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New Hanover County Schools CFO Wins State Award

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  Published in Business and Finance on Wednesday, February 18th 2026 at 17:18 GMT by WECT
      Locale: UNITED STATES

WILMINGTON, N.C. (February 18, 2026) - Kimberly P. Honeycutt, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for New Hanover County Schools, recently received the distinguished service award from the North Carolina School Business Officials Association (NCSBOA) at their annual conference in Asheville. While the award itself is a significant achievement, it represents far more than just adept number-crunching. It's a recognition of Honeycutt's strategic vision, commitment to fiscal responsibility, and, crucially, her dedication to maximizing resources for the benefit of students across New Hanover County and, increasingly, the entire state.

For over a decade, Honeycutt has been the financial architect behind New Hanover County's public education system. Her role isn't simply about managing the budget; it's about translating community values and educational goals into a sustainable financial plan. In a rapidly changing educational landscape - one marked by increasing demands for innovative programs, enhanced technology, and support for diverse learners - Honeycutt has consistently demonstrated an ability to navigate complex challenges and secure the funding needed to keep New Hanover County Schools competitive.

Sources within the district indicate that Honeycutt's leadership was particularly vital during the post-pandemic recovery period. While many districts struggled with budget shortfalls and staffing crises, New Hanover County Schools managed to not only maintain existing programs but also launch several new initiatives focused on addressing learning loss and mental health support for students. This success is directly attributable to Honeycutt's proactive financial planning and her ability to identify and secure alternative funding sources, including grants and public-private partnerships.

"Kimberly doesn't just manage the finances, she strategizes with them," stated Dr. Amelia Vargas, Superintendent of New Hanover County Schools, in a press statement following the award announcement. "She understands that every dollar allocated has a direct impact on the lives of our students, and she approaches her work with that principle firmly in mind."

But Honeycutt's influence extends beyond the confines of New Hanover County. The NCSBOA's decision to bestow the Distinguished Service Award acknowledges her leadership at the state level. She has actively participated in NCSBOA committees, sharing best practices and advocating for policies that support equitable funding for all North Carolina school districts. She's been a key figure in recent legislative discussions concerning the state's school funding formula, pushing for a system that accurately reflects the needs of growing and diverse student populations.

In 2024, Honeycutt spearheaded a collaborative effort with other CFOs across the state to develop a standardized financial reporting system for North Carolina schools. This initiative, championed by the State Board of Education, has increased transparency and accountability in school finance, making it easier for taxpayers and policymakers to understand how funds are being used. The new reporting system has already identified areas for potential cost savings and efficiency improvements across several districts.

Looking ahead, Honeycutt is focused on several key priorities for New Hanover County Schools, including expanding access to career and technical education programs, investing in teacher professional development, and modernizing school facilities. She is also exploring innovative financing options, such as social impact bonds, to fund these initiatives. Social impact bonds, which attract private investment to support public programs, could allow the district to implement programs faster and more effectively than traditional funding methods.

The award from the NCSBOA is a well-deserved recognition of Honeycutt's years of dedicated service. It's a testament to her expertise, leadership, and unwavering commitment to providing all students with the opportunity to succeed. It signifies a career deeply rooted in a belief that financial stewardship is not an end in itself, but a critical tool for building a brighter future for North Carolina's children.