JCPS CTE: Powered by Passionate Professionals

At Johnston County Public Schools (JCPS), Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs thrive because of dedicated professionals who drive the mission: preparing students for meaningful careers and lifelong success. This year, three leaders were recognized for their commitment to that mission.

Susan Perdue, CTE Business & Marketing Teacher at Clayton High School, was named the 2025 JCPS CTE Teacher of the Year and has been selected as one of 20 finalists statewide for the 2026 North Carolina CTE Teacher of the Year award. With eight years of teaching experience, she leads students in entrepreneurship and business management, advises DECA, and mentors new teachers.

Kathryn Farrior, CTE Workforce Development Specialist, was named JCPS 2025 Employee of the Year for Curriculum, Instruction & Accountability. A longtime educator, Kathryn now leads k-12 career development planning, work-based learning, and was recognized for her work connecting students to career pathways.

Reno Palombit, Director of CTE, was honored as the 2024-2025 North Carolina Association for Career and Technical Education Administrator of the Year for the North Central Region. Under his leadership, the JCPS CTE department continues to strengthen career pathways, increase students’ credential attainment, and build strong partnerships that benefit students across the district.

Together with dedicated CTE educators and staff across JCPS, these professionals embody the passion and teamwork that make JCPS CTE programs a statewide model of excellence.