|
2465 Gillespie Street
Fayetteville, NC 28306
Contact:
Renarta C. Moyd
Communications Manager, Communications and Community Engagement
Phone: 910-678-2307
Email: renartac@ccs.k12.nc.us
For Immediate Release:
June 13, 2024
Gathering of the Village: A Call to Action
School district and community partners join forces for student success
Fayetteville, NC -- In an effort to support the needs of Cumberland County Schools' (CCS) more than 50,000 students, nearly 60 school volunteers, community partners and educators attended the district's 2024 Gathering of the Village Breakfast this morning in the auditorium of the Dr. William "Bill" Harrison Educational Resource Center.
With this year's theme of "It Takes a Village," the participants learned about needs throughout the school system and how they could get involved in order to help build student success. "Priority 4 of our Strategic Plan is Community Engagement," said CCS Superintendent Dr. Marvin Connelly, Jr., during his welcome to the group. "We realize we cannot do this work alone. Our students benefit immensely from the time, resources and passion that you all bring to the table. Whether it's through mentoring, providing resources, or supporting school programs, your contributions are vital to their success and well-being."
South View High School senior and Career & Technical Education (CTE) intern Kayla Kaha was present to share how 'giving back' contributes to students' success both in the classroom and in life. The keynote speaker, Chief Executive Officer of Fayetteville Area Habitat for Humanity Brandon Price also delivered remarks that encouraged active involvement in the schools. "Today, at the Gathering of the Village, we are reminded that these students are not just our future but the very heartbeat of our community," said Price. "It takes each of us, coming together as a community, to guide them to achieve their fullest potential. We must invest not only our time but also our resources in shaping this future that holds endless promise."
Following Price's call to action, the participants took part in roundtable discussions to brainstorm ways those who are new to CCS can get involved. Existing partners identified additional ways to contribute. Everyone engaged in the activity, sharing their ideas and exploring new possibilities for collaboration.
CCS Associate Superintendent of Communications and Community Engagement Dr. Lindsay A. Whitley closed the event by issuing a charge to everyone present to join forces with CCS and partner with the district in a variety of ways. "Some of you are already contributing through financial support, in-kind donations, volunteering as mentors and offering expertise. We're grateful for your efforts and are actively working to recruit others to join us. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our students," Dr. Whitley emphasized.
Citizens who are interested in partnering with Cumberland County Schools for student success are invited to complete the “Committed Community Call to Action” form here. District staff will work to match partners with schools in the district based on their needs.
To learn more about partnership opportunities in CCS, visit www.ceo.ccs.k12.nc.us, email partnerships@ccs.k12.nc.us or call 910-678-5020.
Below are photos captured during
this morning's 2024 Gathering of the Village Breakfast
 To see more moments during
the 2024 Gathering of the Village Breakfast, click here.
###
|
