Lexington City Schools proudly celebrates Mr. Terry Fernung, Media Coordinator at Pickett Elementary School and District Lead Media Coordinator, on being named the 2025 North Carolina School Library Media Association (NCSLMA) Media Coordinator of the Year.
Mr. Fernung is recognized for his visionary leadership, innovation, and unwavering passion for literacy and technology—qualities that have left a profound mark on students, staff, and the greater Lexington community. At Pickett Elementary, he manages the district’s highest number of circulated books, cultivating a love of reading while opening doors to dynamic, engaging learning experiences.
His influence extends far beyond his school. As district lead, Mr. Fernung has organized Lexington City Schools’ Battle of the Books competitions and successfully hosted the Region 5 Elementary and Middle School Battles of the Books—signature events that have drawn acclaim and participation from across the region.
A lifelong learner and advocate for educational technology, Mr. Fernung is an Apple Certified Learning Coach, Apple Teacher, and Apple Swift Playgrounds instructor. He has proudly represented Lexington City Schools at the Apple Learning Academy in Austin, Texas, bringing back cutting-edge instructional strategies to empower teachers and students. As the district’s Digital Teaching & Learning Lead for grades K–8, his expertise continues to strengthen instructional practices and technology integration across classrooms.
Mr. Fernung is also helping chart the district’s future. Working closely with the Director of Technology, he has been instrumental in creating artificial intelligence (AI) guidelines and establishing an internal AI cohort—efforts that ensure educators and students are prepared for the digital future. His pursuit of ISTE Certification, a nationally recognized credential for excellence in technology leadership, further reflects his commitment to innovation and growth.
Beyond his official duties, Mr. Fernung serves as Pickett Elementary’s webmaster and generously volunteers his time to support staff and students. Known for his positivity, organization, and servant leadership, he exemplifies the best of Lexington City Schools.
“Mr. Fernung’s dedication and innovative spirit have elevated the work of our Media Coordinators and enriched the educational experiences of our students,” said Terrie Holshouser, Director of Technology for Lexington City Schools. “His recognition as NCSLMA Media Coordinator of the Year is incredibly well deserved.”
Lexington City Schools extends heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Terry Fernung on this extraordinary honor and expresses deep gratitude for his creativity, leadership, and service to the district and the field of school library media.