— 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
