Cory Johnson, Principal
With a remarkable background in education, Mr. Johnson previously devoted two years to the role of principal at Marine Science and Technologies High School (MaST) within the Carteret County Public Schools system. His career in education spans over 23 years, characterized by a steadfast commitment to fostering learning in both North Carolina and South Carolina. As a native of Iredell County, North Carolina, Mr. Johnson's roots run deep within the state, affording him a profound understanding of its educational landscape. Mr. Johnson's academic journey led him to North Carolina State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in History. Continuing his pursuit of educational leadership, Mr. Johnson furthered his studies at Winthrop University in South Carolina, achieving a Master of Education in Educational Leadership. His extensive experience and dedication to the field make Mr. Johnson an invaluable asset to West Carteret High School. Mr. Johnson approaches the upcoming academic year with enthusiasm, embracing the opportunity to serve the students, staff, and families at what is widely recognized as one of North Carolina's premier high schools.
Maegan Harrison, Assistant Principal
Mrs. Harrison has been passionate about working in education for as long as she can remember. She attended UNC-Wilmington as a Teaching Fellow, earning degrees in both English and Secondary Education. Over the next nine years, she taught English and AP Literature in various schools across Eastern North Carolina. Eventually, she and her husband settled in Craven County, where she taught at Havelock High School for three years while completing her Masters in School Administration at East Carolina University. Mrs. Harrison then served as the Assistant Principal of West Craven Middle School before transitioning back to the high school setting in Carteret County. After two years at Croatan High School, she is now eager to bring her experience and enthusiasm to West Carteret. Mrs. Harrison is excited to collaborate with a dedicated administrative team, outstanding teachers, motivated students, and an engaged community, and she looks forward to a successful year ahead. Her husband, Zach, is a Marine Biologist and serves as the Section Chief of Habitat and Enhancement at Marine Fisheries in Morehead City. Together with their children, Theodore and Hazel, they share a passion for all things related to saltwater. In her spare time, Mrs. Harrison enjoys volunteering, practicing yoga, home decorating, and cooking, as well as spending time on the water and supporting the Patriots.
Jake McAllister, Assistant Principal
With a wealth of experience and a profound dedication to education, Mr. McAllister joins us as an assistant principal at West Carteret High School. Mr. McAllister's educational journey showcases his commitment to lifelong learning. He holds bachelor's and master's degrees in music education, as well as a master's degree in school administration from East Carolina University. His passion for nurturing student growth and development has been evident throughout his career, which spans from teaching to administrative roles, encompassing students from elementary to high school levels in Johnston County. In addition to his remarkable career in education, Mr. McAllister is a distinguished veteran, with over a decade of service in the North Carolina Army National Guard and the United States Army. His military experience includes serving in the 440th Army Band in Raleigh and fulfilling critical logistics and operations responsibilities as a noncommissioned officer with the Joint Special Operations Command at Fort Bragg, NC. Presently, he continues to exemplify his commitment to service as a United States Coast Guard Reserve officer, actively contributing to emergency management, southwest border operations, Covid response operations, and facility inspections. We at West Carteret are enthusiastic about having such an accomplished and devoted individual as an integral part of our school community.
John Suralik, Assistant Principal
Mr. John Suralik assumes the role of Assistant Principal at West Carteret High School, bringing a wealth of educational experience to our institution. His career has seen him serve as an Assistant Principal in Craven County at both Creekside Elementary and Havelock High School. Prior to his administrative roles, Mr. Suralik contributed significantly as a teacher and coach at Havelock High School and as an educator at Early College EAST. His dedication to education also extends to his work as a consultant for the National Writing Project, reflecting his passion for nurturing student growth and development. Mr. Suralik's academic journey culminated in the acquisition of both his Bachelor of Science and Master of School Administration degrees from East Carolina University, a testament to his commitment to professional growth and excellence in the field of education. West Carteret is grateful to have such a dedicated and caring administrator as a part of the Patriot Family.