Back to school: Principals share positive approach to school consolidation

The end of summer vacation marked the beginning of a new era for Stokes County Schools, one that administrators say is off to a good start.

Students returned this year to a smaller district of 17 school facilities, as Lawsonville and Pine Hall elementary schools were closed after school ended in June.

“Fall” also came early for students this year, with the first day of school on Aug. 14 for most students and Aug. 19 for Stokes Early College High School.

“We have had a great first two days,” Dr. Brad Rice, superintendent, said on Aug. 16. “There are always a few hiccups at the start of the school year, but overall it has been a smooth start.”

Principals of the schools that absorbed students from the closed and redistricted schools seem to be embracing the changes.

Sandy Ridge Elementary School Principal Jen Cox said bringing together students from Sandy Ridge, Lawsonville and Pine Hall was a unique opportunity.

“Our motto this year is, ‘Sandy Ridge, where we all fit together’,” Cox said. “When you visit our school, you’ll notice the abundance of puzzle piece decor and hear discussions about every student being a VIP—a very important piece of our new puzzle. A sense of community and inclusion is evident in each classroom.”

Cox herself was impacted by the consolidation — she was principal at Lawsonville Elementary School. She replaced former Sandy Ridge Principal David Bennett, who resigned to work in another district, according to Rice.

Over the summer, the school’s windows were replaced and a dehumidification system added.

“All schools worked on their floors and made other upgrades to create an inviting environment for both current and new students,” Rice said.

Cox spoke of other benefits, such as increased staff and teachers.

“Our students are making new friends and blending together as classroom communities,” she said. “Some are excited to be in class with teammates from ball teams or friends from church.”

Michael Richardson, principal of Nancy Reynolds Elementary School, also emphasized community building.

“From the very beginning, our goal has been to create a sense of family within the school,” he said.

A “Glow Party” held at the end of last year with current Nancy Reynolds and incoming Lawsonville students helped welcome the new students. The schools’ theme this year is “Glow as we Grow.”

“We’re so proud of our beautiful school and have truly enjoyed having more students and teachers in our building,” Richardson said. “The energy and enthusiasm they bring have enriched our school culture in so many ways. It’s been wonderful to see our students and staff come together, forming new friendships and strengthening our sense of community.”

Eric Pritchett, principal of London Elementary School, said the consolidation had been a positive and enriching experience.

“Our staff and students have embraced the new arrivals with open arms, and we’ve been working diligently to ensure a smooth transition for everyone involved,” Pritchett said, noting that London gained nearly 70 students.

“The addition of new students has brought a fresh perspective and energy to our school, fostering a diverse and dynamic learning environment,” he said. “We’ve implemented various programs and support systems to ensure each student feels integrated and supported. Overall, things are going very well, and we’re excited about the opportunities this consolidation presents for growth and collaboration.”

Dr. Katherine Thrower, principal of Walnut Cove Elementary School, said she was excited to embark on the journey with students and staff.

“We recognize that this year is going to be something special,” she said. “We all know there will be many opportunities for us to learn new things, make new friends, and have a lot of fun along the way. As we start this new school year, we remind ourselves that every day is a chance to grow, explore new ideas, and become the best version of ourselves. We must challenge ourselves to grow our minds, our friendships, and even our confidence.”

According to Rice, Lawsonville and Pine Hall staff were asked to rank their top three choices for where they wanted to work the following year.

“Nearly everyone was assigned to one of their top three choices, with the vast majority receiving either their first or second choice,” Rice said.

Meghan Wood, former principal at Pine Hall,resigned to work in another district.

Enrollment numbers are always changing, but using data from the first month of the 2023-2024 school year, Lawsonville had 108 students and Pine Hall had 97.

The closed schools were consolidated into Sandy Ridge, Nancy Reynolds, London and Walnut Cove elementary schools. The district lines between London and Walnut Cove were also adjusted.

Comparing enrollment at those schools from the first month of the 2023-2024 school year to data at the second day of school in the 2024-2024 school year:

• Nancy Reynolds increased from 132 to 191 students.

• Sandy Ridge increased from 175 to 212 students.

• London increased from 188 to 224 students.

• Walnut Cove increased from 240 to 260.

While most of those numbers are close to what had been anticipated by administrators, Walnut Cove’s is lower by about 50 students.

“Typically, we gain students each year’s first ten days of school,” said Rice, referring generally to enrollment numbers.

“Last year, we gained 158 students from the first day of school until the 10th day,” he said. “We anticipate that will continue to grow during the next ten days.”

When asked if any impacted students left the school system, Rice said, “I cannot speak to each student, but the numbers show that most students remained in Stokes County.”

Enrollment data was also reported to the Board of Education at their Aug. 19 meeting.

Last year, the district’s average daily enrollment (ADM) on the fifth day of the school year was 5,491. This year, the ADM on the fourth day was 5,436.

During the meeting it was also reported that this year, the district only has four combination classes (where students from different grades are taught in the same classroom).

Rice told the Board that four was a decrease from previous years, noting the number of combination classes had ranged from 11 to 16 since 2018/2019.

“The long-range planning has had a dramatic effect in making education better for our students,” Rice said.