FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 16, 2026
PITTSBORO, N.C. — Chatham County Schools (CCS) proudly announces that Dr. Breanna Ellington, Student Services & 504 Coordinator, and Dr. Jayme McPhatter, Coordinator of Special Programs, have successfully completed Cohort X of the North Carolina School Superintendents' Association (NCSSA) Aspiring Superintendents Program.
“The program is designed to support the growth, expansion, and enhancement of school and district leaders in their current roles while providing high-quality professional development to strengthen their knowledge of the skills and dispositions required for future superintendents,” said Jack Hoke, Executive Director of the North Carolina School Superintendents' Association.
The North Carolina Aspiring Superintendents Program is a highly specialized leadership development initiative tailored for select district leaders who have demonstrated exceptional success in their administrative roles and aspire to the superintendency. Offered through the NCSSA and the North Carolina Alliance for School Leadership Development, the program equips future superintendents with technical expertise, leadership strategies for navigating the complexities of the role, and contemporary skills essential for 21st-century educational leadership. Participants engage in multiple face-to-face leadership development sessions and benefit from an embedded Executive Coaching component with proven leaders in the field. To date, 60 alumni from the program’s ten cohorts have been appointed to superintendencies across North Carolina.
Reflecting on their experience, both CCS leaders emphasized the program’s impact on their leadership growth and commitment to students:
“Participating in the Aspiring Superintendent program has been a transformative experience that strengthened my ability to lead with both vision and intention. The program challenged me to think systemically about how we support students, staff, and communities, while remaining grounded in the day-to-day realities of schools. I am especially grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues across the state and to learn from leaders who are deeply committed to improving outcomes for all students. This experience has further solidified my commitment to building systems that prioritize student well-being, access, and success,” said Dr. Breanna Ellington.
“My sincere gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the NC Aspiring Superintendents Program. It was a truly meaningful professional learning experience that provided both insight and opportunities to grow as a leader. I especially appreciated the intentional networking opportunities, which allowed me to connect with and learn alongside district leaders from across North Carolina. Those connections, along with the rich learning experiences, have strengthened my leadership perspective and commitment to serving students and communities,” said Dr. Jayme McPhatter.
Chatham County Schools Superintendent Dr. Anthony D. Jackson recognized the significance of this achievement, “At Chatham County Schools, we are committed to developing strong, visionary leaders who are equipped to meet the evolving needs of our students and community. Dr. Ellington and Dr. McPhatter have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence, continuous improvement, and student-centered leadership. Their successful completion of this prestigious program reflects not only their dedication to their own professional growth, but also their deep commitment to ensuring every student in Chatham County Schools has access to high-quality educational opportunities.”
Chatham County Schools formally recognized Dr. McPhatter and Dr. Ellington at the April 13, 2026 Board of Education meeting and shared this achievement with the broader community.
For more information about the North Carolina School Superintendents’ Association (NCSSA) or the NC Aspiring Superintendents Program visit www.ncssa.net. For more information about Chatham County Schools visit www.chatham.k12.nc.us, or contact Chatham County Schools Public Information Officer, Jessica Pasión.
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Media Contact:
Jessica Pasión
Public Information Officer
Chatham County Schools
468 Renaissance Drive
Pittsboro, NC 27539
jpasion@chatham.k12.nc.us
Phone: 919.542.3626
About the North Carolina School Superintendents’ Association (NCSSA)
The North Carolina School Superintendents’ Association (NCSSA) is dedicated to supporting the state’s 115 superintendents through high-quality professional development, leadership training, and advocacy for strong public schools. NCSSA provides a range of resources, including two statewide leadership conferences, executive coaching for new superintendents, webinars, and a weekly email update, ensuring that educational leaders are well-equipped to guide their districts effectively.
Membership in NCSSA is available to all 115 local superintendents in North Carolina, as well as the directors of the state’s Regional Education Service Alliances (RESAs). Superintendents and their local boards of education may also choose to join NCSSA’s umbrella organization, the North Carolina Association of School Administrators (NCASA), as a District Member. This membership extends NCSSA benefits to the entire leadership team—including principals and assistant principals—while providing access to NCASA’s premier professional development, timely communications, and effective nonpartisan advocacy in education policy and law.
Jack Hoke serves as the Executive Director of NCSSA, bringing over three decades of experience in school administration, including 12 years as superintendent of Alexander County Schools. He leads NCSSA with the support of the NCASA team, ensuring a strong foundation for educational leadership across the state.
As a trusted resource for North Carolina’s educational leaders, NCSSA plays a vital role in strengthening public education. As a core affiliate of NCASA, NCSSA membership includes privileges in both organizations, providing a comprehensive network of support for superintendents and school administrators statewide.
About Chatham County Schools
Chatham County Schools serves more than 9,000 students across 20 schools in central North Carolina. With a commitment to excellence, equity, and engagement, the district works in partnership with families and the community to prepare ALL students for success in college, careers, and life.
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