GOLDSBORO, N.C. — Congratulations to Carrie Ocker, winner of the 2026 Bright Future Back to School Contest, a community promotion celebrating local educators and their commitment to creating brighter futures for their students.
Ocker was selected after sharing her excitement and goals for the 2026-2027 school year, including her work helping students in kindergarten through fourth grade discover science, technology, engineering and mathematics through hands-on learning.
“The 2026–2027 school year is looking bright because I get to continue doing what I love—helping Kindergarten through 4th grade students explore STEM through hands-on, engaging learning experiences,” Ocker said.
Ocker said she is looking forward to building on the school’s STEM efforts and giving students additional opportunities to be creative, solve problems and discover that they can be successful in STEM.
One of her biggest goals for the new school year is helping Meadow Lane Elementary School earn the STEM School of Distinction designation.
“If we earn this recognition, we would be the only school in Wayne County to actively hold this distinction,” Ocker said. “It’s a big goal, but one that I know will have a lasting impact on our students, our staff, and our school community.”
Ocker said the new school year also provides an opportunity for her to continue growing as an educator and bring new ideas and experiences into her classroom.
“I’m looking forward to bringing back new ideas and experiences that will help make STEM meaningful and exciting for every student who walks into my classroom,” she said.
As the grand-prize winner, Ocker receives a prize package made possible by local businesses and organizations that joined together to recognize and support area educators.
The prize package includes a $200 gift card from Barnes Jewelers; $200 gift certificate from Pizza Inn; $150 gift card from MiMi’s Boutique; Polywood rocker from Monks Furniture; $100 gas card from Team Chevrolet; $100 Staples gift card from D&J Sand and Gravel; $200 Amazon gift card from State Farm Agent Matt Collier; $50 Starbucks gift card from Communities Supporting Schools; and a $200 Amazon gift card from Goldsboro Builders Supply. Wayne Community College also participated as a community sponsor.
The Bright Future Back to School Contest invited educators to share why their future—and the future of their students—is looking bright for the 2026-2027 school year.
Curtis Media Group and Goldsboro Daily News congratulate Carrie Ocker and thank all of the educators who entered the contest, along with the local businesses and organizations whose support helped make the promotion possible.
Most importantly, the contest offered an opportunity to recognize the teachers who enter their classrooms each day ready to educate, encourage and inspire the next generation.
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