As we move deeper into November, I am continually inspired by the learning, leadership, and community spirit flourishing across our Roanoke Rapids Graded School District.
This week brought meaningful professional milestones, outstanding student achievements, and exciting upcoming events that highlight the strong foundation we are building as a district, which is one rooted in collaboration, opportunity, and a steadfast commitment to student success.
Sharing RRGSD’s Early Literacy Success on a Statewide Stage
This week, RRGSD had the honor of being represented at the North Carolina School Boards Association Annual Conference in Greensboro. Board Chair Dr. Michael Williams, Board Member Michael Salanik, and Board Clerk Fran Garner attended on behalf of our Board of Trustees. Their presence underscores the importance of staying connected to statewide conversations that shape the direction of public education in North Carolina.
I was deeply grateful for the opportunity to present at the conference alongside Director of MTSS and Exceptional Children Krissy Martin and Branching Minds Vice President Courtney Kelly. Together, we led a session titled: “Building Literacy Momentum: How Roanoke Rapids Strengthened MTSS to Drive Early Literacy Gains.”
Our presentation highlighted the intentional, student-centered work unfolding in RRGSD, which is work that is strengthening our Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS), empowering teachers with data-driven tools, and accelerating early literacy outcomes across our schools. We shared how collaborative partnerships and early interventions are not just strategies, but pillars of a broader commitment (as outlined in our strategic plan Vision 2035) to ensuring that every child gains the foundational skills needed for lifelong success.
The positive response to our session reaffirmed that RRGSD is setting a high bar for literacy progress and academic excellence in our state. I am incredibly proud of our educators, our leaders, and our students, whose dedication made this moment possible. We are excited to continue this momentum and eager for what lies ahead as we further strengthen MTSS and expand opportunities for our learners.
Celebrating a Yellow Jacket’s Next Chapter
A heartfelt congratulations goes out to Emery Jean, who officially signed her National Letter of Intent to play soccer at Texas Christian University (TCU)!
We are incredibly proud of Emery’s hard work, talent, and perseverance both on and off the field. She represents the excellence we strive for in RRGSD, and we cannot wait to cheer her on as she begins her collegiate athletic journey. Go Horned Frogs, and, as always, go Yellow Jackets!
RREC: Bingo and Bake Sale Fundraiser – November 20
If you are looking for a fun evening with family and friends, please join the Roanoke Rapids Early College family for a Bingo and Bake Sale Fundraiser in the RRHS Cafeteria on Thursday, November 20 from 6:30–8:30 PM. Bake sale items will be $0.50–$1.00, and bingo cards will be $1.00 each. All proceeds support RREC student programs. We hope to see you there!
Belmont Elementary: Scholastic Book Fair - December 1-5
It is almost that time again! The Belmont Elementary Scholastic Book Fair will run December 1–5, offering students and families the chance to explore new stories and build their home libraries. You can explore early and get excited by visiting this website: https://www.scholastic.com/bf/belmontelementaryschool11
We hope you will join us in encouraging a love of reading—one book at a time.
Chaloner Middle School: Night of the Arts – December 4
Mark your calendars for Chaloner Middle School’s Night of the Arts on December 4 from 4–7 PM. This special evening will feature an Art Show, Band Concert, and Book Fair.
Our students and staff have been working tirelessly to prepare for this celebration of creativity. Please come out and support our talented young artists and musicians.
Roanoke Valley Pathways Scholars: Learning Beyond the Classroom
Our Roanoke Valley Pathways students from Roanoke Rapids Early College and Roanoke Rapids High School participated in two outstanding field experiences this week, each offering powerful real-world connections to STEM learning.
The first was the Roseburg Timberland Experience. Despite chilly weather, students engaged deeply with forestry science, using professional tools to: measure tree height through geometry, study soil quality and ecosystems, and understand sustainability and environmental stewardship. The Roseburg team demonstrated that forestry is about much more than producing lumber, it is about protecting our planet and supporting essential local industries. These hands-on experiences help students envision future careers while strengthening classroom learning.
The second was the Reser’s Fine Foods and Don Pancho Tour. Students received a behind-the-scenes look at how high-quality food products move from preparation to packaging to distribution nationwide.
Outfitted in lab coats, hairnets, and bright yellow shoe covers, our scholars explored careers in food science, engineering, safety, and logistics.
Upcoming Board of Trustees Meeting
The next Board of Trustees meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 18 at 6:00 PM in the Board Room at 536 Hamilton Street. You can also watch the livestream on our RRGSD YouTube page. As always, our meetings are open to the public, and we welcome your engagement as we continue making decisions that support our students, families, and staff.
Closing Thoughts
As we head into the holiday season, I am reminded every day of the strength, heart, and resilience that make our Roanoke Rapids Graded School District such a special place to learn and grow. Thank you for your support, your partnership, and your belief in our schools.
Together, we are building strong foundations -- and even stronger futures.