Staff Report
Diana Rowland, an educator at Vass-Lakeview Elementary School, and Sandhills Farm Life Elementary Principal Julie MacPherson have been named Moore County Schools Teacher and Principal of the Year, respectively.
Melissa Cox, a fourth-grade teacher at Highfalls Elementary School, was named the district’s Alternate Teacher of the Year
Rowland, a second-grade teacher, had ben Vass-Lakeview’s Teacher of the Year as well. She is widely recognized for her innovative, data-informed instruction, and her ability to cultivate a classroom environment where curiosity is encouraged and students are empowered to explore and thrive.
“Thank you so much for this incredible honor,” Rowland said. “I’m truly humbled to be named Moore County Schools Teacher of the Year. This recognition is a reflection of the amazing students I get to teach, the incredible team I work alongside every day, and the unwavering support of my family.
“I’m grateful to represent MCS and excited to keep doing what I love — helping students grow and shine. Thank you.”
As Teacher of the Year, Rowland will represent Moore County Schools in the Sandhills Region Teacher of the Year competition.
MacPherson, principal of Sandhills Farm Life Elementary School, has more than 20 years of service in Moore County Schools, including leadership roles at the elementary, middle and preschool levels. She has consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment to academic excellence, student growth and school improvement.
Her leadership has contributed to her school exceeding growth for two consecutive years and moving from a C-rated to a B-rated school — within just a few points of achieving an A rating.
“What an incredible honor this is to be named Principal of the Year,” MacPherson said. “This isn’t just about me, though; it’s a reflection of the incredible students who inspire me daily, the dedicated teachers and staff who pour their hearts into their work, and the supportive parents who partner with us.
“I am so fortunate to be surrounded by a community at Sandhills Farm Life that for over 165 years has shared a passion for family, tradition, academic excellence and loving children first.
“This award inspires me to continue the important work of striving for our students to reach their full potential.”
MacPherson will represent Moore County Schools in the Sandhills Region competition for Regional Principal of the Year.
Cox, a fourth-grade teacher at Highfalls Elementary School, has been selected the 2025-2026 Alternate Teacher of the Year. Known for her enthusiasm, adaptability and student-centered approach, Cox transitioned from teaching second to fourth grade this school year and has continued to deliver engaging lessons with what has been described as a “positive urgency.”
“Words can’t truly express how honored and humbled I am to be selected as Alternate Teacher of the Year,” said Cox. “This recognition is incredibly meaningful, and it fills my heart with so much gratitude. To be acknowledged for something that I love so much is truly special.
“The real reward is the joy I experience daily working with my amazing students and their supportive families. Their enthusiasm, curiosity and growth make every challenge worthwhile. I feel incredibly fortunate to have found a profession that I love so deeply, and this award just adds an extra layer of sweetness to an already fulfilling journey.”
“As superintendent of Moore County Schools, I am thrilled to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Melissa Cox, Diana Rowland and Julie MacPherson for their exceptional dedication and contributions to our district,” said Schools Superintendent Tim Locklair. “Their passion for education, unwavering commitment to student success and innovative leadership truly embody the spirit of excellence we strive for in our schools.
“We are immensely proud to have such outstanding individuals representing Moore County Schools as the Alternate Teacher of the Year, Teacher of the Year and Principal of the Year for 2025-26. Their impact on our students, parents, staff and community is immeasurable, and I have no doubt that they will continue to inspire and empower those around them for years to come.”
