Pumpkin Center Intermediate

My name is Kristen Burgin and I am thankful to support our community as the principal of Pumpkin Center Intermediate School.  

My educational background prior to becoming a school administrator is in teaching students with special needs. While in the classroom I obtained my degree in School Administration as well as an endorsement in Curriculum Instruction. I have had the honor of serving as Assistant Principal at S. Ray Lowder Elementary, Childers Elementary, and most recently at St. James Elementary. 

My husband Kyle and I have two daughters, Hadley and Della Kate. We love being outside, watching our girls play softball and dance, and spending time with our families and friends. We also have a bloodhound, Hazel, who really keeps us all on our toes. 

My philosophy of education is that when provided with the right resources, every student can obtain the skills needed to not only be successful in school, but to be successful in life. The best resource that we as administrators can give our students is qualified teachers who invest in their students with quality instruction and support both in and out of the school environment. The safety and wellbeing of students and staff will always be my number one  priority as principal.

As principal, I will be intentional with my leadership and instructional decision making to do what’s best for kids to help us reach our school and district goals to continue to make Pumpkin Center Intermediate a school where staff want to stay, students are supported academically and emotionally and want to come to school each day, parents feel safe dropping their children off knowing we have their child’s best interests in mind, and that our community feels connected  to and supported by our school.  

A few of my favorite things:

Color: Navy, Peach, Black

Flower: Hydrangea

Drink: Mini Coke or Diet Coke

Snack: DOTs Pretzels, Sweet Tart Rainbow Ropes, Peanut Butter Crackers

Hobbies/Activities: Anything outside! Ballgames, driving a tractor, yardwork

I am excited to introduce myself as the new Assistant Principal of Pumpkin Center Intermediate.  I feel very fortunate to be part of this school and look forward to supporting the staff, students, and families.  I am honored to have the opportunity to work with Mrs. Burgin and look forward to getting to know the school community.  

I have worked as a School Counselor for the last six years.  Before becoming a School Counselor, I taught third and fifth grade at Union Elementary and Childer’s Elementary.  I have been dedicated to Lincoln County Schools for 28 years.  

On a personal note, I live in Lincolnton. I enjoy spending time with my husband, two sons, daughter-in-law, and friends, walking our two yorkies, and traveling. I also love a great home improvement project.  

My philosophy of education includes ensuring that all students value becoming lifelong learners and leaders. Creating a positive learning environment that respects and responds to diverse needs will prepare students to problem solve and face daily challenges.  

I eagerly look forward to a great school year and the opportunity to meet each of you in person. Our collaboration will be instrumental in creating a positive and enriching learning environment for our students.