🌟🍎 Board of Education Recognition – January 2026 Employee of the Month 🍎🌟
The Stokes County Schools Board of Education proudly recognized Danielle Cox, Media Coordinator at Walnut Cove Elementary School, as the January 2026 Employee of the Month!
Mrs. Cox began her career with Stokes County Schools in August 2014 as a 1st Grade Teacher at Pine Hall Elementary School. In August 2021, she transitioned into the role of Media Coordinator at Sandy Ridge Elementary, and at the beginning of the 2024–2025 school year, she joined the Walnut Cove Elementary family as Media Coordinator.
Danielle’s dedication to literacy, student engagement, and supporting teachers and students makes a lasting impact across her school community. Congratulations, Mrs. Cox, and thank you for your continued commitment to Stokes County Schools! 🌟📚
The Stokes County Schools Board of Education proudly recognized Danielle Cox, Media Coordinator at Walnut Cove Elementary School, as the January 2026 Employee of the Month!
Mrs. Cox began her career with Stokes County Schools in August 2014 as a 1st Grade Teacher at Pine Hall Elementary School. In August 2021, she transitioned into the role of Media Coordinator at Sandy Ridge Elementary, and at the beginning of the 2024–2025 school year, she joined the Walnut Cove Elementary family as Media Coordinator.
Danielle’s dedication to literacy, student engagement, and supporting teachers and students makes a lasting impact across her school community. Congratulations, Mrs. Cox, and thank you for your continued commitment to Stokes County Schools! 🌟📚

🎓🌟 Board of Education Recognition – National Board Certification 🌟🎓
The Stokes County Schools Board of Education proudly recognized the following educators for earning National Board Certification, one of the highest honors in the teaching profession. This achievement reflects a deep commitment to excellence, professional growth, and student success.
👏 Congratulations to our National Board–Certified Educators:
• Danielle King, 1st Grade Teacher – London Elementary (New Certification)
• Allison Mary Neese, 3rd Grade Teacher – London Elementary
• Donna Stowe, Kindergarten Teacher – Sandy Ridge Elementary
• Heather Fowler, English Teacher – West Stokes High School
• Lori Zimmerman, 7th Grade ELA Teacher – Chestnut Grove Middle School (New Certification)
• Ashley Jones, 4th Grade Teacher – Mount Olive Elementary
• Kerrie Harrison, Exceptional Children’s Teacher – North Stokes High School
• Keasha Rice, Early Literacy Specialist – Systemwide
• Donald McMartin, History Teacher – West Stokes High School
• Jennifer Spargo, Counselor – Stokes Early College High School
Thank you for your dedication to our students and for raising the standard of excellence across Stokes County Schools. 🍎✨
The Stokes County Schools Board of Education proudly recognized the following educators for earning National Board Certification, one of the highest honors in the teaching profession. This achievement reflects a deep commitment to excellence, professional growth, and student success.
👏 Congratulations to our National Board–Certified Educators:
• Danielle King, 1st Grade Teacher – London Elementary (New Certification)
• Allison Mary Neese, 3rd Grade Teacher – London Elementary
• Donna Stowe, Kindergarten Teacher – Sandy Ridge Elementary
• Heather Fowler, English Teacher – West Stokes High School
• Lori Zimmerman, 7th Grade ELA Teacher – Chestnut Grove Middle School (New Certification)
• Ashley Jones, 4th Grade Teacher – Mount Olive Elementary
• Kerrie Harrison, Exceptional Children’s Teacher – North Stokes High School
• Keasha Rice, Early Literacy Specialist – Systemwide
• Donald McMartin, History Teacher – West Stokes High School
• Jennifer Spargo, Counselor – Stokes Early College High School
Thank you for your dedication to our students and for raising the standard of excellence across Stokes County Schools. 🍎✨

🐾🎓 Board of Education Recognition – Elanco Veterinary Medical Applications Certification 🎓🐾
The Stokes County Schools Board of Education proudly recognized students who earned the Elanco Veterinary Medical Applications Certification—an industry-recognized credential that supports both college and career readiness.
The Veterinary Medical Applications Course introduces students to veterinary science and animal health care for both large and small animals, providing foundational knowledge and hands-on skills used in the veterinary field.
👏 Congratulations to the following seniors who earned certification:
Molly Hilton
Alli McKenzie
We are proud of these students for their dedication and commitment to excellence as they prepare for future success in veterinary science and animal health care! 🌟
The Stokes County Schools Board of Education proudly recognized students who earned the Elanco Veterinary Medical Applications Certification—an industry-recognized credential that supports both college and career readiness.
The Veterinary Medical Applications Course introduces students to veterinary science and animal health care for both large and small animals, providing foundational knowledge and hands-on skills used in the veterinary field.
👏 Congratulations to the following seniors who earned certification:
Molly Hilton
Alli McKenzie
We are proud of these students for their dedication and commitment to excellence as they prepare for future success in veterinary science and animal health care! 🌟

🎭🌟 Board of Education Recognition – NCTC Competition 🌟🎭
The Stokes County Schools Board of Education proudly recognized the South Stokes High School Advanced Theater Class for their outstanding achievement at the North Carolina Theatre Conference (NCTC) Regional Competition!
Under the leadership of Justin Bulla, these talented students earned a regional win, advancing on to the NCTC State Competition—an incredible accomplishment!
👏 Participating Students:
Aliza Bullins
Zinnia Burgess
Ricky Daley
Lex Flanagan
Gary Gilley
Madelyn Golden
Savannah Ring
Sara Scott
Ava Smith
Elsa Smith
Congratulations to these students and their instructor for their hard work, dedication, and excellence in the arts. We are proud to see South Stokes students shine on the regional and state stage! 🎭✨
The Stokes County Schools Board of Education proudly recognized the South Stokes High School Advanced Theater Class for their outstanding achievement at the North Carolina Theatre Conference (NCTC) Regional Competition!
Under the leadership of Justin Bulla, these talented students earned a regional win, advancing on to the NCTC State Competition—an incredible accomplishment!
👏 Participating Students:
Aliza Bullins
Zinnia Burgess
Ricky Daley
Lex Flanagan
Gary Gilley
Madelyn Golden
Savannah Ring
Sara Scott
Ava Smith
Elsa Smith
Congratulations to these students and their instructor for their hard work, dedication, and excellence in the arts. We are proud to see South Stokes students shine on the regional and state stage! 🎭✨

The Stokes County Schools Board of Education proudly recognized our District Christmas Card Contest Winners for their outstanding creativity and talent! We are so proud of these students who represented their schools and our district so well.
🎨 Elementary School Winner
🏫 Mount Olive Elementary
👩🎓 Owen Carone, 3rd Grade
👨👩👦 Parents: Jonathan & Nicole Carone of King, NC
🎨 Middle School Winner
🏫 Chestnut Grove Middle School
👩🎓 Allie Barneycastle, 8th Grade
👨👩👧 Parents: Todd & Jennifer Barneycastle of King, NC
🎨 High School Winner
🏫 North Stokes High School
👨🎓 Brendon Cook, 11th Grade
👨👩👦 Parents: Joshua & Alisha Quick of Pinnacle, NC
Congratulations to these talented students ! Thank you for helping spread holiday cheer throughout Stokes County Schools.
🎨 Elementary School Winner
🏫 Mount Olive Elementary
👩🎓 Owen Carone, 3rd Grade
👨👩👦 Parents: Jonathan & Nicole Carone of King, NC
🎨 Middle School Winner
🏫 Chestnut Grove Middle School
👩🎓 Allie Barneycastle, 8th Grade
👨👩👧 Parents: Todd & Jennifer Barneycastle of King, NC
🎨 High School Winner
🏫 North Stokes High School
👨🎓 Brendon Cook, 11th Grade
👨👩👦 Parents: Joshua & Alisha Quick of Pinnacle, NC
Congratulations to these talented students ! Thank you for helping spread holiday cheer throughout Stokes County Schools.


Stokes County Schools will be closed on Monday, January 19, 2026, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

🎉 January 2026 Employee of the Month 🎉
Please join us in congratulating Mrs. Danielle Cox, Media Coordinator at Walnut Cove Elementary School, on being named Stokes County Schools’ January 2026 Employee of the Month!
Mrs. Cox began her career with Stokes County Schools in August 2014 as a first grade teacher at Pine Hall Elementary. In 2021, she transitioned into the role of Media Coordinator at Sandy Ridge Elementary, and she joined the Walnut Cove Elementary family at the start of the 2024–2025 school year.
Mrs. Cox has been such a blessing to the staff of Walnut Cove Elementary. She supports her school by managing resources, integrating technology, and fostering a love for reading. She assists staff with instructional tools, curates digital content, and ensures smooth library operations. Always available and highly knowledgeable, she is an invaluable resource who strengthens learning and collaboration across the entire school community.
We are incredibly thankful for her hard work and dedication to Walnut Cove Elementary. Stokes County Schools is stronger because of Mrs. Cox and her commitment to students and staff. 📚✨
Please join us in congratulating Mrs. Danielle Cox, Media Coordinator at Walnut Cove Elementary School, on being named Stokes County Schools’ January 2026 Employee of the Month!
Mrs. Cox began her career with Stokes County Schools in August 2014 as a first grade teacher at Pine Hall Elementary. In 2021, she transitioned into the role of Media Coordinator at Sandy Ridge Elementary, and she joined the Walnut Cove Elementary family at the start of the 2024–2025 school year.
Mrs. Cox has been such a blessing to the staff of Walnut Cove Elementary. She supports her school by managing resources, integrating technology, and fostering a love for reading. She assists staff with instructional tools, curates digital content, and ensures smooth library operations. Always available and highly knowledgeable, she is an invaluable resource who strengthens learning and collaboration across the entire school community.
We are incredibly thankful for her hard work and dedication to Walnut Cove Elementary. Stokes County Schools is stronger because of Mrs. Cox and her commitment to students and staff. 📚✨

🎓 Virtual FAFSA Training – Join Us! 🎓
Want to help students and families better understand financial aid opportunities? Join us for a Virtual FAFSA Training on Thursday, February 5, from 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
This session is open to all community and school stakeholders and will:
✅ Explain the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
✅ Promote student access to funding for postsecondary education
✅ Help dispel common FAFSA myths
📲 Click here to register - https://tinyurl.com/4dx5he5s
Let’s work together to support our students’ futures!
#FAFSA #CollegeAccess #StudentSuccess #StokesCountySchools
Want to help students and families better understand financial aid opportunities? Join us for a Virtual FAFSA Training on Thursday, February 5, from 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
This session is open to all community and school stakeholders and will:
✅ Explain the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
✅ Promote student access to funding for postsecondary education
✅ Help dispel common FAFSA myths
📲 Click here to register - https://tinyurl.com/4dx5he5s
Let’s work together to support our students’ futures!
#FAFSA #CollegeAccess #StudentSuccess #StokesCountySchools
Today we recognize Law Enforcement Appreciation Day and thank the dedicated men and women who serve and protect our community. Your commitment, courage, and service do not go unnoticed. We appreciate all you do to keep our schools and community safe. 💙

⏰ AUDITIONS ARE COMING UP! ⏰
Just 5 days until auditions for Newsies: The Broadway Musical! 🎭
Stokes County Schools - All County Theatre
🗓 Auditions: January 12 & 13
👥 Open to ALL students —
🎤 Singers & non-singers
💃 Dancers & non-dancers
🎬 Backstage & technical crew
Whether you want to be center stage or behind the scenes, there’s a role for you!
🔗 Sign up now & get all audition info:
👉 www.stokestheatre.weebly.com
📧 Questions? Email Mr. Bulla at
justin.bulla@stokes.k12.nc.us
✨ Don’t wait — sign up today and be part of Newsies!
Just 5 days until auditions for Newsies: The Broadway Musical! 🎭
Stokes County Schools - All County Theatre
🗓 Auditions: January 12 & 13
👥 Open to ALL students —
🎤 Singers & non-singers
💃 Dancers & non-dancers
🎬 Backstage & technical crew
Whether you want to be center stage or behind the scenes, there’s a role for you!
🔗 Sign up now & get all audition info:
👉 www.stokestheatre.weebly.com
📧 Questions? Email Mr. Bulla at
justin.bulla@stokes.k12.nc.us
✨ Don’t wait — sign up today and be part of Newsies!

This month, we recognize Board of Education Appreciation Month and thank our Board members for their service, leadership, and dedication to student success. Your commitment to public education makes a lasting impact on our schools and community. Thank you for all you do.

🚨 Last Chance to Share Your Input! 🚨
The survey for the 2026–2027 Traditional School Calendar is closing soon.
Thank you to everyone who has already participated. If you haven’t yet, please take a moment to share your feedback—your input matters!
🔗 Survey link: https://forms.gle/PzX9Xuue1GFPapwDA
⏰ Closes 12/30 at Noon
The survey for the 2026–2027 Traditional School Calendar is closing soon.
Thank you to everyone who has already participated. If you haven’t yet, please take a moment to share your feedback—your input matters!
🔗 Survey link: https://forms.gle/PzX9Xuue1GFPapwDA
⏰ Closes 12/30 at Noon

⏳ There’s still time to share your voice!
We invite parents, staff, students, and community members to provide input on the 2026–2027 Traditional School Calendar.
Your feedback is reviewed by the Calendar Committee and considered by the Stokes County Board of Education as part of the calendar development process.
🔗 Complete the survey: https://forms.gle/PzX9Xuue1GFPapwDA
📌 Closes 12/30 at Noon
We invite parents, staff, students, and community members to provide input on the 2026–2027 Traditional School Calendar.
Your feedback is reviewed by the Calendar Committee and considered by the Stokes County Board of Education as part of the calendar development process.
🔗 Complete the survey: https://forms.gle/PzX9Xuue1GFPapwDA
📌 Closes 12/30 at Noon

🗣️ We want your input!
Stokes County Schools is seeking community feedback on the 2026–2027 Traditional School Calendar.
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts, ideas, and feedback with the Stokes County Calendar Committee. While the final decision rests with the Stokes County Board of Education, your voice is valued and helps inform this important process.
🔗 Take the survey here: https://forms.gle/PzX9Xuue1GFPapwDA
⏰ Survey closes 12/30 at Noon
Stokes County Schools is seeking community feedback on the 2026–2027 Traditional School Calendar.
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts, ideas, and feedback with the Stokes County Calendar Committee. While the final decision rests with the Stokes County Board of Education, your voice is valued and helps inform this important process.
🔗 Take the survey here: https://forms.gle/PzX9Xuue1GFPapwDA
⏰ Survey closes 12/30 at Noon

🎄✨ Three-Hour Early Dismissal Today!
Stokes County Schools will release early as we head into the holiday break.
Enjoy a safe, restful, and cheerful holiday season!
📚 We’ll see everyone back on January 5th for the start of the Spring semester.

🎭 AUDITIONS ANNOUNCEMENT! 🎭
📣 Newsies: The Broadway Musical is coming, and we want YOU!
Stokes County Schools - All County Theatre
🗓 Auditions: January 12 & 13
👥 Open to everyone —
✔️ Singers & non-singers
✔️ Dancers & non-dancers
✔️ Backstage crew
✔️ Technical crew
Whether you’re ready to perform on stage or shine behind the scenes, there’s a place for you in this production!
🔗 All audition details & sign-ups:
👉 www.stokestheatre.weebly.com
📧 Questions? Contact Mr. Bulla, Theatre Teacher:
justin.bulla@stokes.k12.nc.us
✨ Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting show — join the cast or crew of Newsies!
📣 Newsies: The Broadway Musical is coming, and we want YOU!
Stokes County Schools - All County Theatre
🗓 Auditions: January 12 & 13
👥 Open to everyone —
✔️ Singers & non-singers
✔️ Dancers & non-dancers
✔️ Backstage crew
✔️ Technical crew
Whether you’re ready to perform on stage or shine behind the scenes, there’s a place for you in this production!
🔗 All audition details & sign-ups:
👉 www.stokestheatre.weebly.com
📧 Questions? Contact Mr. Bulla, Theatre Teacher:
justin.bulla@stokes.k12.nc.us
✨ Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting show — join the cast or crew of Newsies!

🎉 Congratulations, Dr. Brad Rice! 🎉
We are proud to announce that Dr. Brad Rice, Stokes County Superintendent, has been named the 2026 Regional Superintendent of the Year! 🏆
This recognition reflects Dr. Rice’s unwavering dedication to students, educators, and the entire Stokes County community. His leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence continue to move our district forward and inspire all who serve alongside him.
Please join us in celebrating this outstanding achievement! 👏💙
#StokesCountySchools #SuperintendentOfTheYear #LeadershipExcellence #ProudToBeStokes
We are proud to announce that Dr. Brad Rice, Stokes County Superintendent, has been named the 2026 Regional Superintendent of the Year! 🏆
This recognition reflects Dr. Rice’s unwavering dedication to students, educators, and the entire Stokes County community. His leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence continue to move our district forward and inspire all who serve alongside him.
Please join us in celebrating this outstanding achievement! 👏💙
#StokesCountySchools #SuperintendentOfTheYear #LeadershipExcellence #ProudToBeStokes

🏆⛳️ STATE CHAMPION ALERT! ⛳️🏆
The Stokes County Board of Education proudly congratulates Sawyer Slate of South Stokes High School for winning the 2025 NCHSAA 1A Boys Golf Individual State Championship!
Sawyer shot an even-par to earn medalist honors on May 13 at Longleaf Golf & Family Club — a phenomenal achievement and a proud moment for the entire Stokes County Schools community.
Please join us in celebrating Sawyer’s hard work, dedication, and remarkable accomplishment. Way to represent Stokes County with excellence! 🎉👏
#StokesCountySchools #StateChampion #Golf #NCHSAA #SouthStokesHigh #ProudToBeSCS
The Stokes County Board of Education proudly congratulates Sawyer Slate of South Stokes High School for winning the 2025 NCHSAA 1A Boys Golf Individual State Championship!
Sawyer shot an even-par to earn medalist honors on May 13 at Longleaf Golf & Family Club — a phenomenal achievement and a proud moment for the entire Stokes County Schools community.
Please join us in celebrating Sawyer’s hard work, dedication, and remarkable accomplishment. Way to represent Stokes County with excellence! 🎉👏
#StokesCountySchools #StateChampion #Golf #NCHSAA #SouthStokesHigh #ProudToBeSCS

🌟 As we head into the holiday season, here are a few key reminders:
🕒 Friday, Dec. 19 — Early Release
🎄 Holiday Break starts right after
📚 Students return Jan. 5 for the start of the Spring semester
Wishing our entire school community a safe, joyful, and restful break!

🎉 Exciting News! 🎉
We’re proud to announce that Chestnut Grove Middle School has been named a 2025 PTEC Signature School! 🏆
This honor recognizes our commitment to excellence in teaching and learning, innovative practices, and a strong culture of collaboration that helps every student thrive. 🌟
A huge thank you to our amazing staff, students, families, and community for making this achievement possible — together, we are shaping the future of education! 💙💛
#PTECSignatureSchool #ExcellenceInEducation #ChestnutGroveProud
We’re proud to announce that Chestnut Grove Middle School has been named a 2025 PTEC Signature School! 🏆
This honor recognizes our commitment to excellence in teaching and learning, innovative practices, and a strong culture of collaboration that helps every student thrive. 🌟
A huge thank you to our amazing staff, students, families, and community for making this achievement possible — together, we are shaping the future of education! 💙💛
#PTECSignatureSchool #ExcellenceInEducation #ChestnutGroveProud
