Orange County Schools celebrate 2025 Youth Poet Laureates and academic achievements

The Orange County Schools Board of Education meeting held on May 19, 2025, celebrated notable achievements among students and educators, highlighting the district's commitment to fostering talent and recognizing excellence in various fields.

The meeting commenced with a tribute to the 2025 Youth Poet Laureates, where students were honored for their exceptional poetic talents. Miranda Silva Coroz, an eleventh grader from Partnership Academy High School, was introduced as the district's Youth Poet Laureate. She was praised for her leadership and writing skills. Olivia Caritinuto, a ninth grader from Cedar Ridge High School, was also recognized for her impactful poetry. Additionally, Alyssa Hathcock from Partnership Academy was acknowledged as a finalist, showcasing her heartfelt writing. The contributions of teachers Amari Beatty and Laura Eisenhower were highlighted for their roles in nurturing these young poets.

Following the poetry recognition, the board celebrated the Orange Middle School Battle of the Books team, who were crowned state champions. The team, which had previously won district and regional competitions, was commended for their dedication and teamwork. Their advisor expressed pride in the students' achievements, noting their ability to balance academics with extracurricular activities.

Emily Myers, the director of integrated academics, then introduced five students selected to attend the prestigious North Carolina Governor's School. This four-week residential program is designed for gifted and talented high school students, focusing on academic exploration without the pressure of grades. The selected students were recognized for their outstanding potential in various disciplines.

The meeting also featured the recognition of Selena Massey, a seventh-grade social studies teacher at Orange Middle School, who received the Outstanding Holocaust Educator Award for North Carolina. Her commitment to teaching the complexities of history and human rights was acknowledged as vital in fostering understanding and empathy among students.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the district's dedication to celebrating student achievements and supporting educators who play a crucial role in shaping the future. The board expressed gratitude to all participants and emphasized the importance of continuing to nurture talent and promote educational excellence within the community.