Email: shawnbates@johnston.k12.nc.us

Phone: 984-400-7300

Mr. Bates has been an educator for twenty-five years. This is his first year at Thanksgiving Elementary and his fifteenth year with Johnston County Public Schools. Mr. Bates is a native of Harkers Island, NC. He and his wife, Wendy, are the parents of three children: Sullivan, Caison, and Shawn Jr. They are also the grandparents of two grandsons and two granddaughters.

Mr. Bates enjoys spending time with his family, serving in church, helping those he meets, and boating with his family.

Email: nicholasrotenberry@johnston.k12.nc.us

Phone: 984-400-7300

My name is Nick Rotenberry and I am thrilled to join the Thanksgiving Elementary family as an Assistant Principal this upcoming year! I have been in education since 2019, serving primarily as an elementary educator. I am a proud graduate of UNC Chapel Hill and NC State University, where I earned my master’s degree.

Outside of education, I deeply value spending time with friends and family. My wife and I recently welcomed our first child, Hayes, in December. I’m an avid reader and enjoy exploring local coffee shops. I also have a passion for sports and have loved leading a local youth wrestling program.

I wholeheartedly believe in the transformational impact that education can have on children. I can’t wait to serve the students, families, and staff of Thanksgiving Elementary this year!

Email: kerriehancock@johnston.k12.nc.us

Phone: 984-400-7300

My name is Ms. Kerrie Hancock and I am thrilled to be a part of the Thanksgiving Elementary School community as Assistant Principal. During my 25+ years as an educator, I have served children as a classroom teacher, Title I math teacher in Columbus, Ohio and most recently as a math specialist and coach for a TK-12 school in Charlotte, NC. I have a passion for teaching, learning, and building a positive rapport with others. This lends itself to supporting others where they are while encouraging them to aim for their personal and professional goals as learners. My fiance’, Brian and I live in Zebulon where we are enjoying our new home, community, and time as empty nesters. I look forward to ROAMING together so our students rise to their fullest potential. Go Buffaloes!

Certifications: 

Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education (K-8)

Capital University, Columbus, Ohio

Master’s Degree in School Counseling       

University of Dayton, Dayton, Ohio

Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership 

Queens University of Charlotte, Charlotte, NC