The North Carolina Department of Justice is working hard to keep kids safe. Youth today face a variety of challenges –  some that may be familiar to parents and many that simply did not exist in generations past, before fentanyl, cell phones,  and social media. To help support parents, caregivers, and people who work with children and youth, NCDOJ launched a  webinar series: Protecting the Next Generation of North Carolinians. 

We invite you to join the upcoming session on Youth Substance Use, in partnership with the North Carolina Department  of Health and Human Services:  

Wednesday, February 28 from 12:00 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.  

Speakers include:  

• Kelly Crosbie, MSW, LCSW, NC DHHS Director of the Division of Mental Health, Developmental  Disabilities, and Substance Use Services (DMHDDSUS)  

• Randy Abbott, Parent Advocate; Recovery Resource Advocate, Alcohol/Drug Council of NC

• Jarmichael R. Harris, MS, LCAS, Director of Scholastic Recovery, Addiction Professionals of NC

• Attorney General Josh Stein, NC DOJ  

This webinar is designed to provide parents, caregivers, grandparents, and others with helpful information and practical  tips to help keep NC kids healthy and safe.  

According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, in the last month 65,000 (8.14%) North Carolinians aged 12 to  17 report using drugs, and 9.17% report using alcohol. What is more, since their introduction in 2011, rates of youth e cigarette use in North Carolina have steadily increased, impacting 20.9% of high school students and 6.1% of middle school  students in 2019. 

To learn more about the Protecting the Next Generation of North Carolinians webinar series, which includes previous  sessions on Safe Gun Storage and Online Crimes, scan the QR code or visit the webinar series website.  

https://ncdoj.gov/protecting-the-next-generation-of-north-carolinians-webinar-series/ 

Please join us on February 28th and please share this invitation with others who may be interested.   

Join Us: Essential Drug Education for Parents - Feb 29th, 2024

Dear Parents/Guardians:

You're invited to the "New School Drug Ed for Parents" on Feb 29th, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., hosted by Nash County Public Schools.

This vital session, led by Kriya Lendzion, a renowned Addiction & Prevention Specialist, aims to equip you with the latest insights and tools to navigate the challenges of youth substance use. Kriya will discuss the dangers of current drug trends and answer your questions until 7:30 PM.

This event is crucial for parents of 5th graders to college-age students and is suitable for teens to attend with their parents.
Highlights:

- Addressing the 114% spike in youth fatal overdoses.
- Conversations around marijuana and new drug trends.
- Strategies for safe experimentation boundaries.
- Importance of open dialogue to prevent substance abuse.
- Impact of substances on young brains vs. adults.
- Rising overdose rates and effective prevention talks.

A Zoom link will be provided before the event, and a recording will be sent to all registrants. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge for safeguarding your children. 

https://nrmearlycollegehs.ncpschools.net/o/nrmechs/page/echs-application?fbclid=IwAR2bGf4zOAFzUe9rdKVmmfj1WnEBtW1mMO3ROSgf3-zwPzl08S34q8OYbik

https://citihs.ncpschools.net/

To register, visit invent.org/camp. The deadline to register is July 8th!

If you are a parent of a student currently in grades 9th through 12th and will be a rising 10th, 11th, 12th, or 13th grader next year and LIVE in Edgecombe County, this is important information for you.

The process of transferring your child so that they can continue their education at a Nash County Public High School is now underway.

This involves submitting a transfer request form for "legacy" students. It's crucial to stay informed and complete all necessary steps to ensure a smooth transition for your child.

Legacy Student Transfer Documents

If your child is a rising 10th-13th grader in Nash County Public Schools and resides in Edgecombe County, please read this page thoroughly. 

If you would like to Opt-In Your Child to STAY at their current school, please continue to follow the instructions below:

The Transfer process is now open for the legacy students! Simply visit our Scribbles website directly to begin the process. You might be prompted to create an account first.

https://nashncc.scriborder.com/

Please visit the following page for more information, i.e. how-to videos:

https://www.ncpschools.net/page/transfer-process-for-the-demerger

For more information about the Demerger:

https://www.ncpschools.net/o/ncps/page/ncpsdemerger

If you need Rooms Support, click HERE.

https://www.ncpschools.net/page/fafsa-information

3 Different Ways to Access the Model Release Form

For Use of Student’s Name, Picture, or Materials For Publication, Broadcast, Pen-Pal Exchange, Web Site Posting, and Class Projects.

Dear Parent/Guardian:

Your child's picture, name, or work may be used in one of the following ways:

• Posted to the school system or school website on the Internet.

• Submitted to publishers for publication.

• Shared with other students in pen-pal projects.

• Broadcast on television, radio, newspapers, and district social media.

• Used in a demonstration project to be presented at conferences or workshops.

• Published in the school yearbook.

I understand that directory information will be provided. I agree that Nash County Public Schools and those whose use of the publication, broadcast, pen-pal exchange, or website is authorized by the schools shall not be held liable for such use, display, on website, conference, or publication. I also understand that the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act, 20 U.S.C.s 1232 g, prohibits the disclosure of any confidential education record regarding my child without my written consent.

Permission is hereby granted for news photographers or videographers to photograph or record my child during the school day and at school-related activities for the expressed purpose of publication and broadcast. Permission is also granted for my child's work or picture to be published on the Internet and shown at conferences. Student work will appear with the student's first name and last name; no home address or telephone number will appear with the work.

By mandate of N.C. Law Senate Bill 49 / SL 2023-106.

How to Sign the Model Release Form: Guardians can sign the form through three different access points. This approach aims to accommodate all guardians and ensure equitable opportunities for all our families.

https://www.ncpschools.net/page/model-release-forms

How to Videos:

Rooms App Model Release Form

How to Find the Updated Model Release Form Inside Rooms

Nash County Public Schools (NCPS) hosted the North Carolina's North Central Region AIG Leaders meeting on Friday, February 16th. Wendy Hinson, NCPS AIG Coordinator, led the Professional Development (PD) from the book "Empowering Underrepresented Gifted Students." AIG Facilitator, Shauna Lewis, gave information from the NC Association for the Gifted & Talented, and Stephanie Cyrus, NC consultant, shared updates from the NC Department of Public Instruction.

Nash County Public Schools (NCPS) announces the recognition of its students by the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution in the prestigious George S. & Stella M. Knight Essay Contest. The contest, aimed at high school students in grades 9 through 12, encourages the exploration of the American Revolution through academic research and writing. Maddie Hart, a junior at Nash Central High School, was honored as the chapter winner by the Halifax Resolves Chapter for her exceptional essay, "Activist Without Acclaim," which delves into Joseph Warren's significant yet often overlooked contributions to the American Revolution. Hart received a neck ribbon, a certificate, and a monetary award for her distinguished work. 

Read more, https://www.ncpschools.net/article/1471803.

Southern Nash Middle School (SNMS) celebrates Black History Month by displaying a periodic table on one of its school walls that highlights artists, scientists, authors, actors/actresses, activists, athletes, musicians, politicians, famous firsts, and entrepreneurs. Students will research one of the individuals featured in the display and write a short biography, which will then be added to complete the exhibit.

Celebrating CTE Month and National FFA Week: Honoring Mr. B's 30-year Contribution to Agricultural Education!

As we celebrate Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month and National Future Farmers of America (FFA) Week, it's an opportune moment to spotlight Perry Bartholomew, affectionately known as Mr. B. Mr. B is a distinguished educator with three decades of experience in agricultural education at Southern Nash High School (SNHS). Mr. B's commitment to fostering a deep understanding and appreciation for agriculture among his students has made a lasting impact on thousands of students.  Mr. B, who teaches courses including Horticulture I and II, Landscaping, and Animal Science II: Companion Animals, has been a cornerstone of the agricultural education community at SNHS.

From Passion to Educational Pathway

Mr. B, who has devoted over 30 years to teaching, currently leads horticulture and animal science courses at SNHS. His path to agricultural education was unconventional; he focused initially on computer science at North Carolina State University, but his interest in plants and education prompted a career shift to agricultural education. Click HERE to learn more!

Nash County receives $40 million grant for new middle school

With the help of a $40 million grant, a solution is helping with the overcrowding at Southern Nash Middle School.

https://www.wral.com/story/nash-county-breaks-record-for-receiving-largest-grant-to-support-education-in-its-history/21286227/

Major Funding Milestone: Nash County Awarded $40 Million for Middle School Project

NASH COUNTY, N.C. — Nash County has received a $40 million grant from the Needs Based Grant program, funded by the North Carolina Education Lottery and a $4 million match by the county, earmarked for the construction of a new Southern Nash Middle School. State Superintendent of Public Instruction Catherine Truitt, along with Senator Lisa Stone Barnes and Representative Allen Chesser, visited Nash County today to present the award to Nash County and Nash County Public Schools (NCPS) officials. The funding aims to meet the educational needs of the southern region of the county. The new middle school will have the capacity to serve approximately 1,100 students. The existing middle school is slated to be converted into an elementary school.

"Our grant administration team went above and beyond in preparing for this application, and their exceptional effort deserves recognition," said Robbie Davis, Chairman of the Nash County Board of Commissioners. Davis highlighted that this is the largest school grant Nash County has secured during his tenure. He also expressed gratitude to both the Board of Commissioners and the Board of Education for their collaborative efforts, which he credited as a key factor in securing the grant.

Dr. Steve Ellis, Superintendent of NCPS, echoed Davis's sentiments, describing the grant award as a significant victory for both Nash County and its public schools.  "This achievement was the result of a collective effort. I am deeply grateful for the outstanding team within Nash County Public Schools and Nash County Government, as well as the support from our county commissioners and state legislators. It truly was a united endeavor," Ellis said.

The investment in the new Southern Nash Middle School signifies a commitment to enhancing educational facilities and opportunities for students in Nash County. By addressing the growing needs of the community in the southern end of the county, and repurposing existing infrastructure, the initiative showcases a strategic approach to development and resource utilization.

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https://www.ncpschools.net/article/1450442

Congratulations to Jillian Schrimper!