Tony, a proud N.C. Teaching Fellow, earned his degree in Science Education from East Carolina University. With 25 years of dedication to students, families, and educators, he began his career in Johnston County Public Schools, teaching Biology and Physical Science at Clayton High School. In 2001, he was honored as the district’s Outstanding First-Year Teacher.
After gaining early experience in teacher leadership, Tony pursued his Master’s in School Administration from N.C. State University, graduating in 2006. One of the highlights of his tenure as an assistant principal was launching the district’s first Ninth Grade Academy. In this role, he guided students through the transition to high school and played a key role in reducing the rising dropout rates that many schools faced at the time.
In 2010, Tony was honored as the district’s Assistant Principal of the Year, providing him with valuable opportunities to collaborate with district-level leadership. In 2012, he transitioned into the role of Director of Professional Learning for Johnston County Public Schools, where he built strong partnerships with school-based leaders, supporting their work with Professional Learning Communities and Beginning Teachers. He also designed and implemented the district’s first formal Assistant Principal Mentoring Program, a key initiative that became the focus of his dissertation research.
After earning his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Gardner-Webb University, Tony moved to South Florida, where he served as principal of Cypress, a K-8 school in West Palm Beach. During his tenure, he fostered a student-centered culture built on high expectations for all 750 students, many of whom qualified for free or reduced-price meals. Under his leadership, the school's academic performance improved by two letter grades, reflecting the impact of his commitment to excellence. The strong relationships he built with students, teachers, and parents deepened his passion for ensuring high-quality learning experiences for under-resourced children.
Through his work with the NCPFP, Tony supports aspiring administrators, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful and rewarding career in school leadership.
Did you know the NCPFP has graduated over a thousand school leaders since its inception? Having a high-quality, effective school administrator in the building has profound effects on student achievement, school culture, and perceptions of safety. We're proud of what our Fellows continue to do on behalf of NC's students, teachers and parents!
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