Number 10

North Carolina to Help 975,000 Kids Access Food During Summer 2022

Eligible North Carolina children will receive additional benefits over the summer to ensure they have access to nutritious food. NCDHHS recently received approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to continue the P-EBT food assistance program through Summer 2022.

"Summer P-EBT benefits and the National School Lunch Program are such important ways we can continue our mission of supporting the growth and development of North Carolina’s students," said Catherine Truitt, N.C. Superintendent of Public Instruction. "We know that improving student performance and outcomes requires mobilization of student support services, and I'm thrilled that we are able to continue providing this assistance to children and their families."

Read the full press release from NCDHHS here.

Number 9

Joint Research Initiative Focusing on Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Students, Schools

"The NC Department of Public Instruction and the NC Collaboratory, a policy research center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, are leading a joint $6 million effort to spur research on the impact of COVID-19 on student learning and the evaluation of existing policies and programs aimed at overcoming those challenges.

This month, a funding opportunity was released seeking proposals from academic researchers in institutions of higher learning across the state. Working alone or in collaboration with stakeholder groups, applicants will be able to request a minimum of $150,000 and maximum of $500,000 for up to two years for projects aimed at helping educators and students recover from pandemic-related disruptions."

Read the full press release here.

Number 8

Six Triad Parents to Help Shape What Education Looks Like in North Carolina

On June 14, Superintendent Truitt announced the parents selected for the Parent Advisory Commission. 

This week, WFMY spoke to three of the six members from the Piedmont-Triad Region. Some of the main topics parents say they want to discuss are school safety and special education. 

Read the full story here.

Number 7

Superintendent Truitt on NCASA's Public School Matters Podcast

This week, the NC Association of School Administrators Advocacy Team spoke with Superintendent Truitt on the school year that just ended, lessons learned, and what’s next for public education in North Carolina.

Listen here.

Number 6

Plasma Games Pilot Competitive Grant Program - Deadline to Apply July 1

DPI is pleased to announce the Plasma Games Pilot Competitive Grant to promote access to innovative digital and personalized learning solutions for high school students that bridge the gap between chemistry and physical science classes and CTE career pathways.

The purpose of the Plasma Games Pilot Competitive Grant Program is to promote access to innovative digital and personalized learning solutions for high school students demonstrating proficiency in science and math and to support schools in their efforts to increase the number of students pursuing education and career opportunities in STEM.

Any public school unit, including districts, charter schools and lab schools, are eligible to apply. Applications must be submitted by close of business July 1, 2022.

Learn more and apply here.

Number 5

Charlotte-Mecklenburg High School Wins Lenovo Scholar Network National Mobile App Development Competition

"A Mallard Creek High team has earned its second consecutive win in the Lenovo Scholar Network National Mobile App Development Competition. The team's app, WobbleByte, was selected as one of the five best apps in the country from among 84 entries.

WobbleByte was created by Aryan Chakalakal, Aron Gebreegziabher, Avi Patel and Siddarth Pennetsa, members of the Mallard Creek High Cybersecurity Club. The after-school club, which includes Girls Who Code, provides students with an opportunity to showcase their computer science and engineering knowledge beyond the classroom, said Marques Hazell, a Career and Technical Education (CTE) teacher, who advises the group with fellow CTE teacher Lew Davidson."

Congratulations to the creators of WobbleByte! Read more here.

Number 4

District Highlight: Beaufort County Schools - Tales for Tails Community Partnership

This week, Chocowinity Primary School students participated in Tales for Tails, a partnership between the school and Beaufort County Animal Control. Students visited the shelter to read books to the animals waiting to be adopted. 

It's so great seeing students (and the animals!) excited about reading, and having fun while doing it!

See more here, and find the full post with more photos on their Facebook.

Number 3

NC Symphony Awards Three Outstanding Music Educators

The North Carolina Symphony is committed to educating and inspiring the next generation of musicians and music lovers. The NC Symphony works hand-in-hand with outstanding music educators who help carry out the Symphony’s programs in their schools and work every day to build their students’ musical skills and appreciation.

The annual Music Educator Awards recognize outstanding teachers who make a lasting difference in the lives of students of all abilities and backgrounds; serve the community in an exemplary manner as a role model in music education; inspire students to reach high musical standards; and instill a love for music in children.

Congratulations to Margaret Maurice, Meredith Regan and Pablo Salamanca! Thank you for your dedication and passion for music education. Read more here.

Number 2

Locating Summer Nutrition Programs

When school is out, Summer Nutrition Programs provide free, nutritious meals for children and adolescents ages 18 and younger.

To find free, nutritious summer meals near you for kids and teens who are ages 18 and younger:

• Text "Food" to 304-304 for information in English or “COMIDA” to 304-304 for information in Spanish
• Use the N.C. Site Finder Map
• Check your local school district website, social media, or other communications

For summer 2022, meals need to be eaten on-site and children must be present to receive food. In addition to nutritious meals, N.C. Summer Nutrition Programs also provide fitness and fun through educational enrichment.

Learn more here.

Number 1

NCVirtual Celebrates 15 Year Anniversary

This week, NCVirtual is celebrating its 15th anniversary! Over the years, NCVirtual has served 710,000 students.

Thank you to everyone who has supported NCVirtual and elevated this program! 

Learn more about NCVirtual here.