Pender County Schools

Pender County Schools is among the fastest growing school districts, by rate, in the state of North Carolina. Our students continually exceed local and state performance on North Carolina End of Grade and End of Course tests. PCS has an enrollment of approximately 10,500 students. Each school day more than 1,200 employees work to provide an environment that capitalizes on students' natural curiosity, nurtures their desire to learn, and respects their individual learning style. Our goal is to help children become productive members of society. The district is made up of 19 schools which include eight elementary schools, five middle schools, three traditional high schools, an Early College High School, a K-8 school and the Pender Innovative Learning Academy which encompasses several personalized learning pathways, including a virtual pathway (grades 6-12), STAR (Students Taking Alternate Routes) pathway (grades 6-12), and day treatment supports (K-12). PCS offers a wide variety of academic opportunities and learning experiences that include innovative science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs, a commitment to the creative arts, preparation for college and career, and a well-rounded instructional program in all academic areas. Pender Early College became the county’s first National Blue Ribbon School in 2021, and is one of only eight to earn the distinction in North Carolina. By graduating 93.2% of its students for the 2020-21 school year, Pender County Schools was recognized as a top ten school district by the State Board of Education. At Pender County Schools, we understand the need to prepare our students for the world in which they will live. We believe this means providing an environment that is challenging, interesting, and wholesome. We are serious about creating the best experiences that give our students a clear path from the classroom to careers.