Tag Archive for: #vancecountyschools

Veteran School Leaders Appointed To New Roles At August Board of Education Meeting

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– Information from Vance County Schools Chief Officer of Accountability, Research & Communication Aarika Sandlin

The Vance County Board of Education has appointed Rey Horner as assistant superintendent of Auxiliary and Student Services and Dr. Jacqueline Batchelor-Crosson as chief officer of Academics and Federal Programs.

Horner and Batchelor-Crosson will begin their new roles immediately, according to information from VCS Chief Officer of Accountability, Research & Communication Aarika Sandlin.

A native of Henderson and Vance Sr. High School graudate, Horner earned a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Technology from N.C. A &T State University and a Master’s degree in School Administration from Western Carolina University.

Horner’s career with Vance County Schools began in 1997 as a high school science teacher at Southern Vance High School. Throughout his career, he has served the district in a variety of leadership roles, including testing coordinator, assistant principal, Interim Director of AVID, principal of STEM Early High School, Southern Vance High School, and Vance County High School and most recently served as chief officer of Student Services.

As Assistant Superintendent of Auxiliary and Student Services, Horner will provide leadership and oversight in areas that support the district’s schools, students and overall operations including maintenance and transportation. His extensive experience in instruction, school administration, student support and district leadership will position him to advance the district’s commitment to providing students and staff with the resources and services they need to succeed.

With nearly three decades of experience in education and a deep connection to Vance County Schools, Horner brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership and experience to his new role. The district is confident that his expertise and commitment to students will be valuable assets as he leads the Auxiliary and Student Services teams. Horner shared, “I  am honored to serve Vance County Schools in this new capacity. Having spent my career in this district, I look forward to supporting our students, staff, and schools, building on the great work already underway.”

In her new role as chief officer of Academics & Federal Programs, Batchelor-Crosson will provide leadership and strategic direction for instructional initiatives and federal programs across the district. In this role, she will use her experience in teaching, school administration, instructional leadership and federal programs to support student achievement and help strengthen schools.

With an undergraduate degree from Fayetteville State University and both a Master’s and Doctorate from the University of Phoenix, Batchelor-Crosson also holds certifications in Elementary Education K-6 and School Administration.

Beginning her career in education in 2002 as a teacher at Pinkston Street Elementary, Since beginning her career in 2002 as a teacher at Pinkston Street Elementary, Batchelor-Crosson went on to lead the school’s 21st Century Community Learning Center. She later served as an assistant principal in Vance County Schools before returning to Pinkston Street Elementary as principal. She was named Vance County Schools Principal of the Year in 2022 and then served as the director of Elementary Education and Federal Programs, where she provided leadership in the oversight of federally funded programs designed to support student success, as well as support to the district’s elementary schools.

With a career spanning more than two decades and a commitment to instructional excellence, school leadership, and equitable opportunities for students, Batchelor-Crosson brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her new role. Her leadership will be instrumental in advancing the district’s instructional priorities, strengthening federal program initiatives, and ensuring schools have the resources and support needed to help every student thrive. She shared, “I am honored to serve Vance County Schools in this new capacity. I look forward to working alongside our schools and staff to strengthen instruction, support student success, and ensure our federal programs continue to provide meaningful opportunities for every student.”

The superintendent welcomed Horner and Batchelor-Crosson into their new leadership roles. “Both bring a deep understanding of Vance County Schools, a strong commitment to our students and staff, and years of proven leadership experience. Their knowledge of our schools and communities, combined with their dedication to student success, will be invaluable as we continue to move our district forward. I am confident that their leadership will strengthen our work in instruction, federal programs, operations, and student services, and I look forward to the positive impact they will have across our school system,” she said.

As part of these leadership changes, Batchelor-Crosson and Mr. Horner will assume expanded responsibilities while building upon their existing leadership roles. Batchelor-Crosson will add oversight of Instruction to her existing leadership of Federal Programs, responsibilities previously held by Ross-Putney. Horner will expand his current district leadership responsibilities to include Auxiliary and Student Services following the recent retirement of the chief of Operations.

TownTalk: Dr. Destiney Ross-Putney Embraces New Role as VCS Superintendent

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As the newest superintendent of Vance County Schools, Dr. Destiney Ross-Putney most likely is feeling some of the same things that her predecessors felt as the beginning of a new school year approaches: excitement for what lies ahead, mixed with a little bit of apprehension, well, for what lies ahead.

But like all good educators, Ross-Putney is prepared. She’s prepared for what she knows is headed her way, whether it’s student achievement, measuring proficiency growth or supporting teachers with professional development.

And just like good teachers have good lesson plans, Ross-Putney said she’s laid out five tenets to prioritize as she embarks in her role leading Vance County Schools.

In what she calls her “entry plan,” Ross-Putney said she’s going to be hyper-focused during these first 100 days as superintendent.

The first tenet centers around “listening, learning and building trust” to engage stakeholders. She plans to meet with local government officials, faith-based leaders and businesspeople across Vance County.

It’s a way to strengthen existing relationships, but it’s also about visibility.

“Visibility is key,” she said on Monday’s TownTalk.

“Our district, and our county, is small enough that we can really reap the benefits of connecting,” she said. “Those exchanges are really powerful.”

Part of that connection comes through collaboration, whether it’s among community partners or within the school district offices.

The other tenets include building leadership capacity, having a centralized online hub for teachers to access any form, document or policy they may need and school safety and school climate and teaching and learning.

Ross-Putney points to the district’s SPARK NC program as one innovative way to engage students that also allows them a chance to explore fields from agriculture to cyber security through a series of modules that can lead to high school credits.

“This is the type of learning our students need,” she said. In a nutshell, students choose modules and earn a credit when they’ve successfully completed six modules.

If they like the topic, great. If they don’t, they can choose another without penalty.

Now, VCS is offering a second level of SPARK and has been able to bring in an additional teacher because of SPARK’s success.

“It gives them the opportunity to pivot without being punitive,” she said. It fits the student and their style of learning.

It’s important for today’s students to “own” the progress they make, setting goals for proficiency. Ross-Putney said the district established this philosophy last year, but it’s one that she wants to continue.

“We all have an individual journey,” Ross-Putney said. “There’s so much beauty in that diversity.” There are so many pathways available for students to explore and the superintendent is keen to make sure that educators teach students the skills that allow them to adapt to changing environments and use critical-thinking skills for successful outcomes.

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Dr. Destiney Ross-Putney Sworn In As New Vance County Schools Superintendent

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Dr. Destiney Ross-Putney was sworn in Friday morning as superintendent of Vance County Schools.

With her family at her side, District Court Judge Adam Keith administered the oath of office.

In brief remarks after her swearing-in, Ross-Putney said she is deeply grateful and honored, and ready to lead and serve the school district.

She acknowledged that the “weight of leadership will be heavy to bear” at times, and she pledged to lead with integrity.

“I will not promise perfection, but I will promise purpose, honesty, courage and a whole lot of hard work,” she said. “Most of all, I promise to never forget the children whose futures depend on every decision that we make today.”

Ross-Putney is a Vance County native and a graduate of Vance County Schools.

Her mother, Michelle Ross, said her youngest child has worked hard for this county that she loves. “She loves this county, and loves the children,” Ross said of her daughter in remarks before she was sworn in.

Ross-Putney said accepting the job of superintendent represents more than a new title.

“It represents a journey shaped by faith, opportunity, hard lessons, second chances and so many people who believed in me along the way,” she said.

She said being in a leadership role often asks something not only of the person serving but also of the people who love them. She acknowledged her husband, Michael, for his support.

With the prospects of long nights and lots of work facing her, Ross-Putney said she is reminded of the different roles ahead of her.

“Before I am a superintendent, I am still a wife, a mother, a daughter and a sister.”

(News text above originally posted Friday, July 31, 2026; Audio embedded below added Monday, Aug 3, 2026.)

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VCS ‘Back to School Bash’ July 30 At VCMS Stadium From 3 PM – 6:30 PM

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Vance County Schools families and students are invited to a “Back to School Bash” on Thursday, July 30 to get ready for the start of the

2026-27 school year. Come out to the stadium at Vance County Middle School between 3 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to join in the fun as summer schedules wind down and a new school year approaches.

The first day of school is right around the corner – Monday, Aug. 10 – for students at E.M. Rollins, Vance County High School and Vance County Early College.

Schools on the traditional calendar will begin classes on Monday, Aug. 24.

But whichever day school begins for your family, next week’s back-to-school community event will help you start the school year strong with the information, activities and resources you need, said VCS Chief Officer of Communication & Innovative Support Aarika Sandlin.

More than 70 vendors will be on hand during the back-to-school event.

In case of rain, the event will be moved inside the middle school, Sandlin said.

E.M. Rollins, Vance County High and Vance County Early College will have an open house on Thursday Aug. 6 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

All traditional-calendar schools will have their open houses on Thursday, Aug. 20 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Stay up-to-date on school news and events at www.vcs.k12.nc.us.

Dr. Destiney Ross-Putney Named VCS Superintendent; Will Begin New Job Aug. 1

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The Vance County Board of Education announced Tuesday that Dr. Destiney Ross-Putney will succeed retiring Superintendent Dr. Cindy Bennett, effective Aug. 1, 2026.

Ross-Putney already had been selected as interim superintendent when Bennett announced her retirement plans recently, but Board of Education Chairperson Ayana Lewis said Tuesday that the board had determined that she is “the right leader to guide Vance County Schools into its next chapter.”

Lewis said Ross-Putney has shown a commitment to instruction, leadership, innovation and student achievement. “More importantly,” she added, “she understands the unique strengths, challenges and opportunities that exist within our district.

“The board believes her vision, experience and passion for public education make her exceptionally qualified to lead our school district. We are confident she will continue building upon the progress that has been made by helping us move forward with purpose and excellence.”

Currently serving as the district’s chief officer of Instruction and Innovation, Ross-Putney is a graduate of Vance County Schools and began her career as a math teacher in 2008 at Northern Vance High School.

Since then, she has served in numerous instructional and leadership roles, including co-founder of STEM Early High, where she later served as assistant principal. She went on to serve as the Secondary Math Curriculum Specialist, Instructional Technology Facilitator, Executive Director of the Center for Innovation and Professional Learning, and most recently, Chief Officer of Instruction and Innovation.

Reflecting on her appointment, Dr. Ross-Putney said, “I’ve spent my career helping build opportunities for students in Vance County Schools. Now I’m honored to lead the district into its next chapter, with a deep respect for what we’ve accomplished together and an unwavering commitment to doing what is best for children.”

TownTalk: Friends, Colleagues, Family Gather To Honor Retiring Superintendent Dr. Cindy Bennett

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More than 100 well-wishers gathered Monday afternoon in Vance-Granville Community College’s Civic Center to congratulate Dr. Cindy Bennett on her upcoming retirement and to reflect on her impact as superintendent of Vance County Schools and on public education.

With family, friends, coworkers and community leaders in the audience, Bennett said she knew very early on that she wanted to be a teacher.

Now, looking back on a career that has spanned more than 40 years, Bennett is set to retire at the end of July. She was named superintendent of Vance County Schools in June 2021, succeeding Dr. Anthony Jackson.

Bennett thanked her parents for instilling in her and her siblings the basics: “hard work, to be people of integrity, to be good human beings and to love God most of all,” she said.

Starting out as a 2nd and 3rd grade teacher, Bennett said she was a “little afraid” to share the faith aspect of her life. But over the years, she has been able to champion others to share their faith, and to give hope to those who may need it most.

“Hope is what educators can offer,” she said. A teacher’s job is to give students the best possible opportunity to succeed, she said. “That begins with hope. From that, we move forward.”

Bennett said God had given her many wonderful opportunities, and she got a little emotional when she said she was “a child of God doing the work that he has called me to do.”

Representing the central office leadership, Dr. Destiney Ross-Putney spoke about their colleague and their friend, wishing her well as retirement nears.

Ross-Putney praised Bennett for her steady leadership, “keeping students the priority, believing in people. Kindness and accountability can coexist,” she said.

Kristen Boyd, principal of E.O. Young Elementary, spoke on behalf of the district’s principals. Boyd called Bennett a transformational leader who is authentic and collaborative – someone who is “solution-oriented” and who leads with optimism.

Bennett’s oft-used “I wonder if…” and “what’s the best that can happen?” are examples of how she approaches difficult situations that plant seeds of encouragement “to keep the focus where it belongs – on doing what is best for children,” Boyd said.

Boyd described Bennett as “a fearless woman of faith,” who guided the school district with wisdom, grace and integrity.

School Board Chairperson Ayana Lewis thanked Bennett for leading with care and compassion, for her visionary leadership, for creating expanded opportunities for students and for her unwavering belief in every child.

“Education is about more than academics,” Lewis said, adding that she sees the heart that the outgoing superintendent has for the students, staff and families.

Bennett, she said, is a “servant leader whose heart has always been centered on the students of Vance County Schools.”

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VCS ‘Educators Of Excellence’ Celebration Recognizes Teachers, Administrators

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— Information courtesy of Vance County Schools

Vance County Schools honored outstanding educators and school leaders during its annual Educators of Excellence Celebration on Tuesday, June 2 at the Henderson Country Club.

The event recognized each school’s Teacher of the Year and Beginning Teacher of the Year, while also celebrating nominees for Principal of the Year and Assistant Principal of the Year. These educators and administrators exemplify dedication, innovation, and excellence in serving students across the district.

“We are honored to recognize the incredible work taking place in our schools each day,” said Superintendent Dr. Cindy Bennett. “Our students deserve the absolute best education and these accomplished educators and administrators inspire students, support colleagues, and prepare our students for success.”

VCS recognized Zeb Vance Elementary’s Grant Hairston as Teacher of the Year and Aycock Elementary’s Kevon Allen as District Beginning Teacher of the Year. Kristen Boyd, principal at E.O. Young Elementary was selected for Principal of the Year honors and Razvan Tegean of L.B. Yancey Elementary was selected as Assistant Principal of the Year.

The following educators were recognized as Teacher of the Year for their respective schools:

Advance Academy – Sheila Taylor

Aycock Elementary – Tracey Fontanet

Carver Elementary – Marinda Daye

Clarke Elementary – Venessa Lofters

Dabney Elementary – Tyreka Ward

Kelvin Henderson, E.M. Rollins STEAM Academy

E.O. Young Elementary – Emily Hunsinger

L.B. Yancey Elementary – Jamie Chin

New Hope Elementary – Jasmine Rogers

Pinkston Street Elementary – Marlou Fabruada

STEM Early High – Roanna Evans

Vance County Early College – Vicki Ann Fullwood-Barrett

Vance County High – Selvaraj Arulappan

Vance County Middle – Tashalie Nelson-Sleugh

Vance Virtual Village Academy – Angela Foster

Zeb Vance Elementary – Grant Hairston

Beginning Teacher of the Year honorees, by school, are:

Advance Academy – Gay Charisse Beran

Aycock Elementary – Kevon Allen

Carver Elementary – Kayla Boyd

Clarke Elementary – Sarah Pelos

Dabney Elementary – Nichole Campbell Gordon

E.M. Rollins STEAM Academy – David Rincon

E.O. Young Elementary – Chrystal Primiano

L.B. Yancey Elementary – Doris Gomez

New Hope Elementary – Angel Gilchrist

Pinkston Street Elementary – Deborah Hawley

STEM Early High – Alexandra DeGuzman

Vance County Early College – Ashley Bolling

Vance County High – Ronique Golding

Vance County Middle – Garnet Brooks

Zeb Vance Elementary – Kiangi Hill

The district recognized the following Principal of the Year nominees: Dr. Shannon Bullock (Vance County Middle School), Kristen Boyd (E.O. Young Elementary School) and Jessica Austin (STEM Early High School).

Assistant Principal of the Year nominees included Chabre’ Phillips (Aycock Elementary School), Sharita Jones (Carver Elementary School), David Cooper, Jr. (E.O. Young Elementary School), and Razvan Tegean (L.B. Yancey Elementary School).

Following is more information about each of the award recipients:

From left: Kevon Allen, Kristin Boyd, Razvan Tegean and Grant Hairston

Grant Hairston – Vance County Schools Teacher of the Year

Grant Hairston has a passion and dedication that define exceptional teaching. A graduate of East Carolina University with a Bachelor of Science in Science Education, Hairston has spent the past 10 years inspiring students through engaging, hands-on learning experiences, including seven years serving the students of Vance County Schools at Zeb Vance Elementary School.

As a fifth-grade Science and Math teacher, Hairston is known for creating a classroom environment where curiosity thrives and learning becomes an adventure. He encourages students to ask questions, explore the world around them, and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. His teaching philosophy centers on learning alongside students, modeling curiosity, problem-solving, and a lifelong love of discovery.

His commitment to education extends beyond the classroom. International experiences studying education and culture in Korea and serving as an instructional leader in South Africa have broadened Hairston’s perspective and strengthened his belief in the power of education to connect people, expand horizons, and create meaningful opportunities for students. He brings these global insights back to his classroom, enriching learning experiences and helping students see themselves as part of a larger world. Hairston finds joy in helping students build confidence, develop new skills, and discover their potential, celebrating each “lightbulb moment” that sparks a lifelong love of learning.

As the 2026–2027 Vance County Schools Teacher of the Year, Hairston represents the very best of the teaching profession as an educator whose enthusiasm, innovation, and unwavering commitment to students make a lasting impact on the lives of children and the future of our community.

Kevon Allen – Vance County Schools Beginning Teacher of the Year

Kevon Allen’s dedication and heart define him as an outstanding educator. A graduate of St. Joseph’s Teachers College with a Bachelor of Education in Primary Education, Allen has quickly distinguished himself as a talented educator and leader during his first year at Aycock Elementary School, where he teaches fourth-grade Mathematics.

Although education was not his original career aspiration, Allen believes teaching became his calling. Since entering the profession, he has embraced the opportunity to shape young lives, exceed expectations, and help develop future leaders. He approaches each day with the mindset of a lifelong learner, understanding that education is one of the most powerful tools for transforming lives and opening doors for students.

Allen is known for building relationships with his students and creating a classroom environment where every child feels valued, supported, and capable of success. He believes that teaching extends far beyond academics and that the lasting impact of an educator is found in the encouragement, confidence, and sense of belonging they provide. His students are inspired by his unwavering belief in their potential and his commitment to helping them move from “I can’t” to “I can.”

As the 2026–2027 Vance County Schools Beginning Teacher of the Year, Allen represents the promise and potential of the next generation of educators. His passion for

student success, commitment to relationship-building, and dedication to fostering a positive learning environment make him a deserving recipient of this honor and a bright example of excellence in education.

Kristen Boyd – Vance County Schools Principal of the Year

Kristen Boyd’s educational journey is a testament to dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to Vance County Schools. A proud graduate of East Carolina University with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and North Carolina State University with a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership, Boyd has devoted her entire 25-year career to serving the students, staff, and families of Vance County.

She began her career in 2001 as a second- and third-grade teacher at Aycock Elementary School, where her passion for student success and instructional excellence quickly distinguished her as a leader among her peers. After serving as assistant principal from 2007 to 2014, she served as principal of Aycock Elementary from 2014-2024 and in 2024, was named Principal of E.O. Young Elementary where she continues to inspire excellence and innovation.

Throughout her career, Boyd has been recognized for her exceptional leadership and commitment to continuous improvement. Her honors include Aycock Teacher of the Year in 2006, Superintendent’s Leadership Award, Disruptive Innovator Award, Vanceformation Award, and 2017-2018 VCS Principal of the Year. She has also participated in numerous leadership development programs, including Future Ready Leadership, Leadership Vance, NC Leaders in Personalized and Digital Learning, and Opportunity Culture Fellowship.

Known for her visionary leadership, strong relationships, and relentless focus on student achievement, Boyd has made a lasting impact on Aycock Elementary and the entire Vance County Schools community. As the 2026–2027 Vance County Schools Principal of the Year, she exemplifies the very best of educational leadership and the profound difference one dedicated educator can make in the lives of students and colleagues alike.

Razvan Tegean – Vance County Schools Assistant Principal of the Year

Razvan Tegean exemplifies the leadership, dedication, and student-centered focus that define exceptional school administrators. He is a graduate of Babes-Bolyai University in Romania with a degree in K-12 Physical Education and High Point University with a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership. As the assistant principal at L.B. Yancey Elementary School, Mr. Tegean is committed to creating an inclusive learning environment where every student feels safe, valued, and empowered to reach their highest potential.

An advocate for student achievement, Tegean’s hands-on approach to leadership is evident through his work supporting diverse student populations, strengthening intervention efforts, and providing instructional support to both students and teachers. Through innovative initiatives and targeted academic support, he has helped drive measurable gains in student performance while ensuring every child has access to opportunities for success.

Tegean is deeply invested in the professional growth of educators. Through classroom visits, coaching conversations, walkthroughs, and actionable feedback, he supports teachers in refining their practice and continuously improving outcomes for students. His commitment to collaboration and professional learning helps build leadership capacity throughout the school and strengthens a culture of excellence.

Known for his unwavering commitment to students and ability to inspire those around him, Tegean has made a lasting impact on L.B. Yancey Elementary and the broader Vance County Schools community. As the 2026–2027 Vance County Schools Assistant Principal of the Year, he exemplifies the power of building relationships, supporting growth, and creating opportunities for success for every student and educator.

The Educators of Excellence Celebration highlights the commitment and impact of educators across Vance County Schools and serves as an opportunity for the district and community to celebrate those who make a difference in the lives of students each day.

For more information about Vance County Schools, visit the district website or follow Vance County Schools on social media.

Vance County Board of Education Names Ross-Putney Interim Superintendent Effective Aug. 1

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— Information courtesy of Vance County Schools

Dr. Destiney Ross-Putney has been named interim superintendent upon the retirement of Superintendent Dr. Cindy Bennett on July 31. Ross-Putney, who currently serves as the Chief Officer of Instruction and Innovation for Vance County Schools, will begin her role on Aug. 1, according to information from VCS Chief Information Officer Aarika Sandlin. The appointment was made by the Vance County Board of Education.

A graduate of Northern Vance High School, Ross-Putney earned her Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Education and Master of Education in Instructional Technology and Computer Education from N.C. State University. She later received her Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from High Point University. She holds a North Carolina Educator’s License in Instructional Technology Specialist (Computers), Mathematics (grades 6–9), and School Administration: Superintendent licensure.

Ross-Putney completed the North Carolina School Superintendents’ Association Aspiring Superintendents Program in 2025 and was a finalist for the District Leader of the Year for Change Management through Modern Teacher.

“I am humbled and honored by the opportunity to serve as Interim Superintendent of Vance County Schools and to help maintain and continuously strengthen the important work happening across our district,” Ross-Putney said in a statement. “Vance County Schools is filled with dedicated staff, leaders, students, families, and community partners who care deeply about the future of this community, and I take the responsibility of building upon that foundation very seriously. I remain committed to ensuring stability, strong communication, and a continued focus on what is best for students as we move forward together.”

Vance County Schools Named National Beta District Of Distinction For 8th Consecutive Year

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— Information from Vance County Schools Chief Communication Officer Aarika Sandlin

National Beta has recognized Vance County Schools as a 2025–2026 National Beta District of Distinction, an honor awarded to school districts that demonstrate a strong commitment to academic achievement, leadership development, and service engagement.

This distinction is reserved for districts in which every eligible school offers National Beta and actively inducts qualifying students in grades 4–12. Vance County Schools is among a select group of districts across the nation to earn this prestigious recognition for the 2025–2026 school year.

Through the leadership of the Superintendent Dr. Cindy Bennett, along with the dedication of club sponsors and Beta members, Vance County Schools continues to foster a culture where students are empowered to lead, serve, and excel. Their ongoing efforts reflect a district-wide commitment to developing well-rounded students prepared for success in college, careers, and their communities.

This recognition highlights Vance County School’s focus on creating opportunities for students to grow academically while also building character and leadership skills through meaningful service. Across the district, Beta members exemplify the organization’s motto, Let Us Lead by Serving Others, in both their schools and communities.

Vance County Schools has been named a Beta Club District of Distinction since 2019 – eight years in a row. As part of this achievement, Vance County Schools will receive a National Beta District of Distinction award for display at the district office. In addition, each participating school will receive recognition commemorating their contribution to this accomplishment.

Superintendent Bennett shared “The recognition as a National District of Distinction for Beta Club is a testament to the dedication, character, and leadership of our students, as well as the unwavering support of our educators and advisors. Our Beta members exemplify academic excellence and a commitment to service, and this honor reflects the strong culture of achievement and integrity across our entire district.”

The District Beta Club Coordinator for Vance County Schools is Andrew Markoch, director of Fine Arts and Physical Education.

Each school across the district has dedicated principals and Beta Club advisers who support student leadership, academic excellence, and community service.

Aycock Elementary

Principal: Donald Johnson III

Adviser: Raegan Ross

Carver Elementary

Principal: Regina Rainey

Adviser: Michelle Morgan-Edwards

Clarke Elementary

Principal: Dr. C’monee Wilkins

Advisers Nordette Givans and Ms. Shakera Roach-Thompson

Dabney Elementary

Principal: Letitia Fields

Adviser Nicole Campbell-Gordon

E.M. Rollins

Principal: Dr. Carnetta Thomas

Adviser: Nicole Anderson

E.O. Young Elementary

Principal: Kristen Boyd

Adviser: Marian Faulkner

 L.B. Yancey

Principal: Facetia Branch

Adviser: Wendy Oakley

New Hope Elementary

Principal: MaryLaura Christopher-Rubin

Adviser: Barbara Young.

Pinkston Street Elementary

Principal: Canecca Mayes

Adviser: Cheryl Jones

Zeb Vance Elementary

Principal: Joy Suther

Adviser: Colleen Tyburski

Vance County Middle School

Principal: Dr. Shannon Bullock

Adviser: Sheneika Campbell-Thomas

STEM Early High

Principal: Jessica Austin

Adviser: Nordia McLaughlin

Vance County High School

Principal: Dr. Nealie Whitt III

Adviser: Lindsey Ramsey

Vance County Early College High School

Principal: Dr. Tim Hall

Adviser: Vicki Fullwood-Barrett

Vance Virtual Village

Principal: Dr. Jeff Batten

Adviser: Anton Wesley

The Local Skinny! A Trip Down Memory Lane At Carver, New Hope Elementaries

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Vance County Schools invites the community to take “A Walk Down Memory Lane” next week – in this case, Memory Lane includes the hallways of Carver Elementary and New Hope Elementary.

Visitors will be welcomed to the schools on Tuesday, Apr. 21 between 4:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. to say their goodbyes to the two schools, which will close at the end of this school year. It’s a chance for former students to walk the halls one last time and to reminisce about days gone by.

The Vance County Board of Education voted in February to close the schools, citing declining enrollment, aging buildings and funding concerns.

Carver students will attend E.O. Young next year, and New Hope students will attend Dabney Elementary, according to school officials.

Before the school board voted on the closures, VCS Superintendent Dr. Cindy Bennett had said that the schools’ staffs would have job security.

There are about 123 students in grades PK – 5 presently at Carver; 108 students in PK- 5 are at New Hope.

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