 2465 Gillespie Street
Fayetteville, NC 28306
Contact:
Lindsay Whitley
Associate Superintendent, Communications and Community Engagement
Phone: 910-678-2303
Email: lindsaywhitley@ccs.k12.nc.us
For Immediate Release:
February 10, 2025
Long-time CCS Employee Named
Eastern Regional Orchestra Director of the Year
Accomplished Educator in Cumberland County Schools
Makes History
Fayetteville, NC – Cumberland County Schools (CCS) proudly recognizes Janice R. Swoope, lead orchestra director at Reid Ross Classical School, for being named the North Carolina Music Educators Association (NCMEA) Eastern Regional Orchestra Director of the Year. This prestigious honor marks a historic milestone as she becomes the first African-American female to receive this award.
Nominees for this award are selected from the North Carolina Orchestra Section which features a group of highly dedicated music educators, committed to fostering musical talent and expanding opportunities for students statewide.
Swoope, an innovator in music education, has served the district for more than 40 years since 1983. Under her leadership, CCS orchestras have consistently achieved top honors at both the state and national levels, which is a testament to the district's excellence in the arts.
Swoope's other key accolades include being previously named the 2001 E.E. Smith attendance area Teacher of the Year and a 2018 North Carolina Global Educator.
Cape Fear High School Orchestra Teacher Leigh Montague spoke about the work that Swoope has done. “She is always helping people and has helped me," said Montague. "She is a role model to me." Swoope herself commented about her outlook after being honored. "I hope that it will inspire those teachers who come behind me to continue to work and persevere," expressed Swoope. "I'm humbled and honored to receive this award."
View a video about Swoope's accomplishment below!
CCS Lead Orchestra Director & Eastern Regional Orchestra Teacher of the Year Janice Swoope
CCS Lead Orchestra Director & Eastern Regional Orchestra Teacher of the Year Janice Swoope Holds Her Award
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