Hannah Moon Named SE Region Teacher of the Year

Hannah Moon ’08M has been named the 2025 Burroughs Wellcome Fund Southeast Region Teacher of the Year. She currently teaches English II, English IV, and Advanced Placement (AP) Literature at Laney High School, where she has taught for the past 20 years.

“Mrs. Moon is an exceptional educator who embodies the qualities and dedication that this prestigious honor represents,” said NHCS Interim Superintendent Dr. Chris Barnes. “Through her innovative teaching practices, leadership roles, and community engagement, she has demonstrated a remarkable ability to inspire students, foster a positive school culture, and make a lasting impact on those around her.”

Moon graduated from UNCW with a degree in English Literature, a teaching certificate, and a master's degree in secondary education. In 2021, she earned National Board Certification, the highest possible certification in the teaching profession.

She has maintained strong ties to UNCW’s Watson College of Education as a PDS partnership teacher and member of the 2022-2025 cohort of PDS Master Teachers, which honors outstanding educators who exemplify excellence in teaching. She is also a member of  the newly created Joy in Teaching Network for high school teachers, initiated by WCE faculty members Denise Ousley and Robert Smith.

“Hannah is an amazing person and a wonderful teacher,” Dr. Ousley said. “Every day she personifies what we hope to see when we talk about ‘Teaching with Joy.’ The secondary faculty are thrilled to see her receive this recognition.”

Moon will now advance to compete against eight other educators statewide for the 2025 North Carolina Teacher of the Year title. The winner will be announced in Spring 2025.

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New Hanover County Schools Staff Highlights, December 30 Hannah Moon Named 2025 Burroughs Wellcome Fund Southeast Region Teacher of the Year

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