Pender County Schools: Recent Updates, Initiatives, and Achievements

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Pender County Schools is a public school system located in southeastern North Carolina, serving over 10,000 students across 19 schools. The district includes a variety of educational institutions, from elementary to high schools, and offers a range of academic programs and extracurricular activities.

Recent Updates and Events

  1. Tropical Storm Response:
    • Pender County Schools, along with New Hanover County Schools, faced criticism for keeping schools open during a recent tropical storm. The decision was made based on the latest information from the National Weather Service and local emergency management officials. However, as the weather conditions worsened, the district moved to an early release schedule to ensure student safety.
  2. Board of Education Meetings:
    • The district regularly holds Board of Education meetings to discuss important educational initiatives and policies. The most recent regular meeting was held on September 10, 2024. Additionally, a special meeting was scheduled for September 16, 2024, to address the recent storm response and other pressing matters.
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  1. New K-8 School Construction:
    • Pender County Schools recently broke ground on a new K-8 school in Hampstead. This project aims to alleviate overcrowding and provide modern educational facilities. The new school is expected to open in the fall of 2027 and will accommodate over 2,300 students.
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  1. Digital Equity Initiatives:
    • The district has partnered with NC State’s Band-NC program to address the digital divide among students. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance digital equity and ensure all students have access to necessary technology.
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  1. Academic Achievements:
    • Pender County Schools celebrated significant academic achievements, including the recognition of Topsail High School's Miranda Wells as a finalist for the NCCAT 2024 Burroughs Wellcome Fund NC CTE Teacher of the Year Award.

General Information

  • Schools: The district includes eight elementary schools, five middle schools, three traditional high schools, an Early College High School, a K-8 school, and the Pender Innovative Learning Academy, which offers various personalized learning pathways.
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  • Programs: Pender County Schools offers a wide range of academic opportunities, including STEM programs, creative arts, and college and career preparation. The district is committed to providing a challenging and wholesome educational environment.
  • Community Engagement: The district actively engages with the community through events like career fairs and public meetings, fostering a culture of excellence in education.
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For more detailed information, you can visit the Pender County Schools website or their social media pages.