Tag Archive for: #vancecountyschools

AdVance, Vance Virtual Village Academy Ceremonies Add 60 New Graduates To VCS Total

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— courtesy of Vance County Schools

Vance County Schools completed the 2025 graduation season Friday with ceremonies for AdVance Academy and Vance Virtual Village Academy.

Sixty graduates received their diplomas in the two ceremonies, held at the Wayne Adcock Auditorium inside The Center for Innovation.

The day began with AdVance Academy’s commencement ceremony, where 36 students received their high school diploma. Principal Nowell Brooks, commended the graduates for their resilience and determination, and shared heartfelt well wishes as they begin the next chapter of their lives.

Vance Virtual Village Academy celebrated 24 graduates in a ceremony that reflected the unique path of virtual learners. In his keynote address, Dr. Tim Hall, K–12 Social Studies Instructional Coordinator for Vance County Schools, reminded students that: “This is not just graduation—it’s transformation.” Hall added, “You persisted through isolation, you built community through screens, and you discovered new parts of yourself in the process. You learned that leadership doesn’t always mean being the loudest—it means being the most consistent, the most compassionate, the most courageous.”

The Vance Virtual Village Class of 2025 included many outstanding accomplishments, including more than $292,195 in scholarships earned among 8 acceptances to 2- and 4-year college and universities. Additionally, one student completed an associate’s degree from Vance-Granville Community College. Other accomplishments include graduates with latin honors, as well as National Honor Society, National Beta Club, President’s Award for Educational Excellence and President’s Award for Educational Achievement.

Diplomas at both ceremonies were presented by school and district leaders, including Brooks, AdVance principal, and Dr. Jeffrey Batten, principal at V3A, along with VCS Superintendent Dr. Cindy Bennett and Vance County Board of Education Chair Dorothy W. Gooche .

Together, the graduates of AdVance Academy and Vance Virtual Village Academy represent the spirit of perseverance and potential. As they move forward, they do so with the support of their families, educators, and community—and with the confidence that they are ready to shape the future. Congratulations, Class of 2025!

Food Distribution Event Set For STEM Early High School On Tuesday, June 3

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STEM Early High School is the site for a free food distribution event on Tuesday, June 3, sponsored by the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina.

The school is located at the Vance County Schools’ Center for Innovation, 219 Charles St. in Henderson. The event will be held from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Shelf-stable items, as well as fresh produce, will be available to all, and no registration is needed.

Come learn how to receive Grab-N-Go meal boxes for the summer!

Questions? Email to kidsprograms@foodbankcenc.org.

Clarke Elementary Principal Dr. C’Monee’ Wilkins Named NCAE’s 2025 Principal Of The Year

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Clarke Elementary School Principal Dr. C’monee’ Wilkins has been named 2025 Principal of the Year by the N.C. Association of Educators.

This distinguished award honors outstanding leadership, a deep commitment to student and staff success and steadfast support for public education.

Wilkins has more than a decade of experience in education. She was selected following an interview process led by the NCAE Division of Principals/Administrators Board, who chose her for her strong instructional leadership, innovative approaches and dedicated advocacy for educational equity, according to information from NCAE Press Secretary Adrian Ezell.

NCAE President Tamika Walker Kelly said, “We are honored to name Dr. Wilkins as our Principal of the Year. Her transformative work is a powerful reminder of the impact strong educational leadership can have on a school community. We are proud of all she has accomplished and excited to see what she will do next.”

Under Wilkins’s leadership, Clarke Elementary has seen remarkable gains. The school’s overall performance grade has improved, and math proficiency in grades 3-5 has tripled. She credits these achievements to the school’s structured coaching model implemented through its Opportunity Culture framework.

Beyond academic outcomes, Wilkins has championed partnerships with organizations such as Student U and Duke University to secure grants that provide critical academic support, mentorship and family engagement resources – helping students thrive both in and out of the classroom.

“Strong schools are built through collaboration, vision and dedication to student success,” Wilkins said. “Through strategic coaching, thoughtful advocacy and continuous learning, I strive to ensure that Clarke Elementary remains a model of excellence where every child has the opportunity to succeed.”

The NCAE Principal of the Year Award is presented annually by the NCAE Division of Principals/Administrators. Nominees are judged on professional practice, advocacy for the profession, community engagement and leadership skills.

The NCAE is the largest association of professional educators in North Carolina.

Vance County High School Commencement First Of 4 Ceremonies To Be Held

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– information courtesy of Vance County Schools

Family, friends, educators and community leaders watched proudly as 277 graduates representing the Vance County High School Class of 2025 received their diplomas, the first of two commencement exercises today for Vance County Schools.

The morning commencement took place Friday, May 23 at 9 a.m. in Viper Stadium, and began with the posting of colors presented by the Vance County High School proudly honored 277 graduates during its 2025 commencement ceremony, held Friday, May 23, at 9:00 a.m. in Viper Stadium. The event was a celebration of the accomplishments, perseverance, and bright futures of the Class of 2025.

Vance County Early College commencement will take place this afternoon beginning at 5 p.m. in the Wayne Adcock Auditorium, located in the Center for Innovation. This is a ticketed event.

The ceremony opened with the Posting of Colors presented by the North Carolina 81st Air Force Junior ROTC Color Guard based at VCHS, followed by the National Anthem by Dr. Korwind Stokes, VCHS choral director at VCHS.

A special farewell address was delivered by Lia Machado, who offered a heartfelt send-off to the graduating seniors. She said, “In a world that often pressures you to conform or second-guess your worth, holding onto your values and beliefs becomes an act of quiet strength. It’s not always easy—there are moments of doubt and setbacks—but staying grounded in who you are lays the foundation for resilience and self-respect.”

Students received their diplomas from Principal Dr. Nealie Whitt III, Superintendent Dr. Cindy W. Bennett, and Vance County Board of Education Chair Dorothy W. Gooche.

The Class of 2025 showcased exceptional achievement across academics, leadership, service, and postsecondary readiness:

  • Academic Honors

○ 2 graduate earned Summa Cum Laude honors (weighted GPA 4.0+) ○ 4 graduates earned Magna Cum Laude honors (weighted GPA 3.6–3.9) ○ 12 graduates earned Cum Laude honors (weighted GPA 3.25–3.5) ● College and Career Readiness

○ 204 college credit hours earned by VCHS students

○ 2 graduates earned Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification

 

○ 96 students earned WorkKeys certifications,

  • Scholarships and Higher Education

○ The Class of 2025 has earned more than $1,343,872 in scholarships and grants

○ 138 students have been accepted to two- or four-year colleges and                        universities

  • Honors and Distinctions

○ 5 students recognized as North Carolina Scholars

○ 16 members of the National Beta Club

○ 7 members of the National Honor Society

○ 48 graduates completed the AVID (Advancement Via Individual

Determination) program

○ Awards included the President’s Award for Educational Excellence, the President’s Award for Achievement, and Music Honors

  • Military Enlistment

○ 12 graduates committed to serve in the United States Armed Forces, demonstrating their courage and commitment to our country.

Whitt delivered inspiring remarks, urging graduates to continue striving for excellence and to lead lives of purpose and impact.

As the Vance County High School Class of 2025 prepares to take their next steps into higher education, careers, military service, or other pursuits, the entire Vance County Schools community celebrates their accomplishments and looks forward to the bright futures ahead.

Congratulations, Vance County High School Class of 2025!

Looking Ahead 

The celebration at Vance County High School marks the beginning of a series of graduation events across the district:

 

  • AdVance Academy – Friday, June 6 at 2 p.m. at the Center for Innovation ● Vance Virtual Village Academy – Friday, June 6 at 4 p.m. at the Center for Innovation

(Note: All events require a ticket for entry.)

Vance County Schools Named National District Of Distinction By National Beta

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— information courtesy of Vance County Schools

Vance County Schools has been named a 2024-2025 National District of Distinction by National Beta, an independent nonprofit organization that recognizes high academic achievement and encourages service to others.

This award is given to school districts which offer National Beta in all schools in their district and induct qualifying students in grades 4-12. Vance County Schools is one of only 78 districts to receive this award nationwide, according to information from VCS Chief Officer of Communication & Support Aarika Sandlin

Through the exceptional efforts of Superintendent Dr. Cindy Bennett, club sponsors and deserving Beta members, Vance County Schools has flourished since the district’s initial Beta charter. This national award speaks highly of our district’s commitment to academic excellence, leadership development, and service involvement, and illustrates our dedication to preparing students for college and career readiness. The students in their district understand the importance of these qualities and exemplify the Beta motto, Let Us Lead by Serving Others.

“This recognition is evidence of the incredible work happening in every school across our district,” said Dr. Cindy Bennett, Superintendent of Vance County Schools. “To be named a National Beta District of Distinction again speaks volumes about the character of our students, the dedication of our staff, and our shared belief in service, leadership, and academic excellence. We are honored to celebrate this achievement together.”

Vance County has been named a Beta Club District of Distinction for the last 7 years, yearly since 2019. Vance County Schools will receive a National Beta District of Distinction plaque to display at the district office. In addition, National Beta District of Distinction principals will receive a plaque to display at their schools.

The District Beta Club Coordinator for Vance County Schools is Mr. Andrew Markoch, Director of Fine Arts and Physical Education. Following is a list of schools, their principals and Beta Club advisers.

  • Aycock Elementary: Principal, Donald Johnson III; Beta Club advisers, Raegan Ross and Caroline Boyd
  • Carver Elementary: Principal, Regina Rainey; Beta Club adviser, Michelle Morgan-Edwards.
  • Clarke Elementary: Principal, Dr. C’monee Wilkins; Beta Club adviser, Lori-Ann Lewis
  • Dabney Elementary: Principal, Dr. Michael Putney; Beta Club adviser, Michelle Foster
  • E.M. Rollins: Principal, Dr. Carnetta Thomas; Beta Club adviser, Nicole Anderson
  • E.O. Young Elementary: Principal, Kristen Boyd; Beta Club adviser, Marian Faulkner
  • L.B. Yancey: Principal, Dr. Shannon Bullock; Beta Club adviser, Wendy Oakley
  • New Hope Elementary: Principal, Letitia Fields; Beta Club adviser, Barbara Young
  • Pinkston Street Elementary: Principal, Canecca Mayes; Beta Club adviser, Yolanda Dixon
  • Zeb Vance Elementary: Principal, Joy Suther; Beta Club adviser, Colleen Tyburski
  • Vance County Middle School: Principal, Dr. Stephanie Ayscue; Beta Club adviser, Sheneika Campbell-Thomas
  • STEM Early High: Principal Edward Ortega also serves as Beta Club adviser
  • Vance County High School: Principal, Dr. Nealie Whitt III; Beta Club adviser, Lindsey Ramsey
  • Vance County Early College High School: Principal, Debbie Hite: Beta Club adviser ,Vicki Fullwood-Barrett
  • Vance Virtual Village: Principal, Dr. Jeff Batten; Beta Club adviser, Anton Wesley

 

 

Vance County Schools Celebrates Top Ten Percent In 2025 Graduating Class

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Vance County Schools honored students in the Top 10 Percent of the Class of 2025 Thursday during its Evening of Academic Excellence at the Atrium on the campus of the Center for Innovation.

The Vance County High School Chorus, under the direction of Dr. Korwind Stokes, delivered a moving performance, setting the tone for an evening of celebration and accomplishment.

Thirty-two students were recognized for their achievement – 25 from Vance County High School, 5 from Early College and 1 each from AdVance Academy and Vance Virtual Village Academy.

The night spoke volumes about the determination of these students and their commitment to reaching their goals, even in the face of challenges. To celebrate their success, the senior scholars received a medallion to wear with their graduation attire, a symbol of their outstanding academic achievement.

View photos of the evening on the Vance County Schools Facebook page.

The following students were recognized for their hard work, dedication and outstanding academic performance:

Vance County High School

  • Jessica Hernandez-Sanchez
  • Lia Machado
  • Lucie Lecomte
  • Antoine Doyle
  • Nadirah Martin-Watson
  • Courtney Harp
  • K’Naya Williams
  • Dicenia Nuci
  • Adreayna Vaughan
  • Fernanda Minero Mancera
  • Daniela Hernandez
  • Jaylen Hargrove
  • Ty’Liik Henderson
  • Saydeline Barron Mejia
  • Maurice Jackson
  • Jontavious Nile
  • Nahum Perez
  • Kira Alston
  • La’Nika Watkins
  • Lee Kinney
  • Ronasia Kearney
  • Royer Orozco Orozco
  • Aubryella Ramirez
  • Xya’Riah Best
  • Clarence Debnam

AdVance Academy

Danielle Wilson

Vance County Early College

  • Ivy Huynh
  • Jiya Davis
  • Christina Dobbs
  • Launtica Brown
  • Edgar Duran Ortiz

 

Vance Virtual Village Academy

 

Fatima Ramirez Ramirez

 

Pinkston Street ‘Trailblazers And Changemakers’ Honors Two Local Women

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– – Information courtesy of Vance County Schools

Pinkston Street Elementary celebrated Women’s History Month with a powerful event titled Trailblazers and Changemakers on Mar. 26. The event was led by Principal Canecca Mayes and honored two remarkable women making an impact in the community.

Evan O’Geary, crowned Miss Henderson 2025 and a dedicated 2nd-grade teacher at Zeb Vance Elementary, was recognized for her inspiring leadership and commitment to education. She focused on “The Power of Yet.” Pinkston student Gymaia Robinson presented a heartfelt poem to honor Miss O’Geary.

La’Nautica Johnson, a standout student-athlete at Vance County High School, was also celebrated. As the first wrestler from VCHS to qualify for the state championship, she is paving the way for future athletes. She began wrestling a year ago and encouraged others to reach out and try something new. Alexandra Mendiola honored Johnson with a moving poem.

The program featured a beautiful musical performance by Pinkston Street Elementary teacher Kaylom Crawley, adding a special touch to the celebration.

Throughout March, Principal Mayes highlighted local women making a difference, culminating in this inspiring event that empowered students to dream big and recognize the power of women’s contributions.

The Local Skinny! Vance County Schools District Leaders Recognized

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Two Vance County Schools administrators have completed the North Carolina School Superintendents’ Association Aspiring Superintendents Program.

Dr. Destiney Ross-Putney and Dr. Nealie Whitt III were among a cohort of 39 school and district leaders from across the state to graduate from the leadership program, designed to support school leaders in their current roles while honing their skill sets in roles as future superintendents.

The North Carolina Aspiring Superintendents Program is a highly specialized leadership development initiative tailored for select district leaders who have demonstrated exceptional success in their administrative roles and aspire to the superintendency. Offered through the NCSSA and the North Carolina Alliance for School Leadership Development, the program equips future superintendents with technical expertise, leadership strategies for navigating the complexities of the role and contemporary skills essential for 21st-century educational leadership. Participants engage in multiple face-to-face leadership development sessions and benefit from an embedded Executive Coaching component with proven leaders in the field. To date, 52 alumni from the program’s first eight cohorts have been appointed to superintendencies across North Carolina.

Ross-Putney, VCS chief officer of Instruction and Innovation, said the program offered invaluable insights that apply to leadership at every level.

“The professional learning sessions were highly engaging, and connecting with fellow Cohort IX members has already proven beneficial to my work,” she stated. “I look forward to leveraging these new strategies and expanded professional relationships to further support the students, staff, and community in Vance County.”

Whitt, principal at Vance County High School, said, “Leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about impact. Through the NCSSA Aspiring Superintendents Program, I’ve learned that true leadership is built on vision, resilience, and the courage to make decisions that shape the future. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow, and every student is a reason to lead with purpose.”

Superintendent Dr. Cindy Bennett said she is proud that the two VCS leaders had completed the Aspiring Superintendents Program. “Completing the North Carolina Aspiring Superintendents Program is a significant milestone that reflects not only Ross-Putney and Whitt’s dedication to educational leadership but also their commitment to continuous growth and excellence,” Bennett said. “Their participation in this program will strengthen their impact on our district and inspire those they lead.”

CLICK PLAY!

House Bill 87 Proposes Cell Phone-Free Education Policy For All Public Schools

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A bill to regulate students’ use of cell phones in public schools sailed through the N.C. House Tuesday.

At present, there is no statewide statute regarding cell phone use by students in public schools, but House Bill 87 would require governing bodies of public school units to adopt a policy on use of cell phones by students during instructional time.

If the bill becomes law, it will be effective for the 2025-26 school year.

According to information from the N.C. School Boards Association, 77 of the state’s 100 counties have policies on cell phone use by students in schools.

Vance County is one of those counties; while there are limitations to using phones or other wireless communication devices, the policy states that students may use such devices for instructional purposes, when the teacher authorizes – and supervises – such use.

Vance County Schools policy states the following:

“Administrators may authorize individual students to use wireless communication devices for personal purposes when there is a reasonable need for such communication. Teachers and administrators may authorize individual students to use the devices for instructional purposes, provided that they supervise the students during such use.

Although use may be permitted, before, during and after school, use of cellular phones and other wireless communication devices may be prohibited on school buses when noise from such devices interferes with the safe operation of the buses. In addition, elementary and middle school students who participate in after-school programs are prohibited from using wireless communication devices during such programs.”

House Bill 87 would require school districts to adopt a cell phone-free education policy which would eliminate or severely restrict student access to cell phones during instructional time. Parents would have to be notified at the beginning of each school of the cell phone-free education policy adopted by the governing board. Likely exempt from the requirements would be remote charter academies, remote academies and virtual charter schools participating in the virtual charter school pilot program.

Vance County Schools Names March Student Spotlight Winners

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— information courtesy of Vance County Schools

Vance County Schools is proud to announce the recognition of outstanding students as the March Student Spotlights for the 2024-2025 academic year. Zahra Hendricks of Pinkston Street Elementary, Kanaelah Miles of L.B. Yancey Elementary, and Awwad Almawri at E.O. Young Elementary have been honored for their exceptional qualities and contributions to their school communities.

The Student Spotlight program, sponsored by Vance County Schools and the Vance County Public School Foundation, aims to celebrate exceptional students who are making a meaningful difference in their schools. These students have demonstrated excellence in their academics but also exhibited commendable qualities such as kindness, dedication, and a commitment to personal growth.

Zahra Hendricks, Pinkston Street Elementary 

Zahra Hendricks, a kindergarten student, is celebrated for her kindness, determination and academic excellence. Zahra’s warm and caring nature shines through in everything she does—whether it is offering a helping hand to a classmate in need or spreading joy with her bright personality. She is a dedicated learner who excels beyond her grade level, impressing her teachers and peers with her ability to read aloud to the class and tackle any assignment with enthusiasm. Zahra finds great joy in reading and math, as they challenge her and bring her happiness. She especially loves reading to her classmates and answering questions, both of which showcase her confidence and leadership in the classroom. Her passion for learning fuels her aspirations of becoming a doctor or nurse one day, driven by her desire to help others feel better.

Outside of school, Zahra enjoys playing with her Barbie Dreamhouse and dolls. She also loves watching her favorite shows, Barbie and Bluey. If she had a superpower, she would choose the ability to fly so she could travel anywhere she wants. Zahra dreams of visiting Disney World, and if she could go on an adventure, she would love to travel to Jamaica to spend time with her grandmother and family. Zahra admires her parents deeply, and appreciates their love and support for everything she does. Her kindness, intelligence and dedication make her a shining star at Pinkston Street Elementary. Her love for learning and her caring heart inspire those around her, and make her a role model for her peers. Zahra’s advice to other students is to always do their best and make good choices.

Kanaelah Miles, L.B. Yancey Elementary 

Kanaelah Miles, a dedicated fourth grader at L.B. Yancey Elementary, is celebrated for her strong work ethic, leadership qualities and positive influence on her school community. Nominated by Taylor Evans, she is a role model among her peers and is always ready to lend a helping hand, encourage others, and bring positivity to the classroom. She approaches her studies with curiosity, determination and a strong work ethic, and she consistently strives for excellence. Outside of academics, Kanaelah is actively involved in the SAVE Promise Club, Robotics, Yancey Girls Unstoppables, Boys & Girls Club and Beta Club, all of which demonstrate her commitment to teamwork and personal growth.

Writing is Kanaelah’s favorite subject because it allows her to express herself and take on new challenges. She dreams of becoming an elementary math teacher, inspired by her love of learning and her passion for helping others succeed. One of the most valuable lessons she has learned is to stay true to herself and not let words bring her down. If she could have any superpower, she would choose the ability to read minds, as she values honesty and understanding. Her biggest inspiration is her grandmother, who has guided her in knowing right from wrong and has helped shape her into the person she is today.

Kanaelah’s favorite thing about L.B. Yancey Elementary is the supportive and welcoming environment created by the staff and students. She finds motivation within herself, pushing herself to be confident and successful every day. She encourages her peers to stay active, work hard, and never give up on their goals. In the future, Kanaelah hopes to visit Jamaica to experience its beauty, try new foods, and enjoy swimming. If she had a magic wand, she would wish for more opportunities to participate in programs like Student Spotlight. With her resilience, positivity, and dedication to learning, Kanaelah is a true inspiration to her classmates and a proud representative of L.B. Yancey Elementary.

Awwad Almawri, E.O. Young Elementary

Awwad Almawri, a fifth-grade student at E.O. Young Elementary, is known for his enthusiasm, leadership and positive attitude. His teachers describe him as a dedicated student who approaches every challenge with curiosity and determination. Since arriving in the U.S., Awwad has made remarkable progress in learning English—going from knowing just a few words to confidently engaging in conversations and sharing his thoughts in class. His eagerness to learn and his kindness toward others make him a role model within the school community.

Math is Awwad’s favorite subject because he enjoys problem-solving and learning new concepts while strengthening his English skills. Outside of school, he spends his time playing soccer with his older brother, Eyad, whom he looks up to as a role model. He also enjoys doing homework and spending time with his siblings. Looking ahead, Awwad dreams of joining the Army, drawn to the honor and excitement of the career.

One of the lessons Awwad is most proud of mastering recently is multiplying decimals, a skill that challenged him but made him feel accomplished. If he could have any superpower, he would choose super speed to get places quickly. He also hopes to visit Egypt one day to see the Great Pyramids and experience the country’s rich history. His favorite part of being a student at E.O. Young Elementary is learning new words, excelling in math and seeing his friends every day. His advice to others is simple but powerful: listen to your teachers, work hard, and never give up.

If given a magic wand, Awwad would wish to grow up faster so he can pursue his dreams. His dedication, resilience, and passion for learning make him an inspiration to his peers and a proud representative of E.O. Young Elementary.

Congratulations to all of the March Student Spotlight recipients!