Today begins a new month, October, and it marks the celebration of a special group of leaders in our school district – our school principals. 

At Roanoke Rapids Graded School District, we have five principals and two directors who lead centers for students. Tom Davis is the principal of Roanoke Rapids High School. Jance Moody is the principal of Roanoke Rapids Early College. Larry Catalano is the principal of Chaloner Middle School. Lindsey Goble is the principal of Belmont Elementary School. Kirk Wynne is the principal of Manning Elementary School. Shelley Williams is the director of Clara Hearne Pre-Kindergarten Center. Angela Mallory is the director of ACES.

All seven of these school leaders are dedicated individuals who play a pivotal role in shaping our students’ futures and the trajectory of our school district. 

This month-long celebration is an opportunity to recognize and thank our principals for their unwavering dedication, exceptional leadership, and remarkable impact on student success. Every day, our principals inspire teachers, staff, and students to strive for their best. They navigate challenges with grace and create environments where every student can thrive.

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"Principals are integral to the success of America's schools," said American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA) President Dr. Leonard P. Pugliese. "They drive daily operations and shape the long-term vision of our educational institutions. By creating positive, nurturing learning environments, they ensure students feel safe, supported and inspired. Principals elevate instructional quality through critical support and professional development for teachers, ensuring educational standards are met. They engage families and community members, fostering strong partnerships that enhance the educational experience. Through their commitment and strategic leadership, principals help every student reach their full potential and prepare for success in a rapidly changing world."

We encourage you to join us this month in recognizing and showing your gratitude to our principals to thank them for all that they do. If you are active on social media, then you can share your appreciation using the hashtag #ThankAPrincipal with our district hashtag #TogetherWeSucceed on social media.

In addition to celebrating our principals this week, I am thrilled to highlight the outstanding achievements of our very own Marching Yellow Jackets, Roanoke Rapids High School's marching band. 

This past month has been a whirlwind of performances and competitions, showcasing the hard work, dedication, and talent of our student musicians.

On September 21, 2024, the Marching Yellow Jackets made a remarkable appearance at the Virginia Peanut Festival in Emporia, Virginia. 

Their vibrant performance captivated the audience and brought a spirit of joy and celebration to the parade. The band’s hard work in preparation truly shone through, reflecting their commitment to excellence and community engagement.

During the football game on September 26, the Marching Yellow Jackets returned to the field for an electrifying performance. This event was particularly special as it included our talented 8th-grade students from Chaloner Middle School. It was inspiring to see our younger musicians share the field with their high school counterparts, fostering a sense of unity and mentorship. This collaboration not only showcased the exceptional talent within our schools but also strengthened the bond between our middle and high school programs.

The culmination of this busy month took place on September 28, when the Marching Yellow Jackets participated in their first competition at West Craven High School. 

The anticipation and excitement among the band members were palpable as they prepared to showcase their hard work and dedication. 

Competing against other talented bands in the region, our students demonstrated remarkable skill and artistry. Their commitment to excellence is a testament to the countless hours spent rehearsing and refining their craft.

In addition to all the members of the Marching Yellow Jackets, we are especially thankful for our Director of Bands Laura Avery Manning and Roanoke Rapids Band Boosters who support our Marching Yellow Jackets. Together, we celebrate their achievements and the bright future of our music programs.