Information courtesy of Aarika Sandlin, Vance County Schools Chief Officer of Communication & Innovative Support
Vance County Schools has named its three Student Spotlight winners for September. De’Shun Woods of Vance County Early College, Adreyan Burton of Vance County High School and Taelyn Evans of E.M. Rollins STEAM Academy are the first honorees for the 2023-24 school year.
Students are selected for demonstrating exemplary qualities and contributions to their school communities, according to Aarika Sandlin, VCS Chief Officer of Communication & Innovative Support. The Student Spotlight program, sponsored by Vance County Schools and the Vance County Public School Foundation, aims to celebrate outstanding students who are making a meaningful difference in their schools.
De’Shun Woods, senior, Vance County Early College
Woods is a senior at Vance County Early College. He is a natural leader, said Student Government Association Sponsor Brian Schlessinger, who commended Woods for his “innate
leadership qualities and dedication to helping others.” He demonstrates leadership through his academic achievements and his willingness to provide guidance and support to his peers.
Biology teacher Vicki-Ann Fullwood Barrett cited his “consistent performance in the classroom and engagement in discussions, which have been commendable. Beyond academics, he has demonstrated a commitment to being well-rounded through involvement in extracurricular activities, showcasing his dedication to personal growth.”
Woods is vice president of the Student Government Association, president of the Beta Club and
and serves as community service director of the National Honor Society. He plays clarinet and is the woodwind captain for the Vance County High Band. Woods was crowned Homecoming King recently and is a Vance-Granville Community College ambassador. And if that’s not enough, Woods also has a job with Chick-fil-A of Henderson.
Criminology is one of his favorite classes, and Woods has stated that he would like to pursue a criminal justice degree at N.C. State University to prepare him for a career with the N.C. State Highway Patrol. Woods said recently that the class is learning policing styles and discrimination in law enforcement, which motivates him to encourage more minorities to join the profession.
In his down time, Woods likes to listen to R&B music and watch his favorite TV show, The Blacklist. He said his mother is his biggest role model – she works hard and he values her leadership qualities. When asked what advice he would share with others, he said that students must have a voice for themselves and not be deterred by others’ opinions. He wants to encourage people to help one another and become the best version of themselves. De’Shun Woods is a shining example of a student positively impacting the Vance County Early College community and the community at-large.
Adreyan Burton, Junior, Vance County High School
Burton, a junior at Vance County High School, shines brightly as the Student Spotlight for September. His journey at the school is marked by outstanding scholarship and leadership. His commitment to academics and his consistent placement at the top of his class is a testament to his dedication to excel in his studies, school leaders state.
His passion for knowledge is evident in his willingness to go above and beyond in his
schoolwork, always striving for excellence. Beyond academic achievements, Burton possesses an extraordinary leadership gifts that motivate and engage others. He inspires his peers and contributes to a positive learning environment.
His favorite subject is English, because he said it keeps his mind sharp and focused. But he takes time for activities outside the classroom like donning the VCS Viper costume for school and sports activities.
Burton exhibits empathy and kindness in all that he does and he is known for his willingness to help anyone in need, whether it’s creating a culture of support and inclusion at school or inviting a homeless person to a restaurant to make sure that individual had at least one meal that day.
Weightlifting helps him stay in shape and he also enjoys riding 4-wheelers, the music of Hunxo and Lil Tony and TV’s “The Regular Show.”
He admires his mom for teaching him independence and advises others to focus on themselves, be unique and keep smiling.
With aspirations of being an entrepreneur, Burton said he could see himself flipping house or having his own clothing store. His dream adventure includes a visit to Jamaica to enjoy the beaches and the cuisine unique to that Caribbean island.
Taelyn Evans, 4th grader, EM Rollins STEAM Academy
Evans, a 4th grader at E.M. Rollins STEAM Academy, was recognized for her exceptional talents and dedication for learning. She comes to class eager to listen, learn, and excel in all subject areas. Her commitment to education is seen in her academic achievements, but also in her willingness to assist her classmates with their questions and assignments. She is a great team player and collaborates well with her peers, making her a dependable and supportive classmate.
Math is her favorite subject because her teacher, Ebony Watkins, makes content fun, she said.
Beyond her academic focus, her passion for
learning is matched only by her love for dancing and
singing. She is a member of Queen of Diamonds dance team and superstar Beyonce is her role model in the area of performing arts. She participates in school musical performances and plays baseball in the community.
Asked what advice she would give to other students, Evans said she wants everyone to do their best, try hard, and remember what they learn in class. Also, to stay calm and have good behavior. She aspires to be a singer and a veterinarian because she loves singing and animals, especially dogs. Asked if she could go on an adventure in the world, she shared that she would visit Africa to see animals and
Jamaica to reconnect with a former teacher. Her motivation for attending school every day is that her mom wants her to have a good education, along with her siblings and a large, loving family.
It’s her dedication and enthusiasm for learning that puts this young lady in the September Student Spotlight. Her teachers are proud to witness her growth, achievements and her commitment to helping other students within the school.