Lenoir County honors national board certified teachers and Black History Month winners

The Lenoir County Public Schools (LCPS) Board Meeting on April 7 highlighted significant achievements among educators and students, showcasing the district's commitment to excellence in education.

One of the most notable announcements was the addition of seven LCPS educators to the prestigious list of National Board Certified Teachers, a recognition that underscores North Carolina's leadership in this area. The names of these educators will be permanently displayed on a plaque, celebrating their dedication and leadership in the teaching profession. Among those recognized were Deanna Morris from Maines Elementary, Rachel Braswell, Amber Davis, Jordan Gray, and Allison Heath from Moss Hill Elementary, Megan Lawson from King Hill Elementary, and Kayla Harris from South Lenoir High School. Their achievement reflects a rigorous multi-year process and highlights the importance of teacher leadership in fostering quality education.

In addition to honoring educators, the meeting celebrated student accomplishments, particularly in connection with Black History Month. The Lambda Pi chapter of Omega Psi Phi fraternity organized a writing contest for K-12 students, encouraging them to explore the legacies of influential Black Americans connected to North Carolina. The winners were recognized for their outstanding essays and video submissions, with prizes awarded to students across various grade levels. Notable winners included Milani Ricketts from Northwest Elementary, Izzy Small from Moss Hill Elementary, Nikki Bellamy from Woodington Middle School, and Caitlin Hardison from North Lenoir High School.

The meeting also announced that three LCPS students have been selected to attend the prestigious North Carolina Governor's School, a program designed for intellectually gifted high school students. Alicia Gonzales Gutierrez, Braden Barnett, and Kamala Price will participate in this enriching experience, which promises to foster lifelong friendships and academic growth.

Furthermore, LCPS continues to celebrate student achievements beyond the classroom. Macy Schmidt, a sophomore at Early College High School, advanced to the national round of the United States Economics Olympiad, competing against top students from across the country. Another standout, Nubia Alejo Vasquez, secured a spot in the North Carolina Business Committee for Education's seed program, further demonstrating the district's commitment to nurturing student talent.

These recognitions and achievements not only highlight the hard work of educators and students but also reflect the broader goals of Lenoir County Public Schools to provide quality education and foster a supportive community for learning. As the district moves forward, it remains focused on celebrating and supporting the achievements of its educators and students alike.