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Dare County Schools has announced that Caitlin Spruill, director of elementary education, has been named the 2025 Outstanding Young Educator by the North Carolina Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (NCASCD). This respected award honors educators under 40 who demonstrate exemplary commitment and exceptional contributions to education.

“I am beyond honored to be named the 2025 Outstanding Young Educator of the Year by NCASCD!” said Spruill. “This recognition reflects the incredible educators, mentors, and colleagues who inspire me daily. My passion for education is fueled by the belief that every student deserves access to high-quality learning experiences, and I’m excited to continue advocating for meaningful change in education.”

According to the DCS announcement, Spruill “has been a driving force for positive change in Dare County Schools, championing initiatives that improve instruction and student achievement. She played a key role in implementing teaching and learning facilitator positions in all K-8 schools, leading to improved instructional practices through coaching, modeling, and reflection. Her creative problem-solving approach extends to all aspects of district operations, from curriculum implementation to professional development for staff. She has been a key supporter as the district has implemented a comprehensive Literacy Intervention Plan and multiple curricula resources to ensure staff have high quality instructional materials and students are receiving highly effective instruction. Her leadership in district wide literacy learning walks has provided valuable insights, shaping instructional strategies to better support the individual needs of each elementary school.”

Beyond her contributions to curriculum and instruction, Spruill has been instrumental in school improvement efforts, noted the announcement. Through hands-on coaching, strategic planning and direct classroom support, she has helped create a culture of collaboration and continuous growth. Her ability to build trust and lead crucial conversations has strengthened leadership and instructional practices across the district, stated DCS.

Spruill’s influence extends beyond Dare County. She has played an active role in statewide and national education initiatives, including collaborating with educators across the country to revitalize summer learning programs through a national summit in Washington, D.C. As a member of the Aspiring Superintendents Cohort, she continues to expand her leadership while advocating for meaningful change in education.

“We are truly blessed to have such a knowledgeable, caring, dedicated, and extremely hardworking educator serving in such a key role in Dare County Schools,” said Dare County Schools Superintendent Steve Basnight. “Her expertise in elementary education, federal programs, budgeting, and innovative educational leadership are making a difference for our students and staff every day. Caitie’s focus is truly purposeful, specific, and targeted on improving student learning, growth, and opportunities while strengthening our staff through professional learning. We are thrilled that she is being recognized statewide for her contributions to our schools and we wholeheartedly agree.”

NCASCD annually recognizes and provides awards in three distinct areas for the talents and accomplishments of educators statewide across classrooms, schools and school systems. “These awards were developed to celebrate the success of our educators on behalf of our students in North Carolina,” stated the announcement.

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