Start of school year means a ‘ferry’ unique commute for Knotts Island students
Ferry route created in 1962 for safety and convenience of school kids in isolated community
It’s 4 p.m. on a school day, and in Currituck County, one of the state’s most unique school bus rides is about to begin, as buses carrying the middle and high school students of Knotts Island board an N.C. ferry for a 45-minute cruise across Currituck Sound.
However, it’s not the charm of the ferry ride that caused state officials to create the Currituck-Knotts Island route
A Currituck County school bus arrives in Knotts Island aboard an N.C. State ferry.
See Ferry, 5B
Back to School
Welcome from Currituck County Schools Superintendent Dr. Matt Lutz
Dear Currituck County Schools Families and Staff, I am excited to welcome you to the 2025–2026 school year! The beginning of a school year is a new chapter— one filled with opportunities to learn, grow and unite in our shared commitment to excellence in education.
Over the summer, we have been busy preparing for the year ahead, and I am proud to share a few important updates:
New District & School Websites – We have launched redesigned websites for the district
and all schools, making it easier than ever to find important information, resources, and updates.
Parent & Community Engagement – Be on the lookout for district-wide events, including our first-ever District Meet & Greet this October and a series of parent workshops throughout the year. Transportation Improvements – Our Transportation Department has implemented newly designed routes and introduced community bus stops to improve efficiency, reduce ride times, and support timely arrivals.
Complete details will be shared with the release of the 2025-2026 Bus Route Schedule.
Strategic Planning – As we enter the final year of our current district strategic plan—a plan that has guided us to significant successes—we will begin engaging our school community to shape the next chapter for Currituck County Schools. Your input will be key as we set goals for the years ahead.
Attendance Matters –
This year, we will continue to highlight the importance of consistent, on-time attendance. Every day in school is a
step toward success, and we look forward to partnering with families to help students make the most of every learning opportunity.
Earlier End to the School Year – This year’s calendar has our last day of school scheduled in May rather than June. This change offers our students and staff an earlier start to summer while still meeting all state requirements for instructional time.
Our path forward
The changes we’ve made this year are not by chance—they are planned
with purpose, grounded in data, and shaped by the valuable feedback we receive from our stakeholders. We sincerely appreciate your input and support when we reach out, as it helps guide our efforts for continuous improvement.
As we work together to make Currituck County Schools the best it can be, I encourage you to consider getting involved in our schools. Whether by volunteering your time, sharing your expertise, or stepping in as a substitute teacher, your active participation makes a difference in the lives of our students.
Our schools are communities where students, families, staff, and partners work together to ensure every child reaches their full potential. I am confident that with your support, this will be an outstanding year for Currituck County Schools.
Thank you for being an essential part of our district family. Here’s to a safe, successful, and inspiring 2025–2026 school year! With appreciation, — Dr. Matt Lutz Superintendent Currituck County Schools
DCS Superintendent Basnight celebrates start of new school year
Dear Dare County Schools Staff, I want to take a moment to celebrate each of you and to express my deepest gratitude for the incredible start of the 2025–2026 school year. What a joy it was to see our schools come alive again on the first day—hallways filled with excited students, classrooms buzzing with energy, and smiles everywhere I turned. That doesn’t happen by chance. It happens because of you—your preparation, your care, your love for children, and your belief in what we can accomplish together. In Dare County Schools, everything we do has one focus: doing what is best for our students. Whether it’s the careful planning that keeps our buses running safely, the meals prepared with care in our
cafeterias, the attention to detail in our classrooms, the maintenance and cleanliness of our buildings (those shiny floors), or the warm welcomes offered at every doorway, you create the conditions for our students to thrive. Our opening days have been a beautiful reminder of how powerful that commitment is when we all work together. I know that the start of a school year requires long hours, thoughtful planning, and a lot of heart. You gave all of that and more to ensure our students walked into spaces where they are safe, supported, and inspired. Even in the face of challenges—whether it’s the weather or the countless details that come with opening our schools—you showed once again that when we keep students at
the center, we rise above every obstacle. I am humbled and blessed every day to serve alongside such a talented, compassionate, and dedicated team. You are the heartbeat of Dare County Schools, and because of you, our students receive an education that truly is second to none. As we move forward, I look with excitement to all we will accomplish together this year—for our students, for their families, and for this community we love. May the months ahead bring you joy in your classrooms, success in your work, and the reminder that what you do every single day changes lives.
With deep appreciation and pride, — Steve Basnight Superintendent Dare County Schools
Welcome back, Hurricane families!
Dear Parents and Guardians, We are so excited to welcome you to the 2025–2026 school year! Our Hurricane Family is ready to kick off another great year of learning, growth, and new opportunities. This summer, we spent time reflecting on what matters most for our students and updated our vision and mission to guide the work ahead: Our Mission: Engage
every student in anchored and meaningful learning that inspires growth and leadership. Our Vision: Empowering students to lead, contribute, and succeed.
We believe in giving students chances to explore, set goals, lead, and use their voices—all while preparing them for bright futures. Just as important, our staff is committed to building trust, creating a sense of belonging,
and making school a place where every child feels valued and supported.
We’re looking forward to an exciting school year full of growth, success, and plenty of Hurricane pride. Thank you for being such an important part of our school family—we can’t wait to get started!
Sincerely, — Dr. Rooks Principal Cape Hatteras Secondary School of Coastal Studies
Back to School
FFMS principal introduces theme for schoolyear: #itmatters
Dear First Flight Families, We have opened our doors to another exciting school year. At First Flight Middle, our theme for this year is simple but powerful: #itmatters.
Every day, in every classroom, in every interaction, what we do together matters. This year, we ask that you continue to partner
with us, because your voice and support are essential to your child’s success.
Together, we can make sure that what matters most stays at the center of our work:
• Attendance matters: being here every day gives students the best chance to learn and grow.
• Academic growth matters: each student can stretch further with our support and yours.
• Belonging and behavior matter: students thrive when they feel safe, respected, and connected.
• Life skills and identity formation matter: middle school is about discovering who they
are and who they can become.
• Engagement and enrichment matter: curiosity, exploration, and creativity can fuel lifelong learning. We know that when schools and families communicate and collaborate, students succeed. Thank you for trusting us, supporting us, and walking
alongside us as we guide your children through these important years. We can’t wait to see your student tomorrow morning, because they matter, and every moment with them matters. Looking forward to a terrific year!
— Diane
Tutoring and homework help across Dare County
By Danielle Puleo
danielle.puleo@ thecoastlandtimes.com
The Outer Banks is more than a destination for summer fun—it’s a close-knit community where families, schools and local leaders work together to support students. Throughout the academic year, Dare County families can find a variety of tutoring and homework programs designed to give learners the tools they need to thrive. From church-based volunteer efforts to professional one-on-one tutoring, students of all ages have options to help them succeed.
According to Hannah Nash, public information officer for Dare County Schools, every school in the district builds in
tutoring and intervention time during the day.
“In our middle and high schools, students who need extra support can receive help in specific subjects at a certain period during the day. Students who are doing well in their classes can choose to participate in clubs or activities during this time.” This ensures that academic assistance is part of the school schedule, while also providing enrichment opportunities for students who are on track.
Locally, families can turn to community-driven efforts like Colington United Methodist Church’s Homework Helpers, hosted at First Flight Elementary. Every Monday that school is in session, CUMC volunteers and high school
tutors from First Flight High School gather to lend a hand. The atmosphere blends structure with fun: volunteers oversee games, snacks and chaperoning while the older students dive into the academic support.
For those seeking specialized instruction, Physics with Marty provides targeted support for high school and college-level science students. Marty offers personalized, one-on-one tutoring in subjects ranging from 9th grade physics through advanced calculus-based mechanics, electricity and magnetism. With flexible scheduling and a virtual learning environment, students can tailor their sessions to match class demands. Marty can be reached directly
at physicswithmarty@ gmail.com.
On Roanoke Island, Monday Night Alive— organized by Betty Selby—continues to make a strong community impact. The program is based out of the Roanoke Island Community Building, 723 Sir Walter Raleigh Street in Manteo, and is open to all Dare County students. Each Monday evening, children and teens can take advantage of subject-specific tutoring, homework help and free meals in a supportive group setting. The focus is on creating opportunity and equity for all students.
Families in Kill Devil Hills also have access to math-specific support through private tutor Jami Swailes McCall. Beginning September 16,
McCall will offer oneon-one and small-group tutoring for students in grades K through high school Math 2, as well as tailored sessions for homeschoolers. Flexible meeting locations include her home on West Hayman Boulevard, the Kill Devil Hills public library, or in-home visits for students. McCall also designs instruction around specific units or concepts for homeschool families. She can be reached directly at 252-722-1207.
One resource extending beyond Dare County’s borders is Carpenter Tutoring, LLC, led by founder Amy Carpenter, M.Ed. Based in Hampton Roads, Va., Carpenter Tutoring specializes in individualized sessions for students and professionals. Most services are
offered by Carpenter, the business notes, though a small team of tutors also supports additional subjects and specialties. The practice focuses primarily on remote services, with limited in-person options in select areas, making it an accessible solution for Outer Banks students who prefer virtual learning. With such a range of options—from faith-based volunteer programs and community-wide initiatives to specialized professional services—students in Dare County can find the support that best fits their needs. These efforts reflect the Outer Banks’ commitment not just to education, but to community care, ensuring that every learner has the chance to reach their potential.
Red Cross: Keep kids safe as they head back to school Essential safety tips
for a confident and secure start to the school year
As students head back to into the classroom, the American Red Cross is sharing important tips to help keep children safe throughout the academic year. From the morning commute to after-school activities, safety remains a top priority.
If your student is younger or going to school for the first time, teach them:
• Their phone number,
address, how to get in touch with their parents at work, how to get in touch with another trusted adult and how to dial 911.
If your student rides their bike to school, teach them to:
• Always wear a helmet.
• Ride on the right in the same direction as the traffic is going.
• Not to talk to strangers or accept rides from someone they don’t know.
If your child walks to school, teach them to:
• Walk on the sidewalk. If no sidewalk is available, walk facing traffic.
• If you drive your child to school, make sure to:
• Stop and look left, then right and left again to see if cars are coming.
• Always use seat belts. Younger children should use car seats or booster seats until the lap-shoulder belt fits properly (typically for children ages 8-12 and over 4’9”), and ride in the back seat until they are at least 13 years old.
• Cross the street at the corner, obey traffic signals and stay in the crosswalk.
• Never run out into the street or cross between parked cars.
If your student takes the bus to school, teach them to:
If you have a teenager driving to school, make sure they:
• Use seat belts.
• Don’t use their cell phone to text or make calls and avoid eating or drinking while driving.
• Get to their bus stop early and stand away from the curb while waiting for the bus to arrive.
If you are considering getting your student a cell phone:
• Board the bus only after it has come to a complete stop and the driver or attendant has instructed them to get on. And only board their bus, never an alternate one.
• Stay in clear view of the bus driver and never walk behind the bus.
• Download the free Red Cross First Aid and Emergency apps to give them access to first aid tips for common emergencies and full weather alerts. Find the apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or by going to redcross.org/ apps.
DRIVERS, SLOW DOWN! Drivers should slow down as children head back to school. Know that yellow flashing lights indicate a school bus is getting ready to stop ─ motorists should slow down and be prepared to stop. Red flashing lights and an extended stop sign indicate the bus is stopped and children are getting on or off. Motorists must stop when they are behind a bus, meeting the bus or approaching an intersection where a bus is stopped. Motorists following or traveling alongside a school bus must also stop until the red lights have stopped flashing, the stop arm is withdrawn, and all children have reached safety. This includes two and four-lane highways. If physical barriers such as grassy medians, guide rails or concrete median barriers separate oncoming traffic from the bus, motorists in the opposing lanes may proceed without stopping. Do not proceed until all the children have reached a place of safety.
Back to School
back in 1962. The route was established for the safety and convenience of students, noted NCDOT.
Knotts Island is tucked into the far northeastern corner of the state, and the only way to get there by road is a drive of more than an hour through rural portions of Chesapeake, Va. The roads on that route are curvy, twolane roads with little or
no room for error.
For crewmembers, the school runs in the morning and afternoon mean a fully loaded ferry, crowded lounges and added responsibility for some extra special cargo.
“It’s a unique route in our system,” says N.C. Ferry Division director Jed Dixon. “We serve commuters and visitors and kids and adults all across eastern North Carolina, but
Currituck-Knotts Island was specifically created to make sure Knotts Island students can get to and from school safely.”
By 4:45 p.m., the ferry, the buses and the kids are safely back on Knotts Island. And while the reason for the route is the school commute, the Currituck-Knotts Island ferry has become a part of daily life for residents of all ages in the close-knit coastal community.
