County.

 

Pictured from Left to Right: Sheila Wallace (NCPS Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and Federal Programs), Kristin Register (MCL at Bailey Elementary), Erica Puente, Dr. Sylvia Anthony-Geachy (NCPS Director of Beginning Teachers), Linda Cooper (Principal at Bailey Elementary)

 

Photo of Erica Puente and her class. 

###

Media Contact:
Caroline Johnson
Communications Department
csjohnson@ncpschools.net