SUPERINTENDENT'S CHRISTMAS CARD ART WINNER FROM NNHS

For the past five years, the Superintendent of Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools has invited students to participate in the district’s Christmas Card Art Contest. Students create designs that are then judged and selected for the front and back of the Christmas Card. This year we are pleased to congratulate Randy Hooper, 10th grade student at Northern Nash High School, for his artwork, Snowman. His piece was chosen for the cover of the card.

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HOPKINS NAMED NEW PRINCIPAL OF HUBBARD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools recently announced that Darsheka (Tiffany) Hopkins will be the new principal of Hubbard Elementary School. Sheila Wallace, formerly the principal at Hubbard, was named the new Director of Federal Programs for the school district in November.
Tiffany Hopkins has eleven years of experience in public education. She started her career as an elementary school teacher in various grades ranging from kindergarten to fourth grade. She has worked in Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools for the past ten years. In her time with NRMPS, she has served as a teacher at Pope Elementary school, Assistant Principal at Benvenue Elementary and Assistant Principal at Englewood Elementary.
She said she is enthusiastic about the opportunity to work with students, staff and families in the Hubbard Elementary School community.
“I am excited to have the opportunity to serve Hubbard school as it continues to provide a nurturing, rigorous learning environment,” said Hopkins. “I look forward to building relationships with the staff, students, parents, and community while working together to promote high expectations, good character, and academic success for all learners.”
Hopkins holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Winston Salem State University, a Master of Arts degree in Curriculum & Instruction and a Master of Arts degree in Administration & Supervision from the University of Phoenix.

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PRE-K PARENT AND COMMUNITY INFORMATION SEESIONS

Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools is gearing up to host a series of Parent and Community Information Sessions on the school district’s Pre-Kindergarten Application Process for the 2014-15 school year.
The Pre-Kindergarten information sessions are scheduled for January 6 at the Rock Springs Free Will Baptist Church located at the intersection of Old Highway 264 and Camp Charles Rd. in Bailey; and January 7 at the Nash County Agricultural Center, located at 1006 Eastern Ave. in Nashville.
“It is important for parents who are interested in the Pre-K program to attend the information sessions so they may understand all the components required for their child to be considered for placement,” said Bethany Mayo, Early Childhood Educational Specialist.
During the meetings, Pre-Kindergarten staff will discuss important topics including step-by-step instructions on how to apply for Pre-Kindergarten, the eligibility process and Pre-Kindergarten requirements.
Parents and community members will also have the opportunity to ask questions during a Q&A session. Light refreshments will be provided at each of the meetings.
For more information on the NRMPS Pre-Kindergarten program, parents are encouraged to visit the Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools website, www.nrms.k12.nc.us, and click on ‘2014-2015 Pre-K Application Process’ on the announcements area of the district homepage.

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UNITED WAY JOB FOR A DAY

From secretary to music teacher,  receptionist to counselor, Dr. Anthony Jackson and members of the NRMPS senior staff took over various duties in schools as part of United Way Job For A Day. Schools that reached 100% participation during the district's United Way campaign in September were eligible for a drawing.  The United Way campaign coordinator at each selected school had a senior staff member takeover their job duties for a day.

December 4th proved to be a busy day as Superintendent Dr. Anthony Jackson served as secretary at Winstead Avenue Elementary for the day and found himself answering the phones, greeting students and even pulling supplies for teachers. Meanwhile, Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources, Mr. Thomas Crabtree got "schooled" by kindergartners at Hubbard Elementary as their teacher's assistant.
Mrs. Robin May, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, and Ms. Jane Finch, Chief Technology Officer, both became receptionists, the former at Swift Creek Elementary and the latter at Pope Elementary.  

Assistant Superintendent for Student Services, Mr. Michael "Chip" Hodges, returned to the classroom, this time at Tar River Academy teaching Social Studies. On December 11th, Dr. Eric Cunningham, Associate Superintendent for Facilities and Operations, Mrs. Susan Blackwell, Chief Financial Officer, and Ms. Ashley Simmons, Chief Public Information Officer, all took their turns out in the schools.  Dr. Cunningham as counselor at Rocky Mount Middle, Mrs. Blackwell as 1st grade teacher at Spring Hope Elementary and Ms. Simmons as music teacher at Middlesex Elementary.  The experience gave some of the participants a greater appreciation for the jobs of others.
Thank you to all who gave to United Way.

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NRMPS SEEKS COMMUNITY FEEDBACK VIA CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN SURVEY

December 11 marked the launch of the latest outreach by Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools to the local community through the district’s Capital Improvement Plan survey. This brief survey seeks parent and community views on how NRMPS can maintain safe 21st century learning environments for all students. 
Administered by technology and communications firm K12 Insight, the Capital Improvement Plan survey is one of many collaborative efforts to assess school facilities. Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools recently completed a long-range facilities needs assessment to outline the major needs of each school facility across the district. In addition to the needs assessment, the school district hosted a preliminary group of parent meetings, toured sites and shared information with county commissioners about improvement opportunities. Engaging the broader community in the Nash-Rocky Mount region will help determine next steps.
“Our needs assessment identified several facility and mechanical needs, which we examined closely as we developed this 10-year Capital Improvement Plan,” said Dr. Anthony Jackson, NRMPS Superintendent. “The CIP lists each potential improvement project, and establishes an order of priorities, based on the level of need. Just as with student reassignment, community input will be essential as our school board seeks to make informed decisions.”
Parents and residents with email addresses on file will receive invitations to participate in the survey. It will also be accessible via the Your Voice Counts link on the district website homepage (http://www.nrms.k12.nc.us). All responses are anonymous and confidential. Paper copies are also available upon request. 
Following the survey closing on December 31, the district will engage the community by sharing results.
“A healthy infrastructure is the foundation for student success,” said Jackson. “By engaging in ongoing, two-way dialogue, we can begin to examine how significant improvements will help prepare NRMPS and all our students for a bright and prosperous future.”
For more information on the NRMPS Capital Improvement Survey, parents and community members are encouraged to visit the Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools Your Voice Counts page at  www.nrms.k12.nc.us/your-voice, and take the survey.

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BOARD MEMBERS EARN HONORS AT NCSBA CONFERENCE

Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools received numerous honors during the North Carolina School Board Associations annual conference held at the Joseph S. Koury Convention Center in Greensboro November 18-20.

The Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools Honors Band & Dance Ensemble performed during one of the conference’s general sessions. Students from Nash Central High, Northern Nash High, Rocky Mount High and Southern Nash High participated in the performance. The students performed three works in a medley of music from Africa, Ireland, and Latin America.
Members of the Nash-Rocky Mount Board of Education were recognized November 19 during the conference’s annual awards ceremony.

Evelyn Bulluck, Board Chair was named to the All-State School Board. Those recognized received nomination from their school board as a candidate for the Raleigh Dingman or School Board Member Leadership Award. Bulluck will serve on the association’s Board Development committee.
Other Board members receiving recognition included: Ann Edge and William Sharpe, for Certificates of Merit; Jon Hardy and Reginald Silver, each for Certificates of Achievement; Robert Jenkins for a Certificate of Advanced Achievement, and Evelyn Bulluck and Robert Bynum each for Diplomas of Honor. These individual level recognitions are given to Board members based on the number of hours of training completed during the 2012-13 academy year.
As a group, the Nash-Rocky Mount Board of Education was recognized for achieving Level II Master Board Training.
The NCSBA Master Board program emphasizes team building, conflict resolution, goal setting, communication, change management, ethics, problem-solving, decision-making and evaluation. The program, which represents a joint project of the NCSBA and the School of Government at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, responds to the desire of the school district’s leadership team to train as a unit and address the board issues that pertain to the individual school system.
School board members Evelyn Bulluck, Brenda Brown, Robert Bynum, Doneva Chavis-Battle, Anne Edge, William Sharpe, Franklin Lamm, Reginald Silver, and Jon Hardy, were on hand to accept the award, along with Dr. Anthony Jackson, Superintendent.
Dr. Jackson was also honored as one of eight finalists for the State Superintendent of the Year Title during the awards ceremony. Administrators from Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools also gave two presentations at the conference, “Putting the Public Back in School Public Relations,” and “iConnect: Preparing Students to be Globally Competitive through 21st Century Tools.”

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PARENTS TURN OUT FOR NATIONAL PARENT INVOLVEMENT DAY

Information and appreciation, that is National Parent Involvement Day in NRMPS. From a college and CTE information session with high school parents at Rocky Mount High School to a special lunch with parents and students at Englewood Elementary, parents were the focus in the district November 21, 2013.

"Parents are the primary educators.  It is in the home where children start learning.  We can't do the work we do without parents," said Leondus Farrow, Principal of Rocky Mount High School.  Parents at RMHS were treated to a light buffet reception followed by informative talks from Tim Tucker and Bebe Wall of Nash Community College.
"We know the connection between parent involvement and student achievement.

Having them here for lunch just seemed like a natural fit for us," said Englewood Elementary School Principal, Crystal Whitley. Englewood Elementary tied their annual Thanksgiving lunch in with their parent's day festivities.  Parents had the option of buying lunch in the cafeteria, or bringing in a special lunch from home.  Whitley added, "We wanted to create a culture where they [parents] feel welcome and involved and know that they are a crucial part of their child's education."

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SCHOOL DISTRICT RECEIVES AWARD FOR FINANCIAL REPORTING

The Nash-Rocky Mount Board of Education recently received the Association of School Business Officials International’s (ASBO) Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting award for having met or exceeded the program’s high standards for financial reporting and accountability.
Dr. Anthony Jackson, Superintendent of Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools, said he appreciates the work of district staff to ensure that reporting is clear and accurate.
“We made a commitment to be transparent and efficient stewards of the funds provided to us.” Jackson said. “Our staff has worked diligently to improve our financial reporting and should be commended for this accomplishment.”
The district was recognized for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the fiscal year ending 2012. Board members were presented with a plaque for the honor during the school board meeting held October 7.
This is the first time Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools has participated in the Financial Reporting Award recognition. Sponsored by VALIC, the Certificate of Excellence (COE) award confirms the school business office’s commitment to financial accountability and transparency. Recognition through the COE program can help strengthen a district’s presentation for bond issuance statements and promotes a high level of financial reporting.
For more information on the COE award, visit ASBO’s Website: www.asbointl.org/COE.

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NRMPS GOES ORANGE FOR ANTI-BULLY DAY

"Orange, orange everywhere, and not a bully anywhere."
Bullying prevention took center stage at NRMPS schools in October with a month-long focus on anti-bullying. October 9 was the official Bullying Prevention Unity Day with students and employees from school and offices throughout the district showing their resolve to end bullying by wearing orange. Whether showing their unity via t-shirts, wrist-bands or hair color, NRMPS works to end bullying throughout our district.

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MANY ATTEND CTE SHOWCASE AND STATE OF OUR SCHOOLS ADDRESS

October 22 was a big night for students, staff and parents, as Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools held its annual Career and Technical Education Showcase event at the Nash Community College Brown Auditorium, in conjunction with the ‘State of Our Schools’ Address, given by Dr. Anthony Jackson, Superintendent. 
Students in grades 6-12 and their families had the opportunity to see all of the Career and Technical Education opportunities offered in the school district, and how those opportunities translate into programs offered by Nash Community College. In addition, families heard Dr. Jackson speak about the accomplishments, challenges and goals of the school system, and saw exemplars from each of district’s six strategic priorities as presented by Central Office staff. 
“This event was designed to share important information about our schools with the community,” said Jackson. “We wanted to give our families and community supporters an opportunity to hear and discuss our successes, our challenges, and our goals to improve.”
Dr. Jackson’s full ‘State of Our Schools’ presentation and a video of the event is posted on the school district’s website for those who were unable to attend. 
Following the presentation, school administrators, educators, students, parents, staff, community members, elected officials and business leaders were among those who participated in the annual CTE Showcase event, which draws roughly 1000 participants each year.
Nearly 100 tables and demonstrations representing Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools’ classes, Nash Community College programs of study gave attendees a preview of what they can expect in CTE class and program offerings. Representatives from several local businesses and industries were also on hand to share information with students and parents about their organizations and reinforce the importance of a skilled and educated workforce.
Pam Lewis, Director of Career and Technical Education, (CTE) said she was pleased with the number of parents and students who attended the event.
“We were very pleased with level of participation and the energy of parents and students,” said Lewis. “Parents were very interested and many asked questions regarding how our programs can meet student's needs.”
Culinary students and staff from Nash Central High School provided refreshments for special guests attending the event. Donna Cady, CTE Coordinator for Nash Central High School, said teachers go the extra mile to make the event successful.
“The CTE Showcase was a collaborative effort between staff from NRMPS and NCC.” Cady said. “The teachers went above and beyond to ‘showcase’ all that CTE has to offer our students. It was a night full of fun and excitement for everyone that participated.”

The CTE program touches nearly 10,000 students in a total of eight program areas. NRMPS offers eight CTE Academies, in addition to a host of other CTE course offerings. The newest two academies, Industrial and Advanced Manufacturing and the Fire Training Academy started at the beginning of this school year. The Industrial and Advanced Manufacturing Academy represents a unique partnership between Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools, Nash Community College and the Cummins Rocky Mount Engine Plant, via the Career and College Promise Initiative. Students take courses through Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools and Nash Community College, and then have the opportunity to continue their education at East Carolina University. Scholarships and potential job prospects are additional benefits of the IAM Academy.
For more information about Career and Technical Education, students can contact the CTE Coordinator assigned to their school or Pam Lewis, CTE Director, 252-462-2536.

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NRMPS NAMES FOUR NEW ADMINSTRATORS

Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools recently announced three new administrative assignments during the NRMPS Board of Education meeting held November 4. Sheila Wallace was named the new Director of Federal Programs. Andrea Smith was named the new Director of Testing. Michael Jones was named the new 6-12 Math Educational Specialist.

Sheila Wallace began her career in education as a second and third grade teacher for six years. She then served as an assistant principal for two years at DS Johnson Elementary. She was principal at OR Pope Elementary for four years and is currently serving in her fourth year as principal at MB Hubbard Elementary. Wallace will now serve the school district as the Director of Federal Programs and Title I.
“My hope is to first be a positive informant to the district about the Title I trends and guidelines ensuring that the federal funding is used wisely to maximize academic achievement,” said Wallace. “As an instructional leader, I hope to build trusting relationships with the Title I Principals and assist them in bridging the achievement gaps within our district. My goal is to pursue resourceful means to meet the diverse needs of this community by developing lasting partnerships.”
Wallace graduated from Shaw University with a BS in Elementary Education. She also holds a MA in School Administration from Cambridge College and is currently pursuing her doctorate in Educational Leadership at Walden University.

Andrea Smith has 24 years of experience in public education. She spent 15 years as a classroom teacher, and nine years as an administrator. Smith is a Nash County native and former graduate of Southern Nash High School. She will now serve NRMPS as the Director of Testing.
“I look forward to assisting and working with educators from all of the schools in Nash-Rocky Mount Schools as we collaboratively strive to prepare our students for post-secondary education and careers in the 21st Century,” said Smith. Smith received her undergraduate degree from North Carolina Wesleyan College and her Master's Degree in School Administration and Curriculum from East Carolina University.

Michael Jones has 20 years of experience in public education. He spent 12.5 years as a classroom teacher at the high school level in Edgecombe County Schools and Pitt County Schools. Jones taught every math subject from Pre-Algebra to AP Calculus. He spent more than five years as an Instructional Math Coach in Edgecombe County, before joining NRMPS last year as the 6-12 Instructional Math Coach. He will now serve NRMPS as the 6-12 Math Educational Specialist. Jones received his bachelor’s degree in Math and Math Education from NC State University. 

“During my career as a successful classroom teacher and instructional coach I have been engaged in helping students and teachers in Eastern North Carolina,” said Jones. “I have worked with teachers on enacting numerous curriculum changes, integrating technology into effective classroom instruction and implementing research-based best instructional practices. I look forward to continuing this work as the 6-12 Math Educational Specialist for NRMPS.”

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NEW ACCOUNTABILITY STANDARDS - SEVEN SCHOOLS MAKE GROWTH

2012-13 Test scores for Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools and other school districts across the state were approved by the State Board of Education November 7. Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools had 32.5 percent of students make proficiency on the assessments administered last year, tests that were modified in all subject areas to match the higher levels of rigor in the Common Core and NC Essential Standards Curriculum. Seven of the district’s schools met growth and one exceeded expected growth under the new accountability standards.
Bailey Elementary, Baskerville Elementary, Englewood Elementary, Middlesex Elementary, OR Pope Elementary, Red Oak Middle, and Williford Elementary all met expected growth. Williford Elementary exceeded expected growth. 
Superintendent Dr. Anthony Jackson said he was pleased to see the number of schools that made growth, despite the tougher standards.
“We continue to emphasize the importance of our growth data, during this critical transition year for our students and educators,” said Jackson. “Historical data clearly shows that when assessments are changed, proficiency scores dip as students and teachers adjust to the higher levels of rigor. Growth data, however, shows that our schools and students are moving forward. This year’s scores provide baseline data for us to improve upon as we continue to implement the new Common Core and NC Essential Standards in our classrooms. It is clear that we have much work to do. We embrace the new levels rigor and higher accountability expectations. I am confident that with the structures we have already put in place to support our students and teachers that our performance will improve as we continue this journey.”
The school district met several of its Annual Measurable Objective targets, under the state and federal accountability models. For reading in grades 3-8, 77.3 percent of state targets were met; in math for grades 3-8, 63.6 percent of state targets were met. At the high school level, 62.5 percent of the state targets were met in grade 10 for reading, and 87.5 percent of state targets were met in math.
At the federal level, NRMPS met 75 percent of the targets for grades 3-8 reading, and 60.0 percent of the targets in grades 3-8 math. For high schools, NRMPS met 57.1 percent of federal targets in reading, and 85.7 percent of federal targets in math.
NRMPS met 100 percent of the state and federal targets for attendance and cohort graduation rate, which this year was at an all-time high of 79.4 percent.

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PROPANE BUS RIDES INTO NRMPS

With fuel prices on the rise and clean energy more than a buzz-word, NRMPS recently received a propane powered school bus as part of a pilot program in the state of North Carolina.

“Being selected as a (pilot) site is evidence that our transportation department is operating effectively and efficiently,” said Dr. Eric Cunningham, Associate Superintendent of Facilities and Operations. “Learning about green energy and the benefits is definitely a plus as we continue to learn better ways to implement cost saving measures and share them with our colleagues in the state.”
Echoing Cunningham’s sentiment, Binford Sloan, Director of Transportation, stated, “To be chosen for this pilot program is tremendous because it puts our school district at the forefront in North Carolina for exploring alternative fuel sources,” said Sloan. “With funding resources declining propane is attractive in the respect the cost per gallon is about half of diesel.”

Not only is the lower fuel cost attractive, but other benefits include noise reduction inside the bus and lower environmental emissions. One visible benefit is the absence of the signature black diesel smoke that is typical from the current buses. 
“With less particulate matter being emitted into the air than conventional diesel engines, students and staff will breathe easier when around the propane bus,” said Sloan.
The purpose of the pilot program is to determine the viability of the propane buses and NRMPS has the honor of participating and helping determine if they provide a more efficient use of resources compared to diesel buses.

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A WELCOME BACK FROM OUR SUPERINTENDENT

Click on the video to view a message from Dr. Anthony Jackson, Superintendent of Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools. 

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A NEW SCHOOL YEAR BEGINS

Classrooms all across the Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools district buzzed with excitement, as students returned August 26.
Superintendent Dr. Anthony Jackson visited several schools on the first day, and said he was pleased overall with the first day of school, especially given the many new initiatives that impacted this year’s opening. "I must thank our parents and family members for the role they played in making our opening of school a successful one." Jackson said. "We have a number of new initiatives that we are in the process of implementing: PowerSchool, our new school security access control, and the reassignment of over 2000 students. Our families continue to be patient as we work through these processes and we appreciate their support." 
Jackson also expressed his appreciation for school staff members who went above and beyond to make sure students were able to jump right into learning. “While we experienced the normal 'first day' transitions, our administrators, educators and other staff took deliberate care to ensure that we were ready to start the year off with excellence.” Jackson said. “Our students arrived eager to start a great year, and our staff members welcomed them with enthusiasm and compassion. Our theme for the year is 'No Limits...Possibilities 2.0,' and the learning I saw as I visited classrooms throughout the first day was only a glimpse of great things to come." 
Some students and parents experienced bus delays during morning and afternoon routes, but all students arrived to and from their destinations safely. Over 10,000 students were transported on 153 buses, with a high percentage of the buses providing routes for more than one school.
Transportation director Binford Sloan said bus drivers and other staff at the schools took great care to ensure that all students were on the correct bus, and dropped off at the correct bus stop during the afternoon routes. “We had some bus delays, but the transportation team and school staff worked together to address them.” Sloan said. “It will take a few days for our bus routes to be complete, but they are being constantly monitored and changed as new students are enrolled or existing students are registering for bus service.”
Parents can go to www.nrms.k12.nc.us, where they can access the school system’s online transportation portal.

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STUDENT ENJOYS SPECIAL FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL BUS RIDE

When Winstead Avenue Elementary kindergarten student Bria Hines prepared to board bus 144 for the first time Monday, she was excited to see a special guest come off the bus to greet her. “Good Morning!” was the chorus of words she heard, spoken by none other than Dr. Anthony Jackson, Superintendent of Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools. As Jackson talked with her and other students about the new school year, Hines shared that she was excited to go to school. "I’m going to learn to read this year!” she said.  Hines’ mother, Pamela Ward, was equally enthused about the special bus visit from the Superintendent. After helping Bria get on the bus with Dr. Jackson and the other students, she and Bria’s grandmother, Janie, drove to the school to also walk Bria to her classroom.

"Entering kindergarten is a very important and memorable moment in a parent and child's life,” said Ward. “Along with shedding a few tears, I am very excited and happy that Bria will continue to learn and grow at Winstead Avenue Elementary School."

The first day bus ride is a tradition for Dr. Jackson, a perfect way to celebrate the opening of school and the efforts of the NRMPS transportation department to safely transport students to and from school. Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools operates 153 buses every day, serving over 10,000 students each morning and afternoon of the school year.

Tracy Cooper, who drives bus 144, provided Jackson with an overview of her morning and afternoon bus routes, which serve Rocky Mount High School, Winstead Avenue Elementary and Englewood Elementary. Cooper has served as a bus driver for nearly 17 years. “My day starts at 4:30 in the morning,” said Cooper.  Jackson says he appreciates all of the time spent by the transportation staff to prepare safe and efficient routes for students. “I am so proud of our transportation department, all of our bus drivers, technicians and other staff who work tirelessly to ensure that our students arrive safely to school,” said Jackson. “These men and women make an intentional, daily commitment to the education of students in this school system, and we cannot thank them enough for the service they provide.”

NRMPS Transportation Director Binford Sloan says the bus drivers and transportation staff recognize the magnitude of maintaining safe bus routes every day. “For each student that rides a school bus, his or her learning day starts and ends with that ride, every day,” Sloan said. “We view ourselves as a child-centered department, with a major role in the cycle of learning.”

Parents are encouraged to access bus routing information online, by visiting the Nash-Rocky Mount Public schools website: www.nrms.k12.nc.us. The Transportation department can also be reached by phone at 252.462.2481 or 252.462.2482

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NRMPS NAMES 2013-14 TEACHER OF THE YEAR, PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR

Each year, the Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools Teacher of the Year and Principal of the Year celebration is marked by special moments. Tuesday night proved no exception, as nearly 130 individuals gathered at the Rose Hill Conference Center at Nathan Hall to learn the names of the newest honorees. Dana Williamson, of Southern Nash Middle School was the named the 2013-14 NRMPS Teacher of the Year, and Gary Mayor, Principal of Parker Middle School, was named the 2013-14 Principal of the Year. Williamson walked away from the ceremony with a one-year lease on a brand new, fully loaded 2014 Honda CR-V LX vehicle, courtesy of Davenport Honda and NRMPS. The 2014 Honda CR-V LX, came fully-equipped with plenty of high-tech features, such as Bluetooth, Pandora, a back-up camera, a 160 watt sound system, text messaging, and audio streaming. The economical crossover vehicle gets 31 MPG highway.
Highlights from the evening included performances by the jazz band from Nash Central High School, remarks from former Teacher of the Year Kristen Tedford, and remarks from former Principal of the Year Leon Farrow. Community partners Hospira, Wells Fargo Bank, and Davenport Autopark also made presentations during the ceremony.

Williamson has 27 years of teaching experience and received her Bachelor’s degree in middle school education from the Barton College. She’s a member of several organizations including the NC Association for the Gifted and Talented, the NC Middle School Association, and the NC Science Teachers Association. During her career she’s taught a variety of grade levels across the elementary and middle levels. She currently serves as an AIG facilitator at Southern Nash Middle School.
“It’s a true honor to represent educators throughout the district because I know that each one of us goes in every day to help every child reach their full potential and explore all the possibilities,” said Williamson.
2013-14 Principal of the Year Gary Major was equally excited to have received his award.
“I am truly humbled to be named principal of the year for Nash Rocky Public Schools,” said Major. My fellow principals and I are part of an equation that is responsible for the growth and success of our students, and we do so with a tireless commitment to achieve excellence for our schools.”
The other two finalists for 2013-14 Teacher of the Year were Tremayne Smith, the high school Teacher of the Year for NRMPS, and Theresa Whitley, the elementary school Teacher of the Year for NRMPS.
Smith has two teachings years of teaching experience. He received his Bachelor’s degree in music, and in Political Science with a concentration in Pre-Law Studies. He is a member of the North Carolina Bandmasters Association, Eastern District, North Carolina Showstyle Band Directors Association, North Carolina Association of Music Educators, National Association for Music Educators, among others. Smith is the band director at Rocky Mount High School.
Whitley has over 10 years of teaching experience. She received her Bachelor’s degree from North Carolina Central University in psychology and earned her teaching certification from East Carolina University. She just recently completed her Master’s degree in School Administration from Gardner Webb University. Whitley is a member of several organizations including Eastern Star, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Volunteer Frederick Douglass Alumni Association and the Psi Chi National Honor Society. She currently teaches English Language Arts, Math, Science and Social Studies for students in grades 3-5 at D.S. Johnson Elementary.
Each of the ‘Teacher of the Year’ finalists received the prestigious Ben Craig Award from Tem Meyers, Market President of Wells Fargo Bank. This includes a hand-carved crystal apple and a $1,000 award from Wells Fargo for use in their classrooms. The finalists also received a personal laptop courtesy of Hospira Corporation, presented by Bob Jenkins, IT manager and school board member.
As Principal of the Year, Major received a $500 gift, along with a personal laptop from Hospira. The other two finalists for the Principal of the Year title were Dr. Mark Cockrell, principal of Southern Nash High School, and Carina Bryant, principal of Southern Nash Middle School.
Superintendent Dr. Anthony Jackson thanked the educators for their daily sacrifices for students. “We set the golden standard, as schools who embrace ALL students, regardless of how they come to us, and we seek to lead by example, as we model the skills that they need to be successful as adults,” said Jackson. “I want to thank you for the diligent work you do every day in our schools. Over the course of your career, you have continued to touch the lives of countless students.” Names and photographs of the NRMPS Principal and Teacher of the Year will be added to the NRMPS Teacher of the Year and Principal of the Year plaques located at the school system’s administrative offices. These individuals will also be recognized on a billboard located on Hwy 301, courtesy of Lamar Advertising.
Congratulations to the 2013-14 Teachers of the Year for NRMPS:
Bailey Elementary - Emily Wood
S.C. Baskerville Elementary - Corine McCann-Moody
Benvenue Elementary - Courtney Bissette
Cedar Grove Elementary - Rachel Shell
Coopers Elementary - Chanda Underwood
Englewood Elementary - Amy Quigley
Fairview Elementary - Robin Silver
M. B. Hubbard Elementary - Hernan Daza
D. S. Johnson Elementary- Theresa Whitley
Middlesex Elementary - Meri Jolin
Nashville Elementary - Tressa Bissette
O.R. Pope Elementary - Letha Pearce
Red Oak Elementary - Connie Mitchell
Spring Hope Elementary - Wende Woodard
Swift Creek Elementary - Russell Howald
Williford Elementary - Dollie Borum
Winstead Avenue Elementary - Teresa Pilgreen
Edwards Middle - Percell Kelley
Nash Central Middle - Edwin Suitter II
Parker Middle - Charlene Outland
Red Oak Middle - Bettie Lewis
Southern Nash Middle - Dana Williamson
Nash Central High - Catherine Melle
NRM Early College High - Edward Lyons
Northern Nash High - Thomas Barkalow
Rocky Mount High - Tremayne Smith
Southern Nash High - Ann-Marie Brown
Tar River Academy - Ernest Postell

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UNITED WAY...THE NRMPS WAY!

With a new school year, comes a new opportunity to give to those in need by donating to United Way.  This year, the district's goal is 100% participation and $66,000.
For those who are new to the district, this annual giving event raises funds that stay right here in our community.  As you look around your school, classroom or office, chances are good that someone you see has availed themselves of the services provided by United Way. Each year more than 85,000 lives are touched through United Way Tar River Region and its funded programs.
Remember every little bit helps, so if you think the two dollars in your pocket won't do any good, think again.  When your donation is added to someone else's gift, the money starts to grow.  If we all work together, we can make a difference in the lives of those around us.
Please go by and see your United Way Campaign Coordinator today to get your information packet and pledge card.  Not certain who your coordinator is?  Look at the list below.  

Bailey Elementary - Jessica Nicholson and Lisa Hendricks
Baskerville Elementary - Shawnita Harper
Benvenue Elementary  - Lori Mizelle and Elizabeth Murphy
Cedar Grove Elementary - Rebecca M. Davis
Coopers Elementary - Mary Beth Drumel
D.S. Johnson Elementary - Sonya Lynch
Edwards Middle - Lawanda Tillery
Englewood Eelementary - Beverly Williams and Connie Honeycutt
Fairview Elementary - Teresa Wilkins
MB Hubbard Elementary - Nicole Revis and Patricia Brake
Middlesex Elementary - Bobbi Jo Bone
Nash Central High - Elisabeth McIntyre
Nash Central Middle  -  Judith James
Nashville Elementary - Leslie Taylor and Paula Bowlin
Northern Nash High - Susan Mizelle and Jackie Pridgen
NRM Early College High - Christine Catalano
O.R. Pope Elementary - Roslyn Coley
Parker Middle - Glynis Pajaro
Red Oak Elementary - Pam Cooper-Hilliard
Red Oak Middle - Cindy Williams
Rocky Mount Middle - Tekelya Jones
Rocky Mount High - Donacine Vandelli
Southern Nash High - Hugh Scott
Southern Nash Middle - Samantha Brigotti and Anthony Harrison
Spring Hope Elementary - Kasey Moore
Swift Creek Elementary - Shonda Lockett
Tar River Academy - Shira Parrish
Williford Elementary - Brenda Collins
Winstead Avenue Elementary - Stephanie Logan
UNITED WAY...THE NRMPS WAY!

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ASK THE SUPT TAKES ON NEW LOOK, NEW FORMAT WITH STUDENTS AT THE HELM

Journalism students from Nash-Rocky Mount Early College High manned cameras, ran the stopwatch and hosted the first of four episodes of NRMPS-TVs newly revamped Ask The Supt.  The current format is a question and answer talk show with the students generating the questions and then writing the script.  For the pilot episode, Dr. Anthony Jackson, Superintendent NRMPS was the guest and eagerly answered the students' questions.
When asked what they thought about being a part of the inaugural episode, the students agreed it was an interesting experience. "I really enjoyed it! I love pointing cameras at people and making something other people will enjoy," said 11th grader Fallon Kehoe.  Super Senior Ian Duke, the Floor Director for the episode, thought "it was interesting and fun learning the signals and getting to meet him (Dr. Jackson)."
Currently the hosting/camera/floor duties rotate monthly between two schools, NRM ECHS and Red Oak Middle School.  In October ROMS will film their first episode with Dr. Eric Cunningham, Associate Superintendent of Facilities and Operations.
Don't miss it! 

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BUSES WIRED WITH NEW TWO-WAY COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS

The 153 Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools buses that transport over 10,200 students to and from school every day, will soon be equipped with a new two-way radio system designed to improve communication and bus safety. The installation of the new Motorola Moto Turbo system on each bus is expected to be complete by mid-October.
Associate Superintendent of Facilities and Operations Dr. Eric Cunningham said the two-way radio system will serve as a model for other systems that the school district plans to install later down the road. “We are really impressed with this system and the capabilities it provides.” Cunningham said. “Use of this system on our buses is foundational, but it can be expanded for additional layers of communication based on our needs. While we can’t predict what all of our future needs will be, this system is a proactive measure and it will not be impacted by outside factors.”
Using the two-way radio system, the NRMPS Transportation department can communicate directly with the 153 total buses in the fleet. Director of Transportation Binford Sloan said this system will make it easier to keep track of where buses are and what they need at all times. “Prior to this system, we were communicating with bus drivers using cell phones,” Sloan said. “Now we have a way to communicate between buses, from the bus garage to particular buses, or zones of buses, or to the entire fleet at one time. It’s a safer way of reaching our bus drivers and is another layer of protection for students.”
Sloan said that nearly two-thirds of school districts across the state are using similar systems. Earlier this year the school district’s bus communication infrastructure was transferred from the Nextel network to the Sprint network, and that transition provided the perfect opportunity to begin planning for the installation.
The systems will also be used to help bus drivers communicate directly with first responders in the event of an emergency situation. Bus drivers received initial training on the system during their annual in-service event, but training will be ongoing. 
Cunningham is confident that as the system successfully meets the needs of the transportation department, that opportunities to expand will become reality, as funding becomes available. “We are already exploring how we can take this system to fully encompass communication at the schools,” said Cunningham. “As funding becomes available, we could expand our channels so that principals could use the system throughout their school campuses and near the perimeters. From the district-level, we could use the system on a single frequency to communicate with all schools simultaneously.”
The school system is also utilizing real-time GPS systems on all buses, so buses can be easily tracked at all times. These systems have been in place for nearly 10 years, and since 2012, have been linked to an online transportation portal for parents.
At the opening of this school year, the Transportation department used the online portal to encourage parents to check their bus routes prior to the start of school. “The transportation portal reflects the information from our GPS system, so this year we set a deadline for students to request transportation,” said Sloan. “Bus routes were constantly changing, prior to the opening of school, so we planned for a 48-hour window for processing. In most cases, we were able to process the requests in less time than that. The system helped make for an overall smooth opening.”
Using the new GPS system, the NRMPS Transportation department has been able to stretch fuel dollars, by examining and eliminating unnecessary bus stops to maximize efficiency.
“We have roughly the same number of students being transported now as we did four or five years ago,” said Cunningham. “We are thinking differently in the operations department and we capitalize on every opportunity to maximize our efficiencies. Mr. Sloan and his staff have been the trendsetters for this, and other school districts across the state are following our lead.”
The GPS technology has allowed NRMPS to cut the bus fleet by nearly 50 buses over the past three years. Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools received the Trailblazer Award from the North Carolina Pupil Transportation Association for the GPS Systems.
Cunningham said that the GPS and two-way radios are just the beginning of the Operations team’s commitment to efficiency. “As the operations team, we play a critical role in removing as many managerial responsibilities as possible, in an effective manner, so that our principals and educators can focus on instruction and preparing our students for the future.”

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