Back to School 2012

BACK TO SCHOOL GUIDE

Friday, Aug. 3, 2012

PAGE 2

THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 2012

More Than 12,400 County Students Expected for 2012-2013 School Year

The new school year will kick off Monday, Aug. 27, with approximately 12,456 students expected to enter the doors of Moore County’s 23 schools, an increase of about 150 students over the past five years.

“For over a year now, our teachers and administrators have been preparing for the changes that will take place in 201213,” said Superintendent Aaron Spence.

“Hours upon hours of training have taken place as they’ve learned about the new national Common Core and the state’s Essential Standards, which basically constitute an ‘overhaul’ of our previous state standards. However, this has created great excitement for the new year as our folks have continued to participate in professional development and other activities to prepare for the arrival of our students.”

Year-round school began for more than 700 students in grades K-5 July 16.

Pinehurst welcomed approximately 115 year-round students in grades K-2, and West Pine opened its doors to approximately 120 students in grades 3-5. At Southern Pines Primary, 230 students were welcomed July 16, and at Southern Pines Elementary, where 260 students arrived on the first day. All four schools

offer a dual track, that is, a choice of either the year-round track or the traditional track.

Schools with traditional programs will have Back to School Night for parents and students according to the following schedule: Wednesday, Aug. 22, 2012 Middle Schools — 5 to 6:30 p.m.

High Schools — 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Thurssday,, Aug g. 23,, 201 12 Aberdeen Primary, Southern Pines Primary — 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Aberdeen Elementary, Southern Pines Elementary — 7 to 8:30 p.m.

All other elementary schools, including K-8 schools — 5:30 to 7 p.m.

The state of North Carolina requires that all schools provide a minimum of 180 days and 1,000 hours of instruction exclusive of breaks, lunch periods and other times between classes. A printable color

HANNAH SHARPE/The Pilot

HANNAH SHARPE /The Pilot

calendar for both the traditional schedule and the year-round schedule can be found under the “Calendar” link on the main page of the school district’s website at www.ncmcs.org. Copies of these calendars are on pages 6 and 7 in this section and are also being made available at each school’s Back to School Night.

The school district’s current school fee schedule can also be accessed on the “Student and Parent Resources” page of the school district’s website.

District Provides Information on Weather Closings

When a school day is canceled due to inclement weather, Moore County Schools will utilize the Saturday within that week as a make-up day, if possible.

“It may not always be feasible; however, we will try to have make-up days on Saturdays whenever we can,” said Superintendent Aaron Spence. “If it is not possible to use Saturday for a makeup day, we will look at other non-student days. We hope this will create the least inconvenience for our families; however, the many requirements placed on school districts regarding attendance limit our options considerably.”

Some of those requirements include a minimum of 180 days and 1,000 hours of instruction, and no student days prior to Aug. 25, or later than June 10, and more.

If inclement weather necessitates either a delay or closing, families will be notified first by the school district’s Connect-ED phone messaging system.

Homes typically receive these calls between 6:15 and 6:45 a.m. Delays or closings are also posted on the school dis-

e Cou unty y Sc choolss repo orts de elays or closings Moore to th he fo ollo owing g radio and d televiisiion stations: Radio Stations WIOZ 102.5 FM - Southern Pines WEEB 990 AM - Southern Pines WQNX 1350 AM - Aberdeen WFLB 96.5 FM - Fayetteville WQSM 98 FM - Fayetteville Life 103.1FM WLHC trict’s website at www.ncmcs.org.

Radio and TV stations listed above will be notified of delays or closings; however, school officials emphasize that the most immediate and dependable information is provided by Connect-ED and the school district’s website. Please note: No announcement means schools will be on a regular schedule.

Inclement weather in Moore County can occur in one area while the other areas are unaffected. Therefore, the school district must be flexible in deci-

TV Stations WFMY Channel 2 - Greensboro WGHP Channel 8 - High Point WRAL Channel 5 - Raleigh WTVD Channel 11- Durham WNCN Channel 17 - Raleigh News 14 Carolina sion-making. When making a decision regarding the close or delay of school, the superintendent and district-level staff will communicate with appropriate agencies and personnel to reach a decision.

Buses may delay the start of routes on questionable mornings as late as 6:45 a.m. This allows time to send out appropriate communications.

If parents feel conditions are unsafe in their area, they should keep their children at home.

Information Needed for Enrollment Any child who will be entering kindergarten must be enrolled at the school he or she will attend.

Parents of new students to the system, whether kindergarten or otherwise, must show proof of proper immunization and provide a birth certificate.

Parents who are unsure as to the school attendance area in which they reside should call Moore County Schools’ transportation department at (910) 947-5481.

New residents are reminded that enrolling a student in school takes place at the school designated for the area of residence.

Parents/guardians should bring with them the following: I The student’s birth certificate, I The student’s immunization record, I Proof of residence (such as, but not limited to, a Moore County property tax statement, current lease/rental agreement, or current closing statement for property purchase) I The student’s last report card (unless the student is a kindergarten student), and proof of legal custody or guardianship.

High school students enrolling for the first time in school should bring a high school transcript as well.

For more information, visit the “Students and Parents Resources” page of the Moore County Schools’ website at www.ncmcs.org.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 2012

THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.

PAGE 3

Working Together For a Wonderful Year of Learning T

he start of a new school year is always an exciting time for educators, parents and students.

As the summer comes to an end, thoughts turn toward new teachers and new students. One of the best things about a new school year is that we get to reinvent ourselves. Children come to the new school year hopeful that this will be their best year yet. It’s an opportunity to learn from the lessons of the past and rise to the expectations of the present. It’s a chance to renew old friendships and make new ones. A new school year gives us the chance to be even better today than we were yesterday.

Superintendent For me, a new school year is also an opportunity to think strategically about where we are and where we are going as a school district. I can tell you that today we are succeeding in Moore County Schools. Our graduation rate continues to climb while our dropout rate continues to decrease. We outperform the

Aaron Spence

state and nation on SAT scores, and state test scores indicate continuous student growth. We are increasing access to rigorous coursework for our students, and we provide world-class electives and athletic programs. We have a dedicated and outstanding group of teachers and school leaders, and our central support team is second to none. We also realize that our success is due in large measure to the support we receive from our parents and this amazing community, for which we are all grateful.

Despite what we might hear in the heat of the political moment, our public schools are not failing — not across this country and certainly not in Moore County.

This is a historic moment in our country.

Despite increasing expectations for student learning, an expanded curriculum, ever-changing testing and accountability systems, and a push from all sides to reform education as we know it, we are doing an amazing job. We are graduating more students than ever before, and more of our students are going on to and finishing a post-high school education than ever before. And our community is better because of it.

This is not to say that we are without

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challenges in Moore County Schools, of course. Although our community is wellknown for its resort lifestyle, the reader will no doubt be aware that we are predominately a rural and agricultural district, and more than 40 percent of our students qualify for free or reduced lunch.

We are experiencing many of the challenges school districts across the country are facing: growing ESL, special needs and low income populations, aging infrastructure, adoption of new curriculum standards, and the need to keep up with advances in technology in the classroom, to name but a few.

In spite of these many challenges, it is my commitment to our community that we will meet all obstacles to our students’ success head on. We will ensure that every child, regardless of background, receives a high-quality education. We will ensure that all students are mastering the curriculum at a high level as seen in their classroom work, as well as on state and national measures of school success … and we will ensure that our students are future ready, prepared to enter the world of work and higher learning beyond our doors.

Working together, our schools and our community can and will make this a wonderful year for learning. Working together, we will continue on our Growing to Greatness journey.

Dr. Aaron Spence is the superintendent of Moore County Schools.

200 FREE BackPacks! FREE School Supplies!

Back to School

Health Fair For Kids, Adults & Seniors!

AUGUST 11, 2012 • 10AM-2PM Offering Help, Hope & Love on

ONE BIG DAY! All are Welcome to Attend This FREE Event!

FREE

Student Athlete Physicals!

New Covenant Fellowship Church • 1305 Hulsey Rd in Carthage Between New Century & UPHS, Union Church Rd. • (910) 947-1412 *Parents must accompany students for physicals. 1 backpack per student.

Student MUST visit health fair first! Event will take place rain or shine.

About This Issue: On the Cover: Scenes from the last academic year at schools around Moore County Cover Photographs: Hannah Sharpe Supplement and Cover Design/Layout Martha J. Henderson, Special Sections Editor Photography: Hannah Sharpe and Donna Ford

Contributing Writers Hannah Sharpe, Tim Lussier, Karen Manning and Dr. Aaron Spence For advertising information, contact Pat Taylor at (910) 693-2505 or email advertise@thepilot.com

145 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines, NC 28387 (910) 692-7271 • thepilot.com

PAGE 4 Moore County Schools teachers and administrators have been participating in professional development and preparing for a variety of changes that will take place under the NC READY umbrella for the 2012-2013 school year.

NC READY has several components: I A new student assessment program that will replace the ABC’s (End of Grade and End of Course tests); I A new set of standards to guide instruction; I Common Core standards are national standards in math and English/Language Arts; I Essential Standards are new state standards for Social Studies, Science, Information and Technology, World Languages, Health and Physical Education, Arts, Career Technical Education and Guidance; I A new accountability system for reporting student and school progress to the community; I A new evaluation system for teachers and administrators ‌ and more.

New Standards for 2012-2013 The implementation of the new standards will provide stronger, clearer and more consistent goals for what students should learn and master to be

THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 2012

Many Changes Ahead In New School Year ready for college, career and life. The new national Common Core standards address mathematics and English language arts.

The state’s Essential Standards address the other subject areas.

The Common Core’s new standards for English language arts blend the communication skills of reading, writing, speaking, listening and language with a balance of informational and literary text. These standards include the expectation that students will read a broad range of increasingly complex texts over time. Students will evidence from text in informational, argumentative and narrative writing.

The new standards for math focus heavily on arithmetic in grades K-5.

Middle schools move into algebra readiness with building number theory and the study of proportional reasoning.

In high school, modeling is a key component within all math courses.

The Essential Standards will ensure that students have a greater understanding of

Now Enrolling

what they are learning. The new standards will provide a sharper focus on the skills students must have by the time they graduate, including: I Collaboration skills; I Critical-thinking skills; I Research skills; I Problem-solving skills; and I Technology skills.

Changes in Testing North Carolina’s Department of Public Instruction will be implementing Measures of Student Learning (MSL) over the next three years for all elementary, middle and high school students.

Traditionally, End-of-Grade tests are given to students in Reading and Math (grades 3-8) and Science (grades 5 and 8).

MSLs will be given in other subject areas.

Beginning in the spring of 2013, these will include Science and Social Studies.

Physical Education and Health will be

added in 2014.

At the high school level, students take End-of-Course tests in Algebra I, English II and Biology. This year, MSLs will be added in non-EOC Science, English, Math, Social Studies and Occupational Course of Study courses. Physical Education, Health and elective Social Studies courses will be added in 2014.

As a result of these changes, exam schedules in elementary, middle and high schools will need to be adjusted. At the elementary and middle school levels, there will be a longer window for testing.

At the high school level, the opportunity to exempt exams will no longer be offered, and a longer window for testing may be required. In addition, a full-day schedule during exams may be necessary (that is, no early release).

NC READY is not an acronym. NC READY is a goal. “Our goal is to prepare (or to READY) our students for college, careers and adulthood. It’s that simple,� said Superintendent Aaron Spence.

For more information about the changes that will take place in Moore County Schools in 2012-2013 and what this means for students, visit the Moore County Schools website at www.ncmcs.org and look for “NC READY� under the “Spotlight� link.

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 2012 Aberdeen Elementary Grades 3-5 503 N. Sandhills Blvd.

Aberdeen, NC 28315 (910) 944-1124 (910) 944-3597 fax Principal: Debbie Warren Student Population: 307* School Hours: 7:45 a.m. - 2:45 p.m.

THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.

PAGE 5

MOORE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS www.ncmcs.org

Pinecrest High (910) 693-1544 fax Grades 9-12 Principal: Vacant 250 Voit Gilmore Lane Student Population: 713 Aberdeen Primary U.S. 15-501 South School Hours: 7:45 a.m. - 2:45 p.m.

Grades K-2 Southern Pines, NC 28387 310 Keyser St. (910) 692-6554 Southern Pines Elementary Aberdeen, NC 28315 (910) 692-0606 fax Grades 3-5 (910) 944-1523 Principal: Joel County Highfalls Elementary 255 S. May St. (910) 944-3171 fax Student Population: 2,047 Grades K-8 Southern Pines, NC 28387 Principal: Sloan Browning School Hours: 8:45 a.m. - 3:45 p.m.

1220 N.C. 22 (910) 692-2357 Student Population: 332 High Falls, NC 27259 (910) 693-1745 fax School Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Pinehurst Elementary (910) 464-3600 Principal: Marcy Cooper (910) 464-5404 fax Student Population: 402 Grades K-5 Cameron Elementary Principal: Kim Bullard School Hours: 7:45 a.m. - 2:45 p.m.

100 Dundee Road Grades K-5 Student Population: 280 Pinehurst, NC 28374 2636 N.C. 24-27 School Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Southern Pines Primary (910) 295-6969 Cameron, NC 28326 Grades K-2 (910) 295-1027 fax (910) 245-7814 New Century Middle 1250 W. New York Ave. Principal: Sara Bigley (910) 245-2760 fax Grades 6-8 Southern Pines, NC 28387 Student Population: 554 Principal: Dale Buie 1577 Union Church Road (910) 692-8659 School Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Student Population: 229 Cameron, NC 28326 (910) 692-8259 fax School Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

(910) 947-1301 Principal: Robbins Elementary (910) 947-1227 fax Mary Scott Harrison Grades K-5 Carthage Elementary Principal: Robin Calcutt Student Population: 418 268 Rushwood Road Grades K-5 Student Population: 648 School Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Robbins, NC 27325 312 Rockingham St. School Hours: 8 a.m.

3 p.m.

(910) 948-2411 Carthage, NC 28327 Union Pines High (910) 948-3264 fax (910) 947-2781 North Moore High Grades 9-12 Principal: Vacant (910) 947-5670 fax Grades 9-12 1981 Union Church Road Student Population: 457 Principal: Denny Ferguson 1504 North Moore Road Cameron, NC 28326 School Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Student Population: 382 Robbins, NC 27325 (910) 947-5511 School Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

(910) 464-3105 (910) 947-5117 fax Sandhills Farm Life Elementary (910) 464-6016 fax Principal: Robin Lea Grades K-5 Crain’s Creek Middle Principal: Jonathan Jessup Student Population: 1,189 2201 Farm Life School Road Grades 6-8 Student Population: 572 School Hours: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Carthage, NC 28327 4631 Union Church Road School Hours: 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

(910) 949-2501 Carthage, NC 28327 Vass-Lakeview Elementary (910) 949-2927 fax (910) 245-3796 Pinckney Academy Grades K-5 Principal: Nora McNeill (910) 245-7312 fax Vocational/Alternative 141 James St. Student Population: 540 Principal: Rose Cooper 160 Pinckney Road Vass, NC 28394 School Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Student Population: 381 Carthage, NC 28327 (910) 245-3444 School Hours: 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

(910) 947-2342 (910) 245-1301 fax Southern Middle (910) 947-2404 fax Principal: Jennifer Purvis Grades 6-8 Elise Middle Principal: Robin Liles Student Population: 569 515 Johnson St. Grades 6-8 Student Population: Varies School Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Aberdeen, NC 28315 180 North Broad St. School Hours: 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

(910) 693-1550 Robbins, NC 27325 (910) 948-2421 (910) 948-4112 fax Principal: Brenda Cassady Student Population: 206 School Hours: 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

West End Elementary Grades K-5 4483 N.C. 211 West End, NC 27376 (910) 673-6691 (910) 673-7640 fax Principal: Leigh Ann McClendon Student Population: 457 School Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

West Pine Elementary Grades K-5 272 Archie Road West End, NC 27376 (910) 673-2004 (910) 673-2023 fax Principal: Seth Powers Student Population: 504 School Hours: 7:45 a.m. - 2:45 p.m.

West Pine Middle Grades 6-8 144 Archie Road West End, NC 27376 (910) 673-1464 (910) 673-1272 fax Principal: Dr. Candace Turk Student Population: 822 School Hours: 8:15 a.m. - 3:15 p.m.

Westmoore Elementary Grades K-8 2159 N.C. 705 Seagrove, NC 27341-7213 (910) 464-3401 (910) 464-5293 fax Principal: Lisa Scott Student Population: 418 School Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

*Student populations are 2012-2013 projections, not actual attendance numbers.

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PAGE 6

THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 2012

2012-2013 Traditional

Updated 4-2-12

Student-Parent Calendar 180 Student Days JULY

AUGUST

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

W

T

F

S

OCTOBER

S

7 14 21 28

M

1 8 15 22 29

T

2 9 16 23 30

6 13 20 27

M

7 14 21 28

T

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

M

1 8 15 22 29

6 13 20 27

SEPTEMBER

T

W

T

F

S

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

S

4 11 18 25

M

W

T

F

S

W

T

F

S

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

5 12 19 26

W

T

F

S

1 8 15 22

2 9 16 23

T

6 13 20 27

DECEMBER

FEBRUARY

W

T

F

S

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

T

W

T

F

S

APRIL

S

5 12 19 26

M

NOVEMBER

JANUARY

S

S

S

3 10 17 24

M

T

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

Students Attend Full Day

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

5 12 19 26

2 9 16 23 30

M

3 10 17 24 31

T

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

T

W

T

F

S

2 9 16 23 30

MARCH

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

M

T

W

T

F

S

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

MAY

S

S

S

3 10 17 24 31

M

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

T

W

T

F

S

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

JUNE

6 13 20 27

Early Release Day Student Half Day

August 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . First Day for Students September 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Holiday September 19 . . . . . . . . No School for Students - Teacher Workday October 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . End of Grading Period October 9 . . No School for Students /Report Cards/Parent-Teacher Conferences November 6 . . . . . . . . No School for Students - Teacher Workday November 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Holiday November 21, 22, 23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Holidays November 28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . End of Grading Period December 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Report Cards December 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Early Release Day December 24-January 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Winter Break January 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Students Return to School

Parent/Teacher Conference Day

S

2 9 16 23 30 End of Grading Period

M

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

Report Cards

January 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . End of Grading Period January 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Holiday January 23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Report Cards February 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . No School for Students - Teacher Workday March 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No School for Students - Teacher Workday March 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . End of Grading Period March 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Report Cards March 25-29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Spring Break April 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Early Release Day April 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . End of Grading Period April 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Report Cards May 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Holiday June 7 . . . . . . . . End of Grading Period/Report Cards/Last Day for Students

FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 2012

THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.

PAGE 7

2012-2013 Year-Round

Updated 4-2-12

Student-Parent Calendar 180 Student Days JULY

AUGUST

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

W

T

F

S

OCTOBER

S

7 14 21 28

M

1 8 15 22 29

6 13 20 27

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

6 13 20 27

SEPTEMBER

T

W

T

F

S

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

S

4 11 18 25

M

W

T

F

S

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

5 12 19 26

F

S

1 8 15 22

2 9 16 23

T

6 13 20 27

DECEMBER

FEBRUARY

T

W

T

F

S

S

M

T

W

T

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

T

W

T

F

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

M

1 8 15 22 29

MAY

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

Students Attend Full Day

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

S

5 12 19 26

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

MARCH

M

APRIL

S

5 12 19 26

M

NOVEMBER

T

JANUARY

S

S

S

M

T

W

T

F

S

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

T

W

T

F

S

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

JUNE

6 13 20 27

Early Release Day Student Half Day

July 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . First Day for Students August 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No School for Students - Teacher Workday September 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Holiday September 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . End of Grading Period September 19-October 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Intersession October 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Report Cards/Parent-Teacher Conferences October 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Students Return November 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No School for Students - Teacher Workday November 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . End of Grading Period November 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Holiday November 13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Report Cards November 21, 22, 23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Holidays December 17-January 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Intersession January 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Students Return

Parent/Teacher Conference Day

S

2 9 16 23 30

M

3 10 17 24

End of Grading Period

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

Report Cards

January 11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . End of Grading Period January 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Report Cards January 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Holiday February 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No School for Students - Teacher Workday February 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . End of Grading Period February 28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Report Cards March 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No School for Students - Teacher Workday March 25-April 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Intersession April 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Students Return April 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Early Release April 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . End of Grading Period April 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Report Cards May 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Holiday June 7 . . . . . . . . Last Day for Students/End of Grading Period/Report Cards

PAGE 10

THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.

O’Neal Furthers Global Experience

in the daily schedule are allowing for more worked with the O’Neal faculty on academic enrichment opportunities in the Upper School. curriculum. Adare has spent more than 30 O’Neal will be kicking off the new school years providing counsel to hundreds of schools year with the completion of its first-ever sumacross America and overseas. mer reading proSmith was an gram. O’Neal is education consultinviting the comant for Public munity to read Consulting Group Cathy Davidson’s in Nashville, Tenn.

“Now You See It.” Previously, she Using cuttingheld positions as edge research on deputy head the brain, teacher as well as Davidson shows head of English at COURTESY OF THE O’NEAL SCHOOL how “attention schools in London, O’Neal Pre-K4 students make Spanish valentines. blindness” has proEngland. Smith duced one of socihas participated in ety’s greatest challenges: an exchange program, acknowledging the digital where she taught English age, but operating in in Rocky Mount. She schools and workplaces received her bachelor’s designed for the last cendegree in social sciences tury. On Thursday, Aug. from the University of 23, in O’Neal’s theater, Ottawa, Canada, and a Davidson will hold a lecpost-graduate certificate ture on the book featurin education from ing groundbreaking ideas University of Strathcyde, COURTESY OF THE O’NEAL SCHOOL that will open the doors Glasgow, United Senior physics student Kayla Arnold to new ways of working Kingdom.

The Middle School paddles her cardboard vessel the full and learning. Go to will have an length of the pool to win the www.ONealNow.org to Events: l” reserve your seat. enhanced physical o o “Cardboard Armada.” ch S to ck a Admission is free. education and intraSchedule of “B2 — Ice cream social for Serving students from Pre-K3 to Grade 12, mural program in addition to its competi.1 Sunday, Aug rgarten students The O’Neal School is a member of the National tive sports program. On the academic inde r rising Pre-K and K ug. 14 — Orientation fo . front, students will have more time to Association of Independent Schools and is a ts A studen Tuesday, well as new day of school concentrate on writing skills, and forCore Knowledge National Visitation Site. as s er ad gr ninth 15 — First ts . g si eign exchange for Middle School ages The school has dual accreditation from the u vi A n , y so a d id s hy Dav Wedne will continue. French students from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools ug. 23 — Cat A , y a d s r u h T am school O’Neal visited last spring will (SACS) and the Southern Association of eading Progr cnic – Summer R ug. 30 — All school pi en visit O’Neal this spring.

Independent Schools (SAIS). O’Neal graduates A op , ol ho Sc Thursday er 10 — Upp In the Upper School, O’Neal families 100 percent of its seniors, and all are accepted . t p e S , y a d Mon s will be hosting students from France to colleges and universities throughout the en nt op re ol pa dle Scho house for for different periods of time throughnation. t. 11 — Mid p e S , y a d s e Tu out the school year. Several Upper For more information about enrollment to open rents house for pa ept. 12 — Lower School School students are now currently The O’Neal School, call Alice Droppers, direcThursday, S s participating in study abroad in Vigo, tor of admissions, at (910) 692-6920 or go to rent house for pa Spain, and will return soon. Changes www.ONealSchool.org.

O’Neal is preparing for its first day of school on Aug. 15. Through science, cultural studies and foreign exchange, students are learning more about the world around them.

O’Neal’s Lower School will welcome the fifth grade to its facility. Having been part of the Middle School for many years, it has been determined that the fifth grade would better benefit from the academic schedule offered in the Lower School.

In addition to welcoming the fifth grade, the Lower School will be enhancing its after-school clubs to include an Ecology Club. Its Spanish curriculum has expanded to also include the cultural aspects of Spanish-speaking countries.

The fifth grade will be piloting the Full Option Science System (FOSS), which promotes learning science by doing science. The construction of an outdoor learning center, serving all Lower School grades starting in Pre-K3, is under way.

The Middle School will have “acting” Middle School Director Jim Adare until Oct. 1, when new Middle School Director Andrea Smith arrives from Canada.

Adare will continue his time at O’Neal to serve as the school’s director of academic studies. He is an experienced independent school educator who has

little le ways to enlarge your chi child’s ild’s world. “ There are many littl Love off books is the b best of all.

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 2012

The O’Neal School Facts for the 2012-2013 School Year: Description: Private, independent college preparatory school serving students PreK3 – 12th grade.

Location: 3300 Airport Road, Southern Pines Enrollment: Approximately 430 — students come from Moore, Lee, Richmond, Montgomery, Hoke and Scotland counties.

Accreditation: Joint Accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and Southern Association of Independent Schools.

Membership: North Carolina Association of Independent Schools and the National Association of Independent Schools, the Moore County Chamber of Commerce Administration: Operates under the leadership of the headmaster and the board of trustees. The board of trustees is made up of parents and members of the community.

Schedule: Classes begin at 8:10 a.m. with final dismissal at 3:15 p.m. Grading periods are based on trimesters.

Lunch Program: Lunch is provided Monday through Friday by Sandhills Cafeteria and Catering.

Bus Transportation: There are three daily school routes that cover Sanford; Rockingham – Aberdeen – Pinehurst; and Laurinburg – Southern Pines.

First Sounds for Pre-School Age Children Monday 10:00-10:30 (Babies) • Monday 10:00-10:30 (Toddlers) Monday 10:45-11:15 ( Toddlers) • Monday 10:45-11:30 & 3:30-4:15 (Ages 3-5)

Starting in September for 14 weeks: $50 tuition & materials * * Includes CD, cards for listening lessons, & parent book

First Baptist Church 200 E. New York Avenue • Southern Pines, NC 28387 • 910-692-8750 Contact Benny Edwards or Susan Ward for more information

FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 2012

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES Charter Schools

The Academy of Moore County Kindergarten through Fifth Grade 12588 U.S. 15-501, Aberdeen (910) 757-0401 www.academyofmoorecounty.com Principal: Allyson Schoen The school opened in 1997 to students in kindergarten through eighth grade. Its mission is to pursue the N.C. core curriculum. Class size at The Academy of Moore County is less than 20 students per class. The school follows a uniformed dress code. The Academy of Moore County operates on a year-round schedule.

STARS — Sandhills Theatre Arts Renaissance Kindergarten through Eighth Grade 140 Southern Dunes Drive, Vass (910) 695-1004 www.sandhillsrenaissance.com Principal: Wes Graner Sandhills Theatre Arts Renaissance School (STARS), established in 1999, is recognized as one of 42 “A-plus” (arts plus the basics) schools in North Carolina. STARS combines an integrated arts curriculum with experiences in the visual arts, drama, music and dance/movement.

THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.

Private Schools Calvary Christian School Day Care ages 2-5, Kindergarten-12th Grade 400 S. Bennett St., Southern Pines (910) 692-8311 • www.calvarychristianschool.biz Principal: Dwight Creech Started as an alternative to public schools to offer and reflect a Christian philosophy, Calvary Christian School’s curriculum focuses on the basics, including reading, writing and arithmetic.

Episcopal Day School (EDS) Pre-school (3-year-olds) through Fifth Grade 340 E. Massachusetts Ave., Southern Pines (910) 692-3492 • www.episcopalday.org Headmaster: Michael Cerkovnik, J.D., ADB Episcopal Day School enrolls 180 students. The mission at Episcopal Day School is to provide a strong foundation for lifelong learning in a Christian community that treasures courage, leadership and excellence. EDS has happy students with caring teachers. EDS seeks to educate the whole child in mind, body and spirit.

Highland Christian Academy Pre-Kindergarten through 12th Grade 5587 U.S. 1 North, Vass • (910) 695-0494 Headmaster: William Vaughn Longleaf Academy Kindergarten through Eighth Grade 600 Valley View Road, Southern Pines, NC 28387 (910) 692-2665 • www.longleafacademy.com

Headmaster: Jill Dejak The Longleaf Academy is a private day school for children with specific learning differences, such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, AD/HD and other learning disabilities. Longleaf Academy focuses on a 4-to-1 student/teacher ratio in all language areas.

The O’Neal School Pre-Kindergarten (3-year-olds) through 12th Grade 3300 Airport Road, Southern Pines (910) 692-6920 • www.onealschool.org Headmaster: Alan Barr A college preparatory school, The O’Neal School is dedicated to the development of academic excellence, strength of character and physical well-being of its students in an environment where integrity, self-discipline and consideration for others are fundamental. The O’Neal School has 100 percent college placement. Financial aid is available.

Pope John Paul II Catholic School Pre-Kindergarten Four through Eighth Grade 2922 Camp Easter Road, Southern Pines (910) 692-6241 • www.jp2catholicschool.org Principal: Dr. Rick Kruska Pope John Paul II Catholic School is dedicated to forming the hearts and minds of its students according to the teachings of the Roman Catholic faith with the highest standard of academic excellence. Pope John Paul II Catholic School offers a rich and challenging curriculum for grades Pre-K four through eighth grade at its new

PAGE 11 campus off Camp Easter Road, and is affordable and accessible to all children in the Sandhills region. All students wear uniforms. For more information about academics and student life, call Dr. Rick Kruska.

Rainbow Baptist Church School Third Grade through Eighth Grade 702 W. Saunders Ave., Aberdeen, NC 28315 (910) 944-2799 Principal: K. Wayne Jones Sandhills Classical Christian School Preschool through Seventh Grade 650 Pee Dee Road, Southern Pines (910) 695-1874 • www.sandhillsccs.org e-mail: office@sandhillsccs.org Headmaster: Dr. Ron Grosh A nondenominational Christian school with a biblical world view, Sandhills Classical Christian School fosters more than 150 young minds to think clearly, listen carefully, reason logically and articulate persuasively. A member of the Association of Classical Christian Schools, SCCS offers a full curriculum for preschool through seventh grade children, including drama, art, music and sports activities, while remaining focused on its outstanding academic program in the Classical methodology.

Solid Rock Christian School Pre-school for ages 2- 4 and Kindergarten through 12th Grade 311 E. Maple St., Aberdeen • (910) 944-2099 Principal: Thomas Conway

PAGE 12

THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 2012

The Academy of Moore County Welcomes Students Back

The Academy of Moore County is a kindergarten through fifth grade public elementary charter school that serves students from Moore, Hoke, Richmond, Scotland, Robeson, Cumberland and Harnett counties.

The Academy follows a year-round schedule, with classes having begun on July 13, for the 2012-2013 academic year.

Its teaching staff is 100 percent fully qualified.

The Academy is tuition-free with no fees to attend. It has a cap of 210 students, and has a few remaining slots available at this time for the 2012-2013 school year.

The Academy is a certified FranklinCovey “The Leader in Me” school, a program utilized both nationally and internationally based upon the late Stephen Covey’s book “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People.”

“The Leader in Me” addresses the whole child by teaching students personal leadership and 21st century life skills. It presents principle-centered approaches for personal problem-solv-

ing; teaches responsibility and ethics; and impacts students from diverse backgrounds regardless of race, intelligence or economic upbringing. The Academy credits much of its positive culture and recent academic gains to this program.

In keeping with the culture of the school, students are required to wear uniforms.

Optional after-school care is available Monday through Friday from 2:45 to 5:30 p.m. and on half days for working parents.

Additionally, full day care will be offered during the fall and spring break intercessions.

The Academy is a recent recipient of a grant from the Palmer Foundation, enabling the recent construction of an $18,000 outdoor life science lab, which offers an additional classroom environment.

Qualifying students can receive BackPack Pals, a program that delivers food to the school for students in need of weekend meals.

HANNAH SHARPE/The Pilot

Gail Cunningham welcomes a student to the first day of school last year.

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BackPack Pals Ready to Go Back to School

BY HANNAH SHARPE Staff Writer

As students excitedly, or grudgingly, prepare for the start of a new school year, the last thing that should be on their minds is where their next meal is coming from.

BackPack Pals, a program operated by the Sandhills Branch of the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina, has spent the last six years working to ensure that students do not have to worry about that problem on the weekends when they are not in school.

Every Friday during the school year, BackPack volunteers deliver bags of food to schools, where teachers and guidance counselors discreetly distribute them to needy students.

Students put the food in their backpacks and are able to have food for the weekend, without worrying about potential

THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.

PAGE 13

It’s Time to Stuff the Bus

BY HANNAH SHARPE Staff Writer

HANNAH SHARPE/The Pilot

ostracism from their peers.

Bags contain about 11 individually wrapped food items, such as crackers, raisins, pudding packs, juice boxes, applesauce, fruit cups and cereal.

In the last six years, BackPack’s director, Linda Hubbard, has seen demand grow as word about the program spread.

What began as a distribution to 25 students at one school has grown to feeding more than 1,000 students by the end of the 2011-2012 year, with more than 35,000 bags of food distributed to schools all over Moore County.

Those looking to donate to the program can drop off food or monetary donations at the Sandhills Branch of the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina at 195 Sandy Ave. in Southern Pines.

For more information about the program, contact Linda Hubbard at the Food Bank at (910) 692-5959, extension 2407.

Does the sight of school supplies make you nostalgic for days gone by?

Or do those store displays remind you that summer has flown by and a new school year is just around the corner?

Either way, Communities in Schools of Moore County (CIS) hopes local shoppers will think to purchase a few items for needy students as they take advantage of tax-free shopping this weekend.

Buses will be parked in front of Walmart and Staples in Southern Pines Aug. 3 through 5, with volunteers waiting to load them up with school supplies.

The effort is part of the Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive led by CIS. Last year, the organization collected more than $14,300 in school supplies that were distributed to 23 Moore County schools.

The most desired items are pencils, notebook paper, back packs and folders to keep assignments organized.

Additional supplies requested include: glue sticks, spiral notebooks, 1-inch binders, hand sanitizer, plastic bags in various sizes, disinfectant wipes, colored pencils, scissors, tissues and flat erasers.

Monetary donations will be used to

supplement student activities throughout the year and purchase additional supplies.

All donations are tax-deductible.

Volunteers will distribute the items to all schools in the Moore County school system. Students receive the supplies by asking school guidance counselors for them.

The event is running in conjunction with the “Build a Back Pack” supply drive, which kicked off at Walmart July 23.

For the second year in a row, the retailer is urging shoppers to purchase additional items and fill back packs with school supplies in a partnership with Communities in Schools of North Carolina.

Bins for “Build a Back Pack” are located at the front of the store.

Communities in Schools is a local organization that brings volunteers into schools to address the unmet needs of students, providing a link between educators and the community.

For more information about participating in or volunteering for Stuff the Bus and other CIS activities, visit www.cismoore.org or call (910) 295-1072.

PAGE 14

THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 2012

PJPII Prepares for a New School Year

Most children throughout the Sandhills have shelved thoughts of school days along with math books, pencil cases and book bags, choosing to focus instead on long days of swimming or playing with friends. Yet, local department stores are filling their aisles with glue sticks, spiral binders and crayons. Teachers are readying classrooms and parents are counting down to the return of the fall routine.

At Pope John Paul II Catholic School, it’s our favorite time of year.

“Each school year brings new opportunities to reach out to children, their families and the community. Our school is committed to offering a safe, academically challenging environment that celebrates the unique abilities of every child,” explains Aimee Viana, principal.

When students return to PJPII this fall, they will become part of a school community committed to unlocking their future potential. Through the teaching of traditional academic subjects along with access to special extracurricular programs, students will be given the resources they need to become successful adults in a world that is constantly changing.

“As they grow, these young people will experience careers that as yet are unknown.

They will have unique opportunities to make a difference in the world. They will encounter many chances to encourage spiritual growth and promote personal integrity,” says Viana. “At Pope John Paul II, we are teaching the children of today to inspire the communities of tomorrow.”

A fundamental parochial education from pre-K through the eighth grade has never been more important than it is today.

Together with concerned and involved parents, PJPII is committed to growing knowledgeable, spiritual and respectful young adults who appreciate and respond to the needs of their local and global communities.

To ensure success, today’s students require a broad spectrum of academic experiences, ranging from language and history

COURTESY OF POPE JOHN PAUL II CATHOLIC SCHOOL

The 2012-2013 Student Council hopefuls at Pope John Paul II Catholic School in Southern Pines to mathematics, science and computer technology.

Pope John Paul II provides that and more.

In fact, the core curriculum parallels the North Carolina course of study and is augmented by the Diocese of Raleigh. PJPII offers an unrivaled, value-based study with proven results.

The school is fully accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

All classroom teachers are licensed by the state of North Carolina.

All students receive instruction in foreign language, religious studies, physical education, art and music.

The largest class size is 24.

The teaching philosophy establishes a strong value-based foundation to resolve issues and challenges with the incorporation of the principles reflected in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

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Every classroom is equipped with a SMART Board, and teachers implement the use of laptop computers in their classrooms for various lessons and assignments.

In addition to strong academic programs, special extracurricular activities enhance learning and inspire creativity. They include the LEGO robotics team, Science Olympiad team, Drama Program and Middle School Service Teams. PJPII students have earned awards for the North Carolina Young Authors Competition and the Weymouth Writing Contest.

Providing opportunities for leadership extends learning beyond the academic arena. The school held student council elections at the end of the last school year. The new officers are looking forward to fulfilling their duties in the upcoming school year.

For those with a flair for the dramatic, each year PJPII hosts a school play, open to all interested students. In 2011, the students

performed “Beauty and the Beast.” In 2012, drama participants entertained audiences with their rendition of “School House Rock,” a well-known story based on the Saturday morning cartoons from the 1970s.

PJPII also values athletics. Currently, students may participate in cross country, soccer and golf. The Lady Eagles soccer team went undefeated in the regular schedule of their inaugural season this spring. Efforts are under way to offer baseball and tennis in the near future.

“As you make your back-to-school plans, we invite you to take a few moments to learn more about our school,” says Viana. “Stop by for a visit. Talk with our teachers. Visit with other families who have chosen PJPII. Find out what makes PJPII special. You’ll be glad you did.”

For more information about Pope John Paul II Catholic School, visit www.jp2 catholicschool.org or call (910) 692-6241.

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THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.

PAGE 15

Back to School Excitement Builds at Sandhills

BY KAREN MANNING Special to the Pilot

Students of all ages and from many walks of life are preparing for the fall 2012 semester at Sandhills Community College when classes begin on Aug. 20.

“Sandhills has a solid reputation for serving students who are recent high school graduates as well as our population of traditional and non-traditional students,” said Dr. John Turner, provost. “”Our faculty and staff are looking forward to continuing that tradition this year.”

Enrolling at Sandhills is relatively easy.

An application is available online at sandhills.edu or at the college. Unlike many colleges and universities, there is no charge to apply. Plus, all applicants are accepted.

Registration for classes will be on Aug. 16, from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m., for current and returning students. Registration for new students will begin at 1 p.m. Current and past students can register for classes using WebAdvisor until Aug. 10 “We give our new students personal attention as they move through the admission and registration processes,” says Kellie Shoemake, dean of student services.

“We phone each of them soon after they apply for admission to ensure that they understand their next steps to enrollment.

Through this conversation, we try to gain an understanding of their current needs and goals, while giving them a chance to ask any questions they may have about our processes.

“We find that some students are already well-prepared to move forward with their college program, while others gain more confidence through this opportunity to talk with us. In either case, they seem pleased that we take the time to seek them out personally and let them know that we care about them.

“After being admitted to the college, new

Sligh

students complete a placement test and, afterward, select courses that will help them achieve their career goals. Our preadvising team works with them to do this, and then assists them to develop a personal educational plan.

“Through the years, we have realized that our individual touch with students encourages them to meet their goals and move successfully toward a new career,” Shoemake concludes.

New Programs, New Opportunities The high demand for people with computer skills is the cause of new offerings in the Computer Engineering program at Sandhills. In addition to the associate degree in the program and a microcomputer servicing certificate, two new diploma programs have been added: Computer Upgrade and Repair, and Electronics.

Seven new certificates also have been added: Repair, Advanced Repair, Electronics, Forensics, Advanced Forensics, Networking and Security.

For more information on the Computer Engineering programs, visit the Computers Technology section under Programs and Majors at sandhills.edu or call Paul Steel at (910) 695-3815 or email him at steelp@sandhills.edu.

In Health Sciences, there’s a new Ophthalmic Medical Assistant program.

This program prepares individuals to perform ophthalmic procedures under the supervision of a licensed physician.

Graduates are employable in medical institutions, clinics or physician practices. For more information, visit the Health Sciences area of the website or contact Alberta Purvis at (910) 695-3861 or by email at purvisa@sandhills.edu.

The college continues to offer degrees, diplomas and certificates in automotive

technologies, cosmetology, engineering technologies, golf course management, many more health sciences areas, hospitality and culinary, landscape gardening, management and business technologies, nursing, public services and college transfer.

Flyer Fever “We’re expecting great years from all Flyer teams this year, including our brand new women’s golf team,” says Athletic Director Aaron Denton. “I think our team will compete at a high level right away.”

The Flyers’ men’s basketball team will take to the court again, still flying high from earning the title of the 2012 National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division III champions last March. Coach Mike Apple and the Flyers have their first home game on Nov. 10.

“We’re adding fun events to our home basketball and volleyball games,” says Denton. “There will be Student Night, Military Night and other special offerings for the community so people will have even more fun cheering for the Flyers.”

The basketball team plays at The O’Neal School and at Pinecrest High School in Southern Pines. The volleyball team plays on campus in the Dempsey Student Center, kicking off its season on Aug. 23.

Men’s golf and women’s volleyball have also qualified for national play in recent years.

“This year, our athletes are also doing

DONNA FORD/The Pilot

SCC Flyers’ Daquain Towns several community involvement activities,” Denton reports. “For example, most of our athletes will be mentoring at Southern Middle School.”

Karen Manning is the director of marketing and public relations for Sandhills Community College.

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