New principal announced for West Pender Middle School

PENDER COUNTY, NC  (WWAY) — Pender County Schools has announced that Dr. Ashley Goodlett has been named principal of West Pender Middle School.

A native of Pender County, Dr. Goodlett brings more than 17 years of experience in education along with a personal connection to the community she now returns to serve.

“I am honored to serve West Pender Middle School and look forward to working alongside our students, staff, families, and community partners to continue building a culture of trust, collaboration, and student success,” Goodlett said. “My guiding belief is that the strength of a community is built on strong relationships, and through collaboration, we achieve success.”

Dr. Goodlett began her career as a lateral entry teacher in Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, earning certification as a middle and high school science teacher. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Biology with a minor in Chemistry, a Master of Teaching from Winston-Salem State University, a Post-Master’s Certificate, an Educational Specialist degree, and a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Throughout her career, she has served in leadership roles including Curriculum Coordinator and Assistant Principal in Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools. In 2018, she returned closer to the region and spent the past six years as an assistant principal in New Hanover County Schools, where she focused on strengthening relationships with students, families, and staff.

Officials with Pender County Schools said Goodlett’s return marks a “full-circle moment,” as she brings both professional experience and hometown pride back to the district.

District leaders said they look forward to her leadership at West Pender Middle School as she steps into the role ahead of the upcoming school year.