As the cool winds of November sweep through Roanoke Rapids, our schools are filled with energy, excitement, and pride.
Each week, I am reminded that our students and staff embody what it means to be lifelong learners, compassionate citizens, and determined achievers.
This week’s Yellow Jacket Report celebrates just a few of the many moments that make our Roanoke Rapids Graded School District such a special place to learn and grow.
Roanoke Rapids Early College Takes the Stage on WRAL’s Brain Game
I am thrilled to share that a team of outstanding students from Roanoke Rapids Early College recently represented our district on WRAL’s Brain Game!
Competing on Saturday, November 1, the team of Briar Copeland, Ivy Coad, Vishal Pannela, and Alex Thompson showcased their incredible intelligence, teamwork, and school pride on the statewide stage.
Participating in this academic competition is a huge honor, and our students rose to the challenge with confidence and enthusiasm. Their composure under pressure and collaborative spirit truly reflected the heart of our Early College program.
Be sure to tune in this December (exact date to be announced) to watch our students in action.
I could not be prouder of how they represented Roanoke Rapids!
Health Sciences Academy Explores Radiology Careers at ECU Health Medical Center
On Monday, November 3, I had the pleasure of joining our Health Sciences Academy students on a field trip to Radiology Night at ECU Health Medical Center in Greenville.
This engaging and educational experience gave students a firsthand look at the world of medical imaging, from X-rays and CT scans to patient care and diagnostic technology.
Students learned about the vital role radiology plays in modern healthcare and had the chance to speak with professionals in the field who are making a real difference every day. It was inspiring to see our students asking thoughtful questions, exploring advanced equipment, and envisioning their future careers in healthcare.
Special thanks go to Lisa Lassiter, Director of Workforce Development at ECU Health, for her dedication in creating Health Sciences Academies across the northeast; Ginger Duncan, our dedicated HSA Coordinator, for coordinating our HSA; and to Lynn Moseley for driving and chaperoning this trip.
Opportunities like this remind us how powerful hands-on learning can be in helping students connect classroom lessons to real-world impact.
RRHS Men’s Soccer Dominates in State Playoffs
Our Roanoke Rapids High School Men’s Soccer Team is making waves this season! The team brought home an impressive 5-0 victory over Carver High School in the second round of the NCHSAA 4A State Playoffs in Winston-Salem.
A huge congratulations goes to #16 Abdul Alrahimi, who scored every single goal in the game! We are so proud of our student-athletes for their dedication, teamwork, and school spirit. Best of luck in the next round. Our community is cheering you on!
RRHS Student Council Brings Joy to Signature Health
Our RRHS Student Council members recently spent a day at Signature Health, playing bingo and sharing laughter with residents. The room was filled with smiles and joy as students and residents connected across generations through games and conversation.
Moments like these remind us that leadership is not just about organizing events, but it is about serving others and spreading kindness. I am so proud of our Student Council for representing our school with warmth, respect, and community pride.
“Stirring Up Smiles with a Dash of Us” – RRHS Student Cookbook
Looking for a perfect holiday gift that blends community and creativity? Our students have created a special cookbook titled “Stirring Up Smiles with a Dash of Us!” Each page is filled with favorite recipes, stories, and plenty of Roanoke Rapids pride.
Cookbooks are $20 each, and preorders are open now. Payments can be made in cash or by check to Roanoke Rapids High School (RRHS).
Your purchase supports our students as they learn, create, and grow together. To place your order, contact Jordan Carpenter at RRHS. Please do not miss your chance to own this heartwarming keepsake as it is sure to bring delicious dishes and fond memories to your kitchen!
RRHS Softball Fundraiser – Slow Pitch Tournament
We are rounding out this week with a fun community event: the Slow Pitch Softball Tournament to benefit the RRHS Softball Program, happening Saturday, November 15 at Chockoyotte Park.
This is a wonderful way to support our athletes, enjoy some friendly competition, and connect with the Yellow Jacket community. Bring your friends and family as it is sure to be a great day for a great cause!
Elementary & Middle School Happenings: Creativity and Celebration Abound
Our younger Yellow Jackets had a busy and joyful week full of creativity, performance, and well-deserved recognition!
At Manning Elementary, families and students gathered on Thursday, November 6 for the annual Night of the Arts. Between 5–7 PM, the building came alive with music, art, and books! The Book Fair was in full swing. Thank you to Media Coordinator April Deberry and the Manning PTO for making it such a success. The highlight of the evening was the musical performances by our talented third, fourth, and fifth graders, under the direction of Music teacher Andrea Ford, who guided students in songs that filled the room with joy and pride. Guests were also treated to a creative display of fourth-grade pumpkin projects.
Meanwhile, Belmont Elementary students demonstrated their own artistic flair through the Book Character Pumpkin Project! From paper pumpkins to 3D creations to real painted pumpkins, every design celebrated a beloved story or character. The hallways were bursting with creativity, featuring everything from classic literary heroes to modern favorites. It was a wonderful celebration of reading, imagination, and fall fun. A big thank-you goes to our Belmont families and teachers for encouraging students to connect literature with art in such inspiring ways!
At Chaloner Middle School, the week concluded on a high note with Awards Day on Friday, November 7. Congratulations to all our sixth, seventh, and eighth graders who were recognized for their academic excellence, hard work, and commitment to growth. Celebrations like these remind us how every step of a student’s journey builds the foundation for lifelong success.
Upcoming Board Meetings and Veterans Day Holiday
Please note that due to the Veterans Day Holiday on Tuesday, November 11, our Board Committees will meet on Wednesday, November 12. All students and staff will be off on November 11 as we honor our veterans and pause to express our heartfelt gratitude to all who have served. Thank you, veterans, for your courage, sacrifice, and dedication to our nation.
Curriculum Committee & Facilities and Safety Committee – 6 PM
Policy Committee & Finance and Personnel Committee – 7 PM
Our November Board Meeting will take place on Tuesday, November 18 at 6 PM.
Closing Thoughts
Every week, our students remind us that success is not defined by one accomplishment but by the character, curiosity, and compassion they show along the way. Whether it is academic excellence, community service, or athletic achievement, our Yellow Jackets continue to embody the very best of what education can inspire.
Let’s keep lifting each other up and celebrating every victory, big or small. Together, we make Roanoke Rapids shine.
Once a Yellow Jacket, always a Yellow Jacket.