Board names consolidated Tucker Creek school 'Freedom Middle School Aviators' after survey

The Craven County Schools Board of Education voted to name the consolidated Tucker Creek/Havelock campus "Freedom Middle School Aviators" after hearing results of a district survey and taking a roll-call vote.

Miss Wagner, who presented the survey, told the board, "We had a total of 1,541 responses" and explained respondents could select multiple identifying categories, producing 2,247 answers overall. She reported 62.56% of respondents preferred the Havelock Middle School Mustangs option while 37.44% selected Freedom Middle School Aviators.

Board members debated whether to carry forward an existing school's name or create a new identity for the consolidated campus. Miss Stacy said she and another member worried about "consolidating 2 separate ... communities" and urged caution about adopting an existing name. Miss Lauren kit singer and others argued for the rebranding.

Chair invited motions. An initial motion to adopt "Havelock Middle School" was made but received no second and died. Miss Lauren kit singer then moved to name the school "Freedom Middle School Aviators," seconded by Miss Dacey. Dr. Blunt called the roll: Miss Jennifer Daisy — Yes; Miss Amy Davis — Yes; Miss Darlene Gibbs — not recorded in the roll call transcript; Mr. Lee Kirkman — Yes; Miss Lauren kit singer — Yes; Miss Patty Mason — No; Miss laura space — Yes. The chair announced, "Your motion carries."

The board did not record any amendments to the motion. Members said they would continue outreach and noted the vote followed the results Miss Wagner presented. The decision will be reflected in subsequent administrative steps for signage, branding, and community communications.

The board moved on to other agenda items after thanking Miss Wagner for the report and discussion.

Next steps: the administration will implement naming logistics and communicate the decision to the affected school communities.