GOLDSBORO, N.C. – Wayne County Public Schools has announced administrative changes at two elementary schools, with both transitions set to take effect September 30.

Kelly Holland, current principal of Grantham Elementary, has been named the new principal of Northeast Elementary. Holland will replace Nicole Carter, who announced her retirement earlier this month after more than 28 years of service in education.

“With more than 28 years of education service as a teacher and school administrator, I would be remiss if I did not thank Ms. Carter for her dedicated service to children and families through public education,” said Dr. Marc Whichard, superintendent of Wayne County Public Schools. “We wish her a well-earned retirement.”

Holland brings 24 years of teaching and administrative experience to her new role. She has served as Grantham Elementary’s principal since 2024 and holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, a master’s degree in elementary education, and certification in school administration.

To fill the leadership vacancy at Grantham Elementary, the district has promoted Beverly Anderson from her current position as assistant principal to principal. Anderson’s appointment holds special significance as she is a Grantham native with deep community ties.

“Ms. Anderson is a Grantham native and has a strong understanding of the school community,” district officials noted. “She has lived in the Grantham area her entire life and attended Grantham School (Grades K-8) as a child.”

Anderson’s 21-year career in education includes experience as a teacher, media coordinator, and school administrator, all at Grantham Elementary. She has served as assistant principal since 2024. Her educational credentials include a bachelor’s degree in child development with grades K-6 teacher certification, a master’s degree in Library Science, and a master’s degree in school administration with an added Curriculum & Instruction Specialist licensure.

“Both of these administrators bring with them unique teaching and administrative experience that will benefit the students, staff and families at their respective schools,” Whichard said. “Our district administration looks forward to supporting them and their schools during this transition, and work to support them in their efforts to build upon the academic gains at their schools in the coming year.”

The leadership changes come as Wayne County Public Schools continues its focus on academic improvement and community engagement across the district.