Connecting the Dots!
February 2026
Reflections and New Initiatives
Welcome to the latest edition of Connecting the Dots, our quarterly partner newsletter showcasing collaboration, innovation, and growth across our statewide network. Each issue reflects our shared commitment to supporting beginning teachers, strengthening instructional coaching, and celebrating the impact of our university and district partners.
As we reach the midpoint of the school year, our focus turns to Middle-of-Year (MOY) Check-In Meetings—a time to review progress, reflect on data, and plan next steps for continued growth. Regional Directors will schedule these sessions over the coming weeks to ensure teachers receive the responsive support they need to meet their professional goals.
This quarter, we continue to emphasize high-quality planning, instruction, and assessment while introducing new initiatives that integrate Sibme AI tools and Student-Centered Coaching into our framework. These innovations strengthen our ability to analyze evidence, personalize feedback, and connect teacher practice to student outcomes.
We’re also excited to announce a new partnership between Setser Consulting Group and NC NTSP, focused on enhancing communication, branding, and program sustainability to extend our impact statewide.
As we reflect on our collective progress, it’s a perfect time to say thank you for your continued partnership and support. View messages of appreciation from our statewide team on our Kudoboard [https://www.kudoboard.com/boards/oY6Z2GJP]. Enjoy!
Together, we are continuing to connect the dots between teacher development, student success, and lasting educational improvement across North Carolina.
Thank you,
Program Office
Connecting Future Educators and Employers
The App State New Teacher Support Coaches had the opportunity to collaborate with the Career Development Center to attend the fall semester Educational Career Fair, where we welcomed future teachers and prospective employers for critical networking opportunities. Our team helped connect upcoming graduates with potential employers, making introductions and helping ease some of the nerves that come with making big career decisions—such as where to work, which districts to apply to, and what questions to ask.
Districts that provide beginning teachers with New Teacher Support Program (NTSP) were given a special placard to display at their tables. These placards served as a quick visual reference for candidates, highlighting which districts offer this valuable support to help new educators thrive in their first years of teaching.
This event is one we look forward to each semester, as it gives us the chance to celebrate and support those entering the teaching profession. We’re always inspired by the enthusiasm and dedication of these future educators and grateful to play a part in their journey!
Should you have any questions, email Dr. Caroline Beam, Interim Regional Director [beamcs@appstate.edu].
Celebrating and Elevating Education at the 15th Annual Teacher 2 Teacher Conference
The 15th annual Teacher 2 Teacher Conference was held on October 11, 2025, at UNC Charlotte’s Popp-Martin Student Union. Centered on the theme “Celebrate and Elevate Education,” the event brought together educators from across North Carolina to share innovative practices, connect across districts, and uplift teacher voices.
The keynote address was delivered by Erica Turner, Executive Director of Athletics for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, who inspired attendees with her message on leadership, empowerment, and the impact of educators both in and beyond the classroom.
Should you have any questions, please email Elisabeth Wilson, Regional Director [elisabeth.wilson@charlotte.edu ].
Teachers enjoyed time together at our T2T conference!
Two of our awesome presenters and NCNTSP coaches, Lindsay Schultz and Christina Rose.
Participants enjoyed their choice of sessions all day long!
A Day of Growth and Collaboration
It was inspiring to see such a strong turnout and commitment to excellence from our local school districts. Teachers traveled from Pitt, Tyrrell, Martin, Hyde, Craven, and Beaufort Counties to participate, creating a dynamic and collaborative atmosphere.
The conference offered valuable tools and insights designed to support and empower these dedicated professionals as they navigate their crucial first years in the classroom. This initiative highlights the powerful role of the ECU College of Education and the NTSP in strengthening the teaching profession across eastern North Carolina.
A huge thank you to all the coaches, presenters, and participants for making this professional development event a resounding success! The future of education is bright with these talented teachers leading the way.
Should you have any questions, email Dr. Christopher Rivera, Regional Director [RIVERAC@ECU.EDU]
A Family Legacy of Art: Mr. Mullen Showcases Work at NC State
Mr. Donovan Mullen, the art teacher for Perquimans County Middle School, recently displayed his art alongside the work of his father and his brother at NC State's Witherspoon Student Center. Donovan may be seen on the right of the first photo displaying his father's work, along with his father (center) and brother (left). Donovan responded to questions (2nd photo) from an attentive and packed gallery in attendance (3rd photo). His work, along with his goal to make his classroom a "mental paradise," inspires his students daily to conceive, create, and refine their artistic expressions.
Should you have any questions, email Dr. Devin Aucoin, Regional Director, [dpatter2@ncsu.edu].
Teaching Fellows Partnerships in Action
The UNC-Chapel Hill Regional team had the pleasure of joining North Carolina Teaching Fellows Partner Institutions for their site visit to UNC-Chapel Hill on September 25th. The meeting was held at the Ackland Art Museum and included opportunities for networking, program updates, robotics demonstrations, exploration of the Ackland museum and a panel conversation with UNC-Chapel Hill Teaching Fellows! We ended the afternoon with a visit and student-led tour at Orange High School. It was a full day of meaningful interactions that highlighted the value of both the Teaching Fellows program and our district partner, Orange County Schools. We are a proud partner of both, and their amazing support of beginning teachers!
Should you have any questions, email Dr. Amy Richardson, Regional Director [amyrich@email.unc.edu].
UNC-Chapel Hill Teaching Fellows Director,Nicole Damico, shares updates at the NC directors site visit at the Ackland Art Museum on UNC-Chapel HIll’s Campus.
(Photo credit, NC Teaching Fellows)
Celebrating Leadership Growth: Tasha Hartzfeld’s Journey in ABSS
Should you have any questions, contact Dr. Faith Freeman, Regional Director [FABROWN@uncg.edu].
Building a Pipeline of American Indian Educators Through Culture and Community
The FATE Scholars presented at the National Indian Education Association (NIEA) Conference in Spokane, Washington, sharing their powerful session titled “Growing Our Own: The FATE Program Model for Developing and Supporting American Indian Educators.”
The First Americans’ Teacher Education (FATE) Program at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke is dedicated to recruiting, preparing, and supporting American Indian educators who return to serve their home communities. Through culturally responsive coursework, mentorship, scholarships, and professional development, FATE empowers future teachers to embrace their heritage, strengthen community partnerships, and promote educational equity.
During the presentation, FATE Scholars highlighted how the program builds a sustainable pipeline of Indigenous educators by integrating culture, community, and commitment into every stage of teacher development—from recruitment through induction.
Should you have any questions, email Dr. Karen Granger, Regional Director [karen.granger@uncp.edu].
Classroom Management Takes Center Stage
Should you have any questions, contact Jennifer Knight, Interim Regional Director [knightjh@uncw.edu].
RISE West 2025: Strategies for Increasing Student Engagement
Should you have any questions, contact Melissa Faetz, Regional Director [mkfaetz@wcu.edu].