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Category Posts : Education

Bladen County Smart Start offers Family Fun Time in June

Bladen County Smart Start’s Lending Library presents Family Fun Time every Monday and Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. These fun and engaging family workshops will take place at the Bladen Smart Start Office located at 228 West Broad Street in Elizabethtown.  The Family Fun  Time is open to children ages birth to five and their care givers. There will be a new topic each day and plenty of fun for everyone. Each child that visits has an opportunity to win an educational prize pack. For more information or to register your child for Family Fun Time, call 910-862-3335.   Share:

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WBHS FFA Chapter Banquet Sees Record Attendance

Contributed On Thursday May 17th, 2018, West Bladen High School FFA held a very successful FFA Banquet. There were approximately 140 FFA members, parents, and supporters present. The evening events began with the FFA Opening Ceremony, presented by the 2017-2018 Chapter FFA Officers. A welcome was offered by West Bladen High School Principal, Peggy Hester. Next, Taylor Roberts, the 2017-2018 South Central Regional FFA President, gave inspiring words about her FFA journey. The meal was catered by Dowless’ Catering. FFA themed decorations were provided by Valerie and Allison Morris. Following the meal, FFA Members who participated in Career Development Events were recognized for their dedication and achievement this year. The …..

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Bladen Community College celebrates history graduates

DUBLIN – In today’s high-technology world, students are frequently encouraged to seek degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. But many students are inclined to enjoy the humanities, possessing great interests and talents in writing, art, music, religion, philosophy, and history. Bladen Community College transfer graduates Ingrid Bullard, Melissa Combs, and Levy Pait recently graduated from four-year universities with bachelor degrees in history, and are strategizing their futures with a commitment to the humanities. Ingrid Bullard graduated from Bladen Community College in 2015 with a college transfer degree. It was during her first semester with BCC history professor Cliff Tyndall that Ingrid decided she wanted to become a history major. …..

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BCC announces scholastic honor roll

DUBLIN – Bladen Community College is pleased to announce the 2018 spring term scholastic honor roll. Students who have maintained a 4.0 G.P.A. for the term have been named to the President’s List as follows: Elizabeth Allbright, Rolando Almazan, Hannah Arnett, Royce Bernhardt, Madison Byrd, Christian Cain, Mary Campbell, Madison Cartrette, Diana Catalan, Edwin Catalan, Frances Chavis, Lataiya Daniels, Ruby Davis, Nicholas Dove, Ashley Earl, Kolby Edwards, Tyler Ezzell, Jennifer Gaytan Morales, Ashley Hardin, Shelby Horne, David Howell, James Hunsinger, Hannah Hunt, Zachary Johnson, Destini Jones, Ting Lin, George Lockamy, Dakota Locklear, Quentin Locklear, Kayle Lowry, Taylor Mayers, Vincent Morris, Laura Moser, Jennifer Munoz, Molli Nance, Tucker Norton, Alise Pait, …..

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BCC honors successful high school credential students

DUBLIN – Bladen Community College honored 39 high school equivalency and adult high school graduates at commencement ceremonies on May 15. Vice president for continuing education Sondra Guyton, executive vice president and chief academic officer Jeff Kornegay, president William Findt, director for college readiness Travis Locklear, and chairman of the board Dennis Troy greeted the students and their families. High school equivalency student Brad Norton shared his testimony, stating that on three different occasions, he enrolled in various high school completion programs, but was unable to complete the diploma. “After my daughter was born, I recommitted to completing my diploma,” he told the audience. “BCC was different.” Retired Personnel Administrator …..

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Virtual Public School enrollment in NC now 2nd-largest in country

By Elisabeth Almekinder  After a regular school morning at Middle Creek High School in Cary, senior Connor Yungbluth, 16, takes his online Mandarin Chinese course at home through the North Carolina Virtual Public School (NCVPS). When Yungbluth moved from New York, he wanted to continue the language studies he had begun there, but the local school in Wake County didn’t have a Chinese teacher. His curriculum is part of the blended, individualized instruction that virtual school in North Carolina can provide. In the afternoon, Connor takes two online courses through Wake Technical College to prepare for his future in engineering or medicine. Other students who have benefited from NCVPS include special …..

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BCC celebrates Emergency Medical Services Strong

BCC EMS students from left to right are Charity Taylor, Summer Locklear, Lylus Bonnette, Kasidi Larrimore, and Jennifer Inman. DUBLIN – Bladen Community College will celebrate Emergency Medical Services Strong during the week of May 20-26, in partnership with the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT). No one wants to need Emergency Medical Services (EMS); however, when the need is there, Bladen County emergency response personnel, many of whom are volunteers, bring to the scene the highest possible level of care. To supply this need for highly skilled EMS workers for the area, Bladen Community College trains students who successfully complete approximately 800 EMS certifications, diplomas, and degrees every …..

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Congratulations Graduates!

As your graduate prepares to receive their diploma, send them a congratulatory note to let them know how much their handwork and dedication are appreciated.  Just print out and complete the form and mail it with your payment. 2018 Graduation Form Share:

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Cooperative Leadership Camp accepting registrations

The Cooperative Council of North Carolina will conduct a Cooperative Leadership Camp (CLC) from June 18th through June 22nd, 2018, at the FFA Center at White Lake.  CLC is a five day four night summer camp that puts teens in the positions of Worker Owners of a T-shirt cooperative. The teens work through the week to elect a board of directors, design, produce and sell T-shirts for their cooperative. At the end of the week they have their Annual Meeting to hear about the week and vote to dissolve the cooperative. Sponsored teens will learn skills such as team building, the seven cooperative principles, and industry workshops as well as a …..

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BCC Graduates Associate Degree Nursing Students

DUBLIN – Bladen Community College graduated 30 nursing students in one of its larger associate degree nursing classes in a pinning ceremony in May. The service included inspirational remarks from graduate Lynn Rich Worrell. Summer Lynn Culbreth was selected by her fellow students to receive the Professional Nursing Award, for demonstrating strong leadership qualities and providing a worthy role model for others. The Florence Nightingale Award was given to Howan Muzette Smith, by faculty choice, as the student with the strongest theory and clinical application skills. Brianna Shanice Alston was recognized with the highest grade point average with the Outstanding Student Nurse Award. Marshalls for the occasion were Amanda M. …..

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East Bladen High Announces Junior Marshals

  Contributed East Bladen High School has announced their Junior Marshals for the 2018 Commencement Ceremonies. The Juniors pictured above were named to the Junior Marshals list. They are as follows: Kneeling: Spencer Scott Second row left to right: Alyssa Strickland, Ting Lin, Ashley Earl (Chief Marshal), Alayna Hester, Sarah Meares, Masae Coleman,  Dimery Britt, Olivia Hollingsworth Back row: Sarah Johnson, Katie Pontak, and Ethan Fletcher Not pictured: Ashley Hardin and Greyson Heustess and Constance Smith Share:

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Recovery Coach Academy offered in Sampson County

Contributed  Eastpointe MCO  is hosting a Recovery Coach Academy in Sampson County (Clinton) next week May 21st through May 25th. The class is from 9 a.m.until 4 p.m. All participants will receive a Certificate of Achievement.  It is a Certification Board Approved Training Program. It is an innovative new approach to healing people’s lives that is unlike any other training. It offers participants the once-in-a lifetime experience to gain new knowledge, be challenged, and reap valuable rewards, providing the essential learning, tools and resources needed to become an effective recover coach. The class teaches the following foundational principals: *A Person is in recovery when they say they are. *There are many pathways to recovery. …..

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UNCW releases Dean’s List

Contributed The University of North Carolina at Wilmington has released their Dean’s List for Spring Semester 2018. Several Bladen County residents were named to the list. They are as follows: Bladenboro: Jenna McRae Dove Clarkton: Grey Wilton Caballero, Kimberly Nicole Shipman, Kayla Marie Thompson and Abigail Kennan Ward. Elizabethtown: Ryan Wallace Baxley, Lindsey Louise Bockover, Kenneth Austin Brown, Trinity Faith Carroll, Brittany Lynne Collins, Cassidy Bess Hill, Amanda Martin King, and Lauren Ashley Trivette. Harrells Emily Love Jones and Mikaela Ann Stroud. Kelly Billy-Gray Weatherly Share:

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Craven County School Leader Named 2018 Principal of the Year

Tabari Wallace, a Craven County school administrator who helped boost student performance at two middle schools in his district, was named Wells Fargo North Carolina Principal of the Year at an awards luncheon today in Cary. Now principal of West Craven High School, Wallace was chosen from a field of eight regional finalists named earlier this year. Under Wallace’s leadership, Craven County’s Havelock Middle School and H.J. MacDonald Middle School both achieved notable academic gains with student populations characterized by concentrations of poverty exceeding the district as a whole. Wallace credited teachers and students for the success at both schools. “I attribute these successes to my belief in my teachers’ …..

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Bladen County Board of Education to meet 

By Erin Smith The Bladen County Board of Education will meet on Monday night at 6:30 p.m. at the Board of Education located on US 701 South, Elizabethtown.  The board will be asked to approve the agenda and approval of minutes of the March 12th meeting and the April 30th Special Called Meeting. The consent agenda will include fundraisers and overnight field trip requests.     Spotlights and Recognitions will include: *Sampson-Bladen Oil/Bladen County Schools Spelling Bee winners. *Junior and Senior Beta Club State Winners *Bladen Soil and Water conservation Winner *NC DOT State Bridge Building Winner *SkillsUSA State Winner *Teacher and Principal of the Year *Monthly attendace banners Items for information will include: *The April financial …..

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Bladen County Schools not closing for Teacher Rally

By Erin Smith A rally for teachers planned for Wednesday, May 16, in Raleigh is forcing 19 school districts to announce closings. Bladen County Schools, however, is planning to operate on a normal schedule on May 16th. Bladen County Schools Public Information Officer Valerie Newton said that, as of today, 10 teachers in Bladen County have requested leave for that day, “which may or may not be related to the rally.” Organizers of the March for Students and Rally for Respect are anticipating thousands of teachers from throughout North Carolina to be in Raleigh on Wednesday. The rally is an effort to encourage the General Assembly to increase teacher pay and improve working …..

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Emereau: Bladen Kindergarten classes get lesson in aviation

Contributed The Emereau: Bladen kindergarten classes of Joanne Melvin and Peyton Shultz joined Tom and Kay Martin at the Elizabethtown Airport on Thursday morning for a hands-on aviation class. They were taught by Tom Martin, a retired Army Master Aviator with 48 years experience. Each student got to try the cockpit out for themselves. They had a short aerodynamics class and all passed the test with flying colors and all received a honorary pilot’s license and a glider for their awesome attention. Tom Martin did take the teachers, Ms Melvin and Ms Shultz, for a short flight around the airport. Emereau’s mascot is of course the Emereau AVIATORS so now for sure …..

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BCC faculty member Cliff Tyndall receives excellence award

DUBLIN – Bladen Community College history professor Cliff Tyndall has been awarded the Excellence in Teaching Award at Caldwell Community College, where he teaches history and geography through an interactive television system in the Distance Learning Department. “I am humbled and honored to receive this award,” remarked Tyndall. The local chapter of the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) selected Tyndall from nominations submitted by students. NSLS is the nation largest leadership honor society, where top students nominated by their colleges come together to identify and achieve their goals. Caldwell Community College (CCC) student Sarah Estes nominated Tyndall. “Mr. Tyndall has really made a difference in my life,” she …..

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Bladen Community College students win at SkillsUSA

DUBLIN – Twelve students from Bladen Community College received awards at the Regional SkillsUSA competition in Greensboro in April, where 2,700 students competed for top honors. As a result, BCC was recognized as one of five chapters with the most growth and success in SkillsUSA. The winners are cosmetology students Tiffany Lowery, 2nd place in Job Skills Demo Open, Madison Cartrette, 4th place Cosmetology Beginner Skills, and Stacie Britt, 2nd place Customer Service. From welding, Savannah Schmidt won 1st place in Job Skills Demo A, Vincent Morris took 2nd place in Welding Art Sculpture, Webblon Rowe placed 3rd in Welding Art Sculpture, James Hunsinger took 4th place in Welding Art …..

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Driver Education Advisory Committee Quarterly Meeting

The Driver Education Advisory Committee will hold its quarterly meeting Tuesday, May 15, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the State Board of Education meeting room, 7th floor, Education Building, 301 N. Wilmington St., Raleigh. Agenda items include the Driver Education Consultant’s report and a Subcommittee report on program administration, parental involvement and teacher certification. Alternative meeting access: Streaming audio – State Board of Education  Webinar – The meeting can be accessed from computer, tablet or smartphone: https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/281468773 Access by phone: +1 (571) 317-3122 Access Code: 281-468-77  (First GoToMeeting? Let’s do a quick system check: https://link.gotomeeting.com/system-check)   Share:

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2018 Principal of the Year to be Announced at Friday Event

The 2018 Wells Fargo North Carolina Principal of the Year will be announced Friday, May 11, during a luncheon at The Umstead Hotel, 100 Woodland Pond Drive, Cary. The actual announcement is expected to take place around 1:30 p.m.  The state’s top principal is being selected from a field of eight regional finalists chosen earlier this year following interviews and a rigorous portfolio review. The regional principals of the year are: Northeast: Michelle White, D.F. Walker Elementary (Edenton-Chowan Public Schools); Southeast: Tabari Wallace, West Craven High (Craven County Schools); North Central: Jonathan Enns, Fuquay-Varina High (Wake County Public Schools); Sandhills:  Jim Butler, Richmond Senior High (Richmond County Schools); Piedmont-Triad: Tracy Kimmer, Yadkin Early College …..

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Schools and Communities across the State to Celebrate Bike to School Day

RALEIGH – Thousands of students, families, elected officials and community members across North Carolina will celebrate the joy of pedaling to school during National Bike to School Day on Wednesday, May 9. This one-day event provides an opportunity for communities in North Carolina and nationwide to celebrate safe, active transportation and raise awareness to any changes needed to make bicycling safer. “Bike to School Day is a wonderful opportunity to bring schools, families and communities together and reiterate the importance of safe bicycling,” said David Howard, chief deputy secretary for the N.C. Department of Transportation. “While it’s wonderful to celebrate today, drivers should remember every day to give bicyclists at least four …..

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BCC celebrates National Nurses Week with new trends

DUBLIN – Bladen Community College is celebrating National Nurses Week by showcasing remarkable growth of the curriculum over the past 10 years and an influx of non-traditional students. The additional curriculum and strong non- traditional student enrollment parallel a nationwide trend. According to the (2017) Kiplinger Report of the best jobs for the future, Nurse Practitioner opportunities are expected to increase by nearly 33% over the next eight years, with annual salaries averaging $98,000. That is more annual income than app developers, personal financial advisers, and computer systems analysts. And while the career choice is still dominated by females, the percentage of men entering the professional has grown steadily. According …..

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2018 Teen Summit Mock Trial

Contributed On April 13-15th, 2018 The Teen Summit Mock Trial which was hosted by the North Carolina Teen Court Association (NCTCA) was held at the Great Wolf Lodge in Concord NC. In the spring, the NCTCA hosts a Teen Summit that involves a Mock Trial Competition, educational workshops, a dance, and a fun opportunity for the Teen Court teen volunteers to meet other youth from around the state who volunteer with Teen Court. This event usually involves 150-160 teen volunteers and chaperones. The purpose of the Teen Court Summit is an opportunity for youth to engage in competition and apply the skills they have learned throughout the year as Teen …..

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East Bladen High School

East Bladen High School to hold Art Show

Contributed East Bladen High students have been working diligently on their art skills all year. The 2018 Art Show will be held on Thursday, May 10th, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Media Center at East Bladen High School. There will be many interesting pieces of art on display. Everyone is encouraged to come out and enjoy the evening. Share:

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BCC Gets a Parade Float

East Bladen High School carpentry shop students have built a parade float for Bladen Community College. Pictured from left to right in the front row are carpentry instructor Lloyd Leggett, students Darrell Banks, Keyshawn Biddy, Joshua McKoy, Tamije Baldwin, Malcolm Kilpatrick, and principal Dr. Jason Wray. Pictured from left to right on the back row are Uriel De Jesus Delarosa, Ezequiel Arteaga, Bryan Monroe, Dennis Emmanuel Esparza, Zykiem Beatty, Alsup Landon Davis, and Parrish Rogers. Carpentry students not pictured are Andres Mota and Byron Bowen. Share:

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Professional Educator Preparation and Standards Commission Meets 

The Professional Educator Preparation and Standards Commission (PEPSC) will meet Thursday, May 10, at 9 a.m. in the 7th Floor Board Room, Education Building, 301 N. Wilmington Street, Raleigh. The agenda is available online.  The meeting will be audio streamed for those who cannot attend in person. Questions regarding this meeting may be directed to NCDPI Communications at 919-807-3450. Share:

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West Bladen FFA Participates in South Central FFA Regional Rally

On Friday May 4th, 2018, WBHS FFA members joined hundreds of fellow FFA members at Fayetteville Technical Community College for the South Central FFA Regional Rally. West Bladen High School FFA had over 20 FFA members competing in and helping with various Career Development Events (CDEs). WBHS FFA members competed in Agriculture Mechanics, Creed Speaking, Extemporaneous Public Speaking, Job Interview, Nursery Landscape, Parliamentary Procedure, and Prepared Public Speaking CDEs. During the awards ceremony, WBHS FFA members were recognized for their performance in previously held CDEs. Those events were: Hunter Safety, Livestock Judging, and Poultry Judging. Pictured below are WBHS FFA members who attended the South Central FFA Regional Rally on …..

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HCA’s “Spring Fling” A Rainy Day Success

Harrells- The rain falling in Sampson County the morning of the 24th could accurately be called a deluge, so the parent organizers of Harrells ChristIan Academy’s annual Spring Fling event were understandably concerned that their event might have trouble beating last year’s $30,000 in funds raised for the school. They needn’t have worried: the Crusader community came out in droves for the annual BBQ dinner and auction to raise nearly $60,000 for the school. Headmaster Andy Wells had previously announced that any monies raised beyond last year’s total would be dedicated to improving campus security for HCA students and teachers. “I thought it was a great event for our HCA …..

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Superintendent Mark Johnson Kicks Off Teacher Appreciation Week with Initiatives Created in Response to the Needs of Educators

State Superintendent Mark Johnson got Teacher Appreciation Week off to a great start by announcing new initiatives guided by needs he has heard from educators on his statewide listening tour. In addition to transforming the state education agency to better support schools, reducing over-testing, and working for school calendars that fit local needs, Superintendent Johnson today announced new programs focused on providing better professional development. “Earlier this year, we were able to devote $200 worth of materials to each K-3 reading teacher,” said Superintendent Johnson. “For Teacher Appreciation Week, we are excited to announce initiatives that will support every teacher and show how much we appreciate them.” Superintendent Johnson announced …..

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PEFNC Kicks off Teacher Appreciation Week by Celebrating All Teachers in NC

Raleigh – Parents for Educational Freedom in North Carolina (PEFNC), the state’s leading voice for parental school choice, kicks off Teacher Appreciation Week 2018 by celebrating the more than 150,000 educators in traditional public, private, public charter, and home schools across the Tar Heel State. “Our great state has nearly 2,500 public schools, more than 700 private schools, almost 175 public charter schools, and an estimated 80,000 home schools,” said Brian Jodice, Interim President of PEFNC. “Our community of educators does so much to guide the next generation, and we’re thrilled to honor their hard work during this special week. Join me as PEFNC gives a round of applause to North Carolina …..

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Bladen Community College announces assist loan program for students

DUBLIN – The Bladen Community College Board of Trustees has approved the addition of the North Carolina Assist Loan to provide financial support for parents and students to bridge the gap between the cost of higher education and the currently available financial aid sources. The NC Assist Loan is a state-based loan program offered by College Foundation, Inc. (CFI). The foundation administers state grant programs and North Carolina’sNational College Savings Plan, and is a partner in the state-wide college access initiative, College Foundation of North Carolina (CFNC). The program offers parents and students the opportunity to borrow a low-cost alternative loan to finance educational expenses not covered by other financial …..

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Endometrial Ablation Procedure Performed at CFV

By: Dr. Allan Boruszak, OB/GYN Heavy menstrual periods, pain during your cycle? These are symptoms many women have during their lifetime. If can cause loss of work and income. It may limit your activities during the menstrual cycle. At times it can be heavy enough to lead to blood transfusions. In the past, this was treated with a surgical procedure known as hysterectomy (removal of the uterus). Hysterectomy is a major surgery, requiring an extended convalescence, and a risk of injury to the bladder or bowels. Nowadays, we have a simpler, safer procedure known as endometrial ablation. Endometrial ablation involves eliminating the endometrium, which is the part of the uterus …..

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State Board of Education approves report to General Assembly on operational review of the Department of Public Instruction

The State Board of Education today approved a report to the General Assembly on the results of an independent operational review of the Department of Public Instruction that includes 18 specific recommendations to help the department better support educators and students at North Carolina’s school districts and charter schools.   Under legislation passed in 2017, the state superintendent initiated a third-party review of DPI’s organizational, functional, and business-process operations. Ernst and Young (EY) was selected to perform the work. EY spent several months at DPI and interviewed more than 100 DPI employees and 100 external stakeholders, including superintendents, principals and teachers.   The EY team condensed what they learned into …..

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BMSBA Gets a Visit from the Cape Fear Heroes Arena Football team

  Bladenboro Middle School Bulldog Academy had some very special speakers on Monday. Corey McDowell, Jamar Tank Dials, Anson Yarborough, and Marcus Walls (players and coaches from Cape Fear Heroes Arena Football team) took time out of their day to speak to members of the Bulldog Academy. They spoke to them about obstacles they have overcame in life and how hard they have worked to become successful.  Recently the Young Men’s academy took a field trip to one of the arena football games to watch the Cape Fear Heroes play. The academy is under the direction of Mrs. Nicole Kinlaw.  Share:

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Top Local Schools Compete in Academic “Race of Champions”

The Roger Bacon Academy family of charter schools – Charter Day School in Leland, Columbus Charter School in Whiteville, Douglass Academy in Wilmington, and South Brunswick Charter School in Southport – will compete in a high intensity, NASCAR inspired “Race of Champions” on Friday – May 4, 2018. The competition – named “FASTAR” – sees students “race” to complete workbooks of 50 math problems and a reading passage at top speeds of two minutes. Separate competitions have already been held at the individual schools – the top students from each school are now competing in the “Race of Champions”. “FASTAR” stands for Fluent Academic Skills Tournament in Arithmetic and Reading …..

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Girls With PEARLS

Elizabethtown Middle School Girls With PEARLS recently had two guest speakers to share important tips about healthy nutritional choices and success. The first speaker was Mrs. Stacie Kinlaw, 4-H Youth Development Agent. She conducted a three day series using lessons from the Speedway to Healthy Curriculum developed by NC A&T State University. The nutrition focused lessons included information about applying the My Plate guide to meal planning; reading nutrition labels, importance of calcium for growing bones, choosing the healthiest milk, and eating and exercise for heart health.  In addition, funding through SNAP – Ed for the TRY HEALTHY Program at NC A&T State University was able to provide healthy snacks …..

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Commissioners get look at Board of Education budget request

By Erin Smith The work on the county budget continued on Monday night as the Bladen County Board of Commissioners held a third budget workshop. The Commissioners reviewed requests from the Board of Education and Bladen County EMS. Bladen County Manager Greg Martin told the board the Bladen County Board of Education and Bladen Community College have submitted budget proposals. Martin said representatives from the college and the Board of Education will present those budget requests at the next regular monthly meeting on Monday, May 7th. Martin began the evening by reviewing the budget request from the Bladen County Board of Education. He said the projections received from the Board of Education …..

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Bladen Community College Board of Trustees Meeting

The Bladen Community College Board of Trustees has a called meeting on Wednesday, May 9, at 6 P.M. in the boardroom of the Essic Williams Administration building (building 10), on the Dublin campus. For more information, contact Melissa Hester at 910 879-5502. Share:

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Bladen County Board of Education Approves 2018/2019 Budget Proposal

by Joy Warren The Bladen County Board of Education met Monday evening for a special called meeting.  The Board heard from Mrs. Sharon Penny, Finance Director, as she shared the proposed Budget for the 2018/2019 Fiscal Year.  Penny informed the Board that the State has not given the LEA any information concerning salary raises for certified staff.  She included a 5% raise which will increase next year’s budget by $150,000.  The proposal also shows a reduction of $100,000 from the Central Office and a decrease of $197,000 for 5 clerical and 1 custodial positions.  According to the Duke Power increase of 19%, the budget will increase by $160,000 for power.  …..

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Elizabethtown Middle students plant butterfly garden

By Erin Smith A group of students from the Elizabethtown Middle School spent Monday morning planting a butterfly garden at the Kuraray American Incorporated Logistics Center located in the Elizabethtown Industrial Park. Mike Jackson, with Kuraray American, said this is the second year the company has partnered with the school to create a pollinator garden.  According to Janet Huggins and Pam Tatum, who were chaperones for the group, the students consisted of 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th grade students who were selected to take part in the event.  Jackson said the students learned about the company as well as about the importance of pollinators.  “We put on a program for the local …..

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Bladen County Schools to offer Summer Feeding program

By Erin Smith Bladen County Schools is set to offer a summer feeding program this year. The program will consist of breakfast and lunch, according to Bladen County Schools Nutrition Director Amy Stanley. Stanley told the Healthy Bladen Collaborative the program is set to begin on June 18th and will continue through July 31st at Elizabethtown Middle School, Bladeboro Middle School, and West Bladen High School. Stanley said the West Bladen High School summer feeding program will most likely remain open until classes resume in August. Hours for the summer feeding program are 8 a.m. until 1 p.m. Monday through Thursday. The meals are free of charge.  Stanley said if you are operating a summer camp, Vacation Bible …..

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Bladen Community College offers no-cost business seminars in May

DUBLIN – The Small Business Center (SBC) of Bladen Community College is offering no-cost business seminars in May: -Building a Local Presence: Livestream is a Google workshop designed to show consumer trends in local searches and best practices for using Google My-Business features. Seminars begin on Wednesday, May 2, from 12:00 noon until 1:30 P.M. in building 2, room 202, on the Dublin campus. -How to Start a Drone Business is planned for Saturday, May 12, from 9 A.M. until 12 Noon in building 2, room 202, on the Dublin campus. -Owning a Rental Property as a Business will be presented as part one of a two-part set of seminars …..

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State Library and NC DIT Receive Grant to Address K-12 Homework Gap Through Broadband Adoption

Raleigh, N.C. – Some North Carolina K-12 students without home internet access to complete assigned homework will soon receive assistance through a $250,000, two-year grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The grant was recently awarded to the State Library of North Carolina and the Broadband Infrastructure Office of the North Carolina Department of Information Technology (DIT). Students who are assigned homework requiring access to the internet, but who do not have home internet access, fall into what is called the “homework gap,” which can limit students’ educational opportunities outside the classroom. The grant will fund a project to address the homework gap by equipping up to four North Carolina library …..

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New statewide map and database available to locate out-of-school time programs for youth

With the generous support of the National Conference of State Legislatures and the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, the NC Center for Afterschool Programs [NC CAP] has developed a statewide, searchable database for out-of-school time programs. This new tool, made available for the first time at the 14th annual SYNERGY conference in Greenville, allows families, schools, communities and elected officials to locate programs across North Carolina that children can access before school, after school, summers, weekends and during school breaks. Programs can take place in schools, school-age child care centers, community-based organizations, faith-based organizations, universities, libraries, museums, camps, and other locations. Using the database, users can search for information on program locations, activities, …..

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Dwight Cannon will provide BCC commencement address

DUBLIN – Bladen Community College will welcome commencement speaker Reverend Dr. Dwight Bernard Cannon, Executive Director of the Department of Global Missions of the A.M.E. Zion Church, to the 2018 curriculum graduation on May 15, at 7:30 P.M., in the college auditorium. Dr. Cannon graduated with honors from the University of South Africa Pretoria with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Religious & Biblical Studies. He was awarded the Honorary Doctor of Divinity Degree from Livingstone College for exemplary service and outstanding work for the A.M.E. Zion Church in Africa. In 2012, he graduated magna cum laude from Hood Theological Seminary in Salisbury with a Master of Divinity Degree. He …..

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Dr. Patricia Faulk is guest speaker for college readiness graduation at BCC

Retired Bladen County School’s administrator Dr. Patricia Faulk will provide the commencement address for the high school diploma and college readiness graduation service on Tuesday, May 15, at 5:30 P.M. in the college auditorium. Dr. Faulk completed an associate’s degree in general education at Bladen Community College before receiving both bachelor and master degrees in education from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. Several years later, she received her doctoral degree from Nova Southeastern University. In 1977, Dr. Faulk joined Bladen County Schools as a teacher and eventually served as an assistant principal, principal, and personnel administrator. She has worked at Bladen Community College as a part-time instructor in …..

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Special Session Announced for Bladen Board of Education

The Bladen County Board of Education will meet in special session on Monday, April 30, 2018, at 6:00 p.m. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss fiscal year-end budget related issues and personnel matters, and to approve the 2018 budget request as per NCGS 143.318.11 (a) (1) and to consult with an attorney if needed, as per the NCGS 143.318.11 (a) (3). This is an official meeting and action items may be on the agenda. The meeting will be held at the Board of Education Administration Building located at 1489 US Hwy 701 South, Elizabethtown, NC. Share:

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Elizabethtown Middle School Teacher’s Article Featured in Campbell University Publication

Dr. Renee Steele’s article, Relationships Matter, was recently featured in Campbell University’s Middle Grades Musing.  Dr. Steele’s article focuses on the importance of educators building relationships with students which should lead to increased student academic achievement. Steele, who teaches 7th grade social studies at Elizabethtown Middle School, provided three tips on building relationships with students: greet students, seek first to understand, and share your story. Dr. Steele believes when students know how much you truly care about them, they will work hard in your class. When I was working on my doctorate degree at Fayetteville State University, Dr. Joseph Johnson would tell us that you can’t forget the human spirit …..

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Report highlights where youth face greatest obstacles to success in NC

Contributed A new report released today by the Public School Forum of North Carolina and its NC Center for Afterschool Programs (NC CAP) highlights large areas of North Carolina where young people are at risk of not succeeding. The report, Roadmap of Need 2018, was released today at the Center for Afterschool Programs 14thannual SYNERGY Conference in Greenville. First published by the Public School Forum of North Carolina and NC CAP in 2010, the Roadmap of Need uses data on health, youth behavior and safety, education, and economic development to take a whole child needs assessment of what young people living in each of North Carolina’s 100 counties must have in …..

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Bladen County Animal Shelter Waives Fee for May Adoptathon

Bladen County Animal Shelter will be waiving the Adoption fees on all animals for the month of May. You will still be required to pay the $25-$30 dog and $15 cat vaccination fees. We also offer Micro-chipping for any animal adopted before it leaves the shelter for $15. May is Pet Adoptathon month and we hope that waiving the adoption fee will encourage more people to come out and adopt a shelter pet. The shelter will be open on Monday-Friday from 1-5:00 pm for adoptions. The shelter will be closed on Monday May 28th for the Holiday. These animals deserve a new loving home. So come on out and find …..

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Harrells 5th Graders Study Past and Present in Overnight Trip

By Judith Kunst Director of Communications Harrells Christian Academy Winston-Salem – To cap off their time as Lower Schoolers at Harrells Christian Academy, the 5th grade travelled as a class to Winston-Salem for a two-day exploration of Wake Forest University and Old Salem Museums & Gardens on April 10-11. Mrs. Jessica Sawvel, 4th and 5th grade Language Arts teacher, says, “This trip not only afforded our students a glimpse into the world of college athletics, a world many of them dream of one day becoming a part of, it also brought to life the customs and lifestyles of one of North Carolina’s earliest settlement communities, the Moravians.” On Tuesday, the …..

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N.C. Summer Nutrition Program Sponsors Win National Honors

Thirteen North Carolina Summer Nutrition Program sponsors are among 111 nationwide this year to receive Turnip the Beet awards, given by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to recognize outstanding providers who work hard to offer high quality meals that are appetizing, appealing and nutritious. This more than triples the number of awardees from the state compared to 2016, when the award was first given.   Three Turnip the Beet award levels are available: bronze, silver, and gold. Three North Carolina Summer Nutrition Programs won gold awards, four won silver, and six won bronze. Buncombe County Schools – Gold Kirk of Kildaire – Gold YMCA of Western North Carolina – Gold Caldwell County …..

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Bladen County Educator tapped for SkillsUSA honor

By Erin Smith A Bladen County educator was recognized as the Glenn Barefoot Educator of the Year at the Skills USA competition last week.  “It was incredibly humbling to be recognized by your peers in a humbling way,” said Graham Yarborough.  He added that he was unaware he had been selected to receive the honor until he was called to come onto the stage during the awards ceremony at SkillsUSA.  He first became involved with SkillsUSA in 1979 as an adviser and remained involved with it. Yarborough said he retired from teaching in 2010 but he and his wife both remain involved with SkillsUSA on both the state and national …..

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April Terrific Kid Gift Certificate Winner

Contributed Pictured with Bladenboro Primary School  principal Deborah Guyton is Jayden Ruffin, kindergartner who was the winner of a twenty-five dollar gift certificate to Pizza Palace of Bladenboro. First Citizens Bank of Bladenboro donates twenty-five dollars for the purchase of the Pizza Palace gift certificate to the winner of the monthly drawing at each of the Terrific Kid ceremonies for the school year. April Bladenboro Primary School Terrific Kids Ceremony Pictured are the recent recipients of the Terrific Kid award at Bladenboro Primary School. Every other month the students who are chosen Terrific Kids are recognized at a ceremony where they receive a Terrific Kids certificate, bumper sticker, and pencil.  …..

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Tar Heel Middle School releases honor rolls

Tar Heel Middle School has released their honor roll for the third nine weeks grading period.   5th Grade Superintendent’s List  –  Grades of 96 and above in all classes Garrett Dunham “A” Honor Roll = Grades of 90 and above in all classes Devyn Clanton, Ryder Faircloth, Madison Holder, Aiden Jones, Kasey Nichols, Jessica Vergugo-Gomez “A/B” Honor Rolls = Grades of 80 and above in all classes Joseline Abreu-Lezama, Alina Chavez, Jaziyah Daniels, Lauren Douglas, George Felix Marroquin,  Jazmy Funez Aranda, Yareth Garcia Perez, Jeime Garcia-Lopez, Malik Hill, Ah’leah Johnson, Sawyer Landreth, Emily Lewis, Lidia Lopez-Cardona, Antuan Martinez-Sanchez, Teasia McDowell, Zion McMillan,  Lejend Murchison, Angel Ramon Reyes, Ashley Sanchez-Resendiz, Yuridia Santana-Dominguez, Nolan Sessoms, Khamani Shipman, …..

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Hagen Scholar Named at WBHS

WBHS Senior, Anna Moser, who will be attending UNC-Charlotte in the fall of 2018 has been named as a Hagan Scholar. The Hagan Scholarship is a nationwide need-based merit scholarship for high achieving, self-motivated students. These students graduate from  public high schools located in counties having fewer than 50,000 residents. During the fall semester of the first year of college, each scholarship will help pay the unmet financial need of the recipient, up to $5,000 each semester. During the fall semester of the second year of college a $10,000 Schwab Scholar Account will be established for each scholarship recipient. During the fall semester of the third year of college each …..

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Clarkton School of Discovery

Clarkton School of Discovery Honor Rolls

Superintendent’s List (Having a 96 or above​ in all ​classes 6th Grade:  Lena Damasco-Trinidad, Caroline Kirby, Reagan Moore, Dyiamon Robinson, Keiara Stacker 7th Grade:  Luke Barber, Cathleen DeVane, Andrew Dowd, Jacie Kinlaw, Karli Priest, Morgan Tatum 8th Grade:  Devin Avant, Hannah Davis, Hailey Guyton, Heather Hardin, Merritt Martin, Jenna Stephenson, Skylar Suggs “A” Honor Roll​ ­(Having all A’s in every class) 6th Grade:  Addie Bowen, Jake Futrell, Levi German, Jalil Hayes, Reese Hester, Rodney Lacewell, Emma McDuffie, Riley McIntyre, Jair McElveen, Keyon McKoy, Octavio Morales, Autumn Nye, Nicholas Phillips, Kevin Rivera, McKenzi Storms,  Michaella Troy, Geniyah Wells 7th Grade:  Jamae Atkinson, Ahonesty Blake, Gianna Enloe, AnnaGrey Heustess,  April Huggins, Valencia …..

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NCDOT, UNC-Pembroke Break Ground on Road Makeover

PEMBROKE – State and local officials celebrated on Friday, April 20, the start of a much-anticipated project that will improve the safety and traffic flow of a University of North Carolina Pembroke gateway in Robeson County. James Trogdon, secretary of the N.C. Department of Transportation, joined UNC Pembroke Chancellor Robin Gary Cummings and Pembroke Mayor Charles Gregory Cummings in a groundbreaking ceremony to reconstruct a mile of North Odom Street/Prospect Road along the campus. The university contacted the department about the safety of its students crossing the road, and state engineers investigated and recommended several roadway enhancements. “We collaborated with the university and the town to fine-tune what became an innovative …..

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Alamance-Burlington High School Teacher Wins NC’s Top Honors

Freebird McKinney, a social studies teacher at Walter M. Williams High School in Burlington, was named the 2018 Burroughs Wellcome Fund North Carolina Teacher of the Year during an awards luncheon today in Cary. McKinney was selected from a field of nine finalists representing the state’s eight education districts and charter schools. McKinney has been teaching for 13 years, the last three at Williams High School, in the Alamance-Burlington School System, where he teaches World and European history and also is co-coordinator of the school’s International Baccalaureate Pathway Program.  A self-described “village teacher,” McKinney also sees his role as an educator reaching beyond the classroom, leading international service-learning adventures, working also …..

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Eastpointe CEO updates board on Opioid Crisis

By Erin Smith In a recent meeting of the Eastpointe MCO Board of Directors, CEO Sarah Stroud updated the board regarding the Opioid Crisis in North Carolina and strategies being taken to combat the situation.  Eastpointe MCO serves a ten county area following the disengagement of Nash County in 2017 and Columbus County in March 2018. The counties currently being served by Eastpointe MCO include: Bladen, Duplin, Edgecombe, Greene, Lenoir, Robeson, Sampson, Scotland, Wayne and Wilson counties. Stroud told the board that as of February 2018, Eastpointe has distributed 1,094 Narcan kits in their service area. They began passing out the Narcan kits in July 2017. They have also hosted …..

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Governor Cooper’s proposed budget carries funds for improved school  safety

By Erin Smith Governor Roy Cooper released his proposed budget on Thursday which calls for $130 million in funds to protect students and improve safety at schools.  “North Carolina’s classrooms must be safe and supportive places for educators to work and children to learn,” said Governor Cooper. “We should address both classroom security and youth mental health needs and my budget takes meaningful steps to prevent school violence and protect teachers and students.” Some of the preposed improvements include:  *$65 million for public safety upgrades in public schools, state universities and community colleges.  *$40 million for student support services including school nurses, psychologists, counselors, and social workers to help identify and treat …..

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Phi Theta Kappa Students are inducted at BCC

DUBLIN – Bladen Community College has inducted 28 students into the prestigious Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, a nationally recognized organization that acknowledges academic achievement of college students and provides opportunities for them to grow as scholars and leaders. To be eligible for membership in Phi Theta Kappa, students must be enrolled in an associate degree program, have completed at least 12 hours of coursework, have a grade point average of 3.5 or higher, receive an invitation to membership from the local chapter, and adhere to the moral standards of the society. BCC students who have been inducted into the Honor Society are Jacob Barber, Mark Betts, Corbett Booth, Indyah Dial, …..

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Governor’s Crime Commission Forms Special Committee to Improve School Safety

RALEIGH: At Public Safety Secretary Erik A. Hooks’ request, the Governor’s Crime Commission has established a special committee consisting of representatives from law enforcement, juvenile justice, courts, schools and others to identify resources and develop recommendations to strengthen school safety. “School shootings have tragically become too common an occurrence in our country. We must use every resource available to us to examine and address this dangerous threat posed to our children and educational professionals,” Secretary Hooks stated. “I have made this a continuing priority for our department and have asked the members of this special committee to help us find solutions to the threat of shootings in schools.” The committee …..

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Bladenboro Primary

Bladenboro Primary Honor Roll

3rd Grade A Honor Roll: Brayden Bryan, Chase Bryan, Kimberly Dowless, Josey Pait, Connor Sykes A/B Honor Roll: Charles Barnes, David Bonner, Hartleigh Britt, Ryleigh Brothers, Peyton Burney, Cameron Byers, Colin Elkins, Karlee Gause, Ester Gonzales, Jewel Gregg, Chase Grubbs, Jamie Harvey, Lily Hester, Ashten Johnson, DaShaun Leach, JaNya McKeithan, Diyari McKoy, Lukas McLean, Aurora Oldfield, Kyrstin Owens, Brody Rhodes, LeAnn Stanley, Brayden Steele, Hailey Tittle, Colin Willoughby, Jada Wright Principal’s List:  Joshua Martin   4th Grade Superintendent’s List: Jackson Pait A Honor Roll: Jonah Bryan, Brenna Hester, Hunter Hester, Noah Lee, Tylik McCall, Natalee Sykes, Makenna Thurman, Faith Wren A/B Honor Roll: Kali Allen, Ducati Baldwin, Akeira Barnett, Jyra Best, …..

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Bladenboro Middle School Honor Roll 3rd Quarter

5th Grade Superintendent’s List:  (96 +) Holland Davis, Erin Hewett, Flor Jacome Duarte, Deikan Moretz, Eileen Rojas Sandoval, Madison Wilkins A Honor Roll (90+) Cade Allen, Jerrah Babson, Jade Black, Alanna Dowless, Cole Dowless, Emma Dunn, Joshua Lennon, O’Mara McDonald, Alayna Parnell, Dorien Rivera, Hillary Roblero, Aiden Russ, Richard Severine, Nevaeh Singletary, Marissa Taylor A/B Honor Roll (80+) Jovany Albarran Palacias, Noah Atkins, Josslyn Ballard, Kallie Bass, Tucker Bordeaux, Danny Chavez-Ortiz, Jack Combs, Laura Garcia-Martinez, Kara Guase, Jonathan Guijosa-Santiago, Dallin Johnson, Chason Harris, Addison King, QuinAsia Lee, Kylie Long, Valeria Lopez-Martinez, Lamaiya Morgan, Luke Pait, Georgia Pait, Jackson Pait, Alissa Pusey, Haleigh Seabolt, Leigha Sellers, Hailey Strange, Gracie Todd 6th …..

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High Demand for Special-Needs Education Savings Accounts Shows Parents Want Choice

Raleigh – Demand for North Carolina’s new Special Needs Education Savings Account (ESA) has surged during the program’s first application year, reports Parents for Educational Freedom in North Carolina (PEFNC), the state’s leading voice for educational choice. By the close of applications on April 2, 1,430 students had applied for 330 slots to participate in the ESA program, according to the latest numbers from the North Carolina State Education Assistance Authority (NCSEAA). The 330 available slots are based on the appropriated $3 million at $9,000 per scholarship. NCSEAA expects to begin the award process by the week of April 30th. “While we’re not surprised, we’ve been blown away by the rush …..

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2018 Teacher of the Year to be Announced Friday

The 2018 Burroughs Wellcome Fund North Carolina Teacher of the Year will be announced Friday, April 20, during a luncheon at The Umstead Hotel, 100 Woodland Pond Drive, Cary. The actual announcement is expected to take place around 1:45 p.m. The winner succeeds the 2017 Teacher of the Year, Lisa Godwin, a kindergarten teacher at Dixon Elementary School in Onslow County. The 2018 North Carolina Regional Teachers of the Year are: Northeast: Kaley Kiffner, Perquimans County Middle (Perquimans County Schools); Southeast: Cameron Gupton, Greene Early College High (Greene County Schools); North Central: Kedecia Stewart, Pinkston Street Elementary School (Vance County Schools); Sandhills: Lindsey Sise, West Hoke Middle (Hoke County Schools); Piedmont-Triad: Freebird McKinney, …..

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West Bladen High School Logo

WBHS Honor Rolls

Superintendent’s List – Grades of 96-100 in all WBHS classes and no more than 7 absences in any class. Hannah Arnett, Morgan Babson, Christina Bautista, Joshua Benson, Rebecca Bowman, Autumn Brisson, Nolan Bryant, Janet Chavez, Brinkley Collier, Madison Collins, Victory Crawford, Glorimar Cruz Pagen, Caroline Davis, Carley Dawson, Patrick Deavers, Dylan Dove, Haleigh Dunn, Kolby Edwards, Oswaldo Estrada-Sagastume, Marley Fletcher, Chad Garner, Mace Steven Garza Velarde, Kyle Gause, Jennifer Gaytan Morales, Kyla Gore, Kacy Gunter, Makaylie Hammonds, Amelia Harris, Holly Hester, Jaya Howell, Zaria Humphrey, Ashley Hunsinger, Sabrina Johnson (9), Edgardo Lara, Desmond Lesesne, Callie Lewis, Cara Beth Lewis, Richard Lewis, Natalie Ludlum, Allie Marsh, Danae McMillan, Tara Rogers, Ariel …..

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Dublin Primary

Dublin Primary School 3rd nine weeks Honor Roll

Fourth Grade: “A” Honor Roll:  Carlee Atkinson, Trey Benson, Angel Contreras Cardenas, Reagan Hester, Brittany Jacob Ortiz, Jaime Labra-Hernandez, Dylan Taylor, Estrella Vazquez-Aguilar “A/B” Honor Roll:  Jamaiya Ballard, Ava Bordeaux, Caison Brixey, Jenna Dove, Skyler Guyton-Brewer, Axel Martinez, Itzel Mendoza Ortiz, Michael Reyes Maldonado, Jonathan Sandoval Cruz, Kevin Sebastian, Kevin Solano Escobar, Joshua Strickland     Third Grade: “A” Honor Roll:  Bryce Butler, Noah German, Jaxon Hair, Cylee Lugenbell, Evan Melvin, Awnnica Ringer “A/B” Honor Roll:  Luke Beck, Syndy Castro Mendez, Carson Dowless, Dawson Edwards, Seth Faircloth, Melissa Garcia Ortiz, Lydia Harris, Harley Jordan, Payton Kinlaw, Alejandro Lopez Sandoval, Stepahnie Maldonado-Ortiz, Sherrell McKoy, Carly Mejia Frank, Delton Murdock, Cristian Ramon …..

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Elizabethtown Primary releases honor roll

3rd Grade Superintendent’s List Mallory McDuffie A Honor Roll Jaida Harrison, Ellie Kinlaw, Brooklyn Skinner A/B Honor Roll Janice Alvarez-Nunez, Kaylie Atkins, Nyasia Banks, William Borza, Ta’Mani Brown, Emily Campos-Estrada, Nadya Colon, Samarah Daughtridge, Avi’Anna Hamilton, Jiraiya Johnson, Matilda Kinlaw, Maverick Merritt, Aaliyah Monroe, AlLaysia Owens, Akira Pinckney, Alayah Powell, Martha Quesada, Khyonna Ripley-Smith, Alize’ Robinson, Jordan Robinson, Edwin Rojas, Landyn Scott, Javonte Smith, Jayda Smith, Jaylen Smith, Zy’Asia Smith, Allysa Stringfield, Alejandra Ventura, Kaylee Watson, Ijohne Weathers 4th Grade A Honor Roll Cabria Baldwin, Makayla Caudle, Colton Daly, Dajour Davis, DeAdra Dimery, Madison Franzeo, Jacob Gooden, Destiny Gore, Isaiah Lee, Joseph Martinez, Olivia Meggs, Jayden Osborne, Alina Rabanales, Yureysy …..

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Bladen Community College Library has access to more ebooks

NC LIVE celebrates 20th anniversary of statewide library collaboration, gives North Carolinians free access to 1,248 new ebook titles   RALEIGH, NC — This month, NC LIVE, North Carolina’s statewide library consortium, added 1,248 new ebooks to its HomeGrown Collection, which is comprised of fiction and nonfiction works from local publishers. Among the new additions are Strong is the New Pretty: A Celebration of Girls Being Themselves, a highly-acclaimed photographic catalog of the strength and spirit of girls; Game Changers: Dean Smith, Charlie Scott, and the Era that Transformed a Southern College Town, the history behind Chapel Hill’s first African-American scholarship athlete; and Land of Amnesia, a collection of poetry by former North Carolina Poet …..

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Apply Now for the NCDPI 2018 Student Leadership Institute  

In its seventh year, the institute, is designed to prepare students to take active roles in their schools and communities through service experiences that are aligned to the curriculum.  It is divided into three cohorts:  (1) rising fourth and fifth graders, (2) rising sixth through eighth graders, and (3) rising ninth through twelfth graders. Prospective participants register as a team of 4-6 students with at least one adult mentor from their school or district.   Selected teams will  receive: Team building experiences; Hands on, minds-on learning from experienced trainers in character and leadership development; Experiential learning experiences; Service-learning action-planning; Evening activities that are fun, reflective, and impactful; Tools and materials to support service-learning, …..

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Tillis, Cornyn, Manchin & Harris Introduce Bill to Improve GEAR UP College Success Program

WASHINGTON – This week, U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), John Cornyn (R-TX), Joe Manchin (D-VA), and Kamala Harris (D-CA) introduced the GEAR UP for Success Act, legislation to improve the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Program (GEAR UP). GEAR UP is a federal grant program that seeks to increase college awareness, readiness, and success for low-income and underrepresented students. North Carolina is currently the recipient of four GEAR UP grants: Appalachian State University $2.7 million per year that covers 9,500 students over 8 school districts in Western North Carolina $1.4 million per year that covers 5,100 students over 3 school districts in Western North Carolina UNC System Schools $4 million per …..

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West Bladen’s Cheyenne Lewis chosen LEDA Scholar

Cheyenne Lewis, a junior at West Bladen High School, has been chosen as a LEDA Scholar and will have the opportunity to spend the summer at Princeton University for leadership development. Each year LEDA Scholars are chosen from qualified high school juniors across the nation. These students show leadership potential, but sometimes lack the exposure and support needed to attend highly selective colleges. LEDA Scholars receive leadership training, writing instruction, standardized test preparation and a year of highly personalized guidance as they navigate the application and admissions process at the most competitive colleges. Throughout college and beyond, scholars are offered ongoing advising, career counseling, postgraduate planning and community-building support. Cheyenne, …..

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Professional Educator Preparation and Standards Commission Meets

The Professional Educator Preparation and Standards Commission (PEPSC) will meet Thursday, April 12, at 9 a.m. in the 7th Floor Board Room, Education Building, 301 N. Wilmington Street, Raleigh. The Commission will discuss policy issues related to Educator Preparation and Licensure. The agenda is available online.  The meeting will be audio streamed for those who cannot attend in person. Questions regarding this meeting may be directed to NCDPI Communications at 919-807-3450. Share:

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N.C. Holds Steady on Most Measures of National Assessment

North Carolina’s performance on the National Assessment of Educational Progress in 2017 largely mirrored nationwide results, with fourth and eighth graders generally performing at similar levels as 2015, when the last nationwide assessment was administered.   The NAEP assessment, conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics and also known as The Nation’s Report Card, measures math and reading performance of a representative sample of students in the fourth and eighth grades every two years in each state and the jurisdictions of the District of Columbia, U.S. Department of Defense schools and Puerto Rico (math only). NAEP summary results are reported in terms of average scale scores and performance levels, …..

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Future Knights learn about high school life

Contributed West Bladen High School recently conducted their Transition Day for upcoming freshmen. The Transition Day consisted of two separate programs. On the morning of March 27, the incoming freshman were transported to West Bladen High School where the first part of the Transition Day program was held from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. They were greeted by the West Bladen Knight’s Dream Team and ROTC Cadets. The morning session began with the incoming freshman reporting to the gymnasium for some festive events. The West Bladen cheerleaders performed for the guests and the ROTC Cadets presented the flags. The West Bladen Knights band performed the national anthem as well as …..

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Four County EMC Accepting 2018-19 Bright Ideas Education Grant Applications

Contributed Educators can apply for grants up to $2,000 to fund innovative projects BURGAW, N.C. – Four County EMC is once again partnering with local educators to bring learning to life through the Bright Ideas education grant program. Educators can submit an application for Bright Ideas grants of up to $2,000 for innovative, hands-on classroom projects that would not otherwise be funded. Educators can learn more and apply online at www.ncbrightideas.com. “The Bright Ideas grant program seeks to encourage teacher originality and student engagement by funding projects that take a creative approach to learning,” said Gay Johnson, Director of Corporate Communications. “Four County EMC is proud to be part of …..

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BCC Awards Students with Outstanding Achievements

Contributed     Dublin – Bladen Community College recognized students with outstanding academic and personal achievements at a ceremony on April 4. The Academic Excellence Award recipient was Kyle Gause. Amber Johnson received the nomination for the statewide Dallas Herring Award. Savannah Schmidt was the region 5 finalist for the Governor Robert W. Scott Award. The North Carolina Community College System Student Leadership Development Program delegate was Charity Taylor.   The Student Government Association recognized Charity Taylor (president), Kayla Pipkin (vice president), Fabiola Taylor (parliamentarian), Allana Carroll (public information officer), and Nishayla Pipkin (secretary). The ceremony also honored SGA Senators Jaclyn Flowers, Bryan Padilla, Adriana Quiroz, and Sameria Shipman.   …..

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No-Cost business seminars are offered at BCC

Contributed DUBLIN – The Small Business Center (SBC) of Bladen Community College is offering the Non-Profit Academy and other business seminars during April at  no-cost to participants.   Business Basics for Artists is scheduled for Saturday, April 23, from 9 A.M. until 12 noon on the main Dublin campus.   On Thursday, April 26, at 6:30 P.M., speaker Mike Collins will present The Best Business to Start Now. Following this discussion, Collins will present Starting a Business on a Limited Budget at 7:45 P.M. on the main campus.   Basics of Bookkeeping is scheduled for Tuesday, April 10, from 6 P.M. until 8 P.M. on the East Arcadia campus.   …..

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New association created for Bladen County Homeschools

Contributed ELIZABETHTOWN — According to the state of North Carolina, nearly 300 home schools exist in Bladen County, but few options exist for them all to get together. “There’s such a stereotype of homeschooling as an isolated, even reclusive, endeavor,” said Chrysta Carroll, former home school operator in Bladen County. “But that’s just not true. Homeschooling can be just as, or even more so, socially rewarding as any other educational option, if — and that’s a big ‘if’ — someone’s willing to organize the opportunities.” Having participated in expansive homeschool groups in other parts of the state — some with upwards of 250 families — Carroll has seen the benefit …..

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UNCSA Ranked Fourth Among the Nation’s Most Affordable Public Colleges

WINSTON-SALEM – The University of North Carolina School of the Arts has been ranked fourth in the nation on a list of 50 most affordable in-state public universities. AffordableColleges.com ranked the schools based on financial, student success and program metrics, and noted that in-state tuition at UNCSA “is incredibly cheap for an institution of this caliber — $6,497 per academic year.” UNCSA has the highest ranking of the 11 UNC schools on the list, and is the only school focused entirely on the arts. Chancellor Lindsay Bierman said the ranking is significant because it illuminates the extraordinary value that UNCSA offers to aspiring artists who reside in North Carolina. “We are …..

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West Bladen King and Queen forfeit their crowns 

It is prom season and time for students to be crowned King and Queen of their student bodies. Two Bladen County students have shown great generosity during their reign. West Bladen High School’s new Queen Sage McDonald and King Grayson White were crowned on Friday, which was Prom night for the school. However, they were not the first choice. The student Knights originally voted Scott Bowen to be King and Alise Pait to be Queen, but the new royal pair had different plans. According to those in attendance, Bowen and Pait had big plans as their school’s reigning royalty. Many say Bowen and Pait set a fine example for all …..

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Second win for Paul R. Brown Leadership Academy

Contributed The Black/Jack unit from the Paul R. Brown Leadership Academy won its second National Society of Pershing Rifles Drill Championship.   The Cadets competed against 24 Pershing Rifles, Pershing Angels and BlackJacks units from all over the United States. 23 College drill teams were represented and one other high school made up this years competitive field.   The meet was held in Concord NC on the Infield of the Charlotte Motor Speedway.   The Cadets competed in six events.  They won third place in Regulation Platoon commanded by Passion Graham, Three first place trophies in Regulation Squad Armed commanded by Josclynn Coleman, Collor Guard commanded by Brittany McMillan and Platoon Exhibition Armed …..

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State Board of Education Meets Next Week

The State Board of Education will meet next week, April 4-5, in the 7th floor Board Room, Education Building, 301 N. Wilmington Street, Raleigh. The agendas for this meeting and executive summaries are available online. Please note that Board members will discuss all agenda items (unless otherwise noted) in their committee meetings on Wednesday, April 4. Board members will summarize their committee discussions and take action on agenda items as appropriate during their full Board meeting on Thursday, April 5. The State Board’s committee meetings and full Board meeting will be audio streamed for those unable to attend. To provide comments or feedback regarding specific agenda items, please email State Board members individually or email general comments/feedback.   Share:

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Boost the Boro, Inc. To Award Two Scholarships in 2018

Boost the Boro, Inc. announced today that the organization will be making two scholarship awards to begin in 2018 in the month of May. Applicants for the Boost the Boro Scholarship must reside in the 28320 area and must provide evidence of such. According to Don White, President of the organization, based on the applications we receive by the cutoff date, we will be awarding either two $500 scholarships to graduating high school seniors with a 2.5 or higher GPA or one $500 scholarship to a graduating high school senior with a 2.5 GPA or higher, and one $500 scholarship to an adult, non-traditional college student. The submission deadline is …..

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Pender County Schools Receives Transportation and Educational Grant to Ensure all PCS 4th Graders Visit Moores Creek National Battlefield This School Year

Currie, NC- Pender County Schools, Moores Creek National Battlefield, and the Moores Creek Battleground Association partnered together and received a transportation and educational grant that will ensure all PCS 4th graders will have an opportunity to visit Southeastern North Carolina’s only National Park- Moores Creek National Battlefield, site of one of the first Patriot victories of the American Revolution. The grant covers all transportation costs and provides funding to create 10 educational “Traveling Trunks” which will be donated to all PCS elementary schools to be used by teachers and students for years to come; additional traveling trunks will be donated to Smart Start of Pender County and the Pender County …..

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East Bladen Booster Club Fundraiser deemed success

Contributed The East Bladen High School Booster Club held its annual Steak Dinner Reverse Raffle on Saturday, March 17th.  Approximately 230 raffle tickets were sold as part of the fundraiser.  Many people enjoyed their dinner at the school and participated in raffling off cakes and the drawing for cash prizes. Robert Hester served as the emcee for the event.  Proceeds from the event go toward supporting all athletic programs at East Bladen High School. The EBHS Booster Club would like to thank everyone that purchased a ticket and supported Eagle athletics. SaveSave Share:

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Eight Teams Advance to First N.C. Jr. Chef Competition Cook-Off

High school students from across North Carolina are throwing their chef’s hats into the ring to spice up school lunch. Eight finalist teams from Career and Technical Education food, nutrition, and culinary arts programs will compete in a cook-off April 9 at Guilford Technical Community College as part of the first-ever North Carolina Jr. Chef Competition.   The students were challenged to work with their Family and Consumer Sciences teachers and School Nutrition directors to develop a creative recipe for a school lunch entrée that meets the National School Lunch Program nutrition standards, includes at least two North Carolina-grown products and one USDA Foods item, is replicable by School Nutrition Programs, and …..

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Trey Michael Named Director of Career & Technical Education

Atkins “Trey” Michael, a 17-year veteran of the Department of Public Instruction, has been named director of Career and Technical Education for the agency. A former teacher, Michael has served with the division of Career and Technical Education since joining DPI. He has served as the marketing education consultant for the division for eight years, special assistant for curriculum and assessment development for seven years, and section chief for two years. In these roles, he worked with business and industry partners, teachers, local staff, and other state agencies to ensure students and teachers have the best tools possible to prepare students for success in college and the workforce. Michael taught …..

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UNCW RANKED AMONG BEST IN NATION FOR GRADUATE SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Five UNCW Graduate Programs make U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 Best Graduate Schools   Wilmington, N.C. (March 20, 2018) – The University of North Carolina Wilmington has five graduate programs on the new U.S. News & World Report list of 2019 Best Graduate Schools, the university announced today.   UNCW’s part-time M.B.A. program; public affairs M.P.A. degree; and master’s degree programs in education, nursing (up 22 spots from last year) and social work (up 28 spots) all received recognition on this prestigious list.   Among the UNC System institutions, UNCW’s master’s in social work program ranks behind only UNC Charlotte and UNC Chapel Hill.   “Our graduate programs in …..

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Clarkton School of Discovery

Educators and Parents attend State Institute on Gifted Education

Contributed Clarkton School of Discovery’s Nancy Clark, Janet Huggins, and Brenda Storms represented Bladen County Schools at the 2018 NCAGT Institute on “Pulling Together: Reaching All Gifted Learners.” Throughout the Institute, participants had a chance to spend time exploring the social and emotional needs, effective identification practices and instructional methodologies for reaching children from specific populations. Teachers, parents, administrators, university personnel and other interested professionals attended the institute on gifted education in Winston-Salem, N.C. on Thursday, March 8, 2018. Dr. William A “Sandy” Darity Jr. delivered the keynote address. he is a Professor of Public Policy, African and African American Studies, and Economics and the Director of the Center on …..

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East Bladen High announces Beta Club inductees

Contributed East Bladen High School has announced their new Beta Club members for Spring 2018.  The new inductees are Kaleb Anders, Heaven Baldwin, Maggie Basilio Zuniga, Renee Beasley, Jackson Bostic, Devin Bowen, Katie Evans, Alyssa Futrell, Sara Gargala, Elizabeth Guy, Joshua Hayes, Will Hester, Colin Hill, Brady Hollingsworth, Lavada Jackson, Cheyanne Jacobs, Alyssa Jessup, Sammi Jiang, Kenia Medina Leal, Lily Lin, Yisell Lopez-Castro, Aiyana Lowry, Cheylee Mathis, Tatianna McElveen, RaSean McKoy, Garrett Melvin, Nacaela Melvin, De’Angela Moore, Anette Munoz-Ventura, Nicholas Norris, Kristen Pate, Ayden Piland, Jacob Priest, Kayleigh Raynor, Hoytt Register, Ashlee Rivenbark, Aaron Smith, Brianna Spears, Ashley Stewart, Merissa Vazquez-Olarte, Carlie West, and Hannah Wheeless. Share:

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NC DOT

Bladen and Camden County Schools Win Annual Regional Model Bridge Building Contest

KINSTON – Middle school students from Clarkton School of Discovery in Bladen County and high schools students from Camden Early College in Camden County won the regional contest today in the annual Model Bridge Building Competition held at the Global TransPark in Kinston. Students work in teams, allowing them to also demonstrate critical thinking, problem solving, communication, research and interpersonal skills.  The teams were judged in four categories: written report, oral presentation, design drawing and the ability of their bridges to sustain weight. The challenge of building a bridge out of balsa wood and having it sustain ever increasing amounts of weight was dramatic for students who watched in awe …..

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Spring Exceptional Children’s Fair Planned

An Exceptional Children’s Spring Fair is planned for Thursday, March 22, 2018, from 5 until 7 p.m. at the Elizabethtown Middle School Gymnasium. Everyone is invited to come by and say, “hello.” Resources will be available for parents such as IEP Notebooks, sensory tools and more to take home. There will be visits from school mascots, Smokey the Bear, the fire department and much more. Share:

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DPI Seeks Proposals for Coding and Mobile App Grants

State Superintendent Mark Johnson announced today that the Department of Public Instruction is now accepting grant applications for a new round of the state’s Coding and Mobile App Development competitive grant program, totaling $800,000 in awards for the 2018-19 school year.   The second year of the initiative will fund up to $80,000 per school to provide opportunities for middle and high school students to learn computer science, coding and mobile app development to help them gain the skills needed to contribute to the digital economy and engage as informed citizens. All district and charter schools are eligible, including schools that received grants for the current year.   For the …..

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