Vol. 2 Ed. 1
A Publication by Columbus County Schools
CCS Goes Back to School!
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Even though I have been in education over thirty years, the beginning of a new school year still makes me excited. Now long-empty hallways once ag ain echo with laughter and anticipation. I am proud and honored to serve alongside the most dedicated faculty and staff found at any school system, and we know that this will be a special year for all of our students.
Columbus County Schools has always valued the whole child, and decisions we have made in the past few months reflect not only the concern we have for our students, but also the concern we have for the long term well being of our communities as well. Starting this school year, all of our elementary schools will have an arts educator (music or art) and a physical education teacher. Our school system has always been a leader in arts education; fewer than five school systems in the state have an arts education graduation requirement, and CCS is one of them. The recent announcement that our county is the unhealthiest in the state was a wakeup call for many of us. We hope that by exposing our students to healthful living at an early age we can begin to create healthy, lifelong learners. Along those same lines, our child nutrition department has secured funding that will allow
ALL K-8 students to eat lunch free of charge for the 2014-2015 school year. This is in addition to the funding that allows all students K-12 to eat free breakfast. We realize that it’s hard to have a hunger for learning when one’s stomach is empty, and each child has needs that must be met before learning can take place. T h i s p a s t s u m m e r, many students participated in our reading camp. We took this opportunity to make this a stimulating and exciting reading/ math/science experience. The students built and launched rockets, learning about the many connections between reading, math, science and rocketry. While learning was the focus, our students had a lot of fun- and we strive to make learning engaging, meaningful and fun throughout the year. Our opening convocation dealt with the theme of cultural diversity, and our teachers are working hard to make sure that
the diverse social and cultural aspects of our community are reflected in the classroom. Our convocation also featured a very special speaker, Ms. Everlene Davis. She was a finalist for North Carolina Teacher of the Year, and has entered her 58th year as a teacher. Her dedication and spirit is an inspiration to us all. Finally, we hope that you will make it to an athletic event this fall, as we are proud of the many skills and lessons taught by our dedicated and talented coaches. We have renovated the lighting on all athletic fields and courts, and our student athletes have been working hard all summer long. We hope that you will tune in to our radio station, 89.9 FM to listen to the frequent sports broadcasts and will go online to watch live streamed video created by the broadcasting students at Columbus Career and College Academy.
We know that as a parent or guardian, you have choices when it comes to your child’s education. We thank you for entrusting us with your child, and we promise to uphold that trust by making sure your child has what he or she needs to succeed- not just in school, but in life. I can assure you that all of us at Columbus County Schools wake up thinking about how precious our children are, and it’s the last thought we have as we go to sleep. If there is ever anything we can do to help your child, please contact me personally or your school’s principal. Welcome back and we are looking forward to a great year at CCS! - Alan Faulk, Superintendent
Congratulations to the faculty and staff and especially the students of Columbus County Schools.
89%
of our schools Met or Exceeded State Growth Standards! New Free Lunch Program for All K-8 Students Columbus County Elementary and Middle Schools have been approved to participate in a new program available to schools participating in the National School Lunch and National School Breakfast Programs called Community Eligibility Provision for the 2014-15 school years. All K-8 students attending these schools are provided a healthy breakfast and lunch each day at no cost. No free and reduced applications are needed. Columbus County High School Students will continue to operate under the free and reduce meal application program. Students in grades 9-12 who were approved for benefits last year will continue to receive meals under last year’s status approval until October 7, 2014 or until a new application is processed. Student without an application on file as of October 8, 2014 will begin to pay for their lunch. New students must have an approved application on file before meal benefits begin. All high school students will continue to receive free breakfast.
Acme Delco Elementar y
I am honored to be the instructional leader of Acme Delco Elementary School, located in my
home community. We know that the children of our community have great potential and it requires every individual in their lives to purposefully work together for their success. Children are born with inquiring minds, and we must be committed to nurturing that innate sense of inquiry by providing them quality and engaging opportunities to learn.
We must teach them to think critically, problem solve, and to know how to access information; thereby equipping them with the necessary skills to compete in a competitive and global society. The staff at ADES is continually learning and growing through collaboration with all stakeholders and by engaging in professional development so that we have
the necessary skills to empower and teach our students. We welcome constructive feedback from our community and open our doors to community involvement. - Janet Hedrick, Principal
Students are loving the new PE classes with Ms. Gaines.
Pre-K More Than Pl ay Walk into the Pre-K classrooms at Acme Delco Elementary School, and you are likely to find lots of noise, smiles, and inquisitive children! Look closer and you will see that our Pre-K students aren’t just spending the day “playing,” they are constantly learning, creating, and exploring! Our Pre-K program offers an engaging environment that allows each child to learn through developmentally appropriate hands-on activities that align with the Pre-K curriculum. Students in our program learn social and emotional skills along with fundamental literacy and math skills. We instill a love of reading and writing in our students to help them grow into lifelong learners! One parent, Shantel Kemp, says, “My child really enjoyed the different activities in the centers while in the Pre-K program. She loved the art and writing centers, being able to write words
and short stories.” Covering all domains of early learning, our Pre-K program follows the OWL curriculum Opening the World of Learning. Each unit covers skills and concepts that are the building blocks to a child’s education. Through fiction and non-fiction literature, nursery rhymes, songs, and poems, children are able to develop and sharpen these skills. Xavier says “I like reading books and singing the song to learn letter sounds!” O n a d a i l y b a s i s, students participate in whole group, small group, and individual instruction. Through assessments, our teachers are able to adjust the curriculum to meet the needs of each child. In addition, during the early years, children are learning to regulate their emotions and social skills. The Pre-K program allows them a safe environment in which to do so. The children are given many
opportunities and are encouraged to express themselves through their play, writing, art, and social involvement. These opportunities open the door for them to develop
solid literacy skills, and build strong relationships with adults and peers. Lindsay King, a Pre-K teacher, loves seeing the progress throughout the
year! “It’s amazing seeing these students come into my class, many with limited social and academic skills, and watching them grow into clever, independent individuals!
Each child who comes through my door always manages to teach me a few things along the way! We are never too young or too old to keep learning!”
Acme Delco Middle
Parents and Students, As principal of Acme Delco Middle School, I want to welcome you and your student to our school. As
a district, Columbus County School District believes in educating every child well. We at Acme Delco Middle School, share that com-
mitment and will work to help your children lear n and g row this year. Attendance and arriving on time are important. We don’t want our students to miss any instructional time, so please make sure your child is here on time daily. Research shows that students whose parents are involved in their education do better in school than children whose parents are not involved. I hope you’ll be an active partner with us, whether you choose to volunteer at the school or take part in special events. We welcome your involvement in
our school. I encourage you to stay in touch with your child’s teacher(s) and with me if you have any questions during the school year. Working together, I know we can make this a great year at Acme Delco Middle School and I look forward to partnering with you this year to help your child learn!
Newest Trojans ADMS welcomes our new Art, Chorus, and ISS/PE teachers to ADMS! We also want to welcome back Mr. Church our EC teacher! C o n g r at u l at i o n s o n ch o o s i n g a t e a ch i n g profession with us! For many of your students, you will be one of the most significant people in their lives. You will have that very special opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of young people. That is no small honor.
Sincerely, Christie K. Brown Principal
Lindsey Weimer 6-8 Choral Music
Carol Adams 6th Grade ELA and Social Studies
Bell Schedule 2014-2015 7:40 – 8:00
Breakfast
8:00 – 8:20
1st Period/Homeroom
8:20 – 9:10
2nd Period
9:13 – 10:04
3rd Period
10:07 – 10:58 4th Period 11:02 – 12:16 5th Period/Lunch 12:19 – 1:10
6th Period
1:13 – 2:04
7th Period
2:18 – 3:10
8th Period
ADMS Football Schedule
September 23rd Jamboree September 30th: Acme Delco @ Tabor City October 7th: Acme Delco @ Hallsboro October 14th: Whiteville @ Acme Delco October 21st: Williams @ Acme Delco October 28th: Acme Delco @ WC All football games start at 6:00 p.m.
Marico Best ISS Tutor/Coach
Bruce Church Exceptional Children
Cerro Gordo Elementar y
“HAPPYness” is being a STINGER… “Clap along if you know what happiness is to you,” a line from a recent chart topping pop song, sums up the theme of the year for Cer ro Gordo Elementary School. These lyrics capture the atmosphere surrounding the campus, and the joy began early, even before students entered classrooms for the 2014-2015 academic year. Those in attendance at the convocation for Columbus County School employees, held recently at West Columbus High, witnessed the joy first hand as the Stinger staff made quite an entrance. Wearing custom designed shirts in school colors of blue and gold, with a sunglasses adorned school mascot, they entered the auditorium and paraded onto the stage, accompa-
nied by the song entitled “Happy,” by artist Pharrell Williams. Keynote speaker, Dr. Deborah Jones, even alluded to the infectious nature of the enthusiasm radiating from the CGES staff in her comments, and encouraged all employees to carry that feeling with them throughout the year. The contagious spirit continued to be evident later in the week at the school’s pre-kindergarten through eighth grade open house. Michelle, parent of a sixth grader, shared how excited her son was to return to school, and the sense of peace she feels about the upcoming year. “I know my child will be nurtured and cared for by caring adults while he is attending Cerro Gordo Elementary.” Not every-
one was experiencing a state of bliss the evening of open house, however. Samantha, a Pre-Kindergarten student, accompanied by her mother and two older sisters, was decidedly unhappy and quite vocal about it. The fifth grade sister, Alyssa, explained that Samantha had been excited all week about coming to school. The disappointment began when she learned she was just “visiting” for the evening, and would have to wait until the following week to officially begin her academic career. Mrs. Joy Benton, Pre-K teacher, provided an update, advising that all is well in her class, and Samantha and her classmates are all indeed clapping, stepping, hopping, skipping, and singing along quite happily.
Chadbourn Elementar y
Welcome to the 20142015 academic year at Chadbourn Elementary School! The faculty and staff at CES are excited about the new school year. We look forward to working with parents and community partners
to ensure success for all students. Please feel free to visit our school. Please maintain frequent contact with your child’s teacher to discuss his/ her progress and performance. We realize that it takes everyone working closely together to guarantee success for our students and to prepare them to become productive citizens and lifelong learners.
New Faculty
Deanna Shuman Principal
Chadbourn Elementary School welcomed several new staff members this 2014-2015 School Year. The additions to our Superstar Team include Miss Storm (Art), Mr. Preston (PE), Mrs. Benton (EC), Mrs. Cullipher (Media), Mrs. Robinson (5th Grade ELA/Social Studies) and Mrs. McGraw (1st Grade).
Dates to Remember: September 8th: Read to Achieve Parent Night (2nd-3rdGrade) Media Center @ 6:00 p.m. September 10th : 3rd Grade BOY Reading Assessment September 23rd: Title I Parent Night from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. September 25th : Fall Fundraiser Kick Off September 26th : No School (Students)/Professional Development Day (Staff) October 14th:
3-5 Spelling Bee at Columbus County Fair
October 31st: No School (Students)/Professional Development Day (Staff) November 11th: No School for Students or Staff – Veteran’s Day November 20th: Thanksgiving Meal with Parents November 26th – November 28th : Thanksgiving Break – No School December 22nd – January 2nd: Christmas Break and New Years – No School January 19th: No School (Students&Staff) – Martin Luther King’s Holiday
The motto of Chadbourn Elementary School is “Together We Can.”
January 22nd & 23rd: No School (Students)/Professional Development Day (Staff) February 17th: Science Night from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. in the Cafeteria February 20th: No School (Students)/Professional Development Day (Staff) March 2nd – March 6th: Read Across America Week March 3rd: Reading & Technology Night March 13th - No School (Students)/Professional Development Day (Staff)
Chadbourn Elementary is proud to be an A+ School! The A+ Schools Program is the largest, longest running, and most successful arts based whole-school reform effort in the nation. Since 1995, A+ schools have been using the arts as a catalyst for creating connections and making school engaging, meaningful, and enjoyable places for teachers to teach and students to learn.
Chadbourn Middle
Welcome to a new ye a r a t C h a d b o u r n Middle School. We are proud of our dedicated, experienced staff, and enthusiastic learners! As things continue to change in today’s society, the importance and demands of educating our children increase, it becomes more evident that we all need to work together to ensure that our children reach their potential. We believe that all of us - the school and the community must work together in an extended family environment to ensure success for all our students. We believe it is everyone’s responsibility to empower children with the creative, intellectual, and decision-making skills necessary for them to become academically, socially, physically, and emotionally successful and responsible. We ask that you guide and support your child’s learning by ensuring that
he/she: 1. Attends school daily and arrives on time, ready for the day’s learning experience. 2. Completes all homework assignments given by teachers. 3. Reads daily to develop a love for reading and to improve literacy skills. 4. Shares school experiences with you so that you are aware of his/her school life. 5. Informs you if he/ she needs additional support in any area or subject. 6. Knows that you expect him/her to succeed in school and to go on to college. With that in mind, you are invited to be an active participant at Chadbourn Middle School. Whether you are a classroom volunteer, a parent who drops in to check on your child, or a volunteer who assists our athletic coaches and extracurricular teach-
ers - you are encouraged to be involved! Research clearly demonstrates that parent participation in their child’s school coincides with a greater likelihood of academic success for their child. It is our desire to keep you informed of all that is taking place at school. Up-to-date and additional information will be sent home with your child during the year through memos, letters and phone calls. If you have questions or concerns that arise at any time, please do not hesitate to give your child’s teacher or me a call. I look forward to having a long and rewarding relationship with you and your family. Sincerely, Georgia Spaulding Principal
CMS extends a ‘grrrreat’ Tiger welcome to Mrs. Shelly Cullipher, our new Media Coordinator. A graduate of East Carolina University and Sandhills Leadership Academy, Mrs. Cullipher has taught English and Library Science in grades 9 – 12 and has served in administrative roles. She is a native of Columbus County and lives in Nakina with her husband, Tim, and their three children. Additionally, she is an active member of Gore’s Chapel Missionary Baptist Church. Mrs. Cullipher is grateful for the opportunity to serve the students, staff, and community of Chadbourn Middle School. Welcome Mrs. Cullipher!
CMS Tigers are ‘grrrateful’ to welcome our new choral director, Ms. Debbie Wilson, a Chadbourn native of sixteen years! An accomplished vocalist and graduate of UNC-Pembroke and Southeastern Community College, Ms. Wilson has taught chorus and music at the high school level and is an experienced performer. She is a regular performer at the North Carolina Strawberry Festival and at the Columbus County Agricultural Fair. Ms. Wilson is excited to be part of the CMS family and looks forward to seeing parents and community members on campus for our holiday and spring concerts. Welcome Ms. Wilson!
Columbus Career and College Academy
Welcome to the PRIDE! All of the staff at Columbus Career and College Academy (CCCA) would like to welcome our new students this year and also welcome back our upper classmen as we begin the 2014-2015 school year! At this time, we have already been together for over six weeks, and we are glad to have you and your parents as part of our school, part of
the PRIDE. The PRIDE is a symbol of the culture here at CCCA in that a PRIDE in nature is a group of lions that stick together. At CCCA, our students, parents, teachers, and staff all form the group of lions that stick together and work together to make up the CCCA PRIDE. Our goal at CCCA is to prepare you to be successful in high school, as well as, after high school. To do this, we will challenge you to think critically about ideas that are discussed, and we will ask you to engage in solving problems that are connected with the community around us. As we go through the school year, we want all of the students and parents to know that we are here to help you. All students are encouraged to come by and speak to any of the teachers or staff if you need extra help or support. All of our teachers use the Schoology website daily,
Parent Meeting Schedules Student Led Conferences for Freshmen & Sophomores Fall: September 16th & 18th Spring: February 17th & 19th Information letters will be sent home with students with more information on Student Led Conferences.
so please make sure that you log in daily to follow the assignments in your classes, as well as, the daily grades and attendance. We are extremely proud of the work that our students have been doing over the past few weeks. Visits to the classrooms reveal that our students are taking charge of their learning and are very energetic about what they are discussing. This is going to be a great year – we are certain about this – and we are excited to be a part of the lives of our students!! From the staff at CCCA, we hope you have a great year!!! Nicky Hobbs Principal
Fundraiser Info CCCA’s Annual Fall Chickenbog Plate Sale
November 14th
@ the SCC campus. The proceeds of the plate sale go to support the school and the students with their educational activities.
Progress Report Dates: 9/16, 10/30, 11/21, 1/28, 2/18, 4/9, 4/30 https://www.facebook.com/CCCAPride
CCCA-Fair Bluff 910-499-0999
CCCA-SCC 910-642-7141 x422
East Columbus to reconnect with our upperclassmen and welcome our new freshman class. To those students and parents who are new to ECHS, we extend an especially warm welcome for an exciting and productive year in your new school. We hope that you will quickly feel at home and become involved in our school through athletic and extracurricular activities. As I begin my third year as principal, I will continue to work diligently with parents and faculty to foster an atmosphere that promotes a learning community characterized by student-centered instruction and decisions, academic excellence, trust,
On behalf of the ECHS staff and administration, it is truly my pleasure to extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to all students and parents as we begin the 2014-2015 school year. A new school year provides the opportunity for our staff
respect, community involvement, excellent communications, and recognition of both student and staff achievement. I am committed to working in collaboration with you to develop and implement this shared vision. Working together as a team, we will move forward in our mission to create a nurturing, disciplined, and challenging environment in which all students can learn at optimum levels and become responsible members of society. We have so much to be proud of as a staff, family, and community.
Alumnus Joins Faculty
Bobby Vaughan, Principal
Gator Gear! School apparel is available Monday-Friday in the ECHS School Store! Get yours now! T-Shirts - $10 Hoodies - $20 Long Sleeve T-Shirts - $15 Drawstring Bags - $12 T-Shirts - $10 Hoodies - $20 Long Sleeve T-Shirts - $15 Drawstring Bags - $12
In 2006 Candra Powell led the Lady Gators basketball team, coached by Karyln Stephens, to the district play-offs. She was voted MVP that year and in the school yearbook she said, “I will truly miss being a part of the team because it makes me so happy and confident to represent our school.” Little did she know that she would return to East Columbus as the new Varsity Girls Basketball coach. The Gators are excited to welcome Powell back. Powell graduated from UNC – Wilmington with a degree in Community Health Education and teaching certification in Health and PE and has returned to make Hallsboro her home. “I love being back. There is a true sense of pride to know that I am now teaching in the same gym where I played. I realize now that I have been preparing for this role my entire life. I loved playing basketball and volleyball in high school but life-long learning is a passion and working with the students here is truly my dream job.” Powell will be teaching ninth grade health and physical education and is excited to begin her first year in education. “I hope my students will learn the importance of commitment and preparation on and off the court.”
Fall Events Sept. 22 – Last Day to Register for the PSAT Oct. 10- Homecoming Football Game Oct. 13 – ECHS Blood Drive Oct. 15 – PSAT Oct.- FBLA Induction (TBA) Look for ECHS Students at the following:
A student talks to Mrs. Locklear about his new schedule.www
ROCAME , JROTC, and the Band will be @ the Pine Tree Festival in Bolton Band and Art students @ the Yam Festival in Tabor City Cheerleaders and Band @ the County Fair
Evergreen Elementar y
On behalf of the administration, faculty, and staff, welcome to Evergreen Elementary School. We are excited about the promise and possibilities that the 2014-2015 school year holds. Our number one priority is to help every student reach his or her full potential, and we plan to accomplish this in both academic and elective courses. In the core subject areas, teachers will continue to use the Common Core Standards as the basis for their instruction. We will also continue to utilize faceto-face interventions
and programs such as Waterford and SuccessMaker to help students master the goals that are necessary to be promoted to the next grade. In addition, students will have the opportunity to explore and cultivate other interests through our elective course offerings which include band, chorus, art, physical education, and computers/technology. We realiz e that a strong partnership between school and home plays a major part in high student achievement, so we encourage all parents and guardians to take an active role in their child’s education. If you have questions, please feel free to contact me at 910-654-3502. Thank you in advance, a n d I l o o k fo r w a rd to working with you. Sincerely, Amanda Leggett Principal
New Wildcat Faces!
Kyle Emanuel, Health/ PE
Anna Dippell, K-1
Kristen Frey, K-5 Art
Upcoming Events September 18 Th 22 M 23 T 24 W 25 Th 26 F 29 M 30 T October 2 Th 7 T 14 T 20-23 M-Th 21 T 27 M 28 T 31 F November 3 M 7 F 10 M 11 T 13 Th 17 M 18 T 20 Th 25 T 26-28 W-F December 2 T 4 Th
Girls Soccer: Evergreen at Chadbourn 4:00 PM Girls Soccer: Evergreen vs. Acme Delco 4:00 PM Football Jamboree at West Columbus High School Interim Progress Reports Released Girls Soccer: Evergreen at Williams Township 4:00 PM Teacher Workday – No School for Students Girls Soccer: Evergreen vs. Central 4:00 PM Football: West Columbus vs. Hallsboro 6:00 PM Girls Soccer: Evergreen vs. Tabor City 4:00 PM Football: West Columbus vs. Whiteville 6:00 PM Football: West Columbus at Williams Township 6:00 PM Pre-Season Volleyball Tournament at Nakina Middle School Football: West Columbus at Tabor City 6:00 PM Volleyball: Evergreen at Chadbourn 5:30, 6:15 PM Football: West Columbus vs. Acme Delco Teacher Workday – No School for Students Volleyball: Evergreen at Acme Delco 5:30, 6:15 PM Report Cards Released Volleyball: Evergreen at Home Boys Soccer: Evergreen at Hallsboro 4:00, 6:15 PM Veterans’ Day – No School Boys Soccer: Evergreen vs. Nakina 4:00 PM Volleyball: Evergreen at Cerro Gordo 4:00 & 4:45 PM Boys Soccer: Evergreen at Chadbourn 4:00 PM Boys Soccer: Evergreen vs. Acme Delco 4:00 PM Bys Soccer: Evergreen at Williams Township 4:00 PM Thanksgiving Holiday – No School Boys Soccer: Evergreen vs. Central 4:00 PM Boys Soccer: Evergreen vs. Tabor City 4:00 PM
Guideway Elementar y GES Students Love Being Back at School!
Welcome Back Message from Mr. Norris
First and foremost, I would like to say welcome to the 2014-15 school year. The entire Guideway Elementary School family believes that every child is unique and special individual who can learn. As educators, we believe that it is our responsibility to serve as facilitators for the nurturing and developing of every child’s maximum potential academically, physically, socially, and emotionally. We are committed to providing opportunities which will assist the students in making self-directed, realistic, and responsible decisions when solving prob-
The Book Fair is coming!
It opens on Monday, S e p t e m b e r 2 9 t h f ro m 6-7:30 for Family Night. Shopping continues from Tuesday morning through Friday 8am-3pm.
lems that may confront them in our global, competitive world. The commitment described above will lead to great success only if you, the students; provide the maximum effort. This leaves no time for distractions; therefore, you must come to school each day to learn something new to ensure that every day is productive. Parents, we want the best for your children. With this in mind, educators and parents must work as a team. You, the parents, play a key role in the education of your children. Your words of encouragement, a hug when the day has been rough, your interest in your children’s work, and your presence at school activities are vital! We invite you to come to school functions, talk to us, attend parent conferences, and volunteer your time and energy. Your involvement will show your children that you value their education. Let’s work together! - Dale Norris Principal
NC Pre-Kindergarten is a free, high quality program for at-risk children designed to prepare four-year-olds for success in kindergarten. In order to qualify, your child must have been 4 years old on or before August 31, 2014 and meet income eligibility based on the family size and gross family income. Columbus County Schools provides free bus transportation and free breakfast, lunch and snack to all children enrolled in an elementary school pre-kindergarten site. All classrooms use a literacy-rich curriculum and integrate fun classroom activities!
ALL Elementary Schools are still accepting applications. For more infor mation call Jaimee Blackman, (910) 642-5168 x. 24022
Columbus County Schools offers free Pre-Kindergarten services to as many eligible children as space and funding per mits.
Hallsboro Artesia Elementar y
Greetings! My name is Josephine G. Spaulding and this begins my eighth year as principal of Hallsboro-Artesia Elementary School. We are excited about the coming year and would like to extend to you a warm welcome to Panther Country! The faculty and staff of HallsboroArtesia Elementary School believe that teamwork is the essential element that
provides teachers, administrators, and parents with the essential resources needed to help our students become confident, self-directed, and lifelong learners. We are proud of our culturally diverse community school! HAES has an active PTA, strong community support, and committed staff members. The key ingredients of a successful school day at HAES are our strong literacy block for all students, small group instruction, and daily activities in character education. All staff members work hard to meet and/or exceed our Annual Yearly Progress goals. The Hallsboro-Artesia Panthers invite you to stop by to visit and/or volunteer to help us continue a long tradition of success for our students!
Hallsboro/Artesia Elementary Events 2014 -PTA & Title I Parent Meeting – Tuesday, Sept. 23, 6:00pm -Last Day of Fall Fundraiser – Thursday, Sept. 25th -Back to School Dance – Friday, Oct. 3, 7:00-10:00pm -Fall Book Fair – Oct.6-10 (School American Education Week activities parents may eat lunch with their child on these dates!) -PreK/Kindergarten – Monday, Oct. 6, 12:00pm -First/Second Grades – Tuesday, Oct. 7, 12:00pm -Third/Fourth Grade – Wednesday, Oct. 8, 12:00pm -Fifth Grade – Thursday, Oct. 9, 12:00pm -Family Literacy Night – Thursday, Oct. 9, 3:00-7:00pm -School Day for Waccamaw Siouan PowWow Friday, Oct. 17th -5th Grade DARE Graduation – Wednesday, Oct. 29 -3rd Grade Parent Night – Thursday, Nov. 6, 5:30pm -Official American Education Week – Nov. 17-21st -School Day for Indian Heritage Month – Tuesday, Nov. 25th -Christmas Dance – Friday, Dec. 5, 7:00-10:00pm
Our Mission at Hallsboro/Artesia Elementary School is to strive for High expectations A cademic excellence E xtraordinary character and create S uccessful learners ready for the world. Our mission statement was developed by our students!
PE for Panthers!
The administrators, staff, and students at Hallsboro/ Artesia Elementary School are excited to welcome our new health & physical education teacher, Mr. James Hobbs to Panther Country! A native of Sampson County, Mr. Hobbs has been teaching health and physical education for eight years in Sampson County and Clinton City Schools. “My grandmother, mother, and sister are all educators, so for me it was my calling to be an educator too.” After relocating to
Calabash to be near family, Mr. Hobbs decided to seek employment in the area. He is excited about his employment with Columbus County Schools. “I enjoy elementary education for many reasons but mostly because of the excitement and enthusiasm the students display when learning new experiences.” The students at HAES have never had a full-time PE teacher. Mr. Hobbs will be teaching state standards that include basic motor development skills, movement,
sportsmanship in games, and the “lead up skills” needed to play competitive sports. Students K-5 are up and moving in his physical education classes. Although Columbus County is considered one of the unhealthiest counties in the state, Mr. Hobbs has a positive outlook. “Physical fitness is important and a strong physical education program can help all students have a h e a l t h i e r outlook on life! I am proud to be in Panther Country!”
Hallsboro Middle
As we enter into a new and exciting year, I would like to take a moment to commend our students, faculty, and loyal stakeholders at Hallsboro Middle School for their commitment to excellence. Through the dedication and commitment of our faculty, staff, and students, last year we
Football
9/9 Lumberton (A) 9/16 Cedar Grove (A) 9/23 JAMBOREE A@ West Columbus 9/30 W. Columbus (A) 10/7 Acme Delco (H) 10/14 Tabor City (H) 10/21 Whiteville (A) 10/28 Williams (H)
Girls Soccer
9/11 West Columbus (H) 9/15 Tabor City (H) 9/18 Central (H) 9/22 Williams (H) 9/25 Acme Delco (A) 9/29 Chadbourn (A) 10/2 Nakina (A)
surpassed our HMS target goals and expectations on the End of Grade Tests. This would not have been possible if not for the support we received from our parents and community members. This year we are looking forward to challenging our students to reach even greater heights. With your continued support, our possibilities are endless. Remember our doors are always open, and we welcome all supporting stakeholders to join our Commitment to Excellence here at Hallsboro Middle School. Adam Thompson Principal
Volleyball
Mon. 11/17 (H) HMS vs. Nakina Williams vs Nakina Central vs Williams HMS vs Central
Boys Soccer
11/10 West Columbus (H) 11/13 Tabor City (H) 11/18 Central (H) 11/20 Williams (H) 11/25 Acme Delco (A) 12/2 Chadbourn (A) 12/4 Nakina (A)
Tigers Return with a Roar! “Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver and the other gold.” Students returning to Hallsboro Middle School, August 25th were excited to see old friends and anxious to meet new ones. As students entered the school and walked down the shiny, freshly waxed halls, squeals of delight to be back at school could be heard. Teachers happily received friendly hugs from children who were ready to be back where they could actively engage in socializing, extracurricular activities, and learning. After the excitement of seeing old friends and teachers, it was time to go to class and meet new friends and teachers. Hallsboro Middle School has several new teachers on its faculty. The students are happy to have Mr. Campbell back to our school teaching eighth grade math. Mr. Campbell taught math at Hallsboro two years ago-
but had to leave with his wife who is in the military. He has returned to Columbus County and is happily prepared for the challenge of teaching math to eager eighth graders. New to the health and PE department is Mr. Nance. Mr. Nance is a veteran teacher who transferred from Guideway Elementary to Hallsboro. Mrs. Dorenkott moved across the campus to the band room and Mrs. Weimer filled the vacant chorus position. Mrs.Weimer is a veteran teacher who comes to us from Concord, NC. The focus of the teachers at Hallsboro Middle school is to prepare students to be lifelong learners in a global society, as stated in the mission of the school: The Mission of Hallsboro Middle School is to lead, guide, and challenge each student to reach his/her potential through respect, self-discipline, and literacy in order to function
effectively in a global society. It is the belief of the teachers and principal at Hallsboro Middle School that in order for students to reach their full potential, a well-rounded program of academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities must be offered. The students have proven that they can excel in academics, as well as participate in sports and other activities. With fall just around the corner, anticipation of cool weather and football is evident. In the afternoons, the sounds are signaling the approach of fall. Cheerleaders are enthusiastically learning new cheers and coaches’ whistles can be heard across the campus. Fall sports are quickly approaching school campuses across the county, with students at Hallsboro the most anxious of all.
Mrs. Dorenkott helps a student with a clarinet mouth piece. Mr. Campbell assists an 8th grade student with a math problem.
Nakina Middle
Welcome to Nakina Middle School, home of the Mustangs! As the new principal, I am thankful for the opportunity to be part of a school and community that is rich in academic and athletic excellence. I am excited to begin the journey of building upon the excellent tradition and commitment to higher accomplishments in the upcoming year. We strive for academic excellence for all students in order to create well-round-
ed productive citizens in a global society. The faculty and staff work hard and are dedicated to accomplishing this mission. Our goal is to provide a safe and orderly environment ensuring that this school year will be a happy and successful experience for all students. Our staff works closely with parents to instill the necessary academic, social, cultural, and developmental skills enabling them to become academically and socially proficient. We believe that when provided critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creative skills, all students will live a happy and productive life. On behalf of the faculty and staff of Nakina Middle School, I welcome all students to a very exciting 2014-2015 school year. Go Mustangs!
Ms. Hardwick explains procedures during Open House.
A student works on a project during art class.
Students practice their technology skills.
These students are excited about their 8th grade year at NMS!
Wendell Duncan Principal
Football
9/23 Jamboree 9/30 Williams @ Whiteville 10/7 Tabor City @ Williams 10/14 West Columbus @ Williams 10/21 Williams @ Acme Delco 10/28 Williams @ Hallsboro
Nakina Middle School welcomes Linda Jordan as our new middle school choral director. Ms. Jordan has an extensive background in music as a choral director, vocalist and pianist. She worked for Horry County Schools as a middle school choral director for many years and recently taught K-8 music at Columbus Charter School. She studied piano at East Carolina University and obtained her vocal degree from Coastal Carolina University.
Girls Soccer
9/11 Nakina@ TCMS 9/15 Nakina @ WC 9/18 Williams @ Nakina 9/22 Nakina @ Central 9/25 CMS @ Nakina 9/29 Nakina @ Acme Delco 10/2 Hallsboro @ Nakina
Volleyball
9/20-9/23 Nakina Middle School Pre-Season Tournament 11/3 @ Tabor City Nakina Vs Hallsboro 4:45 Central Vs Nakina 5:30 11/10 @ Nakina Tabor City Vs Nakina 4:00 Williams Vs Nakina 6:15 11/17 @ Hallsboro Nakina Vs Hallsboro 4:00 Williams Vs Nakina 4:45
9/24 @ Williams Nakina Vs Central 4:45 Tabor City Vs Nakina 5:30
Old Dock Elementar y
Dear Parents and Friends, On behalf of the staff at Old Dock Elementary School, we have had a great start to the 2014-15 school year! Our daily mission is to ensure that each student is provided the opportunity to excel to his/her potential to be a productive citizen in a local, national, and global society. Last year was a very productive year, and our students showed lots of academic growth. Along with our staff, I will work hard to continue the legacy of success established at Old Dock Elementary School by building strong relationships with parents, students, staff, and community partners. We will continue our focus on character education initiatives, 21st century skills of academic excellence, fostering a safe nurturing environment, and data informed instructional decisions to provide challenging enrich-
ment opportunities for all students. Mrs. Georganna Council stated, “Students are learning from their teachers but equally as important, teachers are learning from their students. We take time to know the whole child so we can better meet their needs as a facilitator of learning.” I anticipate a most successful year as my team and I support the academic, social, and emotional growth of your son/daughter here at Old Dock Elementary School. I look forward to working together to provide your child the very best education with endless opportunities. As principal, my door is always open and I welcome your concerns and suggestions. As partners, we share the responsibility for our children’s success. I assure you we will do our very best to carry out our responsibilities. I applaud you for joining me in the endeavor of our quest to keep Old Dock Elementary School the “best opportunity for academic excellence” in educating elementary students. You may contact me at any time: phone: 910-642-2084 or by email: rjgore@columbus. k12.nc.us.
First day of school at the Dock!
Respectfully, Ronna Gore Principal
Mr. Richard Gore volunteering his time to help make our campus shine!
Back to school staff meeting- We are excited and ready to get to work!
South Columbus
As we begin the 2014-2015 school year, I would like to thank the faculty, staff, students, parents, and community for their support. With the unrelenting support of all stakeholders, South
Columbus High School had a very successful 2013-2014 school year and everyone should be extremely proud of all the achievements and accomplishments of our students. As we enter a new school year, I challenge the students to continue to display the characteristics that are required to achieve academic excellence. I also encourage and challenge parents to suppor t and participate in their child’s education. By continuing to work together, we will ensure all South Columbus students receive a quality education and become college or career ready. Jesse E. Beck, II Principal
New Stallions
I am Baleigh Fisher and I graduated from Whiteville High in 2010. I then attended Wingate University, where I graduated with a degree in Biology and a minor in mathematics. While at Wingate, I fell in love with tutoring my peers. I love seeing students faces light up when they finally understand a concept. I attend The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, love to go to the beach, and being surrounded by family is of the highest priority to me.
My name is Bryant Edwards. I grew up in the town of Williams Township where I attended and graduated from South Columbus High School in 2008. I went on to play basketball at Milligan College where I received my degree in Exercise Science in 2012. I am entering my first year as a teacher, coming from Liberty University where I worked in the basketball program. I received my Master’s degree in those few years and decided it was time for a change, and I wanted to be a head coach. I decided I would pursue coaching at the high school level. I couldn’t have been placed i n a b e t t e r s p o t than here at SCHS where I teach Health and P.E. and I will be coaching varsity basketball.
My name is Andrew Rice. I am from Gastonia, North Carolina. I graduated from West Lincoln High School, in Lincolnton, North Carolina. My undergraduate degree is a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Studies with a minor in History from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. I am finishing my master’s degree at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. The reason I began teaching was because of the influence of a teacher that I had in high school. This teacher was my U.S. History teacher and he brought the subject to life. He showed me that in order to impact our future and understand the strengths and weaknesses of government, we need to study our past. I am married to an incredible woman that pushes me and helps me grow as a man every day. I am excited to be a Stallion!
My name is Ashley Hardee. Tabor City has been my home for 26 years. I graduated from South Columbus High School in 2006. After graduation, I spent the next few years playing softball at UNCP where I earned my degree in History. I developed a love for history at an early age but would have to credit my high school teacher who played a big role in my decision to study history in college. It is because of his
influence, as well as my college professors that I pursued a career in education. This summer has been one for the record books: June 2nd I got engaged and on August 25th I began my first year teaching. Needless to say, the past few months have been full of excitement. I am so thankful for this opportunity to teach in my hometown! Once a Stallion, always a Stallion!”
Tabor City Elementar y
Dear Parents, Guardians, and Community Partners: Greetings! I am very honored and excited to join the Tabor City family as your new principal. Let me begin by sharing a little about me: I have been happily married to an awesome guy, Eddie, for 28 years. We currently reside in Dillon, SC. Together we have 4 children and 7 grandchildren (who are my heart!) My hobbies are couponing and yard sales (I love a bargain!) as well as reading and spending time with the grandchildren. My educational experience includes teaching fifth – eighth grade, reading resource teacher for third – fifth, literacy coach, curriculum specialist, reading first coach, lead teacher and assistant principal. This is my 20th year in the educational field. My passion always has been and will always be
educating children!!! As I make this transition to Tabor City, I am aware of the anticipation and eagerness that accompanies new leadership. I know change can provoke both excitement and anxiety. Thus, it is my goal to spend my first couple of months learning about our school and all of its community partners. I eagerly anticipate getting to know the TCES family and learning about your hopes and dreams for our school. I believe that genuine collaboration fosters ownership of a rich school culture. I welcome and desire your input. Together we can and will rise to the top because of our commitment to join forces as a united school family, declaring that our children will receive the best education possible. We are in our finest days and the best is yet to come! I am honored to have been selected to serve this community, and will work hard to gain your trust and respect as TCES’s principal. Know that I am personally challenged, inspired, and motivated to grow our school by growing every child every day!
TCES Slogan for the 2014-2015 School Year: “ALL IN”----This is a slogan students, staff, parents, and community partners will hear all year. We are all completely committed to providing the best education to our students and fostering a rich lear ning environment where all students succeed.
Parent Communication
TCES is glad to have Ms. Mercer back teaching music!
New Car Pick-Up Route
Sincerely, Terry Brown Principal
Days of No School for Students (Holidays and Teacher Workdays) September 26, 2014 Teacher Workday October 31, 2014 Teacher Workday November 11, 2014 Veteran’s Day November 26 - 28, 2014 Thanksgiving Holiday December 22 – 31, 2014 Christmas Holiday January 1-2, 2015 Christmas Holiday January 19, 2015 MLK, Jr. Holiday January 22, 23, 2015 Teacher Workdays February 20, 2015 Teacher Workday March 13, 2015 Teacher Workday April 3-10, 2015 Easter Holiday May 25, 2015 Memorial Day Holiday
TCES has implemented a new parental communication option called “Remind101” which is a simple way for parents/guardians to stay informed and up-to-date with what’s happening in class. By joining a teacher’s Remind101, parents are choosing to receive class messages via push notifications, SMS, or emails. Don’ t wo r r y, p a re n t s / g u a rd ians numbers will not be shared with anyone else in the class. To join the school’s Remind account, text @tcesparent to (804)-451-4952.
TCES loves Mr. Smith, our new PE teacher!
School Spirit Day
Student safety is always priority at TCES. This year we have implemented a new dismissal schedule and traffic flow patter n to ensure our students are carefully monitored during afternoon dismissal. All car students, Pre-K through fifth grade are picked up in one central location. Each student has been assigned a unique number and parents display their child’s number in their windshield.
Every Friday will be school spirit day and students are encouraged to wear their TCES spirit shirts. New TCES spirit shirts are available for sale in the school’s office.
Tabor City Middle
Dear Parents and Students, On behalf of the faculty and staff at Tabor City Middle School, I am happy to welcome you to the 2014-2015 school year! We are looking forward to a productive partnership with you to ensure our children can achieve their highest potential. We recognize that in order to be successful in school, our children need support from both the home and school. We know a strong partnership with you will make a great difference in your child’s education. As partners, we share the responsibility for our children’s success and want you to know that we will do our very best to carry out our responsibilities. Tabor City Middle School has an excellent teaching staff with a wealth of knowledge. The staff is dedicated to building a safe, compassionate community of lifelong learners who are scholars, creators, critical thinkers and problem solvers. We believe high expectations yield academic transformation for all students. We continue to be committed to doing our
part in ensuring your child achieves academic excellence, and we look forward to working with you to guarantee that our goal is achieved. I am privileged to have the opportunity to return to this school year as your principal. I am honored to work with our highly qualified and dedicated staff, our wonderful students, and all of the supportive parents. The middle school years are critical times of development for students and families. I look forward to working with all of you in making this school year successful. I strongly believe that every child can learn and achieve the highest level of academic success with the proper preparation and support. Tabor City Middle School faculty, staff, and I feel privileged to be a part of this school family. We thank you for your support and look forward to a great and successful 2014-2015 school year. “GO EAGLES!” There are a couple of sports already underway, these are soccer (girls), football, and cheerleading. The teams have been picked, the cuts have been made, and it is time to get down to business. Make us proud Eagles, just as you always have. Just remember to be a role model to those who are younger than you, and a model of what a TCMS student is like to everyone. We will have a candy sale and Walk-A-Thon fundraiser in October.
Dianna Bellamy Principal
The Lady Eagles love playing soccer!
Girls Soccer 2014 Thursday, September 25 Tabor City @ Central Monday, September 29 Tabor City @ Williams Thursday, October 2 Tabor City @ West Columbus
Football 2014 Acme Delco @ Tabor City Tuesday, October 7 Tabor City @ Williams Tuesday, October 14 Tabor City @ Hallsboro Tuesday, October 21 West Columbus @ Tabor City Tuesday, October 28 Whiteville @ Tabor City
West Columbus
Welcome Back Vikings! It is my pleasure to welcome you to West Columbus High School. We are proud to announce West Columbus as a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) school. We are committed to providing support and training for administrators and teachers to help them better prepare students for college, careers, and life. In order to achieve this, we believe students need to know how to be creative, think critically, communicate ef fectively, and collaborate with others. Our teachers are working diligently to ensure that students are engaged at the highest possible level through instruction that is relevant
and inquiry-based. We are also helping our students become more independent through project-based learning. Teachers are no longer the sage on the stage but the guide on the side. We are excited about the progress we are making at West Columbus High School. The faculty and staff of West Columbus High School would like to thank all of our stakeholders for a successful 2013-14 school year. This year we will continue to focus on our vision statement of a school where students are responsible and respectful citizens, who will set and attain goals to achieve the skills necessary to thrive in a changing 21st century society. With your continued support, we will collaboratively strive to raise the bar in education by moving our students above and beyond their expectations during the 2014-15 school year. “Once a Viking Always a Viking.� Jeffrey T. Greene Principal
WCHS Marshals showing students around during orientation.
Williams Township Aggie Arts and PE for K-5!
Williams Township School students and staff are simply elated about our new elementary physical education and arts education programs that have been added to our curriculum this school year. Williams Township would like to for mally welcome elementary physical education teacher Ms. Te’Mere Williams, elementary art teacher Ms. Nicole Achorn, and elementary music teacher Ms. Meta Mercer. This is the first year that Williams Township has had a fulltime elementary physical education teacher. As photographed, Ms. Te’Mere Williams instructs a fifth grade
class in the fundamentals and techniques of physical fitness. Second grader Callie West says “I love PE! We get to play volleyball!” First grader Gavin Niven interjected “I like to play hot potato with Ms. Williams.” Our elementary physical education classes will be a year-long program for all students. The new elementary arts education program encompasses kindergarten through fifth grade. All students participate in visual arts and music classes on a weekly basis. In the photos, elementary art teacher Nicole Achorn discusses with students the rules, proce-
dures and various materials they will be using to create their individual samples of artwork. The students were excited about being able to express their creativity this year. First grader Azyriah Bush stated, “I like that we get to paint this year.” Our elementary arts education program provides visual art classes during the first semester of the school year and music classes during the second semester. Music teacher Meta Mercer will arrive back at Williams Township in January with bells on, bringing her love of music and song to our hallways and budding Aggie musicians. Williams Township shares elementary music & art teachers with Tabor City Elementary. At Williams Township, our goal is to teach the whole child; arts and physical education are vital portions of this lofty goal. They allow students to function collaboratively and exhibit their individuality and creativity amongst their fellow Aggies. These new additions to our instructional program provide much needed opportunities for students to express their personalities and truly find their place in the world. At Williams Township School, our highest aim is to ensure that all students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to function as productive members of today’s—and tomorrow’s—society. Go Aggies!
A Page from the CCS History Book:
2013-2014 was a GREAT School Year!