As we welcome the 2025–26 school year, I cannot help but feel both excitement and gratitude.

This is more than just another “first week of school” — it’s a powerful reminder of why we do what we do, and the extraordinary things that happen when we do it together. 

After taking the summer off from this column, I am thrilled to return with stories that showcase our shared commitment to excellence, relationships, and the belief that Together We Succeed.

Leadership Retreat: Setting the Direction

We began our year with a two-day Administrative Leadership Retreat centered around the theme One System. One Focus. Big Growth.

On the first day, our cabinet, principals, and assistant principals gathered from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Central Office Conference Room. 

We worked intentionally to align our systems, expectations, and priorities for the year ahead. It was not just a meeting — it was a deep dive into strengthening clarity, consistency, and effectiveness across every school and department.

On our second day, our focus shifted from planning to personal connection. 

Leaders, along with teachers and support staff, formed 20 teams to make Welcome Home Visits to rising kindergarteners at Manning Elementary and Belmont Elementary, sixth graders at Chaloner Middle, and ninth graders at Roanoke Rapids High and Roanoke Rapids Early College. 

These visits were more than a friendly gesture — they were a tangible way to “walk our talk” about being student-centered. 

By showing up at families’ doors before the first day, we sent a powerful message: You belong here, and we’re glad you’re with us.

New Employee Orientation: Vision, Values, and Systems

On August 12, we welcomed all new employees to our Roanoke Rapids Graded School District for orientation. 

I had the honor of sharing our mission, vision, values, and Vision 2035 — our long-term plan for ensuring every student leaves fifth grade reading on level and emerging in deeper learning, eighth grade with strong academic and social skills, and graduates “life ready” in 2035. 

The cohort of students in mind for Vision 2035 will be entering third grade this year.

This year’s sharper focus is on building forward, not starting over, with One System. One Focus. Big Growth. 

Our challenge is to design and protect the systems that matter most — instruction, attendance, family engagement, professional learning, and safety — so that success does not rely on the heroics of a few but becomes the standard for all.

Convocation: Our Unified Launch

Two days later, on August 14, our entire district family gathered at Roanoke Rapids High School Auditorium for our annual Convocation. 

The room was filled with energy as we celebrated our staff, recognized outstanding educators, and heard the inspiring sounds of the Roanoke Rapids High School Marching Yellow Jackets.

We honored Support Persons, Beginning Teachers, Teachers of the Year, and other award recipients. 

We were proud to announce the district winner of Beginning Teacher of the Year, Kayln Long from Chaloner Middle School; Teacher of the Year, Heather Dickens from ACES; Principal of the Year, Jance Moody from Roanoke Rapids Early College; and NCCAT CTE Teacher of the Year, Natalie Robertson from Roanoke Rapids High School.

In my address, I reminded our staff that while last year’s gains were extraordinary, they are now our new starting point. 

We have more work to do to ensure every student reaches their full potential — and that will take clarity, alignment, and relentlessness.

Praise and Prayer Night: A Community in Unity

That same evening, First Christian Church hosted the first-ever Praise and Prayer Night. 

Seeing our community — educators, families, students, and local leaders — gathered in unity was inspiring. 

The night was filled with heartfelt prayers, uplifting music, and encouraging words for every group in our school family. 

We began the year with hearts full of hope and hands ready to serve, reminded that we are stronger together.

Early College Scholars Already at Work

A special shoutout to our 122 Roanoke Rapids Early College scholars who began classes on August 12 and joined us for Convocation. 

Their presence was a living reminder of why we do this work — they represent both the present and the future of our district. Scholars and staff were excited to celebrate Principal Moody when he was named Principal of the Year!

Looking Ahead: Board of Trustees

Our Board of Trustees met in committees on August 12 and will hold their monthly meeting on August 19 at 6 p.m. in the Board Room. 

We hope you will be able to attend.

This year, our rallying cry is more than a slogan. 

One System. One Focus. Big Growth is a leadership standard — a daily reminder that we are part of something bigger than ourselves. 

Every professional learning community, every parent meeting, every lesson plan is a brick in the foundation of our students’ future.

We have the vision. We have the people. Now, we put our systems to work.

 Let’s make 2025–26 our best year yet!