🌟 Employee Spotlight 🌟
Congratulations Katrina Wright from Elizabethtown Middle School!
Mrs. Wright is an excellent leader who consistently demonstrates her ability to Begin with the End in Mind. As head of the custodial staff, she has developed a system for maintaining the school that is instrumental in our ability to foster a positive school culture. Mrs. Wright's leadership and organizational skills create an environment where students and staff can thrive.
Join us in celebrating Mrs. Wright's outstanding contributions! 👏
Congratulations Katrina Wright from Elizabethtown Middle School!
Mrs. Wright is an excellent leader who consistently demonstrates her ability to Begin with the End in Mind. As head of the custodial staff, she has developed a system for maintaining the school that is instrumental in our ability to foster a positive school culture. Mrs. Wright's leadership and organizational skills create an environment where students and staff can thrive.
Join us in celebrating Mrs. Wright's outstanding contributions! 👏
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 Ramona Murphy and Sabra Ludlum from East Bladen High School!
Whether it's finding substitutes, assisting with schedules, or helping put supplies in teachers' hands, Ms. Murphy is an all-around true asset to East Bladen High School. With over 30 years at East Bladen, she is the essence of what it means to be an Eagle. She goes above and beyond in all areas without complaint, and no day is complete without an interaction with Ms. Murphy—it will leave you blessed!
Ms. Ludlum consistently takes on additional tasks and projects, readily stepping in to support both in and out of the classroom. She has demonstrated exceptional willingness when taking on new roles and responsibilities, frequently taking initiative to assist others and streamline processes for the team's benefit. Sabra is reliable, collaborative, and has cultivated meaningful relationships with students who view her as a trusted confidante. Her hard work and dedication contribute to the overall positive environment at East Bladen High School.
Join us in celebrating Ms. Murphy and Ms. Ludlum's outstanding contributions! 👏
🌟 Employee Spotlight 🌟
Congratulations Ramona Murphy and Sabra Ludlum from East Bladen High School!
Whether it's finding substitutes, assisting with schedules, or helping put supplies in teachers' hands, Ms. Murphy is an all-around true asset to East Bladen High School. With over 30 years at East Bladen, she is the essence of what it means to be an Eagle. She goes above and beyond in all areas without complaint, and no day is complete without an interaction with Ms. Murphy—it will leave you blessed!
Ms. Ludlum consistently takes on additional tasks and projects, readily stepping in to support both in and out of the classroom. She has demonstrated exceptional willingness when taking on new roles and responsibilities, frequently taking initiative to assist others and streamline processes for the team's benefit. Sabra is reliable, collaborative, and has cultivated meaningful relationships with students who view her as a trusted confidante. Her hard work and dedication contribute to the overall positive environment at East Bladen High School.
Join us in celebrating Ms. Murphy and Ms. Ludlum's outstanding contributions! 👏
🌟 Student of the Month Spotlight 🌟
Congratulations Emily from East Arcadia School!
Emily shines as both a leader and an exceptional student. She demonstrates strong leadership skills by always helping others while excelling academically, showing that success and service go hand in hand.
Join us in celebrating Emily's outstanding contributions! 👏
Congratulations Emily from East Arcadia School!
Emily shines as both a leader and an exceptional student. She demonstrates strong leadership skills by always helping others while excelling academically, showing that success and service go hand in hand.
Join us in celebrating Emily's outstanding contributions! 👏
🌟 Employee Spotlight 🌟
Congratulations Gayla Collins from Elizabethtown Primary!
Ms. Collins does an exceptional job at Elizabethtown Primary. She supports two first-grade classrooms, serves as the SIT secretary, leads reading volunteers, and consistently steps in wherever needed. Her dedication and flexibility have a tremendous impact on our school community. We are truly grateful to have Ms. Collins on the Etown Primary team.
Join us in celebrating Ms. Collins' outstanding contributions! 👏
Congratulations Gayla Collins from Elizabethtown Primary!
Ms. Collins does an exceptional job at Elizabethtown Primary. She supports two first-grade classrooms, serves as the SIT secretary, leads reading volunteers, and consistently steps in wherever needed. Her dedication and flexibility have a tremendous impact on our school community. We are truly grateful to have Ms. Collins on the Etown Primary team.
Join us in celebrating Ms. Collins' outstanding contributions! 👏
🌟 Employee Spotlight 🌟
Congratulations Gabriel Ann Corbett from Dublin Primary School!
Mrs. Corbett is one of Dublin Primary's shining educators! Her creativity, love for her students, and passion for teaching make learning both exciting and meaningful every single day. Mrs. Corbett goes above and beyond to inspire confidence, spark curiosity, and create a classroom filled with joy and leadership. Dublin Primary is brighter because she leads with heart, and purpose.
Join us in celebrating Mrs. Corbett's outstanding contributions! 👏
Congratulations Gabriel Ann Corbett from Dublin Primary School!
Mrs. Corbett is one of Dublin Primary's shining educators! Her creativity, love for her students, and passion for teaching make learning both exciting and meaningful every single day. Mrs. Corbett goes above and beyond to inspire confidence, spark curiosity, and create a classroom filled with joy and leadership. Dublin Primary is brighter because she leads with heart, and purpose.
Join us in celebrating Mrs. Corbett's outstanding contributions! 👏
🌟 Student of the Month Spotlight 🌟
Congratulations Jose from Bladen Early College!
Jose is a caring, compassionate, and extremely creative student who makes a meaningful difference in his school community. He uses his talents to help others in times of need and expresses his artistic abilities through his schoolwork, setting the bar high for other students. Jose's combination of empathy and creativity makes him an inspiring role model.
Join us in celebrating Jose's outstanding contributions! 👏
Congratulations Jose from Bladen Early College!
Jose is a caring, compassionate, and extremely creative student who makes a meaningful difference in his school community. He uses his talents to help others in times of need and expresses his artistic abilities through his schoolwork, setting the bar high for other students. Jose's combination of empathy and creativity makes him an inspiring role model.
Join us in celebrating Jose's outstanding contributions! 👏
🌟 Student of the Month Spotlight 🌟
Congratulations Brook from Elizabethtown Middle School!
Brook exemplifies what it means to be a highly effective student through her quiet diligence and unwavering commitment to excellence. She consistently demonstrates proactive leadership by taking responsibility for her learning and staying focused on her goals. Brook approaches her work with seriousness and intention, completing every assignment with accuracy and pride. Her respectful attitude and positive presence create a calm and productive classroom environment, and she prioritizes her academic success with remarkable maturity.
Join us in celebrating Brook's outstanding contributions! 👏
Congratulations Brook from Elizabethtown Middle School!
Brook exemplifies what it means to be a highly effective student through her quiet diligence and unwavering commitment to excellence. She consistently demonstrates proactive leadership by taking responsibility for her learning and staying focused on her goals. Brook approaches her work with seriousness and intention, completing every assignment with accuracy and pride. Her respectful attitude and positive presence create a calm and productive classroom environment, and she prioritizes her academic success with remarkable maturity.
Join us in celebrating Brook's outstanding contributions! 👏
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 Shyla Young and Tyler Crilley from Bladenboro Middle School!
Mrs. Young is a dedicated and committed teacher who consistently goes above and beyond to support her students' learning and growth. She plans engaging, standards-based lessons and takes time to ensure every student feels valued and capable of success. Her professionalism and positive attitude make her a trusted and respected member of the BMS community.
Mrs. Crilley is Bladenboro Middle School’s outstanding bookkeeper. She demonstrates unwavering attention to detail that keeps things running smoothly each day. Mrs. Crilley consistently goes above and beyond to ensure accuracy, organization, and accountability in every task. Her reliability and positive attitude make her an invaluable part of the Bulldog team.
Join us in celebrating Mrs. Young and Tyler's outstanding contributions! 👏
🌟Employee Spotlight 🌟 Congratulations Shyla Young and Tyler Crilley from Bladenboro Middle School!
Mrs. Young is a dedicated and committed teacher who consistently goes above and beyond to support her students' learning and growth. She plans engaging, standards-based lessons and takes time to ensure every student feels valued and capable of success. Her professionalism and positive attitude make her a trusted and respected member of the BMS community.
Mrs. Crilley is Bladenboro Middle School’s outstanding bookkeeper. She demonstrates unwavering attention to detail that keeps things running smoothly each day. Mrs. Crilley consistently goes above and beyond to ensure accuracy, organization, and accountability in every task. Her reliability and positive attitude make her an invaluable part of the Bulldog team.
Join us in celebrating Mrs. Young and Tyler's outstanding contributions! 👏
🌟 Student of the Month Spotlight 🌟
Congratulations Nora from Clarkton School of Discovery!
Nora is an excellent student with a positive attitude who consistently goes above and beyond in the classroom. She supports her peers and demonstrates leadership in everything she does, making a meaningful impact on those around her. Nora's hard work, dedication, and commitment to helping others make us proud to recognize and celebrate her accomplishments.
Join us in celebrating Nora's outstanding contributions! 👏
Congratulations Nora from Clarkton School of Discovery!
Nora is an excellent student with a positive attitude who consistently goes above and beyond in the classroom. She supports her peers and demonstrates leadership in everything she does, making a meaningful impact on those around her. Nora's hard work, dedication, and commitment to helping others make us proud to recognize and celebrate her accomplishments.
Join us in celebrating Nora's outstanding contributions! 👏
🌟 Employee Spotlight 🌟
Congratulations Elizabeth Priest from Clarkton School of Discovery!
Elizabeth Priest's dedication to Clarkton School of Discovery shines through everything she does—from leading the beta club to serving as athletic director and coaching. Her energy, commitment, and support for students create a lasting impact on our campus every day.
Join us in celebrating Ms. Priest's outstanding contributions! 👏
🌟 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