Leaders encouraged as new school year gets underway in Lenoir County

KINSTON, N.C. (WNCT) — In Lenoir County, students and teachers are back in the classroom after their first day of school.

“We’re excited about the beginning of the school year, we had a great school year last year,” Lenoir County Schools Superintendent Brent Williams said. “Last year, student achievements were outstanding; we had the most scholarship dollars we’ve ever had. Our graduation rate stands at an all-time high, above 90 percent for our district.”

Williams said not only are the students accomplishing goals, teachers are as well. “Our teachers have gotten more mini grants than they’ve ever earned before which has doubled the previous years total. So, so many things this year,” Williams said.

He said teacher retention has also improved significantly compared to a year ago. He said the district has more than 500 teachers. “Our teachers are choosing to stay in greater numbers and we appreciate that. We think that says a lot about workplace satisfaction and about the relationships that our teachers and students and parents and community members have built with each other. We’re very thankful and appreciative for our teachers,” Williams said.

Lenoir County Public Schools has multiple goals for their 17 schools but one of the most important is to make a difference in the lives of young people. “We welcome everyone to continue to support us as we work towards to the betterment of our children to have a great school year.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT.