Board of Education honors achievements, approves key items, and welcomes new administrators
The Lenoir County Board of Education met on June 1, 2026, recognizing outstanding students and staff, reviewing summer learning opportunities, and approving several items in preparation for the 2026-2027 school year.
Superintendent Brent Williams opened his report by thanking teachers, students, parents, and staff for their efforts as the district approaches the end of the school year. He noted that
end-of-grade testing is nearly complete, end-of-course testing is underway, and graduation ceremonies are approaching.
The Board recognized Angela Jarman of Banks Elementary School as the 2026-2027 Lenoir County Public Schools Teacher of the Year. Jarman, a South Lenoir High School graduate, was honored for her dedication to students and excellence in the classroom. She expressed her appreciation for the recognition and shared her excitement about serving in the role.
Several middle school students were recognized for their success in North Carolina's first regional Civics Bee competition. Students earning Top 20 finishes included Jason Dinh, Conley Howard, and Parker Sutherland from E.B. Frink Middle School; Madilyn Carroll, Tucker Harris, and Hardy Lynch from Woodington Middle School; and Barrett Allen from Contentnea-Savannah K-8 School. Carroll earned an impressive third-place finish in the regional competition.
The Board also recognized Danielle Groseclose of Contentnea-Savannah K-8 School and Rachel Jones of E.B. Frink Middle School for being selected as Keenan Fellows. The prestigious program provides educators with year-long professional development experiences and industry immersion opportunities designed to strengthen classroom instruction and workforce connections.
Two employees were honored by the Lenoir County Public Schools Association of Educational Office Professionals. Helen Hooker, Chief Finance Officer, was named Administrator of the Year, while Ivy Price was recognized as Professional of the Year.
During presentations, district leaders provided an overview of summer learning opportunities available to students. Programs include Read to Achieve camps, migrant education camps, STEM experiences, robotics camps, healthcare career exploration opportunities, bridge
programs for rising sixth and ninth graders, credit recovery options, and other enrichment opportunities.
Dr. Amy Jones shared an update on Workforce Ignite Lenoir, highlighting 37 students who will participate in paid internships and youth apprenticeships this summer across eight business and industry partners. Students will gain workforce experience, earn high school credit, and receive compensation while exploring potential career pathways.
The Board also received an update on construction of the new E.B. Frink Middle School. District leaders reported that the project remains on schedule and on budget for completion in late 2026. Significant progress has been made throughout the facility.
Board members reviewed information regarding child nutrition vendor contracts, the classroom camera system planned for the new E.B. Frink Middle School, and a new districtwide mass communication platform, which was moved to be voted on as an action item.
During the business portion of the meeting, the Board approved:
● The updated Beginning Teacher Support Plan
● The 2026-2028 Career and Technical Education Local Application
● Exceptional Children’s service contracts for the 2026-2027 school year
● Applications for federal program funding for the 2026-2027 school year
● A new districtwide mass communication platform
● Surplus equipment declarations from Career and Technical Education and Maintenance departments
● Policy updates previously presented for review
Following closed session, the Board reconvened in open session and approved several administrative appointments for the 2026-2027 school year. The newly appointed leaders were celebrated and recognized by the Board, district staff, family members, and colleagues in attendance as they prepare to step into their new roles serving schools and students across the district.
The following appointments were approved:
● Dr. Elizabeth Pierce, Director of High School Curriculum and Career & Technical Education
● Jeremy Barnett, Principal of South Lenoir High School
● David Combs, Principal of Woodington Middle School
● Amy White, Principal of Banks Elementary School
● Julie Rouse, Principal of Pink Hill Elementary School
● Larry Dale, Assistant Principal of Kinston High School
● Austin Reese, Assistant Principal of North Lenoir High School
● Jodi Peele, Assistant Principal of South Lenoir High School
