Tag Archive for: #vancecountyschools

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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VCS Superintendent Dr. Cindy Bennett Retiring July 31

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— From Vance County Schools Chief Officer of Communication & Innovative Support Aarika Sandlin

The Vance County Board of Education announces that Dr. Cindy Bennett will retire as Superintendent of Vance County Schools, effective July 31, 2026, concluding a distinguished career spanning more than four decades in education.

Dr. Bennett has served as Superintendent since July 1, 2021, leading the district with a strong focus on student achievement, innovation, and expanding opportunities for all learners. Under her leadership, Vance County Schools has continued to strengthen its commitment to college and career readiness, strategic planning, and community engagement.

Expanded student opportunities across the district, including those at the Center for Innovation (CFI), will stand as a lasting impact of the initiatives Dr. Bennett championed throughout her tenure as Superintendent. Her passion and commitment to ensuring that students are better prepared for success beyond the classroom was seen through the addition of the Simulated Labs for Interactive Career Exploration (SLICE), located at the CFI campus, as well as the addition of the EnTech Mobile Classroom. She has also been a driving force behind the implementation and growth of Advanced Teacher Roles, empowering educators to lead and collaborate in new ways that strengthen instruction districtwide. Demonstrating a strong commitment to leadership development, Dr. Bennett developed the Tailored Symposium, equipping Assistant Principals with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to thrive as effective school leaders. With a focus on developing leaders, she has focused on strategic thinking and principles of Six Sigma to ensure continuous growth and improvement, Kaizen.

Prior to serving as Superintendent, Dr. Bennett was the Assistant Superintendent for Student Services and Strategic Planning for six years. During her tenure, she secured significant grant funding, expanded strategic partnerships, and represented the district at both state and national levels.

“I have always seen public education as my mission field. It has been an honor to serve Vance County Schools and this community,” said Dr. Bennett. “Henderson has become my home, and I am proud of the work we have accomplished together on behalf of our students. The students here have the potential to be the change agents we need in this world. I hope that I have played a small part in being a catalyst for their growth and improvement. I am confident the district will continue to grow and thrive in the years ahead.”

Throughout her career, Dr. Bennett also served in key roles with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, including Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Technology and District Transformation Coach. Her work extended internationally through educational collaborations with the Japan Foundation and the Spanish Embassy. She also contributed as a National Baldrige Consultant, supporting high-performing school systems across the country.

A native of Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina, Dr. Bennett began her career as a teacher in Columbus County Schools and later served as an administrator in Whiteville City Schools. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, a Master of Education from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, and a Ph.D. in K-12 Educational Leadership from Walden University.

Dr. Bennett resides in Henderson with her husband, Ronald Bennett, and they both remain actively involved in the community and Island Creek Baptist Church. Together, they have four adult children and six grandchildren.

The Vance County Board of Education will begin the process of selecting the next superintendent in the coming months and will share updates with staff, families, and the community.

Vance County Schools Selects February’ Student Spotlight Honorees

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Two fifth-grade students are being recognized as the recipients of the February Student Spotlight. Aycock Elementary’s Torrance Terry and Clarke Elementary’s Salomon Cuevas share the honor for their exceptional contributions and leadership within their school communities.

Torrance Terry – 5th grader at Aycock Elementary 

Torrance is a remarkable leader both in and out of the classroom. Nominated by his teachers and administrators, Torrance stands out as a student who consistently demonstrates kindness, responsibility, and a strong work ethic. He is a dedicated member of Safety Patrol, greeting every student and staff member with a warm smile and modeling positive behavior even when no adults are present.

Torrance has embraced meaningful leadership opportunities in the classroom, including organizing and leading daily morning meetings during his teacher’s maternity leave and thoughtfully planning a baby shower for her before she began her leave.

Academically, he thrives in hands-on and creative learning environments, especially in Imagineering Club where he enjoys 3D printing, 3D pen creations, Friday “free build” challenges, and exploring topics such as body systems. He is also actively involved in Beta Club and consistently goes above and beyond in all that he does.

Inspired by his father and grandfather, who work in home remodeling, Torrance has developed a strong interest in architecture and technology. He enjoys designing modern houses and even assists his grandparents, who are pastors, with designing churches. His goal is to continue growing in technology and one day become an architect, combining innovation, creativity, and purpose.

Outside of school, Torrance is deeply involved in his church community, where he preaches, sings, plays the drums, and assists with media. His faith is central to his life, and he hopes to one day visit Jerusalem to learn more about where Jesus walked and the miracles He performed. Torrance credits his grandmother as his biggest role model. She prays for him, supports him in his endeavors, and inspires him daily.

When asked what superpower he would choose, Torrance quickly responded that he would want the power of speed and multitasking so he could “do everything at once.” If given a magic wand, he said he would create shorter class periods about 30 minutes in length so he could spend more time doing what he loves. At home, Torrance is a proud big brother to his kindergarten sister, Ava, and enjoys designing projects and watching The Parkers. When asked what advice he would give others, Torrance offered simple but powerful words: “Keep trying and you will get there. Never give up.”

Through his leadership, creativity, and determination, Torrance Terry continues to make a lasting impact and represents the very best of the Aycock Elementary community.

Salomon Cuevas – 5th grader at Clarke Elementary 

Salomon is a remarkable 5th grader whose journey is nothing short of inspiring. Nominated by Principal C’Monee’ Wilkins, Assistant Principal Dan Sandlin, Assistant Principal Intern Stephanie Sewell-Brown, and Multi-Classroom Leader Venessa Lofters, Salomon has demonstrated tremendous growth academically, socially and as a leaders among his peers since arriving from the Dominican Republic last year. From his very first days at Clarke, he embraced every opportunity to learn with enthusiasm and determination.

Salomon approaches challenges with a true growth mindset. Whether he is tackling complex math problems or diving into a new reading assignment, he never backs down from hard work. He shared that he is enjoying learning fractions because he likes to work through problems, even when they are difficult.

That perseverance is what sets him apart.

Science and reading are his favorite subjects, and he especially enjoys the I Survived book series. He also loves math for the challenge it brings. Salomon’s curiosity shines daily as he asks thoughtful questions, seeks understanding when concepts are new, and takes pride in his academic progress. He believes gaining knowledge is the key to becoming a successful person in life.

Outside of the classroom, Salomon enjoys playing soccer, with striker as his favorite position. He also enjoys basketball. His favorite movie is GOAT, which focuses on basketball. One day, he hopes to become both a professional soccer player and an electrician.

Salomon is soon to be inducted into the school’s Beta Club and serves as a role model for his classmates. He consistently shows respect, responsibility, and kindness. Recently, when another student fell outside, Salomon immediately stepped in to help them get to the nurse, making him a true Bulldog leader in action.

When asked who he looks up to, Salomon quickly shares that he admires his dad. His father’s hard work and character stand out as exceptional to him and knows he wants to follow in his footsteps.

His advice to other students reflects that same maturity: “Even if something is difficult, never give up. While you are learning, you are growing. When you become an adult, you can be someone important if you are prepared.”

Salomon says the best thing about being a Clarke Bulldog is that the staff believe in him, even on his hard days. They help him stay focused and encourage him to be a leader. That support has helped him flourish both in and out of the classroom. If he could have any superpower to support him, it would be the ability to fly, so he is never late anywhere. And if he could travel anywhere in the world, he would visit Paris, a dream destination inspired by his parents.

With two siblings attending Vance County High School, Salomon is proud to be part of a strong Vance County Schools family. His joyful spirit, curiosity, leadership and perseverance truly light up every room he enters, making him a phenomenal Spotlight Student!

Congratulations to each of our VCS Spotlight Students.

Vance County Schools February Student Spotlight Selections

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— Information courtesy of Vance County Schools

Vance County Schools has selected two elementary students to share Student Spotlight in February. Mia Watkins is a 1st grader at New Hope Elementary and Paisley David is a 4th grader at Dabney Elementary.

They were selected for their exceptional contributions and leadership within their school communities.

Mia Watkins – New Hope Elementary

At New Hope Elementary School, kindness, pride, and positivity shine brightly through first grader Mia Watkins. Nominated by her teacher, Tina Terry, Mia is known for her warm heart and joyful spirit. She walks into school each day with a big smile, a cheerful hello, and often a hug for everyone she meets. Her love for school is written all over her face from the moment she enters the building, and her New Hope Wildcat pride runs deep.

Mia is the kind of student every classroom celebrates. She shares her materials with classmates, helps friends during centers, and assists her teachers throughout the day. Whether working in whole group or small group instruction, she is fully engaged and always ready to lend a helping hand. Mia believes students should be kind, treat others with respect, and help when they can, and she models that behavior every single day.

While she especially loves recess, particularly the swings and playing tag with friends, Mia also enjoys science. She likes learning about the weather and chemicals and recently has been excited about mastering addition and subtraction. She says Ms. Terry makes learning fun. Her favorite book is The Three Little Pigs, especially the part where the pigs build their houses. She admires the pig who built with bricks because he made a strong and smart choice.

When it is time to relax, Mia enjoys watching Frozen and loves Elsa. Her favorite song is Lady Lady by Olivia Dean. Outside of school, she stays active as a Henderson Recreation and Parks cheerleader and takes dance classes at Ballet Arts, where she studies hip hop, ballet, tumble, and tap. She even teaches her friends the cheers she learns. Mia also enjoys supporting her brother and cousin at their games and often shares updates about their practices and competitions.

She attends Oak Level Church and enjoys spending time with her family, including her big brother Kobe, who is in fifth grade, and her Cane Corso, Cane. Her favorite colors are pink, purple, and light blue, and she loves spaghetti.

Mia dreams of becoming a police officer like her mom. She admires her mom for her strength, her love, and her cooking, especially her chicken with rice and green beans. Mia also treasures the time they spend cuddling and reading together. If she could have any superpower, she would choose teleportation so she could get places faster. If she had a magic wand, she would wish for a strawberry doughnut from Krispy Kreme. She hopes to travel to the Bahamas on a cruise where she can hold a parrot and swim in the pool.

Mia says the best part of being a student at New Hope is the strong sense of community, especially morning meetings on the carpet and wellness activities that help students start their day in a positive way. She comes to school each day ready to learn new things, see her friends, and grow. Her enthusiasm, compassion, and joyful presence remind everyone what it means to be a New Hope Wildcat, and her school community is proud to celebrate her in this Student Spotlight.

 

Paisley David – Dabney Elementary 

Dabney Elementary proudly recognizes 4th grader Paisley David as their 2025-2026 Student Spotlight honoree. Paisley is an active and enthusiastic learner who consistently gives her best in every lesson and activity. She loves reading and excels in it, enjoys learning fractions, and embraces challenges with a positive attitude. Her curiosity and dedication make her a shining example of what it means to be a ROCK student, showing Respect, taking Ownership, displaying Courage, and using Know How every day.

Paisley dreams of becoming an astronaut, inspired by her passion for space and her desire to help people learn more about Earth and the universe. If she could have a superpower, she would choose teleportation so she could instantly visit her uncle across the country. She also hopes to use her abilities to make the world better, wishing for endless access to food for those experiencing homelessness.

Beyond her academics, Paisley enjoys playing outdoors, exploring her creativity through arts and crafts, and spending time with her family. Her favorite book is Dork Diaries, her favorite movie is Five Nights at Freddy’s, and her favorite song is “The Milk Carton” by Madeline May. She looks up to her father for his example of curiosity, responsibility, and how to approach challenges with care.

Paisley is also a kind, dependable, and caring peer. She looks out for others, offers help when needed, and sets a positive example through her actions. She represents Dabney Elementary well both in and out of the classroom, consistently demonstrating respect, responsibility, and good character. When asked what advice she would give other students, Paisley said, “Try your best at everything, and you can accomplish hard things.” 

Paisley David makes a lasting impact at Dabney Elementary by encouraging her peers, approaching every challenge with enthusiasm, and spreading positivity throughout the school.