As the superintendent of our Roanoke Rapids Graded School District, I am so grateful to be able to witness the energy, excitement, and promise that fills our classrooms each new school year.
This past week, with all of our students returning, our campuses once again came alive with laughter, learning, and the spirit of the Yellow Jackets.
I am thankful for the dedication of our staff, the support of our families, and the resilience of our students as we begin another chapter together.
Students Back in Classrooms
The first week of school is always a special one.
On Monday, I had the opportunity to visit every classroom across the district.
It was inspiring to see the joy on students’ faces as they reunited with teachers, discovered new learning spaces, and began setting goals for the year ahead.
For me personally, one of the highlights of the day was meeting a student who shares my first name, Juliana. We even took a picture together — a reminder that school is not only about academics but also about connection, relationships, and belonging.
Our teachers have worked tirelessly to prepare engaging lessons and create welcoming environments, and I could not be prouder of the way they have embraced the year’s beginning. Already, students are diving into learning, participating in classroom discussions, and setting a positive tone for the months ahead.
Class Belmont Traffic Queue Success
One of our ongoing priorities has been ensuring safe and efficient traffic flow around Belmont Elementary School.
This year, we implemented the new traffic queue plan developed by the North Carolina Department of Transportation.
I am happy to report that our mornings have gone exceptionally well.
Thanks to the guidance of the North Carolina Highway Patrol and the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office, drivers are following procedures, and our students are entering school safely and on time.
We shared with parents that avoiding the line by parking along the neighborhood roads was not only unsafe but could result in ticketing or towing.
Our community’s cooperation has made a real difference, and we are grateful to residents on Robinson Drive for their patience as this long-standing concern has been addressed.
The afternoons presented more of a challenge, as traffic backed up onto Robinson Drive early in the week.
After observing the situation, we adjusted by restricting access to the queue until 2:30 p.m.
This change immediately eased congestion and allowed the afternoons to run more smoothly. Our thanks go to the Roanoke Rapids Police Department, who have supported both parents exiting campus onto Bolling Road and students crossing safely before and after school. Together, our law enforcement partners and school and district staff have made a meaningful impact on student safety and community satisfaction.
Lockdown Response Demonstrates Strong Partnerships
On Wednesday, all RRGSD schools experienced a soft lockdown as law enforcement responded to an emergency in the area.
While this situation understandably caused concern, it also highlighted the strength of our partnerships with local agencies.
I want to personally thank Chief Lawrence Wiggins of the Roanoke Rapids Police Department, Sheriff Tyree Davis of Halifax County, and Director Larry Chalker of Roanoke Rapids Public Works. Their guidance, presence, and rapid response ensured that our students and staff remained safe throughout the incident.
We also appreciate the patience of our families, as buses were delayed slightly while safety protocols were carried out. Your understanding allowed us to prioritize what matters most: the well-being of our children.
Completions of LETRS
Congratulations to RRGSD Elementary Teachers (Lindsay Liles, Shirlkay Bradley, Alyssa Strickland, Kaylee Hall, Celina Langley, Jodi Carlisle, Cassidy Blackman, Robyn Spence, and Iesha Boone) in Cohort 2 on the completion of the LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) professional development! These incredible educators are the definition of #Literacy Champion, and we are so proud of their hard work!
Celebrating Yellow Jacket Athletics
Beyond academics and safety, school life is enriched by extracurricular activities that give our students opportunities to grow, lead, and shine.
Fall sports are now underway, and our student-athletes are already representing RRGSD with determination and pride.
From the first whistle to the last serve, their commitment and teamwork embody the Yellow Jacket spirit of Together We Succeed.
I encourage our community to come out and cheer on our athletes throughout the season. There is nothing quite like the excitement of Friday night lights or a hard-fought volleyball match to bring people together.
Please also mark your calendars for Homecoming at Roanoke Rapids High School on September 19 — an event that always unites current students, alumni, and families in celebration of our school’s traditions and achievements.
This year our RRHS Alumni and Friends will be recognizing our baseball and softball alumni during the Homecoming Game. If you are a baseball or softball alumnus or alumna, please contact Patty or Lynn Little to RSVP for the reception.
Honoring Labor Day
This week also included a moment of rest as schools were closed on Monday in observance of Labor Day. The holiday serves as a reminder of the value of hard work and the dedication of those who make our schools and community thrive. From teachers and staff to parents and local leaders, every contribution plays a part in creating an environment where our students can succeed.
Looking Ahead
As we move into September, I remain optimistic about the year ahead. We have seen resilience in our students, dedication from our staff, and unwavering support from our families and community partners. From smooth traffic flow at Belmont to strong responses in moments of uncertainty, RRGSD continues to demonstrate what it means to put students first.
Thank you for your partnership and trust as we work together to ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and achieve. Here’s to a year filled with success, safety, and school spirit.