Fayetteville, N.C. – Cumberland County Schools (CCS) successfully hosted its highly anticipated Choice Fair this week at E.E. Smith High School, marking a significant step in empowering families with educational choices tailored to their children's unique interests and learning styles.
The event saw a remarkable turnout, with more than 600 people from across the district participating. The fair commenced with a special meeting for the parents of eighth-grade students from Fort Liberty's Albritton Middle School. This was followed by interactive sessions with principals and academy directors, who provided valuable insights into CCS' Choice Programs.
Dr. Lavette Braswell, the assistant superintendent of CCS' K-12 Instructional Programs, expressed her satisfaction with the event's outcome, noting the positive impact on the community. "Today has turned out to be fantastic," said Braswell. "The Choice programs give students the opportunity and exposure to things that they may not normally have exposure to. We really are focused on preparing students for the next thing after graduation."
Parents and guardians had the opportunity to explore an array of Choice Programs available for students at the elementary, middle and high school levels. The programs, focusing on diverse themes such as science, arts and culture, technology, and real-world career experiences, were showcased through engaging presentations and one-on-one discussions.
A parent attending the fair shared their perspective on the event and its significance in making informed educational decisions. "I like the fact that we can tailor the next high school years to what it is that he really wants to do," said Spring Lake Middle School parent Shane Saunders.
Furthermore, the enthusiasm of the students was unmistakable, with many expressing excitement about the possibilities these Choice Programs present for their future. "I think it showed a lot of different opportunities because I was sticking to one category that I wanted to get into and this [The Choice Fair] opened up a lot of choices," said Zoey Ford, eighth-grade student from Seventy-First Classical Middle School.
With the application period for the 2024-2025 CCS Choice Programs set from Monday, November 27, 2023, through Thursday, February 1, 2024, families are encouraged to continue exploring the options available. Detailed information on specific programs along with program-specific family nights can be accessed through the CCS Choice Program Guide at www.choice.ccs.k12.nc.us.
Cumberland County Schools remains committed to providing a safe, positive and rigorous learning environment to prepare lifelong learners to reach their maximum potential.
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