Brunswick County Schools names two new principals
BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Brunswick County Schools has named two educational leaders to serve as principals for the 2026 – 2027 school year.
Dr. Nicole LaBarre will lead Town Creek Elementary School, and Jodie Pender will serve as principal of Southport Elementary School.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. LaBarre to Brunswick County Schools and to see Jodie Pender step into this new leadership role,” Superintendent Dale Cole said. “Both are student-centered leaders who are passionate about building strong relationships, supporting staff and helping students succeed. I am confident they will have a positive impact on their school communities.”
LaBarre brings more than 20 years of experience in education to Brunswick County Schools.
She currently serves as principal of an elementary school in Pennsylvania’s Northeast Bradford School District and holds an Ed.D. from Binghamton University.
She began her teaching career in North Carolina before moving north and now returns to the state to lead Town Creek Elementary School.
“I am excited to join Brunswick County Schools as an elementary principal,” LaBarre said. “It has been a dream of mine to return to North Carolina, where I began my career in education as a teacher in Scotland and Moore counties. The kindness and support of the people I met during my early years as a teacher have guided my work as an educator and principal. My husband and I have always enjoyed the natural beauty of Brunswick County, and we look forward to becoming part of this amazing community.”
Pender is a veteran Brunswick County Schools educator who has spent nearly two decades with the district in roles that include classroom teacher, instructional coach and assistant principal.
She was named Brunswick County Schools’ 2024 – 2025 Assistant Principal of the Year.
Most recently, Pender served as assistant principal at Bolivia Elementary School, where she focused on teacher leadership, data-driven instruction and building a positive school culture.
She will transition to principal of Southport Elementary School for the 2026 – 2027 school year.
“Southport Elementary has a strong tradition of excellence, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve this incredible school community,” Pender said. “I look forward to building strong relationships with students, staff, families and community partners. Together, we will ensure every child feels supported, challenged and inspired to succeed. It is a privilege to continue serving the students and families of Brunswick County in this new role.”
