Swansboro S2S program, Newbridge Middle and board earn statewide and national recognitions

Onslow County Schools began its meeting by recognizing three awards and honors for district programs and board professional development.

The district’s communications director, Mr. Anderson, introduced members of the Swansboro High School Student‑to‑Student (S2S) program after staff announced the program had been named the Military Child Education Coalition’s (MCEC) 2024–25 National High School Team of the Year. District materials presented to the board said the peer‑led S2S program — created by MCEC to support students connected to military life — was selected for national recognition based on leadership, academics, service, climate and culture, relationships and acceptance. Staff noted the program has sent 17 students to the MCEC Francis Hesselbein Student Leadership Forum since 2009 and had previously earned national recognition in 2019 and 2020.

The board also honored Newbridge Middle School for being named a STEM School of Distinction by the North Carolina State Board of Education. Staff said the designation, announced Sept. 4 in Raleigh, recognizes schools with a holistic vision for STEM instruction and practices that engage learners across subjects.

Finally, the board was recognized with the Gold Bell Award from the North Carolina School Boards Association, an honor the district said reflects that every board member completed at least 12 hours of approved professional training between July 1 and June 30 and engaged topics including governance, ethics, strategic planning and equity.

The presentations were celebratory and informational; no board action was required.