Carteret County Public Schools announces several administrative changes on June 10, 2025, including naming Ms. Brooke DePinto as Principal of Harkers Island Elementary School. Ms. DePinto replaces Mr. Al Roberson, who is retiring on August 1, 2025. Mr. Roberson has served in education, since starting at Carteret County Public School System in 1996 as a teacher, coach, Athletic Director and principal.

Ms. Brooke DePinto has served as Principal of Beaufort Middle School since February of 2022. She began her career as a special education teacher, working with K-2 students in Union County, NC. She has an undergraduate degree from UNC-Chapel Hill and a Masters in School Counseling from Appalachian State University as well as a Graduate Certificate in School Leadership and Administration. DePinto has both counseling and administrative experience at the elementary and middle school levels, serving in both Wake County and Carteret County.

“I want to thank Al Roberson for 29 years of dedicated service to Carteret County Public Schools. He’s made a lasting difference for students, staff, and the community, and we wish him all the best in retirement,” said Superintendent Richie Paylor. “I’m also confident in the leadership of Principal Brooke DePinto. She’s been a strong leader, an advocate for students, and a relationship-builder at Beaufort Middle School, and she brings great experience, skills, and personality to Harkers Island Elementary School.”

Starting her new position on July 1, 2025, Ms. DePinto said, “I have absolutely enjoyed my time serving the students, families, and staff of Beaufort Middle School as a Charger. I am also so excited to begin this next step in my journey as I transition to learn, lead, and serve with the incredible Harkers Island Elementary School community.”

Other administrative changes have also been announced including:

Mark Sheehe, current Assistant Principal at White Oak Elementary School will be serving as AP at Newport Elementary School. He replaces Ms. Amy Brubaker who resigned earlier this year.
Mr. Jake McAllister, current Assistant Principal at West Carteret High School will be serving as AP at White Oak Elementary School. The open AP position at WCHS will be posted.
Ms. Jennifer Wilkie, current Assistant Principal at Morehead City Primary School, will be serving as AP at Beaufort Elementary School. She replaces interim BES Assistant Principal, Ms. Jeanne Huntley. The open AP position at MCPS will be posted.

“Moving people into new roles isn’t always easy,” said Superintendent Richie Paylor. “But, we work hard to put principals where they’re needed most and to give our assistant principals opportunities to grow and to build their leadership skills.”

Assistant Principals will begin their new positions starting Monday, June 16th.

Harkers Island Elementary School

Brooke DePinto Named 2025-26 Principal of HIES