Editor’s note: This Viper Highlights is the first in a series of updates from Vance County Schools’ Chief Communication Officer Aarika Sandlin to help inform, update and educate the community about what’s going on at Vance County High School. Read, enjoy and learn about the school’s administrative team and what its students are up to.
Vance County High School stands as a beacon of innovation and opportunity, where education extends far beyond the classroom walls. With dedicated leadership, a diverse and comprehensive curriculum and a commitment to hands-on learning and real-world experiences, VCHS prepares students not only for academic success but also for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in their careers and lives. As students graduate from VCHS, they carry with them not only knowledge and skills, but also a sense of purpose and readiness to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond. Through various initiatives, partnerships, and outreach programs, VCHS actively contributes to the betterment of the community, fostering a culture of service, empathy, and collaboration. Truly, VCHS is shaping the leaders of tomorrow, instilling in them the values of excellence, integrity, and service, while positively impacting Vance County, the community they call home.
Principal Leading with Vision and Dedication
Principal Dr. Nealie Whitt, III has been instrumental in driving positive change since assuming his role over a year ago. Renowned for his exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to student success, Whitt has earned the respect and admiration of the entire school community. His approachable demeanor and genuine concern for the welfare of students and staff alike have fostered a strong sense of community within the school. Through active engagement with students and support for the staff, Whitt has created an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. Students and staff have spoken highly of Whitt’s dedication and support, affirming the positive impact he has made. His efforts to meet students’ needs and ensure their comfort and safety continued to be respected and praised by many. Whitt’s influence extends beyond academics, with a dedicated focus on supporting all aspects of student life, including athletics. His equal support for both men’s and women’s sports has not gone unnoticed, further solidifying his status as a beloved figure within the school. Whitt remains committed to fostering academic excellence, inclusivity, and empowering students to realize their full potential, ensuring that Vance County High School continues to thrive under his leadership.
The Dream Team: VCHS Assistant Principals
Assisting Whitt in his mission are the exceptional assistant principals, McShell Edmonds,. Scott Corrente, Orlando Terry, and Michael Terry, collectively referred to as the Dream Team. Their dedication to student success and growth exemplifies excellence in education and unwavering support for the school community. Edmonds leads the 9th Grade
Academy, setting a standard of dedication and commitment, while earning admiration from students for her tireless efforts. She is committed to ensuring academic achievement for students and serves as a compassionate mentor. Corrente, overseeing sophomore administration, has a friendly demeanor and inspirational presence, serving not only as an administrator but also as a trusted confidant and mentor to students. O. Terry, responsible for junior class administration, is lauded for his nurturing nature and the welcoming environment he fosters, likened to a caring guardian by students. Completing this stellar lineup is M. Terry, the senior class administrator, known for his warmth, wit and genuine concern for students’ well-being, while playing a pivotal role in shaping academic and career pathways. Together, this team empowers students and cultivates a supportive environment where every individual can thrive, leaving a lasting impact on the entire school community.
Dedicated Teachers and Staff
The profound commitment to student success at VCHS is evident through the unwavering dedication of its teachers and staff. Beyond their daily responsibilities, they invest their time and energy into shaping the academic and personal growth of their students, fostering a supportive community where every member plays a vital role. Whether it is counselors offering invaluable guidance, teachers providing extra help, or custodians ensuring a safe environment, the collective efforts of the VCHS team create an atmosphere of learning and growth.
VCHS: Where Education Extends Beyond the Classroom Walls
At Vance County High School, education transcends traditional boundaries, offering a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for both academic excellence and real-world success. The school offers a diverse array of educational opportunities including Career and Technical Education courses that include Culinary Arts Applications, Early Childhood Development and Services, Law and Justice, Plant Systems, Carpentry, Automotive Services, Biomedical Technology, Entrepreneurship, Public Safety, Emergency Management, Computer Science Principles, Food and Nutrition, and Career Management. Additionally, students have opportunities to pursue art, journalism, theater, chorus, band, and ROTC, empowering students to explore a wide range of interests and career pathways. Additionally, VCHS students have internship opportunities in local daycare centers, providing students with valuable real-world experience and further enhancing their readiness for the workforce. This robust curriculum ensures that VCHS students graduate well-prepared for the challenges of the future, equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in their chosen fields and make meaningful contributions to society.
Our Students: VCHS Class of 2024, Vipers are College Bound
The VCHS Class of 2024 is demonstrating remarkable initiative and ambition in the college application process. With 103 seniors having submitted at least one application and 63 applying to three or more colleges, their proactive approach reflects a commitment to exploring diverse opportunities. Out of 201 seniors, a total of 687 applications have been sent out, resulting in 319 acceptances thus far. As decision letters continue to arrive, the VCHS community eagerly anticipates celebrating the success of these college-bound Vipers, poised to make their mark on the world with determination and ambition.