Phone: (919) 639-6000

Email: pneal@harnett.k12.nc.us

Degrees & Certifications:

Masters in Art of Teaching Campbell University

BA Human Resource Management American Military University

About Me

This is my second year at HCMS. Prior to coming to HCMS, I taught 3rd Grade for three years at Overhills Elementary School. Before that I served in the US Army, and retired after 20 years of honorable service.

I am married with five children and a plethora of cats. My hobbies include studying Harnett County history, getting in my kayak to fishing, and American Civil War Living History.

Learning Philosophy

In this class, we believe that learning is an active process that requires engagement, effort, and respect. Our goal is to build thoughtful, informed citizens who can think critically about the past and its connections to the present.

Core Academic Practices

• Read to understand and interpret historical events, primary and secondary sources, and informational texts.

• Write to express ideas clearly, support arguments with evidence, and reflect on key topics in history and civics.

• Discuss in an academic manner by using respectful language, listening to others, and building on each other’s ideas.

Our Classroom Culture

• All voices are valued.

• Mistakes are part of the learning process.

• Effort matters more than perfection.

• We challenge ourselves to think deeper and support our thinking with evidence.

Expectations for Academic Behavior

• Use academic vocabulary when speaking and writing.

• Ask questions, share ideas, and respectfully challenge opinions using historical facts.

• Support claims with evidence from readings, discussions, or prior knowledge.

• Take pride in the quality of your work—revise when needed and always do your best.