Hope Middle named National Blue Ribbon; district recognizes music educators and student performers

The Pitt County Board of Education recognized academic and arts achievements at its Dec. 2 meeting, notably honoring Hope Middle School for selection as a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School.

Jennifer Johnson, principal of Hope Middle School, described the National Blue Ribbon Schools program and said the award recognizes schools for either overall academic achievement or progress closing achievement gaps. Johnson noted that, in the most recent round, her school was the only traditional middle school in North Carolina cited in the presenter’s remarks from Pitt County and that staff, students and families traveled to Washington, D.C., to accept the award.

The board presented a certificate of excellence to Hope Middle School and asked the school to continue its work. The board also highlighted achievements in music education: Russell Knight, district director of arts education, received recognition tied to the North Carolina Music Educators Association activities for leading student auditions and supporting exemplary programs. J.H. Rose band director Matt Howard received a North Carolina Bandmasters Association award of excellence and an invitation for his jazz band to perform at the state music educators convention.

Several students were also recognized for being selected to elementary and middle school honors ensembles after competitive auditions; the board invited those students forward for acknowledgement and photographs.

Ending — Board members and the superintendent praised the educators and students for representing Pitt County Schools in state and national settings and encouraged continued support for arts education.