August 20, 2013 Dear Bertie Middle School Faculty and Staff, Welcome back to school!

My name is Stephanie Cottle and I am looking forward to meeting and working with each of you during the 2013-2014 school year. I am honored to serve as your administrative intern through the Northeast Leadership Academy (NELA) at NC State University. NELA is an innovative school leader preparation program designed to develop 21st Century school leaders for schools in northeastern North Carolina. I am confident that together we will provide the best possible educational experience for our students at Bertie Middle School. I am a native of Bertie County and graduated from Bertie High School and earned my degree at Chowan University. After working at the university for a few years I transitioned into public education. Over the past eight years I have had the privilege of teaching Graphics in the Career Technical Education Department for Bertie High School and my passion for education has grown tremendously. It is my vision to see an entire cultural shift where our students are enthusiastic about their own education and are motivated to go beyond expectations; where teachers are earnest in educating students; and parents and communities are diligently involved. In my spare time I enjoy watching and playing sports with my husband, Darren, and my two sons, Alden and Noah. Bertie Middle School has a history of being a community of greatness and I cannot imagine a better placement to complete my internship. I understand that my internship success is only as strong as my relationships and experiences with you. As a servant leader I am here to work with you in whatever capacity I can best serve the school community. I am eager to begin this journey as a Phoenix and I know we will continue to be an extraordinary place where our students are our priority.

Go Phoenix!

Stephanie Cottle Administrative Intern Bertie Middle School