In a surprise visit to Hobbton Elementary School’s awards program, Dr. Jamie King, Sampson County Schools’ superintendent announced that HES Principal Dawn Wilkes has been chosen as the Sampson County Schools 2024 Principal of the Year.
“I had no idea why you were here [Dr. King],” said Mrs. Wilkes. “I am completely surprised and speechless.”
Although Mrs. Wilkes may have been speechless, it was evident that she was touched by the recognition as tears streamed down her cheeks. Hugs and cheers erupted from the school’s gym, where the end of the year awards programs were being held.
Wilkes has spent her entire educational career with Sampson County Schools. Prior to serving as the principal of Hobbton Elementary since 2015, she was the assistant principal of Hobbton Elementary, Clement Elementary, and Hargrove Elementary schools from 2007 to 2015. She began her teaching career as a computer teacher in 1998 at Clement Elementary and transferred the following year to Midway Middle as a 6-8 business education teacher.
Wilkes holds a master’s degree in school administration from Campbell University, a 6-12 Business Education certification from Fayetteville State University, and a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems from Mount Olive College.
“As the Sampson County Schools POY, Mrs. Wilkes will represent our district at the regional level competition as a genuine educator who truly cares about children,” said Dr. King. “It was a great moment to deliver the good news to her and see her react with pure emotion.”
