Since 2010, North Carolina State University and a consortium of 13 rural, high-need school districts in northeast North Carolina have worked in partnership through NELA.

“The goal is to prepare highly effective principals for schools in northeast North Carolina,” said interim Superintendent John Parker.

The U.S. Department of Education’s School Leadership Program Grant currently funds the program. The Director of NELA, Bonnie Fusarelli, explains: “Each component of NELA is anchored in research-based best practices in leadership preparation and is designed to meet the specific leadership needs of schools in the northeast counties.”

The selected fellows receive substantial benefits including a full scholarship, paid internships, conference travel, textbooks, and technology materials.

They also earn a state school principal license and a Master of School Administration degree. Graduates make a three-year post-degree commitment to lead high-needs schools in northeast North Carolina. There is a chance he could return to the Roanoke Rapids or Halifax County area.

“I’m excited about this opportunity. While it will be challenging I look forward to expanding the impact I can have on the children in this community and continue the excellent NELA tradition we have here,” said Quast.

Quast earned an undergraduate degree in secondary education with a concentration in history for grades 5-12 and with an American History concentration in 20th Century Terrorism.

He also earned a Master of Education in K-12 Literacy.

He currently teaches seventh grade social studies at Chaloner Middle School.