As we move through March, our schools in Roanoke Rapids Graded School District are buzzing with activity, achievement, and engagement. 

This week, I want to highlight several outstanding events and recognitions that showcase the hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm of our students, staff, and community.

Honoring the Yellow Jacket Award Recipients at RRHS

One of the best parts of my role as superintendent is celebrating our students when they shine. At Roanoke Rapids High School, we are proud to recognize the recipients of the RRHS Yellow Jacket Award. 

These students have demonstrated exemplary character and contributions to their school community. 

The award categories include Self-Control, Positive Attitude, Academic Growth, Kindness, Compassion, Helping Hand, Self-Improvement, and Good Deed.

To receive the Yellow Jacket Award, students are nominated by RRHS teachers and staff and selected by RRHS administrators for their outstanding actions and behaviors. 

Please join me in congratulating the following students who have received this honor to date: Landen Fuller, Salena Vu, Dennis Bradford, Alexis Hood, Ayden Turner, Jillian Ott, Savannah Davis, Ke'Ante Avent, Spirit Broady, Esteven Cordon Carballo, Taylor Walters, Katelyn Pearce, Kaylee Carter, Sofie Wade, Jazlyn Brown, Amy Guo, Payton Ford, Alyson Godinez-Leal, Franklin Canu Escobar, Da'Karvis Powell, Mirta Lopez, Juan Solis, and Ashleigh Moseley. 

Your school community is proud of you!

Roanoke Rapids Early College Visits NC State University

Our Early College scholars had an exciting day on Wednesday (March 5) as they explored North Carolina State University. 

Touring the campus provided them with a firsthand look at college life, inspiring them to think about their futures and the endless possibilities ahead. 

Who knows — perhaps some of these students will become future Wolfpack legends! Opportunities like this campus visit help students envision their goals and motivate them to chase their dreams.

Manning Elementary Hosts a Fantastic Family Night

Manning Elementary School was filled with excitement on Thursday night (March 6) as students, families, and staff came together for Manning Elementary Family Night. Kindergarten, first-grade, and second-grade students put on impressive musical performances, and I had the honor of narrating the second graders’ presentation of Seussical, Jr. It was a joy to be part of such a fun and engaging event. A big thank you goes out to Andrea Ford, our Manning Elementary School music teacher, for all of the hard work, dedication, and planning she puts into these musical performances to help our students showcase their talents!

Additionally, our fifth graders brought history to life through their Living History Museum, where they presented research on historical figures. Families also had the opportunity to visit the Book Fair and shop for new reading materials. The evening was a tremendous success, and I could not be prouder of our students and Manning Elementary School staff and PTO for making it so special.

Belmont Elementary Explores Erosion and Earth’s Changes

Second graders at Belmont Elementary have been busy learning about how the earth changes through erosion. After reading the expository text Into the Sea, students conducted hands-on experiments to see how erosion affects different landscapes. 

Some students even went on a nature walk around campus to find real-life examples of erosion. These hands-on learning experiences help students connect classroom knowledge to the world around them and make learning more engaging and meaningful.

Read Across America Week Brings the Joy of Reading to Our Youngest Learners

Students at Clara Hearne Pre-Kindergarten Center, Belmont Elementary, and Manning Elementary participated in Read Across America Week, a program created by the National Education Association to promote reading and celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birthday on March 2. The entire month of March is National Reading Month, and our schools are taking every opportunity to encourage a love of reading in our young learners.

I had the pleasure of joining other district and school administrators, as well as special guests, in reading to students. It is always wonderful to see the excitement and curiosity that books inspire in our children.

Developing strong reading habits at an early age is crucial, and I am grateful for the educators and families who foster a love of literacy every day.

Board of Trustees Meetings Tonight

As a reminder, our Board Committee meetings will take place tonight, March 11. 

The Finance and Personnel Committee and the Policy Committee will meet at 6 PM, followed by the Curriculum Committee and the Facilities and Safety Committee at 7 PM. These meetings are open to the public, and we encourage community members to attend. Your engagement is essential in shaping the future of our schools.

Closing Thoughts

From celebrating student achievements to fostering a love of learning, our schools continue to be places of growth, inspiration, and excellence. 

I am incredibly proud of our students, staff, and families for their ongoing dedication to making our schools the best they can be. 

Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to sharing more great news in next week’s Yellow Jacket Report! Together We Succeed!