Warren County Students and Families,
Welcome to the 2021-22 school year! I am honored to start my first year as your Interim Superintendent. We’re working hard to make sure everything is ready to help your child have a successful year filled with social support, academic growth, and childhood fun. We’re excited to once again see students’ eyes sparkle and have their laughter back in the buildings.
We had all hoped the pandemic would be nearly over by now, but instead, the number of COVID-19 cases is increasing. In education, we are again struggling to balance between social and emotional interaction and the need for health measures like social distancing and face masks. We are committed to doing everything in our power to keep students in school, in person, and keep them healthy. In order to do that, we need your help.
Health Measures
While we can’t completely keep COVID-19 out of our schools, we can all work together to minimize the chances of it spreading within our schools. Federal, state, and local health officials tell us that in order to keep students in school, we need to keep them home when they’re not feeling well, stress the importance of wearing face masks, keep as much distance between each other as possible, and wash our hands often.
Face Mask Requirements
Face masks are required for all students and staff when indoors and on school-provided transportation, including school buses, activity buses, and vendor transportation. Face coverings are optional outdoors. Contact your principal to request special arrangements if your child is unable to wear a face mask.
Face masks are required for all visitors age 5 and older when indoors at schools or district buildings, including visitors to Board of Education and committee meetings.
Health officials expect the number of people with COVID-19 in our county will keep climbing until a larger majority of people are vaccinated. That makes the proper use of face coverings critical in our schools. If face coverings are not worn correctly, health officials predict a significant number of students will be required to quarantine due to possible exposures.
Vaccinations
Health officials say the best way to protect yourself, your family, our community, and our children is to get vaccinated if you’re eligible. COVID-19 vaccines are available for everyone ages 12 and older. Find a convenient location to get the free vaccine at YourSpotYourShot.nc.gov or by calling the COVID-19 Vaccine Help Center at 1-888-675-4567.
Virtual Learning Option
Now that you know some of the health measures that will be in place, contact your principal if you have serious concerns about your child attending school in person. We want to hear your concerns, have an opportunity to address them, and provide your student a learning option that best fits your family’s needs.
New Principals and Other Key Leadership Appointments
This week, we named five new principals, an interim assistant principal, and hired a Chief Communication and Engagement Officer.
Principal, Mariam Boyd Elementary: Kendra Davis (Start date: 8/11/21)
Principal, Vaughan Elementary: Sophelia McMannen (Start date: TBD)
Principal, Warren County Middle: Dr. Dennis Carrington (Start date: 8/11/21)
Principal, Warren New Tech High: John Green (Start date: 8/12/21)
Principal, Warren County High: Keesha Lewis (Start date: 8/12/21)
Interim Assistant Principal, Warren County High: Angela Lee-Easter (Start date: 8/12/21)
Chief Communication and Engagement Officer: Heather Lawing (Start date: TBD)
Learn more about these new school leaders.
I am committed to ensuring we have the right people in the right positions to best support our staff, students, and families. These education professionals understand the importance of making sure our students and staff feel valued, supported, and challenged. I’m proud of the leadership team we’re putting together and look forward to working together to make this an exciting and successful school year for all of our students.
I believe the best way to support our students and staff is by working together, having open and honest communication, and putting our students’ needs first. Thank you in advance for your support and cooperation as we start this challenging and exciting school year together. I hope you all have a wonderful year and I look forward to meeting you as I get used to my “new school” as well.
Sincerely,
Keith Sutton
Interim Superintendent