The first week of school has been filled with energy, focus, and promise. At Carter High School, we know that student success doesn’t happen by chance — it happens because of the dedicated people who pour into our students every day.
Teachers, staff, families, and community partners — you are touching lives in ways that build confidence, inspire learning, and open doors for our students’ future success. Your commitment makes all the difference, and together we are creating a strong foundation for the year ahead.
Here’s to continuing the momentum and making 2025–2026 a year of growth, opportunity, and achievement!
Teachers, staff, families, and community partners — you are touching lives in ways that build confidence, inspire learning, and open doors for our students’ future success. Your commitment makes all the difference, and together we are creating a strong foundation for the year ahead.
Here’s to continuing the momentum and making 2025–2026 a year of growth, opportunity, and achievement!
Dear Parent/Guardian,
We are requesting your decision regarding the use of your child’s photograph for the 2025–2026 school year. Student photos may be used in the yearbook, on the school website, in newsletters, or on official school social media pages.
Please complete the attached form to let us know your preference:
YES – I give permission for my child’s photo to be taken and used for school-related purposes.
NO – I do not give permission for my child’s photo to be taken or used.
Form Link: Here is the link to the Photo opt out forms for the new year.
https://www.wsfcs.k12.nc.us/page/marketing-and-communications
Thank you for taking a moment to complete this form so we can respect your wishes for your child’s privacy.
Estimadas familias y cuidadores,
Bienvenidos al año escolar 2025-2026 en Carter High School!
Estamos encantados de dar la bienvenida a los estudiantes nuevos y que regresan a un nuevo año de crecimiento, aprendizaje y descubrimiento. En Carter High School, "No hacemos promedio, hacemos excepcional q", y ese compromiso se refleja en todo lo que hacemos. Cada estudiante merece una educación ue se adapte a sus fortalezas, respete su individualidad y los apoye para que alcancen su máximo potencial y se conviertan en la mejor versión de sí mismos.
Nuestro dedicado equipo de educadores especiales, terapeutas y personal de apoyo está ansioso por crear un ambiente positivo y atractivo donde cada niño sea valorado y celebrado. Ya sea que su hijo ingrese a nuestras aulas por primera vez o continúe su viaje con nosotros, estamos comprometidos a cumplirlos con compasión, consistencia y altas expectativas.
Lo que puede esperar este año:
Apoyo individualizado y actividades de aprendizaje inclusivo: Continuaremos brindando instrucción y servicios alineados con el Programa de Educación Individualizada (IEP) de cada estudiante y los Estándares de Contenido Extendido. Nuestro plan de estudios está diseñado para ser accesible y atractivo, con oportunidades de aprendizaje práctico, entornos sensoriales y actividades que fomentan la construcción de la comunidad.
Asociaciones familiares sólidas: su voz importa. Creemos en la comunicación abierta y bidireccional y trabajaremos en estrecha colaboración con usted para garantizar que se satisfagan las necesidades de su hijo. Únase a todos los grupos REMIND (incluido el transporte) que le permitan mantenerse al día con lo que sucede en Carter.
Seguridad y bienestar: Estamos comprometidos a mantener un entorno seguro y de apoyo. Si su hijo tiene necesidades específicas de salud o comportamiento, lo alentamos a que se comunique con el maestro, la enfermera Allison o el terapeuta de su estudiante (PT, OT o Speech) temprano para que podamos apoyarlo mejor.
Reserve las fechas: Orientación de 11º grado: 8/7/25 2:00 p.m. -3:00 p.m. Casa abierta: 8/7/25 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m Primer día de clases: 8/13/25 8:30 a.m. - 3:40 p.m.
Entendemos que regresar a la escuela puede ser un momento emotivo tanto para los estudiantes como para las familias. Nuestro objetivo es hacer que esta transición sea lo más fluida y positiva posible. No dude en comunicarse con preguntas, inquietudes o sugerencias, estamos aquí para ayudarlo. Hagamos que este año escolar sea excepcional, porque no hacemos promedio en Carter High School.
Atentamente,
Shawnna Penn,
Directora
Bienvenidos al año escolar 2025-2026 en Carter High School!
Estamos encantados de dar la bienvenida a los estudiantes nuevos y que regresan a un nuevo año de crecimiento, aprendizaje y descubrimiento. En Carter High School, "No hacemos promedio, hacemos excepcional q", y ese compromiso se refleja en todo lo que hacemos. Cada estudiante merece una educación ue se adapte a sus fortalezas, respete su individualidad y los apoye para que alcancen su máximo potencial y se conviertan en la mejor versión de sí mismos.
Nuestro dedicado equipo de educadores especiales, terapeutas y personal de apoyo está ansioso por crear un ambiente positivo y atractivo donde cada niño sea valorado y celebrado. Ya sea que su hijo ingrese a nuestras aulas por primera vez o continúe su viaje con nosotros, estamos comprometidos a cumplirlos con compasión, consistencia y altas expectativas.
Lo que puede esperar este año:
Apoyo individualizado y actividades de aprendizaje inclusivo: Continuaremos brindando instrucción y servicios alineados con el Programa de Educación Individualizada (IEP) de cada estudiante y los Estándares de Contenido Extendido. Nuestro plan de estudios está diseñado para ser accesible y atractivo, con oportunidades de aprendizaje práctico, entornos sensoriales y actividades que fomentan la construcción de la comunidad.
Asociaciones familiares sólidas: su voz importa. Creemos en la comunicación abierta y bidireccional y trabajaremos en estrecha colaboración con usted para garantizar que se satisfagan las necesidades de su hijo. Únase a todos los grupos REMIND (incluido el transporte) que le permitan mantenerse al día con lo que sucede en Carter.
Seguridad y bienestar: Estamos comprometidos a mantener un entorno seguro y de apoyo. Si su hijo tiene necesidades específicas de salud o comportamiento, lo alentamos a que se comunique con el maestro, la enfermera Allison o el terapeuta de su estudiante (PT, OT o Speech) temprano para que podamos apoyarlo mejor.
Reserve las fechas: Orientación de 11º grado: 8/7/25 2:00 p.m. -3:00 p.m. Casa abierta: 8/7/25 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m Primer día de clases: 8/13/25 8:30 a.m. - 3:40 p.m.
Entendemos que regresar a la escuela puede ser un momento emotivo tanto para los estudiantes como para las familias. Nuestro objetivo es hacer que esta transición sea lo más fluida y positiva posible. No dude en comunicarse con preguntas, inquietudes o sugerencias, estamos aquí para ayudarlo. Hagamos que este año escolar sea excepcional, porque no hacemos promedio en Carter High School.
Atentamente,
Shawnna Penn,
Directora
Hello Carter Staff
Welcome back to a brand new school year! I hope you had a restful and rejuvenating summer, filled with time for both relaxation and rejuvenation. As we prepare to open our doors to students once again, I want to express my sincere appreciation for the dedication, passion, you bring to shape the heart and soul of our school community.
We have been working diligently to ensure that the 2025–2026 school year is a successful, enriching, and impactful experience for all members of our school community. Over the summer, we’ve made several exciting updates to our campus and learning environments. Carter Way and the Multi-Learning Space is ready to welcome students and we’re especially thrilled to introduce a brand-new Maker Space. This space is a creative, hands-on environment where students will have the opportunity to explore, build, design, and innovate across content areas.
We’ve also experienced some exciting staffing changes that will further strengthen our team. Please join me in congratulating our newly promoted staff and in extending a warm welcome to the newest members of our Wildcat family. I want to also recognize and thank Ms. Lewis, Mr. Simon, and Ms. Dodd for their tireless efforts in preparing the school for your arrival. Their commitment behind the scenes ensures we are ready to welcome our students with excellence from day one.
Carter High School is more than just a place to learn, it’s a place where students are seen, heard, and inspired. It's a community where every individual should feel accepted, supported, and valued. Guided by our motto, "We Don't Do Average—We Do Exceptional," we will strive to ignite student passions, ensure future and career readiness, and cultivate productive citizens who are prepared for the opportunities of tomorrow.
Below should give you a preview of what your first few days of the school year will look like: We will provide you with information on how to access a more detailed schedule.
August 4: First day back for ALL faculty and staff & Reserved for Schools
August 5: Faculty and Staff Reserved for Teacher (RS/ PD)
August 6: Staff Development ( RS / PD)
August 7: RT Student Orientation Reserved for Schools Day – PM professional Development Staff Works: 11:30a.m – 8:00 p.mNew Student Orientation 2:30 , Open House 6:00 – 8:00
August 8: RT Day
August 11: RS Day
August 12: RT Day
Thank you so very much for being a part of our Wildcat family and your continued support of our students. I value your input and I am always willing to speak with you. I value your input and invite conversations and your input this year
Sincerely,
Shawnna Penn
Principal
Carter High School
336-703-4119
spenn@wsfcs.k12.nc.us
Welcome back to a brand new school year! I hope you had a restful and rejuvenating summer, filled with time for both relaxation and rejuvenation. As we prepare to open our doors to students once again, I want to express my sincere appreciation for the dedication, passion, you bring to shape the heart and soul of our school community.
We have been working diligently to ensure that the 2025–2026 school year is a successful, enriching, and impactful experience for all members of our school community. Over the summer, we’ve made several exciting updates to our campus and learning environments. Carter Way and the Multi-Learning Space is ready to welcome students and we’re especially thrilled to introduce a brand-new Maker Space. This space is a creative, hands-on environment where students will have the opportunity to explore, build, design, and innovate across content areas.
We’ve also experienced some exciting staffing changes that will further strengthen our team. Please join me in congratulating our newly promoted staff and in extending a warm welcome to the newest members of our Wildcat family. I want to also recognize and thank Ms. Lewis, Mr. Simon, and Ms. Dodd for their tireless efforts in preparing the school for your arrival. Their commitment behind the scenes ensures we are ready to welcome our students with excellence from day one.
Carter High School is more than just a place to learn, it’s a place where students are seen, heard, and inspired. It's a community where every individual should feel accepted, supported, and valued. Guided by our motto, "We Don't Do Average—We Do Exceptional," we will strive to ignite student passions, ensure future and career readiness, and cultivate productive citizens who are prepared for the opportunities of tomorrow.
Below should give you a preview of what your first few days of the school year will look like: We will provide you with information on how to access a more detailed schedule.
August 4: First day back for ALL faculty and staff & Reserved for Schools
August 5: Faculty and Staff Reserved for Teacher (RS/ PD)
August 6: Staff Development ( RS / PD)
August 7: RT Student Orientation Reserved for Schools Day – PM professional Development Staff Works: 11:30a.m – 8:00 p.mNew Student Orientation 2:30 , Open House 6:00 – 8:00
August 8: RT Day
August 11: RS Day
August 12: RT Day
Thank you so very much for being a part of our Wildcat family and your continued support of our students. I value your input and I am always willing to speak with you. I value your input and invite conversations and your input this year
Sincerely,
Shawnna Penn
Principal
Carter High School
336-703-4119
spenn@wsfcs.k12.nc.us
Dear Families and Caregivers,
Welcome to the 2025–2026 school year at Carter High School! We are thrilled to welcome both new and returning students to a new year of growth, learning, and discovery. At Carter High School, “We don’t do average—We do exceptional,” and that commitment is reflected in everything we do. Every student deserves an education that is tailored to their strengths, respects their individuality, and supports them in reaching their full potential and becoming the best version of themselves.
Our dedicated team of special educators, therapists, and support staff are eager to create a positive and engaging environment where each child is valued and celebrated. Whether your child is stepping into our classrooms for the first time or is continuing their journey with us, we are committed to meeting them with compassion, consistency, and high expectations.
What You Can Expect This Year:
Individualized Support & Inclusive Learning Activities: We will continue delivering instruction and services aligned with each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) and the Extended Content Standards. Our curriculum is designed to be accessible and engaging, featuring hands-on learning opportunities, sensory-friendly environments, and activities that foster community building.
Strong Family Partnerships: Your voice matters. We believe in open, two-way communication and will work closely with you to ensure your child’s needs are met. Please join all REMIND groups (including transportation) that allow you to keep up with what’s happening at Carter.
Safety and Wellness: We are committed to maintaining a safe and supportive environment. If your child has specific health or behavioral needs, we encourage you to contact your student’s teacher, nurse Allison or therapist (PT, OT or Speech) early so we can best support them.
Save the Dates:
11th Grade Orientation: 8/7/25 2:00 p.m -3:00 p.m
Open House: 8/7/25 5:00 p.m-7:00p.m
First Day of School: 8/13/25 8:30 a.m - 3:40 p.m
We understand that returning to school can be an emotional time for both students and families. Our goal is to make this transition as smooth and positive as possible. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions, concerns, or suggestions—we’re here for you. Let’s make this school year exceptional—because we don’t do average at Carter High School.
With gratitude and excitement,
Shawnna Penn, Principal
Carter High School
336 -703-4119
Welcome to the 2025–2026 school year at Carter High School! We are thrilled to welcome both new and returning students to a new year of growth, learning, and discovery. At Carter High School, “We don’t do average—We do exceptional,” and that commitment is reflected in everything we do. Every student deserves an education that is tailored to their strengths, respects their individuality, and supports them in reaching their full potential and becoming the best version of themselves.
Our dedicated team of special educators, therapists, and support staff are eager to create a positive and engaging environment where each child is valued and celebrated. Whether your child is stepping into our classrooms for the first time or is continuing their journey with us, we are committed to meeting them with compassion, consistency, and high expectations.
What You Can Expect This Year:
Individualized Support & Inclusive Learning Activities: We will continue delivering instruction and services aligned with each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) and the Extended Content Standards. Our curriculum is designed to be accessible and engaging, featuring hands-on learning opportunities, sensory-friendly environments, and activities that foster community building.
Strong Family Partnerships: Your voice matters. We believe in open, two-way communication and will work closely with you to ensure your child’s needs are met. Please join all REMIND groups (including transportation) that allow you to keep up with what’s happening at Carter.
Safety and Wellness: We are committed to maintaining a safe and supportive environment. If your child has specific health or behavioral needs, we encourage you to contact your student’s teacher, nurse Allison or therapist (PT, OT or Speech) early so we can best support them.
Save the Dates:
11th Grade Orientation: 8/7/25 2:00 p.m -3:00 p.m
Open House: 8/7/25 5:00 p.m-7:00p.m
First Day of School: 8/13/25 8:30 a.m - 3:40 p.m
We understand that returning to school can be an emotional time for both students and families. Our goal is to make this transition as smooth and positive as possible. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions, concerns, or suggestions—we’re here for you. Let’s make this school year exceptional—because we don’t do average at Carter High School.
With gratitude and excitement,
Shawnna Penn, Principal
Carter High School
336 -703-4119
Carter High School – Orientation & Open House
Thursday, August 7th, 2025
New Student Orientation: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Open House: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Visit classrooms, connect with teachers, and explore the resources that make Carter High a great place to learn and grow!
We look forward to seeing all new and returning families!
Let’s kick off a great year together!
Thursday, August 7th, 2025
New Student Orientation: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Open House: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Visit classrooms, connect with teachers, and explore the resources that make Carter High a great place to learn and grow!
We look forward to seeing all new and returning families!
Let’s kick off a great year together!
Your school desk calendar is ready for orders. The link to order the calendar is under News and Documents.
We are proud to announce the Carter High School Class of 2025 Graduation Ceremony!
📅 Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2025
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM
📍 Location: J.F. Kennedy High School Auditorium
890 E 11th St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Join us as we celebrate the achievements, growth, and bright futures of our graduating seniors. This special evening will honor their hard work, resilience, and accomplishments as they prepare to take the next step in their journey.
Family, friends, and community members are welcome. Please arrive early to allow time for parking and seating.
Let’s make this a memorable night for the Class of 2025! 🎉
Ricky Yontz is fully nonverbal, but with plenty of support from his family and the staff at Carter High School, he’ll be graduating this year. He’ll be attending a day program at Top Priority, which provides a similar structure to school and will allow him to keep meeting new people and seeing more of the world. His mother, Wendy Yontz, says the staff at Carter have been indispensable in Ricky’s journey to achieve milestones that most people take for granted.
“With all of the love and support he’s received from the teachers and all of the staff, he wouldn’t be where he is without them,” she said. “They’ve provided him with the ability to learn and grow at his own pace… anything he’s ever struggled with, they always reach out so we can work together to come up with a plan.”
#wsfcs #SeniorSpotlight
The Carter Spirit Store is now OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.
