🌟 Student of the Month Spotlight 🌟
Congratulations Michael from Bladenboro Middle School!
Michael is an enthusiastic learner who approaches each day with a positive attitude and a willingness to try his best. His positive energy and kindness make him a standout student.
Join us in celebrating Michael's outstanding contributions! 👏
🌟 Employee Spotlight 🌟
Congratulations Renatha Gibbs from East Arcadia School!
Ms. Gibbs wears many hats at East Arcadia—serving as data manager, bookkeeper, and front office receptionist. She makes sure that the school is running smoothly each and every day. Ms. Gibbs' versatility, dedication, and ability to juggle multiple responsibilities with excellence make her an invaluable member of the East Arcadia community.
Join us in celebrating Ms. Gibbs' outstanding contributions! 👏
‼️Important schedule change for Monday, December 15.
Due to extreme cold temperatures and a forecasted wind chill in the single digits Monday morning, we are modifying our schedule for the safety of our students and staff.
Monday, December 15 will now operate on a two-hour delay for both students and staff and school will dismiss at the regular time Monday afternoon.
Please note: We were originally scheduled for an early release day on Monday. That has been changed to a two-hour delay and dismissal will be at our regular time.
Tuesday through Friday of next week will continue as scheduled early release days.
🧣🧤Please ensure your child dresses warmly for the cold weather and if you have any questions, please contact your child's school.
Thank you and stay warm!
Due to extreme cold temperatures and a forecasted wind chill in the single digits Monday morning, we are modifying our schedule for the safety of our students and staff.
Monday, December 15 will now operate on a two-hour delay for both students and staff and school will dismiss at the regular time Monday afternoon.
Please note: We were originally scheduled for an early release day on Monday. That has been changed to a two-hour delay and dismissal will be at our regular time.
Tuesday through Friday of next week will continue as scheduled early release days.
🧣🧤Please ensure your child dresses warmly for the cold weather and if you have any questions, please contact your child's school.
Thank you and stay warm!
It's never too late to celebrate excellence! While November may be behind us, these incredible staff members deserve their moment in the spotlight. Join us as we celebrate our November Staff Members of the Month and the amazing contributions they make to our school community every single day! 🌟
🌟Employee Spotlight 🌟 Congratulations Nick Loscalzo and Jeanette Lucas from Bladen Early College High School!
Mr. Loscalzo has a calm and inviting demeanor and is very knowledgeable in the area of math. He has a way of making math relatable to students and presents it in a way that makes students feel comfortable learning. His approachable teaching style and expertise help students build confidence and achieve success in mathematics.
Ms. Lucas, affectionately known as "Mama Lucas," has an excellent relationship with both students and staff. She brings a positive spirit to our team with playful humor and faithful service. She encourages everyone around her to be the best they can be, and her presence makes the Early College a brighter place.
Join us in celebrating Mr. Loscalzo and Ms. Lucas' outstanding contributions! 👏
🌟 Students of the Month Spotlight 🌟
Congratulations Liam and Esmeralda from Bladen Lakes Primary!
Liam brings positivity to every classroom moment. His polite demeanor and eagerness to help make him a joy to have in class, and his ever-present smile brightens the day for both teachers and classmates alike.
Esmeralda exemplifies what it means to be a helpful and attentive student. She consistently follows directions and looks for opportunities to support others, demonstrating a caring spirit that makes the Bladen Lakes Primary school community stronger.
Join us in celebrating Liam and Esmeralda! 👏
Congratulations Liam and Esmeralda from Bladen Lakes Primary!
Liam brings positivity to every classroom moment. His polite demeanor and eagerness to help make him a joy to have in class, and his ever-present smile brightens the day for both teachers and classmates alike.
Esmeralda exemplifies what it means to be a helpful and attentive student. She consistently follows directions and looks for opportunities to support others, demonstrating a caring spirit that makes the Bladen Lakes Primary school community stronger.
Join us in celebrating Liam and Esmeralda! 👏
🌟 Employee Spotlight 🌟
Congratulations Alistair Naidu from West Bladen High School!
Mr. Naidu supports the West Bladen High School multilingual learners each day with patience, skill, and genuine care. We are grateful for all he does for the Knight family and the positive impact he makes on students' lives.
Join us in celebrating Mr. Naidu's outstanding contributions! 👏
🎨✨ We are proud to showcase student artwork in our District Office! Each month, the display will rotate to feature pieces created by talented young artists from across our schools.
For the month of December, we are excited to highlight artwork from students at Bladenboro Middle School. Their creativity and teamwork shine through in a collaborative mural that now brings school spirit and inspiration to our office walls.”🌟
We look forward to celebrating student artists from every school throughout the year—another way we’re highlighting the many gifts and talents of our #LearnersToLeaders.
For the month of December, we are excited to highlight artwork from students at Bladenboro Middle School. Their creativity and teamwork shine through in a collaborative mural that now brings school spirit and inspiration to our office walls.”🌟
We look forward to celebrating student artists from every school throughout the year—another way we’re highlighting the many gifts and talents of our #LearnersToLeaders.
December BOE Meeting Highlights
🇺🇸 A special thank you to Victoria Baiza Rivon and Paisley Singletary from Bladenboro Middle School for leading the Pledge of Allegiance.
✨Spotlights and Recognitions✨
📝 Mr. Dixon from the local VFW presented an award to Jackson Bridgers from East Bladen High School. Not present was Alayah Turner from Elizabethtown Middle School.
🍳 Congratulations to the following students who earned their ServSafe Food Manager Certification: Sheyla Majera, Joanna Rodriguez, Jania Leach, Kali Allen, Charlotte Cookson, Haley Taylor, Vera Valentiner, and Armando Reyna-Vicencio
⚽ North Carolina Soccer Coaches Association Awards
Jonah Bryan: All-Region
Jayce Hatcher: All-Region
Ishaq Algozy: All-State
Davion Lewis: All-State
Jay Raynor: Regional Coach of the Year
Eric Sandoval: Regional Assistant Coach of the Year
🏈 Congratulations to the EBHS JV Football team on being named Carolina Conference Co-Champions: Ryne Priest, Ethan Burden, Damian Maynor, Prince McKoy, Omar Powell, Joel Lewis, Avery McKinley, Darnell Rouse, Anthony Jones, Prince Powell, Marley Whitaker-Vaughan, Lakota Schmale, ZahMarion Pone, Chase Moultrie, Khyrin Hairston, Chandler Wall, Cayden Morton, Deunta Travis, Kenley Parks, Hysiah Baldwin, Kwesi Holloway, Mason Sanford, Kanye Smith, Elijah Smith, Mason Durden, Tryone Freeman, Jemel Carter, Coach Teffrey McKoy, Asst. Coach Cory Corbett, and Asst. Coach Alex Barbour.
💫Students and Employees of the Month💫
Each month, Bladen County Schools recognizes students and employees who exemplify what it means to be learners and leaders in our district.
Our Students of the Month demonstrate kindness, responsibility, academic effort, and a commitment to growth—modeling Leader in Me habits that make their schools better places to learn.
Our Employees of the Month show outstanding professionalism, teamwork, and care—leading with heart whether in the classroom, on a bus, in the cafeteria, or behind the scenes.
Congratulations to all of our December honorees.
👥Board Organization: The Board of Education elected Mackie Singletary as Board Chair and Tim Benton as Vice Chair for the upcoming year.
📋Information Items
🏗️ Facilities Update: Bennine Lennon, Director of Maintenance, provided a comprehensive breakdown of major projects he and his team have completed across the district, including bathroom renovations, HVAC replacements, and infrastructure improvements at schools throughout the county.
🍽️ School Nutrition Equipment Update: Crystal O'Briant, Director of School Nutrition, provided an update on kitchen equipment needs across the district and shared that the department is pursuing grant funding to address equipment repairs and replacements.
📋 Board Committees Policy Review: Dr. Atkinson reviewed the board committees policy. The Board Chair will create committee assignments effective January 1, 2025. Board members were asked to submit their committee preferences by December 15th.
The BOE Approved....
✓ East Arcadia School Consolidation Study: The BOE approved moving forward with scheduling public hearings on the potential consolidation of East Arcadia School with Clarkton School of Discovery. Important Note: This action authorizes public hearings only—no decision has been made regarding school closure. Public hearings will be held at both East Arcadia School and Clarkton School of Discovery, with dates to be determined and announced. The public hearings will follow board meeting public comment guidelines, with the exception of the 30-minute time limit. Additional information will be forthcoming. A copy of the study as well as the presentation from the board meeting are available on our website.
✓Use of Wireless Communication Devices Policy: The BOE approved the Use of Wireless Communication Devices Policy. This policy aligns with our Code of Conduct.
📆Key Dates and Reminders
All schools will have early release during the final week before winter break
Friday, December 20 is the last day before break—all buildings close at 1 PM.
Required teacher workday on January 2, 2026
Students return to school on Monday, January 5, 2026.
📊Superintendent's Report Highlights
🔍 Financial Audit: Dr. Atkinson has engaged with an auditing firm to conduct a comprehensive financial audit. The firm is scheduled to return in February with their findings.
📈 Strategic Plan: The district will begin the process of overhauling its strategic plan to align with State Superintendent Green's updated state plan. The process is expected to take 4-6 months, with the goal of having a new strategic plan in place by July 1, 2026. The process will include input from students, staff, and the community.
🙏 Community Thanks: Dr. Atkinson extended thanks to Baldwin Branch Church for their support of the district.
🤝 County Commissioner Meeting: The superintendent is working to schedule a meeting with the new county commissioner leadership in January to discuss district needs and priorities.
🇺🇸 A special thank you to Victoria Baiza Rivon and Paisley Singletary from Bladenboro Middle School for leading the Pledge of Allegiance.
✨Spotlights and Recognitions✨
📝 Mr. Dixon from the local VFW presented an award to Jackson Bridgers from East Bladen High School. Not present was Alayah Turner from Elizabethtown Middle School.
🍳 Congratulations to the following students who earned their ServSafe Food Manager Certification: Sheyla Majera, Joanna Rodriguez, Jania Leach, Kali Allen, Charlotte Cookson, Haley Taylor, Vera Valentiner, and Armando Reyna-Vicencio
⚽ North Carolina Soccer Coaches Association Awards
Jonah Bryan: All-Region
Jayce Hatcher: All-Region
Ishaq Algozy: All-State
Davion Lewis: All-State
Jay Raynor: Regional Coach of the Year
Eric Sandoval: Regional Assistant Coach of the Year
🏈 Congratulations to the EBHS JV Football team on being named Carolina Conference Co-Champions: Ryne Priest, Ethan Burden, Damian Maynor, Prince McKoy, Omar Powell, Joel Lewis, Avery McKinley, Darnell Rouse, Anthony Jones, Prince Powell, Marley Whitaker-Vaughan, Lakota Schmale, ZahMarion Pone, Chase Moultrie, Khyrin Hairston, Chandler Wall, Cayden Morton, Deunta Travis, Kenley Parks, Hysiah Baldwin, Kwesi Holloway, Mason Sanford, Kanye Smith, Elijah Smith, Mason Durden, Tryone Freeman, Jemel Carter, Coach Teffrey McKoy, Asst. Coach Cory Corbett, and Asst. Coach Alex Barbour.
💫Students and Employees of the Month💫
Each month, Bladen County Schools recognizes students and employees who exemplify what it means to be learners and leaders in our district.
Our Students of the Month demonstrate kindness, responsibility, academic effort, and a commitment to growth—modeling Leader in Me habits that make their schools better places to learn.
Our Employees of the Month show outstanding professionalism, teamwork, and care—leading with heart whether in the classroom, on a bus, in the cafeteria, or behind the scenes.
Congratulations to all of our December honorees.
👥Board Organization: The Board of Education elected Mackie Singletary as Board Chair and Tim Benton as Vice Chair for the upcoming year.
📋Information Items
🏗️ Facilities Update: Bennine Lennon, Director of Maintenance, provided a comprehensive breakdown of major projects he and his team have completed across the district, including bathroom renovations, HVAC replacements, and infrastructure improvements at schools throughout the county.
🍽️ School Nutrition Equipment Update: Crystal O'Briant, Director of School Nutrition, provided an update on kitchen equipment needs across the district and shared that the department is pursuing grant funding to address equipment repairs and replacements.
📋 Board Committees Policy Review: Dr. Atkinson reviewed the board committees policy. The Board Chair will create committee assignments effective January 1, 2025. Board members were asked to submit their committee preferences by December 15th.
The BOE Approved....
✓ East Arcadia School Consolidation Study: The BOE approved moving forward with scheduling public hearings on the potential consolidation of East Arcadia School with Clarkton School of Discovery. Important Note: This action authorizes public hearings only—no decision has been made regarding school closure. Public hearings will be held at both East Arcadia School and Clarkton School of Discovery, with dates to be determined and announced. The public hearings will follow board meeting public comment guidelines, with the exception of the 30-minute time limit. Additional information will be forthcoming. A copy of the study as well as the presentation from the board meeting are available on our website.
✓Use of Wireless Communication Devices Policy: The BOE approved the Use of Wireless Communication Devices Policy. This policy aligns with our Code of Conduct.
📆Key Dates and Reminders
All schools will have early release during the final week before winter break
Friday, December 20 is the last day before break—all buildings close at 1 PM.
Required teacher workday on January 2, 2026
Students return to school on Monday, January 5, 2026.
📊Superintendent's Report Highlights
🔍 Financial Audit: Dr. Atkinson has engaged with an auditing firm to conduct a comprehensive financial audit. The firm is scheduled to return in February with their findings.
📈 Strategic Plan: The district will begin the process of overhauling its strategic plan to align with State Superintendent Green's updated state plan. The process is expected to take 4-6 months, with the goal of having a new strategic plan in place by July 1, 2026. The process will include input from students, staff, and the community.
🙏 Community Thanks: Dr. Atkinson extended thanks to Baldwin Branch Church for their support of the district.
🤝 County Commissioner Meeting: The superintendent is working to schedule a meeting with the new county commissioner leadership in January to discuss district needs and priorities.
School leadership in action! Principals and APs gathered at NCPAPA today, united in their commitment to North Carolina students.
Tonight's BOE meeting can be viewed online by clicking the link below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GvW0qOxX1wM
Notice of Regular Scheduled Board Meeting
The Bladen County Board of Education will hold its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, December 8 at 6 pm. The meeting will be held in the boardroom at the District Administration Building.
This is an official meeting and action items and personnel matters will be on the agenda, as per NCGS 143.318.11 (a)(1); and to consult with an attorney, if needed, as per NCGS 143.318.11 (a)(3).
The Bladen County Board of Education will hold its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, December 8 at 6 pm. The meeting will be held in the boardroom at the District Administration Building.
This is an official meeting and action items and personnel matters will be on the agenda, as per NCGS 143.318.11 (a)(1); and to consult with an attorney, if needed, as per NCGS 143.318.11 (a)(3).
🎉Congratulations to Hayley Baxley at Bladenboro Middle School, another BCS💡Bright Ideas Education Grant recipient!
Four County EMC Community Engagement Specialist Hannah Mabe presented a $1,890 grant award to teacher Hayley Baxley. Hayley’s plan for her grant is to create a hands-on life skills café that gives students with disabilities real opportunities to practice daily living and vocational skills. Students will learn how to handle money, read menus, follow multistep directions, prepare simple items, and communicate with peers and customers in a supportive school setting. This structured environment helps build independence, confidence, social competence, and future employment readiness.
Four County EMC is proud to support educators whose innovative projects enrich classroom instruction across a variety of disciplines including music, art, history, reading, science, technology, math, and engineering.
This year, Four County EMC awarded more than $40,000 in Bright Ideas grant funding to teachers across our service territory. To learn more, visit https://www.fourcty.org/community/bright-ideas/.
We can't wait to see this project come to life!
Four County EMC Community Engagement Specialist Hannah Mabe presented a $1,890 grant award to teacher Hayley Baxley. Hayley’s plan for her grant is to create a hands-on life skills café that gives students with disabilities real opportunities to practice daily living and vocational skills. Students will learn how to handle money, read menus, follow multistep directions, prepare simple items, and communicate with peers and customers in a supportive school setting. This structured environment helps build independence, confidence, social competence, and future employment readiness.
Four County EMC is proud to support educators whose innovative projects enrich classroom instruction across a variety of disciplines including music, art, history, reading, science, technology, math, and engineering.
This year, Four County EMC awarded more than $40,000 in Bright Ideas grant funding to teachers across our service territory. To learn more, visit https://www.fourcty.org/community/bright-ideas/.
We can't wait to see this project come to life!
Prepared. Trained. Ready.
Today, members of our staff completed Stop the Bleed training in partnership with the Bladen County Sheriff's Office. Every team member in Bladen County Schools completes this training to ensure they have the skills to respond in critical moments.
This is training we hope we never have to use—but we're committed to ensuring our schools are as safe and prepared as possible. When it comes to protecting our students and staff, we leave nothing to chance.
Thank you to the Bladen County Sheriff's Office for this vital partnership. Together, we're building a safer tomorrow.
Today, members of our staff completed Stop the Bleed training in partnership with the Bladen County Sheriff's Office. Every team member in Bladen County Schools completes this training to ensure they have the skills to respond in critical moments.
This is training we hope we never have to use—but we're committed to ensuring our schools are as safe and prepared as possible. When it comes to protecting our students and staff, we leave nothing to chance.
Thank you to the Bladen County Sheriff's Office for this vital partnership. Together, we're building a safer tomorrow.
🎉Congratulations to Kim Jones at West Bladen High School, a💡Bright Ideas Education Grant recipient!
Four County EMC Community Engagement Specialist Hannah Mabe presented a $2,000 grant award to teacher Kim Jones. This funding, made possible by Four County EMC members, will help create a Sensory Exploration Zone, a dedicated space designed to enhance student learning, comfort, and connection.
Four County EMC is proud to support educators whose innovative projects enrich classroom instruction across a variety of disciplines including music, art, history, reading, science, technology, math, and engineering.
This year, Four County EMC awarded more than $40,000 in Bright Ideas grant funding to teachers across our service territory. To learn more, visit https://www.fourcty.org/community/bright-ideas/.
We can't wait to see this project come to life!
Four County EMC Community Engagement Specialist Hannah Mabe presented a $2,000 grant award to teacher Kim Jones. This funding, made possible by Four County EMC members, will help create a Sensory Exploration Zone, a dedicated space designed to enhance student learning, comfort, and connection.
Four County EMC is proud to support educators whose innovative projects enrich classroom instruction across a variety of disciplines including music, art, history, reading, science, technology, math, and engineering.
This year, Four County EMC awarded more than $40,000 in Bright Ideas grant funding to teachers across our service territory. To learn more, visit https://www.fourcty.org/community/bright-ideas/.
We can't wait to see this project come to life!
Holiday creativity is in full swing at Bladenboro Middle School! 🎨 Students are creating special decorations for their school tree—each ornament is a unique reflection of their creativity and holiday cheer. 🎄
🌟 Student of the Month Spotlight 🌟
Congratulations Kali from West Bladen High School!
Kali is an outstanding student-athlete and a valued member of the West Bladen Volleyball team. She consistently demonstrates hard work and dedication both on the court and in the classroom. Kali is a conscientious student who sets a great example for her peers through her focus, teamwork, and commitment to excellence.
Join us in celebrating Kali's outstanding contributions to our school community! 👏
Congratulations Kali from West Bladen High School!
Kali is an outstanding student-athlete and a valued member of the West Bladen Volleyball team. She consistently demonstrates hard work and dedication both on the court and in the classroom. Kali is a conscientious student who sets a great example for her peers through her focus, teamwork, and commitment to excellence.
Join us in celebrating Kali's outstanding contributions to our school community! 👏
🌟 Student of the Month Spotlight 🌟
Congratulations Omarion from West Bladen High School!
Omarion exemplifies what it means to be an active community member at West Bladen. With his positive energy and school pride, Omarion helps set the tone each day, often making announcements and serving as a voice many recognize throughout the school.
Join us in celebrating Omarion's outstanding contributions to our school community! 👏
Congratulations Omarion from West Bladen High School!
Omarion exemplifies what it means to be an active community member at West Bladen. With his positive energy and school pride, Omarion helps set the tone each day, often making announcements and serving as a voice many recognize throughout the school.
Join us in celebrating Omarion's outstanding contributions to our school community! 👏
🦃Happy Thanksgiving!
This Thanksgiving, we hope you know how grateful we are for each of you—our students, our families, and our incredible staff. Your dedication, support, and partnership make our schools stronger every single day, and we are truly thankful for the Bladen County Schools family.
This Thanksgiving, we hope you know how grateful we are for each of you—our students, our families, and our incredible staff. Your dedication, support, and partnership make our schools stronger every single day, and we are truly thankful for the Bladen County Schools family.
We are incredibly grateful for the organizations and individuals who invest in our schools and students. Your support makes a real difference in creating safe, welcoming learning environments where our children can thrive.
Today, we want to recognize Lewis Chapel Missionary Baptist Church for their generous donation of cleaning supplies to Bladen Lakes Primary School. This thoughtful contribution helps us maintain clean, healthy spaces for our students and staff every day.
Thank you, Lewis Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, for being such a valued partner in education. Together, we're building a stronger community! 💙
Today, we want to recognize Lewis Chapel Missionary Baptist Church for their generous donation of cleaning supplies to Bladen Lakes Primary School. This thoughtful contribution helps us maintain clean, healthy spaces for our students and staff every day.
Thank you, Lewis Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, for being such a valued partner in education. Together, we're building a stronger community! 💙
🌟 Student of the Month Spotlight 🌟
Congratulations Jakhi from Tar Heel School!
Jakhi demonstrates great character and commitment to his academic studies. Participating actively in class and leading by example, his dedication to learning and positive influence on peers make him an outstanding role model in our school community.
Join us in celebrating Jakhi's outstanding contributions to our school community! 👏
Congratulations Jakhi from Tar Heel School!
Jakhi demonstrates great character and commitment to his academic studies. Participating actively in class and leading by example, his dedication to learning and positive influence on peers make him an outstanding role model in our school community.
Join us in celebrating Jakhi's outstanding contributions to our school community! 👏
