Craven County
Board of Education
CrossRoads
June 2014
Dear Craven County Schools Family,
The school year 2013 -2014 is rapidly coming to a close; and by the time you read this edition of CrossRoads, the
pain and agony of End-of-Grade and End-of-Course testing will be but a memory. However, we cannot allow the
year to slip away without one last look at the many successes, the accolades and true praise that goes to you, our
Craven County Faculty, staff, students and parents, and our community.
This CrossRoads is about you. We take pleasure in saying, “Thank You.” We could not have achieved at the level
we did, without you. So, in the next few paragraphs, we will recognize what you have done to make Craven County
education, public education, very proud.
In no way will this short article highlight all the successes; and we offer an apology in advance for any event or
achievement that may be slighted or overlooked. So, let’s take a look at Craven County Schools academically, athletically, the arts, and yes, our community…our “Partners in Education”.
This year ends with a rush to graduation and farewell to the class of 2014. Thank you for your hard work, drive and
determination. We wish you success in every endeavor. There are so many ways to recognize academic success,
but one measure is scholarships and the continued growth and education of our students. This graduating class has
already surpassed three million in scholarship dollars. Faculty, staff and parents, along with our students, you make
us proud. You made this year a banner year.
Athletics and academics do not stand alone. An athlete must be a scholar, and have proven academic success to
play. This year all of our high schools made great strides in individual and team sports. Our schools went deep into
the playoff rounds, and each rose to the top. Havelock High School won the State 3A Championship in football.
We could not be prouder of West Craven High girls’ basketball team since they too made it to the championship
round. When you play against the best, the entire state takes notice because you have proven you are among the
elite. New Bern High had a student or team represented in the playoffs in every sport except for one. This is truly a
great reflection on the caliber of students who participate in extra-curricular activities and the commitment our staff
dedicates to help each child succeed.
The Board of Education is very proud of the emphasis on the arts district wide and the many creative students who
contribute and share their talents. Have you been to a local school production, play or art show? If not, you have
missed seeing and hearing from our gifted and truly talented students who are artistically inclined. There were
scholarships as well. Our bands and choral groups always are among the best. Take a walk through the Bank of the
Arts, and you will see that talent abounds. To all of those in our school system who made this happen, you are
applauded for your efforts.
Craven County
Board of Education
CrossRoads
Last, but not least, we take great pride in our community and the many who provide direct support to our schools
and education programs. Our community was recently highlighted at the annual North Carolina School Board Association’s Conference through the 2013-2014 Business & Non-Profit Honor Roll. Craven County had more sponsors
and businesses that supported education than any other school district in North Carolina. The support can also be
measured in direct contributions and grants. This past year, Partners in Education, the school system’s education
foundation, gave $101,600 to our twenty-five local schools. You made a difference. Thank you!
In closing, we again salute all who made this year a success. We recognize there are still hills to climb and challenges to face, but, for now, we want all to know we appreciate you each and every day. You, our students, faculty
and staff, members of the community…. you all have made a difference and a positive impact on Craven County
Schools. You make us PROUD.
Note: If you have enjoyed this “snapshot” of Craven County School’s year in review, then please visit the district’s
“Good News” which contains specific achievements by our students and faculty! Archived copies are available at:
http://www.craven.k12.nc.us. We believe you will appreciate the work of the Public Relations Team, as they have
also been recognized with state honors.
In Appreciation,
The Craven County Board of Education
Mr. Carr Ipock, Chairman
Ms. Linda Thomas, Vice Chairman
Ms. Frances Boomer
Mr. David Hale
Ms. Beatrice Smith
Ms. Kimberly Rice Smith
Rev. Dr. Joseph Walton