North Carolina District Launches $10K Teacher Scholarship

Chatham County Schools just invested in homegrown talent with a new scholarship that pays students to become tomorrow's teachers.

The North Carolina district launched Teach Chatham, a program offering up to $10,000 to high school students who want to return as teachers after college. Students receive $2,500 annually for four years, then teach in Chatham County for four years after graduation.

"This is a grassroots, grow-your-own teacher program right here for Chatham County Schools," said Michelle Burton, Executive Director of Secondary Education. The program targets students starting in 10th grade, giving them early access to education coursework and career-building opportunities throughout the district.

The scholarship addresses a nationwide teacher shortage while keeping community connections strong. Instead of recruiting strangers, Chatham County is betting on students who already know the schools, the families, and the culture.

Callie Fogleman from Jordan Matthews High School and Kyle Stinson from Seaforth High School became the program's inaugural scholarship winners. The Chatham Education Foundation will distribute the funds as students progress through their teacher training.

The Ripple Effect

This investment could transform how districts tackle teacher recruitment nationwide. By starting the pipeline in high school rather than competing for college graduates, Chatham County creates teachers with deep community roots and long-term commitment.

The approach also gives students financial freedom to pursue teaching careers without crushing debt. Four years of support means less reliance on loans and more focus on learning how to educate the next generation.

Beyond the scholarship, Chatham County celebrated other education wins at the same board meeting. Assistant Superintendent Amanda Moran earned North Carolina's 2025 Administrator of the Year award for her leadership in student enrichment and academic competition.

The district also received its seventh consecutive Best Communities for Music Education designation, one of only two North Carolina districts honored. Margaret B. Pollard Middle School band director Rebecca Clemens was named Central District Band Director of the Year.

These recognitions aren't accidental. They reflect a district investing seriously in both students and the educators who shape their futures, creating a cycle where excellence attracts excellence and community members return home to teach.