Michelle Cousineau Named 2026–2027 Craven County Schools Beginning Teacher of the Year

A special surprise at West Craven Middle School brought plenty of smiles and celebration as seventh-grade English Language Arts teacher Michelle Cousineau learned she had been named the 2026–2027 Craven County Schools Beginning Teacher of the Year.

Craven County Schools surprised Ms. Cousineau with the exciting announcement in recognition of the professionalism, passion, initiative, and commitment to students she has demonstrated early in her teaching career.

Now in just her second year in the classroom, Ms. Cousineau has already distinguished herself as an educator who approaches teaching with creativity and purpose while working to ensure her students feel safe, supported and encouraged to grow.

“Be a Sponge”

One philosophy has helped guide Ms. Cousineau throughout her journey as an educator: “Be a sponge.”

For her, that means listening, learning, and remaining open to the guidance and experiences of those around her. It also means reflecting on what she learns and determining how to make those lessons work best for the students in her classroom.

That willingness to continually learn has helped Ms. Cousineau strengthen her instructional practices, build meaningful relationships with students, and develop her own voice and identity as an educator.

Her mentor, Jessica Manning, has seen firsthand the impact Ms. Cousineau has on her students.

“Ms. Cousineau creates a place of comfort, trust, and reassurance for each student that walks through the doors of her classroom.”

Creating that sense of belonging is an important part of Ms. Cousineau’s approach. By building relationships and establishing an environment where students know they are supported, she creates a foundation that allows them to take risks, grow as learners, and develop confidence in themselves.

Growing as an Educator

The Beginning Teacher of the Year recognition celebrates an educator who demonstrates excellence and promise during the early years of the profession while exemplifying a commitment to students, professional growth, and the teaching profession.

CCS Beginning Teacher Coordinators Necia Swain and Lakecia Brown praised Ms. Cousineau for the qualities she brings to her classroom and school community.

“Her talent, initiative, humility, and dedication to students make her an outstanding representative of Craven County Schools and a deserving Beginning Teacher of the Year.”

Those qualities, combined with her desire to continually learn and improve, have helped Ms. Cousineau make a meaningful impact at West Craven Middle School in a short amount of time.

As the 2026–2027 Craven County Schools Beginning Teacher of the Year, Ms. Cousineau represents the passion and potential of educators beginning their careers across the district.

Craven County Schools is proud to celebrate Michelle Cousineau for the relationships she builds, the passion she brings to her classroom, and her commitment to becoming the best educator she can be for her students.

Congratulations, Ms. Cousineau, on being named the 2026–2027 Craven County Schools Beginning Teacher of the Year!