This past week has been one of collaboration, connection, and celebration across our Roanoke Rapids Graded School District. 

From community partnerships to student achievements, our schools continue to shine thanks to the teamwork, dedication, and spirit of Together We Succeed that defines our district.

NCDOT and NC Safe Routes to School Visit Belmont Elementary

On Friday, October 24, we had the pleasure of hosting representatives from the North Carolina Department of Transportation and NC Safe Routes to School at Belmont Elementary School. Assistant Division Traffic Engineer Jason Grantham, Engineering Technician John James, and Statewide Planning and Programming Manager of the Integrated Mobility Division’s Hart Evans, who is a proud RRHS alumnus (and also one of my former RRHS English students) visited to observe our improved traffic queue and discuss ongoing safety enhancements.

Joining the conversation were Assistant Principal Josh Clark, Public and Student Information Officer Mandy Clark, and myself. 

We were grateful to receive positive feedback from NCDOT about the recent changes to our traffic flow and how the new process has made drop-off and pick-up safer for students and families. 

Together, we brainstormed additional ways to improve pedestrian safety in the Robinson Drive area to ensure even greater safety for our community.

We also appreciated meaningful conversations with several of our Belmont neighbors, including Mr. and Mrs. Troy Mozingo and Mr. Cliff Johnson, who shared valuable perspectives about traffic flow and neighborhood safety. 

The Board of Trustees, during their meeting on October 21, approved maintaining the current traffic pattern — entering from Robinson Drive and exiting via Bolling Road—as we continue to refine and enhance this process.

Discovering Futures at Halifax Community College

On Thursday, October 23, I joined Director of Facilities and Operations Robbie Clements, Early College Principal Jance Moody, Teacher Misty Faloretti, and many of our Roanoke Rapids Early College students for Halifax Community College’s Day of Discovery. This event provided our high school students an invaluable opportunity to explore the academic and career possibilities available right here in our region.

Students toured the campus, engaged with professors and current students, and learned about academic programs, career and technical education pathways, scholarships, and financial aid opportunities. It was inspiring to see them experiencing hands-on activities that highlighted what college life can offer.

We extend our gratitude to HCC President Dr. Patrena Elliott, Representative Rodney Pierce, HCC Trustee Rocky Lane, and Halifax County Economic Development Executive Director Cathy Scott, among others, for warmly welcoming our students and inspiring them to dream big about their futures.

Condolences and Community Support

Our hearts are heavy this week as we mourn the loss of Dustin Maurice, a former student whose uncle, Mr. Kenny Pittman, serves as a dedicated teacher at Chaloner Middle School. Dustin tragically passed away following an accident on Roanoke Avenue. Our district joins the Pittman family and all who knew Dustin in prayer and remembrance.

Halloween Events across RRGSD

As October comes to a close, our schools are buzzing with excitement for upcoming Halloween celebrations:

Clara Hearne Pre-Kindergarten Center will welcome community leaders on October 30 to read to our students.

Belmont Elementary School will host its Trunk or Treat event on October 30 from 5:00–7:00 p.m., offering fun for families and friends.

Manning Elementary School fourth graders will showcase their Pumpkin Book Report Projects, generously supported by the Newsom Family Endowment, on October 31. These creative displays will remain up through November 6, when families can view them during Open House Night at the Book Fair.

Celebrating the End of the First Nine Weeks

On Friday, October 24, I had the joy of visiting Belmont Elementary, Manning Elementary, and Chaloner Middle School alongside Director of Student Services Sara Council, Public and Student Information Officer Mandy Clark, Executive Director of Instructional Services Lauren Hinnant, and Director of Facilities and Operations Robbie Clements. Building strong relationships with our students and encouraging them as they learn and grow throughout the years is (without a doubt), my favorite part of being a superintendent. Together, we celebrated the end of the first nine weeks and shared well-deserved words of encouragement with students and staff as they headed into a long weekend.

Our teacher workdays on October 27–28 allowed our educators time to plan, collaborate, and prepare for the next chapter of the school year. We’re excited to welcome all of our students back refreshed and ready to learn!

Board of Trustees Recognitions and Achievements

At last Tuesday’s Board of Trustees meeting, we celebrated remarkable individuals and school-wide accomplishments that embody the RRGSD spirit of excellence.

RRGSD Board of Trustees Honors Gilbert Portela

We honored Mr. Gilbert Portela for his years of service to our students and community through Angel’s Closet and his work in and with RRGSD, as well as Ms. Toreka Lee, our 2025 EC Educator of Excellence.

We also proudly recognized our schools for earning NCDPI Digital Badges for Academic Growth and Excellence:

Chaloner Middle School – Met Growth with an EVAAS index of 0.78, placing in the top 50% statewide.

Manning Elementary – Exceeded Growth with an EVAAS index of 2.21, also in the top 50% of schools.

Belmont Elementary – Exceeded Growth with an impressive 3.13 EVAAS index, ranking in the top 20% of the state.

Roanoke Rapids Early College High School – Exceeded Growth and achieved a 100% Graduation Rate, with a 4.83 EVAAS index placing it in the top 10% statewide.

These accomplishments reflect the tireless commitment of our faculty, staff, and administrators who put students first every day. Their dedication, creativity, and belief in what’s possible continue to move our district forward.

In Closing

As I reflect on this week’s events, I am filled with pride and gratitude for our students, families, and staff who make our RRGSD such a special place. From traffic safety collaborations to academic milestones, each step we take strengthens our community and opens doors to new opportunities.

Together, we are learning, growing, and thriving—one Yellow Jacket moment at a time. Look at us grow! Roanoke Rapids! Together We Succeed!