Onslow County Schools names top teacher, principal, assistant principal of year

JACKSONVILLE, N.C. — On Thursday, Onslow County Schools hosted its annual Excellence in Education event, where teachers, administrators and school staff were recognized for the work they do to support students.

The event honored the work of 65 OCS staff members and featured speakers, student performances, student-made refreshments, and a red carpet entrance.

In surprise announcements, the district named the 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year Marissa Bak, 2024-2025 Assistant Principal of the Year Gary Cassidy, and 2024-2025 Principal of the Year Steve Clarke.

Bak, a seventh-grade teacher at Swansboro Middle School, has been teaching for 9 years and takes pride in helping students learn to care for themselves and others. She excels at fostering an environment where her students feel safe and valued, and she wishes to be the teacher that starts the conversation that changes the landscape of mental health in education.

Cassidy is a 6-year assistant principal who currently serves Swansboro Middle. At his school, he is
known as a “dedicated professional” who is positive and gives 100% to each task at hand. SBMS teachers and staff say he is engaging, genuine, and passionate as he serves students and staff alike.

Clarke, principal of Richlands High School, was described by his staff as a “true servant leader” who has a strong sense of honesty, responsibility, and compassion. His vision for RHS is centered around the belief that every student can achieve a successful life, and he is often heard reminding students that they are loved and that the only things they can control in life are their attitude and their effort.

In addition to announcing the OCS Teacher, Assistant Principal, and Principal of the Year, the district honored more than 60 other educators and employees for their contributions to the district. Awards were given to our school-level teachers of the year, as well as those who excel in areas such as math, early childhood education, literacy, mentorship, global education, and more.

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