LUMBERTON – As teachers returned to classrooms this week, they were greeted by community partners who provided meals, hospitality and encouragement before the school year begins. Several local churches and organizations provided meals for various schools. Godwin Heights Baptist Church and the Lumberton Housing Authority provided breakfast to Rowland-Norment Elementary School staff on Tuesday. The meal also included a devotional and prayer before the school year begins. “The support we receive from our community, and especially Godwin Heights Baptist Church, means a lot to our school,” said Dr. Joanna Cole, principal of Rowland-Norment Elementary School. “The first week back for staff is full of meetings and organizing spaces, so being able to take some time to be still and gather in community with one another is a true blessing.” “We cannot thank Godwin Heights Baptist Church enough for their generosity and care toward our staff,” Cole said. “Having a community of people praying for our school to ensure we have a safe and successful year motivates us even more, knowing that we cannot operate independently of community support.” Additionally, staff at WH Knuckles Elementary and Lumberton Junior High School enjoyed lunch at Sandy Grove Baptist Church on Monday.
“I want to thank Sandy Grove for their thoughtfulness and generosity. They made us feel special and valued as educators,” said Dr. Renee Steele, principal of WH Knuckles Elementary School. Orrum Middle School staff also received support and a meal from neighboring Orrum Baptist Church on Tuesday. “I appreciate them appreciating and recognizing the efforts of educators. They are our neighbors and always have our best interests in mind. They even let us use their parking lot and are always willing to help us in any way they can,” said Katasha Oxendine, principal of Orrum Middle School. “I just can’t thank them enough for everything they do for our teachers and students.” Other churches and institutions that showed support for educators this week included Antioch Baptist Church, Hyde Park Baptist Church, Vertical Church, Zion Hill Baptist Church, Lumberton Housing Authority, Fairmont First Baptist Church, First Baptist Church of Lumberton and more. Several members of the PSRC Board of Education also provided meals to staff this week and helped coordinate meal plans. “A lot of different organizations came together to make this possible,” said Vonta Leach, chair of the PSRC School Board. “I’m just glad they partnered with communities to feed the teachers and staff to show their appreciation ahead of the school year.”
“One of the greatest joys for me as a PSRC board member is seeing our staff appreciated for the work they do, and I’m happy to see it come to fruition,” said Tre’ Britt, vice chair of the PSRC school board. District Superintendent Dr. Freddie Williamson said these kind gestures help educators feel valued and start the school year on a positive note.
“Community support is critical to our teachers as they prepare for a successful school year. When the community – whether parents, local organizations or even fellow teachers – comes together to offer encouragement, resources and a helping hand, it can make a huge difference,” Williamson said. “We are grateful for each and every person who has shown kindness to our staff this week, and we can’t wait to welcome all of our students back to our classrooms on Monday,” he added.
Jessica Sealey is the PSRC’s Head of Communications. You can contact her by email at (email protected).
