Why I work for UCPS: Pamela Carlton, CBSS teacher at Sandy Ridge Elementary

In Pamela Carlton’s classroom, students take small steps toward big independence. For 20 years, she’s helped Union County Public Schools (UCPS) students thrive.

Carlton serves as a Communication, Behavior and Social Skills (CBSS) teacher at Sandy Ridge Elementary, supporting students from kindergarten through fifth grade. She works with many students on the autism spectrum, helping them communicate, ask questions and interact confidently with peers while learning independence skills that will support them throughout life.

Her journey to UCPS began in 2006, when she and her husband moved back to North Carolina to be closer to family. During the district’s welcome event for new candidates, she visited several schools and ended the day at Monroe High School, where students put on a program for the group.

“My interview was with Mr. Joel James at Marshville Elementary. He made me feel so comfortable and welcome. I thought, ‘I could work for him,’” she said.

Helping students build independence

Before entering public education, Carlton worked in a residential hospital supporting children with autism. That experience continues to shape how she approaches her classroom today.

“As an educator, a parent and a grandmother, my goal is to help kids learn how to stand on their own. I push my students because I know what they’re capable of,” she said.

Classroom management and respect set the stage for learning.

“When they come into my classroom, we start with respect and expectations. Once that’s established, the rest usually falls into place,” she said.

Moments that matter

Over two decades, Carlton finds daily inspiration in student growth.

“When they graduate from fifth grade and walk across that stage with their classmates, it brings me so much joy,” she said.

Many former students are now in college or pursuing careers, and parents often stay in touch.

“They’ll call and say, ‘Thank you for believing in my child.’ That means everything,” she said.

Carlton also emphasizes the importance of advocating for her students and supporting teachers.

“Teaching touches every other profession. If we don’t give students that strong foundation early, it becomes much harder later. I’ve learned to advocate for my students and for teachers, and that confidence has grown over time,” she said.

Why she stays

Carlton appreciates UCPS’ commitment to supporting the whole child and building a safe, encouraging environment.

“I value UCPS’ focus on students and families. It’s not just academics; it’s about creating a supportive community,” she said.

She is also excited about the district’s Portrait of a Graduate initiative, which helps students develop essential skills for the future.

“I like the direction that we’re going. The Portrait of a Graduate has been wonderful. I didn’t understand it at first, but as I delved into it, I started thinking about how I can teach my kids each facet of that. We focus on one or two goals at a time to help them build those skills,” she said.

A surprising hobby

Outside the classroom, Carlton collects old coins, a hobby she has maintained for years.

“I’ve been collecting coins for years. Any time I find something interesting, I save it,” she said.

Between teaching, family and her advocacy work, she doesn’t always have time to organize her collection. But it reminds her of the patience and curiosity she brings to her work every day.

“This is my purpose. I believe UCPS is exactly where I’m supposed to be,” she said.