Tag Archive for: #vancecountyschools

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.”

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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!

TownTalk: Virtual Information Session for Vance County Schools

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Despite Tuesday night’s snow “event,” tonight’s virtual information session for prospective families in Vance County Schools will go on as planned. Parents can log in via a link on the school district’s website https://www.vcs.k12.nc.us/and connect with principals of the five campuses designated as Innovative Schools. The event begins at 6 p.m.

“All five principals will be on to answer any questions about the schools,” said VCS Chief Officer of Communication & Support Aarika Sandlin. Applications are available online and are due by Feb. 7.

“We try to meet our families where they are,” Sandlin said of the in-person and virtual offerings for parents, who may be interested in learning more about the Innovative Schools in the district. Three schools have already had info sessions at their campuses, but two remain: E.M. Rollins STEAM will hold an on-site session Thursday, Jan. 23 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Vance County Early College will hold an info session at its location in Building 2 at Vance-Granville Community College on Tuesday, Jan. 28 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Delivering information across a variety of platforms is important for district leadership to make sure parents stay updated on school programs and processes.

Dr. Jacqueline Batchelor-Crosson, executive director of Federal Programs and Elementary Education, said student safety and instructional practices are what’s top-of-mind for parents and families.

“We are so excited to offer Vance County Schools to our families and our young students,” she said. As a former kindergarten teacher and elementary principal, Batchelor-Crosson said she understands the importance of getting youngsters off on the right foot in school.

Parent engagement sessions are held throughout the year to help keep families informed. Sandlin said future family engagement sessions include a Jan. 23 session for English as a Second Language Arabic-speaking families, and a Feb. 27 session on internet safety.

Visit https://www.vcs.k12.nc.us/ to learn more.

 

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VCS On 1-Hr. Delay For Wednesday, Jan. 15; Tuesday’s Info Sessions Postponed

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Vance County Schools will operate on a one-hour delay on Wednesday, Jan. 15.

While remnants of last weekend’s snow and ice largely have gone away, VCS chief communications officer Aarika Sandlin said Tuesday that the delay

will allow buses to operate during daylight hours, ensuring the safety of students and staff.

But other events scheduled for Tuesday afternoon and evening have been postponed, and Sandlin said announcements will be forthcoming regarding new dates for the PK/K registration sessions, as well as the Innovative Schools information sessions.

The application process for parents to register their children for one of the five Innovative Schools continues through Feb. 7.

There also will be a virtual session scheduled for 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 22, during which principals of the five innovative schools will be available to answer questions and to share additional information about their programs. Find the link on the VCS website in the top right corner

The application is available on the VCS website, too. Visit  www.vcs.k12.nc.us  and click on Innovative Schools at the top of the page.

Children must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2025 to be eligible for kindergarten enrollment.

The district’s PK program provides children with foundational learning experiences that set the stage for long-term academic success. Children must be 4 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2025 to be eligible for Pre-K enrollment.

Find the PK and K applications by visiting www.vcs.k12.nc.us and clicking Enroll in the upper right corner. The district will hold open registrations at individual elementary schools on Tuesday, Jan. 14.

Virtual info sessions for PK and K will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 22 and Thursday, Jan. 23. Times will be announced at a later date, but the Wednesday session will be held during the day and the Thursday session will be held in the evening.

Vance County Schools Will Dismiss Early On Friday, Jan. 10

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WIZS has been asked to announce the following:
From Vance County Schools: Due to the forecast of inclement weather, Vance County Schools will dismiss students on Friday, January 10 at 2 pm. All afterschool activities will be canceled. Stay up-to-date with the latest information by visiting our website at www.vcs.k12.nc.us.

VCS Kicks Off 2025-26 Registration With In-Person, Virtual Info Sessions

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Vance County Schools is hosting several information sessions over the next few weeks to help parents learn more about the district’s Innovative Schools offerings as they decide which school environment best suits their child.

The Innovative School application process officially opens Tuesday, Jan. 7 and runs through Friday, Feb. 7, according to information from VCS Chief Officer of Communication & Innovative Support Aarika Sandlin. Registration for kindergarten and PK also opens tomorrow.

The five options listed below offer unique learning environments designed to spark curiosity, build critical skills, and prepare students for a successful future, according to information from VCS. Each school program is uniquely designed to meet the diverse learning needs of its students.

  • Vance County Early College (rising 9th graders)
  • STEM Early High School (rising 6th graders)
  • E.M. Rollins STEAM Academy (Grades K-5)
  • Vance Virtual Village Academy (Grades 6-12)
  • AdVance Academy (Grades 9-12)

Here’s a list of dates when prospective families can drop in between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to learn more:

➔ Tuesday, Jan. 14: Vance County Early College, on the campus of Vance-Granville Community College, 200 Community College Road, Bldg. 9

➔ Tuesday, Jan. 14: EM Rollins STEAM Academy, 1600 S. Garnett St.

➔ Wednesday, Jan. 15: Advance Academy, 219 Charles St., Entrance 2

➔ Wednesday, Jan. 15: STEM Early High, 219 Charles St., Entrance 3

➔ Wednesday, Jan.15: Vance Virtual Village, 219 Charles St., Entrance 1

There also will be a virtual session scheduled for 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 22, during which principals of the five innovative schools will be available to answer questions and to share additional information about their programs. Find the link on the VCS website in the top right corner www.vcs.k12.nc.us.

The application is available on the VCS website, too. Visit  www.vcs.k12.nc.us and click on Innovative Schools at the top of the page.

Children must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2025 to be eligible for kindergarten enrollment.

The district’s PK program provides children with foundational learning experiences that set the stage for long-term academic success. Children must be 4 years old on or before Aug. 31, 2025 to be eligible for Pre-K enrollment.

Find the PK and K applications by visiting www.vcs.k12.nc.us and clicking Enroll in the upper right corner. The district will hold open registrations at individual elementary schools on Tuesday, Jan. 14.

Virtual info sessions for PK and K will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 22 and Thursday, Jan. 23. Times will be announced at a later date, but the Wednesday session will be held during the day and the Thursday session will be held in the evening.

Vance County Schools Closed Monday For Students; Optional Workday Begins At 10 A.M.

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-from Aarika Sandlin, Vance County Schools Chief Officer of Communication & Innovative Support

Vance County Schools are closed for students Monday, and staff will have an optional workday beginning at 10 a.m.

The area is under a winter weather advisory and the forecast is calling for below-freezing conditions and frozen precipitation, so school officials made the call to close school for students. Essential personnel will report to their locations at 9:30 a.m.

 

Clarke Elementary Family Resource Center Open For Business

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Clarke Elementary now has a Community Schools Family Resource Center, and school and community leaders celebrated its opening with a ribbon cutting Tuesday morning.

The Family Resource Center will serve as a hub to connect families with resources ranging from academic support to access to health and community programs, according to information from school officials.

There’s a food pantry and a clothes closet, with all items free of charge to those in need.

Clarke Elementary Principal Dr. C’Monee Wilkins and Community Schools Coordinator Krystle Lindsey, along with Henderson Mayor Melissa Elliott, Superintendent Dr. Cindy Bennett, Henderson-Vance Chamber of Commerce President Sandra Wilkerson and others marked the official opening of the resource center.

The Family Resource Center is a one-stop shop to provide guidance, connect families to valuable services and strengthen community partnerships.

The resource center is located in Room 121, right across from the front office.

It’s open Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., but is also open by appointment. Please contact Lindsey at klindsey@vcs.k12.nc.us to learn more.

In addition to food and clothing, families can access other services, including laundry machines and access to shower facilities and computers.

VCS Student Spotlight Winners

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 — information courtesy of Grace Herndon, VCS Communication & Innovative Support

Vance County Schools recognizes two elementary school students for Student Spotlight honors in November. Kaylor Cross from Dabney Elementary and Ireana Tuck of New Hope Elementary each demonstrate strong leadership qualities and make exceptional contributions at their respective schools.

The Student Spotlight program, sponsored by Vance County Schools in partnership with the Vance County Public School Foundation, highlights students who go above and beyond and who embody qualities like kindness, dedication and a strong commitment to personal growth and service to others.

Kaylor Cross, 4th Grade

Kaylor is an excellent student who shows leadership skills and kindness at Dabney Elementary. Her teachers Justin Wrenn and Ginger Glover nominated Kaylor because of her dedication to learning, her positive attitude and the impact she makes on those around her.

Kaylor shines academically, especially in her favorite subject – math – which she enjoys for its challenges and fun. She recently loved learning about the Middle Ages through CKLA. Her self-motivation and maturity make her a model student, always eager to help classmates with their work and foster positive relationships. Kaylor is active in the AIG program and has previously participated in Robotics.

She spends her free time playing basketball, being outdoors and engaging with Girl Scout Troop 245. She also enjoys comic books, Hello Kitty, and Despicable Me. Kaylor dreams of becoming a math teacher or basketball player and credits her parents as her biggest inspirations, valuing their encouragement and support.

If given a superpower, she would choose to fly and travel anywhere. Her dream trip would take her to New York City to shop and visit the Statue of Liberty.

Kaylor’s advice to others is simple yet meaningful: “Work hard, focus, and be kind.” Congratulations, Kaylor, on being an exceptional leader and learner!

Ireana Tuck, 5th grade

Ireana stands out as a leader and role model. As president of the Beta Club and a member of the Robotics Club, Ireana is a shining example of commitment and excellence. Math is her favorite subject because it comes naturally to her, and she loves a good challenge—like recently mastering how to convert improper fractions to mixed fractions. Outside of school, Ireana cheers for Champions in Motion, sings at Huntsville Baptist Church, and enjoys making colorful bracelets.

Her kindness shines in everything she does, from helping her dad build bunk beds to supporting her classmates when they need assistance in class. Her future goal is to become a small-animal veterinarian, inspired by her love for helping others. She is very fond of animals, including her four dogs.

Ireana credits her family for teaching her to “do right by people” and her teachers, especially Mrs. Broughton, for making school a welcoming place. If given a magic wand, she would wish for money to support her family—a true reflection of her selfless nature. Ireana’s advice to others? “Do good things for others and lead by example.” With her leadership, positivity and drive, she is a true Spotlight Student!

Both students are exemplary representatives of Vance County Schools and the Student Spotlight program. They embody the values of kindness, dedication and a commitment to learning. They inspire others and are a source of pride for their school communities and the district.