10/14/2026
JEREMY MORTENSEN | BURGAW MIDDLE SCHOOL
🎉 NATIONAL PRINCIPALS MONTH | BURGAW MIDDLE SCHOOL
For Jeremy Mortensen, principal of Burgaw Middle School, one teacher from his own middle school years still influences the way he thinks about education today.
Mr. Mortensen remembers his math teacher, Mr. Rivers, not only as an amazing teacher, but as someone who took the time to get outside the classroom and play football with students. It’s a memory he shares with his own staff today: think about your favorite teacher, and try to be that person for your students.
One of the things he appreciates most about middle school students is their creativity and willingness to be themselves. He enjoys being out in the hallways and classrooms, seeing students, handing out fist bumps and simply being part of the culture of the school.
And there’s plenty his students may not know about him. Mr. Mortensen grew up near Niagara Falls in Canada 🇨🇦, received his education in Australia 🇦🇺 and was recruited from there to teach in North Carolina.
Away from school, you might find him golfing, surfing or playing a little hockey. And if there’s music playing? There’s a good chance it’s Metallica. 🤘🎸
Throughout National Principals Month, we’re getting to know the people behind the principal’s desk and celebrating the leadership they bring to our schools each day.
Thank you, Mr. Mortensen, for all you do for the Burgaw Middle School community! 💙
