Carteret County Public Schools announces that Ms. Merilee McLean has been named as Principal of Beaufort Middle School. Ms. McLean has served as an assistant principal of Newport Middle School since 2023. She has also served as a summer school administrator and as an administrative intern for Carteret County Schools at Morehead City Primary, Beaufort Elementary, and Beaufort Middle Schools. Prior to becoming an administrator, McLean taught fifth grade at Beaufort Elementary School and she has taught fourth through eighth grades in Craven County, California, Minnesota and Japan. She holds a Master of School Administration from UNC Wilmington and a Bachelor of Arts in Education.
Ms. McLean said, “I am incredibly thankful and excited to join the staff at Beaufort Middle School. It is an honor to return to the Beaufort community as the principal at BMS. I look forward to working alongside dedicated educators, supportive families, and amazing students, building relationships as we continue to grow together and create a positive, empowering learning environment for all.”
“I am confident in Ms. McLean’s ability to lead the Chargers of Beaufort Middle School,” said Superintendent Richie Paylor. “As a strong instructional leader, she is well-prepared to step into the role as Principal and continue to drive student success.”
Ms. McLean will begin her new position at Beaufort Middle School on July 1, 2025.