🎉 Celebrating Retired Black History Excellence in Washington County Schools 🎉
Today, we celebrate an extraordinary individual who has left an indelible mark on the Washington County Schools community - Ms. Eleanor Barber. With an incredible 53 years of dedicated service, Ms. Barber retired in 2019, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.
Ms. Barber served as the welcoming face of Plymouth High School for many years, but her impact extended far beyond the administrative role. A gifted pianist, she generously shared her musical talents with countless students, leaving an everlasting imprint on their lives.
More than a secretary, Ms. Barber assumed the role of a nurturing figure, imparting wisdom and care to all who crossed her path during her tenure. Her influence transcended the professional realm, earning her the title of a community matriarch.
Recently, Ms. Eleanor Barber's 90th birthday with a glamorous dinner, a testament to her enduring spirit and the profound respect and love she has garnered.
Today, we honor and celebrate Ms. Barber as a symbol of Retired Black Excellence from Washington County Schools. Her contributions, wisdom, and musical talents have enriched the lives of many, leaving an indelible legacy that will be cherished for generations to come.
Join us in applauding Ms. Eleanor Barber for her remarkable journey and the positive impact she continues to have on our WCS community.
#BlackHistoryExcellence #WashingtonCountySchools #EleanorBarber #Inspiration #LegacyCelebration
WCS Alumni Spotlight: Cieraca V. Rhodes
We proudly present Cieraca V. Rhodes, a distinguished graduate from Creswell High School in 2004.
Graduation Year: 2004
School:
Post-High School Journey:
Cieraca embarked on a journey of continuous learning and entrepreneurship. She graduated from college, pursued graduate studies, and emerged as a successful entrepreneur with ventures spanning various sectors.
Current Ventures:
Cieraca proudly owns companies in diverse sectors, showcasing her entrepreneurial prowess. Her ventures include Real Estate Broker/Owner, Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT), General Freight Logistics, Vending Business, and Clinical Research Consulting.
CTE Pathway Completion: Yes
Words of Wisdom:
Cieraca gives current Washington County Schools students valuable advice: "Learn about the importance of finance, credit, and ultimate health and well-being. No matter how hard you work, it does not matter if your health and well-being are not aligned. Excellent health and well-being are number one! Valuing your time with your family goes hand in hand with your health. Secondly, learning about the stock market, credit, and different insurance vehicles is important to establish assets, basically anything dealing with finances. Lastly, it is important to learn a trade. Learning a trade can be your bottom line when working and finding your footing. Learning a trade will set you apart from others and guarantee you will always have a job or a means to produce income."
Engagement Interest:
Cieraca is enthusiastic about giving back to the community and is interested in being a guest speaker or serving on a virtual and face-to-face panel with individuals in similar career pathways.
Cieraca V. Rhodes inspires current students, showcasing the power of education, continuous learning, and entrepreneurial spirit. We are proud of her accomplishments and grateful for her willingness to share her insights with the Washington County Schools community.
WCS Alumni Spotlight: William Brown Jr
We proudly highlight the achievements of William Brown Jr, an esteemed graduate of Plymouth High School, class of 2007.
Post-High School Journey:
William's journey after high school led him to enroll at Pitt Community College before transitioning to North Carolina Central University. William has a master's in Management & Leadership and Human Service Counseling from Liberty University. He is currently pursuing his doctorate in Public Administration.
Current Occupation:
William is making a meaningful impact in Clinical Social Work while also dedicating his time to coaching youth football.
Words of Wisdom:
William shares valuable insights with current Washington County Schools students: "Never let your obstacles define you. Always remember that tables do turn, and put your best foot forward when it’s your time. Network as much as possible because some doors that degrees will not open for you. Invest in dreams because only you can stop you. Last, but not least, learn to be uncomfortable because growth requires separation. Only a few will make it; ensure you are in that few."
Engagement Interest:
William is interested in being a guest speaker or serving on a panel, both virtually and face-to-face, providing guidance and inspiration to individuals in similar career pathways.
William Brown Jr's journey exemplifies resilience, continuous learning, and giving back to the community. His words of wisdom resonate with the challenges and opportunities students may encounter on their paths. We commend William for his achievements and appreciate his willingness to inspire the next generation.
WCS Alumni Spotlight: Leslie Drake
We are delighted to showcase Leslie Drake, a distinguished graduate from Plymouth High School, class of 2012.
Graduation Year: 2012
School: WCHS (Washington County High School)
Post-High School Journey:
Leslie embarked on a higher education journey at Elizabeth City State University, majoring in Psychology. Her dedication to mental health led her to further her education in Mental Health Counseling and Clinical Psychology.
Current Occupation:
Leslie is a Crisis Counselor under the Department of Mental Health/Suicide Prevention. In this role, she assists children and adults dealing with crisis concerns related to mental health and more.
CTE Pathway Completion: Yes
Words of Wisdom:
Leslie shares empowering words of wisdom with current Washington County Schools students: "Never give up on yourself or your dreams because you can do anything you set your mind to do!"
Engagement Interest:
Leslie is interested in being a guest speaker or serving on a panel, both virtually and face-to-face, offering her insights and experiences to individuals pursuing similar career pathways.
Leslie Drake's journey exemplifies the transformative power of education and dedication to mental health advocacy. Her commitment to helping others in crisis is commendable, and we are proud to showcase her achievements as an inspiration to the students of Washington County Schools.
WCS Alumni Spotlight: Dajanique Sykes
We are delighted to shine the spotlight on one of our accomplished alumni, Dajanique Sykes, who graduated from Washington County High School in 2019.
Graduation Year: 2019
School: WCHS (Washington County High School)
Post-High School Journey:
Dajanique enrolled in college and embarked on an entrepreneurial path. She has earned her Bachelor's in History with a minor in African, African American, Diaspora Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Current Occupation:
Dajanique is currently making a difference as a 6th-grade math teacher at Washington County Middle School. Beyond her teaching role, she has made waves in the beauty industry. During her junior year in high school, she initiated her makeup business, GlammedbyDaja, which has since flourished, establishing her as a respected part-time makeup artist in the 252 area.
CTE Pathway Completion: Yes
Words of Wisdom:
For Washington County Scholars, Dajanique shares a valuable piece of advice: "It is imperative that you are accountable for your growth and decisions! Nothing in life is handed over unless you put in the work, time, dedication, and effort to take what you want. There is so much in the world to discover, experience, and achieve that we can all succeed to our own standards and reach the unimaginable. Yet, it all starts with us and how we treat others, ourselves, and our mindsets. I encourage all students to challenge themselves in goal-setting, finding a mentor, donating their time to community service, and joining clubs!"
Engagement Interest:
Dajanique is keen on giving back to her alma mater. She is open to being a guest speaker or serving on a panel, both virtually and face-to-face, with individuals in similar career pathways.
Dajanique Sykes stands as an inspiration for current Washington County Schools students, showcasing the power of dedication, education, and entrepreneurship. We are proud of her achievements and look forward to seeing her continued success.
WCS Alumni Spotlight: Quanisee Barrow (Purvis)
We proudly present Quanisee Barrow (Purvis), an accomplished graduate from Plymouth High School, class of 2011.
Graduation Year: 2011
Post-High School Journey:
Quanisee continued her education journey at Gwinnett College, laying the foundation for her subsequent achievements.
Current Occupation:
Today, Quanisee is a Medical Reimbursement Specialist with expertise in Healthcare and Insurance. Beyond her professional pursuits, she is a dedicated business owner and a passionate model. She utilizes her transparency to inspire and guide others in finding their purpose and destiny.
CTE Pathway Completion: Yes
Words of Wisdom:
Quanisee gives current Washington County Schools students valuable advice: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge God. Don’t lose your light."
Engagement Interest:
Quanisee is interested in being a guest speaker or serving on a panel, both virtually and face-to-face, contributing her experiences and insights to individuals in similar career pathways.
Quanisee Barrow (Purvis) is a testament to the diverse paths one can take after high school, blending professional success with personal passion and a commitment to helping others. We celebrate her achievements and appreciate her willingness to inspire the students of Washington County Schools.
🌟 Washington County Schools Alumni Spotlight: Cory Burnett 🌟
We are proud to feature Cory Burnett, a distinguished alumnus who graduated from Washington County Schools in 2001.
🎓 Graduation Year: 2001
🏫 School: Plymouth High School
👨🎓 Educational Journey: Cory pursued a degree in Mathematics from East Carolina University, marking the beginning of a remarkable path. He then served as a Commissioned Officer in the US Army, contributing to the defense of our nation. Currently, he is a Financial Professional, empowering individuals and communities through financial education and implementation.
💼 Current Roles: Cory's dedication extends to serving in the Active Duty Army while making a significant impact in the financial sector.
🛠️ CTE Pathway: Cory actively engaged in a CTE pathway during his high school years, setting the stage for his future success.
🌟 Words of Wisdom: Cory imparts valuable wisdom to current Washington County Schools students: "Learn from the past, live in the present, and look towards the future." This timeless advice encourages a holistic approach to life and learning.
🎙️ Guest Speaker: Cory expresses his willingness to share his experiences as a guest speaker, providing valuable insights into similar career pathways, and is open to virtual engagements.
Cory Burnett exemplifies the spirit of lifelong learning, service, and dedication. Washington County Schools celebrate his achievements and are proud to showcase his success story. If you're eager to gain insights from Cory's journey, don't hesitate to connect with him! 🚀 #WCSAlumni #SuccessStories #EducationAndService
WCS Alumni Spotlight: Deja Phelps
We proudly present Deja Phelps, an accomplished graduate from Creswell High School, class of 2018.
Graduation Year: 2018
Post-High School Journey:
Deja graduated from Lyndon B. Johnson Jobcorps as a welder, showcasing her commitment to acquiring valuable skills in the workforce. She has her FEMA certification, and she is in the Americorps.
Current Occupation:
Currently, Deja is making strides in her career at Daimler Trucks North America, actively pursuing her chosen career path.
CTE Pathway Completion: Yes
Words of Wisdom:
Deja imparts valuable words of wisdom to current Washington County Schools students:
"Reach above the sky."
"Don’t allow the voices of fears to be louder than the other voices in your head."
"A good reputation is more valuable than money."
"You never really lose until you stop trying."
"Always remember impossible should mean the opposite is I’m possible."
"No excuses."
Engagement Interest:
Deja is interested in being a guest speaker or serving on a panel, both virtually and face-to-face, sharing her experiences and insights with individuals in similar career pathways.
Deja Phelps stands as a testament to the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for graduates of Washington County Schools. Her journey in the workforce and commitment to continuous improvement inspire current students. We celebrate her achievements and appreciate her willingness to contribute to the success of others.
WCS Alumni Spotlight: LaDarius Torrain Bryant
Let's applaud the achievements of LaDarius Torrain Bryant, a proud graduate of Plymouth High School in the class of 2009.
Graduation Year: 2009
Post-High School Journey:
LaDarius graduated from North Carolina Central University, showcasing his commitment to higher education.
Current Occupation:
Currently residing in Houston, Texas, LaDarius serves as a Kitchen Manager at Outback Steakhouse, highlighting his dedication and leadership in the restaurant industry.
CTE Pathway Completion: Yes
Words of Wisdom:
LaDarius shares valuable words of wisdom with current Washington County Schools students: "Never let anyone tell you that you can’t do anything. There are a million opportunities, regardless of the path you choose to take after graduation."
Engagement Interest:
LaDarius is interested in being a guest speaker or serving on a panel, both virtually and face-to-face, providing insights and guidance to individuals in similar career pathways.
LaDarius Torrain Bryant's journey reflects the limitless possibilities available to graduates, emphasizing determination and a positive mindset. We commend his achievements and appreciate his willingness to inspire and support the students of Washington County Schools.
🌟 Exciting Announcement! 🌟 February is CTE Month, and we can't wait to celebrate the incredible impact of Career and Technical Education! 🚀
Every February, the CTE across the state raises awareness about the vital role CTE plays in preparing learners for college and career success. 🎓💼 It's a month dedicated to recognizing and celebrating our CTE partners' outstanding achievements and accomplishments at the local, state, and national levels.
CTE Month is not just a celebration; it's a spotlight on the transformative power of career-focused education. 🌐🛠️ This initiative is supported by various CTE groups and expertly organized by the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE).
Let's join hands in acknowledging the contributions of CTE to our learners' growth and success. 🙌🏽💡 Throughout February, stay tuned for inspiring stories, highlights, and events that showcase the incredible impact of Career and Technical Education in our community.
Cheers to CTE Month! 🎉✨ #CTEMonth #CareerTechEd #CelebrateCTE
WCS Alumni Spotlight: Dinah Matthews We proudly present Dinah Matthews, an accomplished graduate. Graduation Year: 2018 Post-High School Journey: Dinah achieved her Bachelor's in Science from UNC Greensboro, demonstrating her dedication to higher education. Current Occupation: Dinah serves as a Wellness Instructor at Cone Medical Center, contributing to the well-being of others. CTE Pathway Completion: Yes Words of Wisdom: Dinah shares inspiring words of wisdom with current Washington County Schools students: "If God brought you to it, he can bring you through it." Engagement Interest: Dinah is interested in being a virtual guest speaker, offering her experiences and insights to individuals in similar career pathways. Dinah Matthews exemplifies the pursuit of knowledge and a commitment to health and wellness. Her journey inspires current students, showcasing the diverse paths they can explore after graduation. We commend Dinah for her achievements and appreciate her willingness to contribute to the success of others.
🌟 Washington County Schools Alumni Spotlight: Carley Clary 🌟
We are excited to feature one of our distinguished alumni, Carley Clary, who graduated from Washington County Schools in 2015. Carley's journey is an inspiration to us all.
🎓 Graduation Year: 2015
🏫 School: Creswell High School
👩🎓 College: Carley is a proud graduate of North Carolina Wesleyan College, earning her degree in 2018.
🌐 Current Location: Carteret County, NC
💼 Current Occupation: Carley is currently making a significant impact in the field of clinical communications. She excels in her role in technical support for a prominent company.
🛠️ CTE Pathway: During her time in high school, Carley engaged in a CTE pathway, providing her with valuable skills and insights for her future endeavors.
🌟 Words of Wisdom: Carley's advice to current Washington County Schools students is powerful: "Always reach for the stars; you can do anything you set your mind to." Her journey exemplifies the importance of perseverance and ambition.
🎙️ Guest Speaker and Panelist: Carley has generously offered to share her experiences as a guest speaker or panelist with current students. She is open to both virtual and face-to-face engagements, providing valuable insights into her career pathway.
📧 Contact Information: For those interested in connecting with Carley, you can reach her via email at carleykclary@gmail.com.
Carley Clary is a shining example of the success that can be achieved through dedication and determination. Washington County Schools are proud to have her as an alumna, and we look forward to seeing her continued success in the future. If you're interested in learning from Carley's experiences, don't hesitate to reach out! 🚀 #WCSAlumni #SuccessStories #Inspiration
🌟 Washington County Schools Alumni Spotlight: Angela Perser-Norman 🌟
We're delighted to showcase the accomplishments of another esteemed alumna, Angela Perser-Norman, who graduated from Washington County Schools in 1991.
🎓 Graduation Year: 1991
🏫 School: Plymouth High School
🌐 Career Path: Angela's journey has been marked by a dedication to helping others. After spending several years in the mental health field, she transitioned to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).
💼 Current Role: Currently, Angela resides on the NC State campus, providing care to her client. This marks her second year in this role, and she finds great fulfillment in the work.
🛠️ CTE Pathway: Angela engaged in a CTE pathway during her high school years, laying the foundation for her healthcare career.
🌟 Words of Wisdom: Angela shares a timeless piece of advice for current Washington County Schools students: "Do what you love, and you will never work a day." This sage counsel emphasizes the importance of passion and fulfillment in one's chosen path.
📧 Contact Information: For those interested in connecting with Angela, feel free to reach out via email.
Angela Perser-Norman stands as a testament to the impact one can make by pursuing their passions. Her dedication to helping others is commendable, and we celebrate her success as a valuable member of the Washington County Schools alumni community. If you're inspired by Angela's journey, don't hesitate to reach out and learn more about her experiences! 🚀 #WCSAlumni #SuccessStories #PassionInAction
WCS Alumni Spotlight: Julie Jackson Bennett
Let's take a moment to celebrate the achievements of Julie Jackson Bennett, a proud graduate from Washington County High School in the class of 1981.
Graduation Year: 1981
School: PHS
Post-High School Journey:
Julie embarked on a higher education journey, attending Martin Community College in Williamston. She graduated with an Associate of Applied Science degree in 1983.
Career Path:
Julie's career path led her to Newport News, VA, where she worked for Liebherr-America, Inc., and later at CEBAF (Continuous Electron Beam Accelerator Facility), now known as Jefferson Lab. Over the years, she held various administrative titles and evolved professionally, eventually becoming a Financial Analyst before leaving in 2007.
Current Occupation:
In 2007, Julie returned to her hometown of Plymouth. She serves as the Washington County Clerk to the Board of Commissioners and Administrative Assistant to the County Manager. Julie feels blessed to have a second career where she can apply her skills and give back to her community as a public servant. She also served as the President of the NC Association of County Clerks, leading and inspiring other clerks across the state.
CTE Pathway Completion: Yes
Words of Wisdom:
Julie shares valuable insights with current Washington County Schools students: "I learned that hard work and dedication will pay off. Hopefully, you will have a career (or two!) that you love. Stay focused, keep going, and always let your unique talents and abilities shine!"
Julie Jackson Bennett's journey exemplifies the rewards of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to lifelong learning. We celebrate her accomplishments and appreciate her willingness to inspire the next generation of Washington County Schools students.
🌟 Washington County Community Spotlight: Lamar Sanders 🌟
We are proud to shine the spotlight on Lamar Sanders, a distinguished member of our Washington County community who graduated in 2000.
🎓 Graduation Year: 2000
🏫 School: Plymouth High School
👨🎓 College Journey: Lamar pursued higher education at North Carolina A&T State University.
💼 Current Role: Lamar is currently serving as a Technical/Installation Manager for a commercial furniture manufacturer, showcasing his expertise in the field.
🛠️ CTE Pathway: Lamar actively engaged in a CTE pathway during his high school years, contributing to his skills and success in his current role.
🌟 Words of Wisdom: Lamar imparts valuable advice to current Washington County Schools students: "Always keep pushing forward and never be afraid to fail. If the path to success was easy, everyone would do it."
🎙️ Guest Speaker and Panelist: Lamar expresses his interest in being a guest speaker or serving on a panel with individuals in similar career pathways, both virtually.
Lamar Sanders is an inspiration, embodying the spirit of perseverance and continuous growth. Washington County Schools celebrate his achievements and encourage students to embrace his words of wisdom. If you're interested in Lamar's journey, connect with him! 🚀 #WashingtonCountySpotlight #SuccessStories #CareerInspiration
Ja’Tron Simpson, a distinguished alumnus who graduated in 2015 from Plymouth High School, is making remarkable strides in his academic journey.
After graduating, Ja’Tron enrolled in college and graduated with honors from Winston-Salem State University in 2019. Currently, he is pursuing his Doctorate in Pharmacy at High Point University, with an expected graduation in May 2024.
During his time in high school, Ja’Tron completed a Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathway, contributing to his educational foundation.
Ja’Tron shares valuable words of wisdom for current Washington County Schools students:
Never be scared to be different!
Always step beyond your comfort zone in the pursuit of your goals.
It only takes one networking opportunity to change your life potentially!
Ja’Tron has expressed interest in being a guest speaker or serving on a panel, both virtually and face-to-face. We extend our congratulations to Ja’Tron Simpson for his achievements and appreciate his willingness to inspire current and future Washington County School students.
If any students or educators are interested in engaging with Ja’Tron, please let us know, and we will facilitate the connection.
🌟 Washington County Schools Alumni Spotlight: Demonica Tuggles 🌟
We are thrilled to shine the spotlight on a distinguished alumna, Demonica Tuggles, who graduated from Washington County Schools in 2005.
🎓 Graduation Year: 2005
🏫 School: Plymouth High School
👩🎓 College Journey: Demonica pursued higher education with determination, earning her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Elizabeth City State University in 2009. She continued her educational journey, achieving a Master of Social Work from Howard University in 2017.
💼 Current Roles: Demonica's dedication to service is evident in her roles. She currently serves as a Clinical Social Worker for the Child and Family Services Agency for the DC Government. Additionally, she has established her own private practice, Hearing You Counseling and Consulting, providing specialized services to the Hard of Hearing and Late Deafened.
🛠️ CTE Pathway: Demonica actively engaged in a CTE pathway during her high school years, laying the foundation for her future career.
🌟 Words of Wisdom: Demonica shares invaluable wisdom passed down from her grandmother, a pillar in the Washington County Community. "Always keep God first," she advises. To the next generation, she imparts, "Never give up, and remember, sometimes barriers are just stepping stones to the next level. You got this!"
🎙️ Guest Speaker and Panelist: Demonica generously offers to share her experiences as a guest speaker or panelist with individuals in similar career pathways. She is open to both virtual and face-to-face engagements.
Demonica Tuggles stands as an inspiration, embodying the spirit of resilience, service, and determination. Washington County Schools take pride in her achievements and celebrate her continued success. If you're eager to learn from Demonica's journey, connect with her! 🚀 #WCSAlumni #SuccessStories #ServiceAndDetermination
🌟 WCS Alumni Spotlight 🌟
Introducing Jeanie Hare Britt, a distinguished graduate of PHS in 1994!
Jeanie Hare Britt:
🎓 Graduated from PHS
🎓 Earned a BFA in Communications from East Carolina University
💼 Formerly in marketing/PR management in technology and defense
🎨 Currently an Artist specializing in commissioned portraits
💡 Wisdom for WCS students: "Find an occupation that allows you to do something you're passionate about."
Jeanie's journey showcases the pursuit of passion and creativity in the professional world! 🚀 #WCSAlumniSpotlight
🌟 WCS Alumni Spotlight 🌟 🔍 Name: Tyrah Currey 🎓 Graduation Year: 2016 🏫 Graduated from PHS 🛠️ Post-Graduation Path: Trade School 🔧 CTE Pathway in High School: Yes 📢 Words of Wisdom: "Leave Washington County as much as possible and experience what the world has to offer. There’s more to life than just Plymouth/Roper NC." Tyrah Currey, a 2016 graduate from WCHS, chose a unique path by attending trade school and is now flourishing in pest control. Tyrah's advice to current students emphasizes the importance of exploring beyond the familiar, encouraging them to experience the broader world. She is open to sharing her experiences virtually or face to face, demonstrating a commitment to giving back to the community. Tyrah's journey showcases the diverse opportunities available to Washington County Schools graduates and the importance of venturing beyond one's hometown. 🎓🌍 #WCSAlumniSpotlight #ExploreBeyond #WCSCommunityPride
🌟 Washington County Community Spotlight: Brookes Davis 🌟
We proudly feature Brookes Davis, a distinguished member of our Washington County community who graduated in 2001.
🎓 Graduation Year: 2001
🏫 School: Plymouth High School
👩🎓 College Journey: Brookes pursued higher education, earning a BS in Psychology from Elizabeth City State University in 2006 and later achieving a Master's in Forensic Psychology and MSW from Walden University in 2018.
💼 Current Role: Brookes currently serves as a Community Support Team Lead, providing supportive counseling and clinical social work to individuals facing mental health crises, substance use issues, or homelessness.
🛠️ CTE Pathway: Brookes actively engaged in a CTE pathway during high school, contributing to a diverse skill set that aligns with the current profession.
🌟 Words of Wisdom: Brookes shares insightful advice with current Washington County Schools students: "Though we are tried like silver in the fire, we come out as pure gold." Every experience holds significance, and the journey is a continuous process of learning and growth.
🎙️ Guest Speaker and Panelist: Brookes expresses interest in being a virtual guest speaker or serving on a panel with individuals in similar career pathways.
Brookes Davis exemplifies the spirit of resilience and dedication to community well-being. Washington County Schools celebrate Brookes' accomplishments and encourage students to find inspiration in this remarkable journey. If you're eager to learn from Brookes' experiences, connect with them! 🚀 #WashingtonCountySpotlight #SuccessStories #CommunityService
