Crown Equipment partners with Little Rock schools to guarantee student job placements

In a vibrant gathering at the Lenoir County Public Schools Board Meeting, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement as educators and community leaders celebrated significant achievements and partnerships that promise to shape the future of local students. The meeting, held on July 1, 2025, highlighted the successful collaboration between Lenoir County Public Schools and Crown Equipment Company, a partnership that has flourished over the past six years, providing students with invaluable job opportunities.

As the meeting unfolded, it was clear that this partnership stands out in North Carolina, with Lenoir County being one of only two school systems in the state to guarantee jobs for students. The commitment from Crown Equipment has been remarkable, with the company pledging to hire multiple students each year. This year alone, they expressed their intention to employ not just those who initially signed up for the program but also those pursuing further education, offering support for college and training, including engineering degrees.

The board celebrated the success of 18 seniors who have completed the program, with five more students entering the largest group of apprentices yet. The excitement was palpable as names like Cody Andress and Hunter Langley were mentioned, showcasing the real-world impact of this initiative on young lives. The financial benefits are significant, with starting salaries for these positions exceeding those of entry-level teaching jobs by $8,000 to $10,000, a commendable achievement for recent high school graduates.

In addition to the partnership updates, the meeting recognized outstanding educators within the district. Jessica Jones, a career and technical education teacher at Whittington Middle School, was honored as a state finalist for the 2026 Burris Welcome Fund North Carolina CTE Teacher of the Year award. Her innovative approach to agriculture education and dedication to hands-on learning have made a lasting impact on her students. The board also celebrated Dr. Stephanie Harrell, who was selected to participate in NASA's NC Space Education Ambassadors program, further enhancing the educational opportunities available to students in Lenoir County.

The meeting concluded on a high note with a tribute to the graduating class of 2025, which saw over 600 students walk across the stage, shattering records and embodying the promise of the future. The board expressed pride in these young individuals, emphasizing their potential to make the world a better place as they embark on their next steps, whether in college, the workforce, or the military.

As the evening wrapped up, the sense of community and commitment to student success resonated throughout the room, leaving attendees inspired and hopeful for the future of education in Lenoir County.