Supporting Our Public Schools - Together
Celebrating 25 Years of Impact in Carteret County.
The Carteret Education Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the students, educators, and schools of Carteret County. Since 2000, we've invested over $2.8 million in classroom innovation, teacher development, and crisis assistance, removing barriers to learning and helping our schools thrive.
Get involved—whether you give, volunteer, or partner, your support creates lasting impact.
Professional Development Grant Application Portal Opens July 1st, 2025
Professional Development Grant Application Portal Opens July 1st, 2025
SUPPORTING THE VISION AND CREATIVITY OF OUR EDUCATORS
At the Carteret Education Foundation, we love INNOVATION and fund bold ideas that spark curiosity, creativity, and deeper learning. From pilot programs like HillRAP Reading Program to hands-on STEM projects and school-wide initiatives, we empower educators to bring fresh, effective solutions to life. When teachers imagine new ways to engage students, we’re here to say yes.
REMOVING BARRIERS TO MAKE LEARNING POSSIBLE
When unexpected hardships threaten a student’s ability to focus or an educator’s ability to teach, the Carteret Education Foundation steps in. Through our Staff & Student Assistance Fund, we provide immediate relief, helping with essentials like rent, utilities, medical care, and more. By removing these barriers, we restore a sense of stability and ensure that learning can continue, even in life’s hardest moments.
INVESTING IN THOSE WHO SHAPE OUR FUTURE
At the heart of every great school is a dedicated educator. We invest in the professional growth of teachers and staff through grants that support continuing education, conference opportunities, and scholarships, helping our youth choose teaching as a career right here at home. By equipping our educators with the tools to grow and thrive, we’re not just investing in individuals—we’re investing in the future of every student they inspire.
Join us for a night that celebrates education, community, and impact
The Education Gala, hosted by the Carteret Education Foundation, is our signature event—bringing together friends, partners, and champions of public schools for an unforgettable evening of purpose and celebration. Enjoy a night of inspiration, live entertainment, and the inaugural Education Impact Awards as we honor those making a difference. Your presence supports the programs that lift up our students and staff all year long.
Big Rock Teaching Fellows Scholarship
Open to all Carteret County Public School seniors, the Big Rock Teaching Fellows Scholarship (BRTFS) is designed for students who are passionate about becoming educators right here at home.
This innovative 2+2 scholarship model covers two years at Carteret Community College, followed by two years at a university within the UNC System. In return, recipients commit to teaching in Carteret County for four years after graduation. To support their transition into the classroom, Fellows are also eligible for a Housing Stipend, helping them establish themselves as confident, committed Homegrown Educators.
This program is made possible through the generous support of the Big Rock Foundation, whose investment in future teachers continues to make a lasting impact across our community.
Partner with us for 2025-2026
Join us in shaping a stronger future for Carteret County’s public schools. As a partner, your support helps fund innovative classrooms, invest in teacher growth, and provide emergency assistance when it’s needed most. Whether you’re a business, organization, or individual, partnering with the Carteret Education Foundation is a powerful way to give back—and see real impact right here at home. Let’s work together to make 2025–2026 our most impactful year yet.