During a surprise assembly in her honor, Dr. Jessica Anthony, Davenport A+ Elementary School’s Principal, was named 2025 Principal of the Year for the Northwest Region by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction’s Wells Fargo Principal of the Year program.

“Today is a time to celebrate those who answer the call, lead with grace, and inspire others to do the same,” said Davenport’s Assistant Principal Tracey Harris as she opened the assembly. Mrs. Harris’ sentiment foreshadowed the glowing comments and praise others had for Dr. Anthony. 2024 North Carolina Principal of the Year Becki Spears, CCS Superintendent Dr. Phipps, Caldwell County Board of Education Chairman Darrell Pennell, Education Foundation of Caldwell County Executive Director Pat Triplett, and Dr. Anthony’s husband Josh each applauded Dr. Anthony for making a positive impact on the lives of her school, staff, and students and for creating exceptional educational opportunities for the students of Caldwell County.  

Beckie Spears, 2024 Wells Fargo North Carolina Principal of the Year, commended Dr. Anthony’s character, commitment, and devotion to the school, the community, and public education when she named her Principal of the Year for the Northwest Region. Superintendent Phipps was the first to congratulate Dr. Anthony on behalf of Caldwell County Schools and mentioned that she is “a fierce advocate for public education.” 

Not surprisingly, when Dr. Anthony addressed her school and the guests attending the award assembly, she used the opportunity to describe her love for being Davenport’s principal and thank her colleagues for making her success possible. “I’m blessed to have the job, and I am blessed to work with a group of people who make great things possible.” A testament to her passion, Dr. Anthony was compelled to share her spotlight with the things most important to her – her school, colleagues, students, and family. 

The Wells Fargo Principal of the Year program selects one principal from each of the nine Department of Instruction Regions each year. Throughout their award year, each regional award winner serves in leadership, advocacy, and outreach roles for their region. Dr. Anthony will be representing Caldwell County Schools and the entire Northwest Region at education initiatives all over the state. 

One regional principal of the year will be selected as the Wells Fargo North Carolina Principal of the Year in May. The North Carolina Principal of the Year will serve a one-year term on the NC Public School Forum’s Board of Directors and as an advisor to the North Carolina State Board of Education. Whatever may be ahead for Dr. Anthony, there’s no question she will “answer the call, lead with grace, and inspire others to do the same.”

We can’t wait to see what the incredible staff of Caldwell County Schools accomplish next. 
 

Left to right: Dr. Anthony with Mrs. Harris; Dr. Anthony with her family
 

Left to right: Dr. Phipps congratulates Dr. Anthony; Dr. Anthony with Beckie Spears (2024 Wells Fargo Principal of the Year, and Stephanie Dischiavi (NCDPI Northwest Region Director); Dr. Anthony accepts her award

A special thanks to: 
-Mrs. Harris and Davenport's staff and students for helping to organize a surprise celebration for Dr. Anthony. 
-The Education Foundation of Caldwell County for their support and gift to Dr. Anthony.
-Special guests in attendance.