Hello OCS Family! Another week of Excellence in Education is in the books! Read below for the latest district news and updates. 

OCS TEACHER OF THE YEAR 

 

Daniel Scott, the band director from Swansboro High School, has been named Teacher of the Year by Onslow County Schools.  Scott has been teaching for three years, all of which have been spent at Swansboro High School, where he is the band director and a music teacher for grades 9-12. 

Superintendent Barry Collins and a group of district leaders, including district administrators, Board members and community members surprised Scott during one of his classes on September 10 and delivered the exciting news.  

As Scott starts his fourth year of teaching, he said his greatest contribution to education is, and will continue to be, his passion to inspire his students to creatively find ways to have a bigger impact on more and more people.  

Congratulations, Mr. Scott! 

BRIGHT IDEAS APPLICATIONS 

Attention teachers! Jones-Onslow EMC is now accepting applications for Bright Ideas grants. This is the 25th anniversary of the Bright Ideas program, which gives grants to teachers to fund ideas they have to enhance their classroom educational experiences. 

Teachers can apply for up to $500 individually or $2000 as a team. A total of $75,000 will be granted this year.  

Applications are due Friday, September 27 by 5 p.m. Learn more and apply here: Bright Ideas. 

NWES ADOPT-A-SCHOOL CEREMONY 

 

Northwoods Elementary School held a ceremony Thursday, September 12 to celebrate and make official its adoption by 2nd Battalion 6th Marines.  

The Adopt-a-School program promotes mutually beneficial relationships between the military and schools by allowing a military unit to "adopt" a school. The units support schools by helping with field days, family nights, Month of the Military Child events, proctoring tests and more. In return, schools help their adopting units by sending them letters and care packages while they are deployed.  

LtCol L. Michael Stansberry, in his address to the students, said that many of the Marines in his battalion would soon deploy to different parts of Africa and Europe, but that Northwoods Elementary would not be forgotten in their time away. While the Marines are overseas, he said, they will carry a stuffed cardinal with them on their adventures and send photos back to the Junior Cardinals at NWES.  

OCS HIRING BUS DRIVERS 

Onslow County Schools is currently looking for bus drivers to join the OCS Transportation team.   

If you or someone you know is interested in driving a bus, applications to be part of the September driver class are due no later than Thursday, September 19. Read below for more information.  

 

OCTAA MEETING 

OCTAA, the Onslow County chapter of the North Carolina Association of Teacher Assistants, will hold its first meeting of the year Tuesday, September 17. NCATA, whose slogan is “Helping Hands in Education,” is a statewide network of teacher assistants who are dedicated to supporting TAs through professional development, conferences and fellowship.  

The meeting will be held in Meeting Room 3 at the OCS Central Office at 200 Broadhurst Road in Jacksonville. Food will be served at 4:15 p.m. the meeting will start at 4:30 p.m. 

This meeting is open to any teacher assistant in the county who is interested. 

NEWS FROM THE BOARD 

A summary of the regular Onslow County Board of Education meeting on September 3, 2019 can be found here: News from the Board.  

COMMUNITY FLYERS

To see the latest flyers for upcoming events for students and families from our community partners, visit our virtual bulletin board here: Community Flyers. If you are interested in distributing a flyer to OCS families, you can read about Peachjar here: Peachjar Flyer Distribution. 

FOLLOW OCS ON SOCIAL MEDIA 

Keep up with even more OCS happenings on the following platforms:   
Facebook - @OCSNC   
Twitter - @OnslowSchools   
Instagram - onslowcountyschools   
YouTube -  Onslow Schools Television
 
 
 

Hello OCS Family! We would like to extend a warm welcome back to all of our staff and students. The 2019-2020 school year is off to an excellent start, and we wish everyone a great year!  

You can find the latest district news and updates below.  

HOLIDAY REMINDER 

 

As a reminder, schools will be closed for the Labor Day holiday on Monday, September 2. Have a great, safe holiday weekend and we will see you on Tuesday! 

SCHOOL EXPRESS 

To show their appreciation for Onslow County Schools employees, OCS and the Jacksonville-Onslow Chamber of Commerce have teamed up to reach out to local businesses to see if they would be interested in offering specials and discounts to OCS employees through the School Express program.  

Through the support of our community, the Onslow County Schools education family will be able to enjoy these discount incentives at a wide range of local retail and service providers. At the time of purchase or service simply present your OCS identification badge. 

You can find the updated list of businesses offering discounts through School Express here: 2019-2020 School Express Participants.  

OCS HIRING BUS DRIVERS 

We would like to thank our families for their patience with the transportation process as OCS staff work to ensure that all bus routes are moving smoothly and in a timely manner. As always, we appreciate your support as we continue to work toward providing the best services possible to our students.  

We also want to remind you that Onslow County Schools is currently looking for bus drivers to join the OCS Transportation team.  

If you or someone you know is interested in driving a bus, applications to be part of the September driver class are due no later than Thursday, September 19. Read below for more information.  

 

NEW TRANSPORTATION APP 

The OCS Transportation Department has a new app, Edulog Parent Portal, that will allow parents to find their students’ bus numbers, bus stops and drop-off/pick-up times. The app also allows transportation staff to send out push notifications regarding delays, updates and more. As a reminder, this app will not track school buses in real time. To get started, have your child’s District ID number ready. If you do not yet have your child’s ID number, you can visit your child’s school and the office staff there can help you.  

To learn more about how to use the Edulog app, you can watch a video here: Edulog Parent Portal. 

CONTACT INFORMATION 

As we begin the new school year, we encourage our families to ensure that their most up-to-date contact information, including phone numbers and email addresses, are on file at their schools. Having current and accurate information is essential in our effort to provide the OCS family with important notices and updates. You can check in with your child’s school to confirm that your stored information is correct. 

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES 

Attention OCS staff: The 2019-2020 First Semester and Year-Long Professional Development Publication and registration form are now available on the OCS website. Both documents can be accessed here: OCS Professional Development. To view these documents, you will need to be logged in to the county website. The publication is updated often, so please revisit it when looking for professional learning opportunities. 

BOE MEETING SEPTEMBER 3 

On Tuesday, September 3, the Onslow County Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the multipurpose room of Blue Creek Elementary School.  

Agenda items include a presentation on the Ready and iReady Math Curriculum, a hurricane recovery facilities update, and the consideration of an interlocal agreement with the Town of North Topsail Beach for usage of Dixon Middle School as an emergency operation center/staging area in the event of a declared, pending or extant emergency.  

COMMUNITY FLYERS

To see the latest flyers for upcoming events for students and families from our community partners, visit our virtual bulletin board here: Community Flyers. If you are interested in distributing a flyer to OCS families, you can read about Peachjar here: Peachjar Flyer Distribution. 

FOLLOW OCS ON SOCIAL MEDIA 

Keep up with even more OCS happenings on the following platforms:   
Facebook - @OCSNC   
Twitter - @OnslowSchools   
Instagram - onslowcountyschools   
YouTube -  Onslow Schools Television

Hello OCS Family! As summer break comes to an end, we would like to share the following news and updates with our families. We will see you Monday morning! 

SKILLS CENTER RIBBON CUTTING 

 

On Monday, August 19, Onslow County Schools celebrated the official opening of the much-anticipated Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center. 

After years of planning, building and preparation, the ENCRSC will open its doors to students on August 26. The facility will be open to students from Onslow, Jones and Duplin counties, as well as Camp Lejeune, who are interested in taking higher level Career and Technical Education courses and earning certifications in their chosen area of study. 

The ENCRSC will offer six programs of study; Animation and design, Automotive Technology, Collision Repair Technology, Culinary Arts, Cyber Security, and Welding Technology. Nursing Fundamentals will begin spring of 2020. Students enrolled in these programs will have the opportunity to earn industry recognized credentials from organizations such as NATEF, American Welding Society, National Restaurant Foundation, ProStart and CompTia. 

RULES FOR THE RIDE 

With school starting on Monday morning, we would like to remind our families to be mindful of bus stop rules and best practices. Check out the Rules for the Ride video to learn more about bus stop safety.  

 

NEW TRANSPORTATION APP 

The OCS Transportation Department has a new app, Edulog Parent Portal, that will allow parents to find their students’ bus numbers, bus stops and arrival times. The app also allows transportation staff to send out push notifications regarding delays, updates and more. To get started, have your child’s District ID number ready. If you do not yet have your child’s ID number, you can visit your child’s school and the office staff there can help you.  

To learn more about how to use the Edulog app, you can watch a video here: Edulog Parent Portal.  

SCIENCE CAREERS NIGHT 

On September 12, Sturgeon City will host a free Science Careers Night for students in grades 6-12 who are interested in learning more about jobs in the science field. You can read more about this opportunity below:  

 

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES 

Attention OCS staff: The 2019-2020 First Semester and Year-Long Professional Development Publication and registration form are now available on the OCS website. Both documents can be accessed here: OCS Professional Development. To view these documents, you will need to be logged in to the county website. The publication is updated often, so please revisit it when looking for professional learning opportunities.  

COMMUNITY FLYERS

To see the latest flyers for upcoming events for students and families from our community partners, visit our virtual bulletin board here: Community Flyers. If you are interested in distributing a flyer to OCS families, you can read about Peachjar here: Peachjar Flyer Distribution. 

FOLLOW OCS ON SOCIAL MEDIA 

Keep up with even more OCS happenings on the following platforms:   
Facebook - @OCSNC   
Twitter - @OnslowSchools   
Instagram - onslowcountyschools   
YouTube -  Onslow Schools Television

 
 

Hello OCS Family! As we prepare to start the 2019-2020 school year, we will return to weekly updates beginning this week. You can read the latest district news and updates below. Enjoy the rest of your summer!  

CONTACT INFORMATION 

As the new school year approaches, we encourage our families to ensure that their most up-to-date contact information, including phone numbers and email addresses, are on file at their schools. Having current and accurate information is essential in our effort to provide the OCS family with important notices and updates. You can check in with your child’s school to confirm that your stored information is correct. 

FIRST YEAR TEACHER TRAINING 

 

The district’s newest teachers gathered at Northside High School this week to be welcomed to the district and get training ahead of school starting later this month.  
Each year, the OCS Human Resources and Instruction departments host First Year Teacher Training the week before teachers return to school for the new year. This year, 112 first-year teachers, as in teachers with less than 6 months of teaching experience, joined Onslow County Schools’ ranks and attended the three-day training. 

OCS Superintendent Dr. Barry Collins greeted the new teachers first thing Tuesday morning and left them with words of wisdom and encouragement as they began to prepare for their first year in the classroom.  

“On August 26, let’s tell kids what we expect and what it takes to succeed,” he said. “Tell them to believe in their goals, to believe in their possibilities. Tell them that it’s going to take hard work... Remind our students that this is the year for excellence in education, and I do hope that you have a wonderful and successful school year.” 

Over the three days, a feeling of excitement and eagerness hung in the air as teachers looked forward to getting into their classrooms and getting started. For two-and-a-half days of the training, the teachers worked in a large group and breakout sessions to learn about HR procedures, Board policies, the licensure process, the OCS Instructional Framework, Instructional Initiatives, and more that would help them be successful in the year to come. And finally, in the afternoon of the final day, teachers entered their new schools and got started with a school-based orientation.  

OCS welcomes all of our new teachers to the OCS family and wish you all an excellent school year!

BACK TO SCHOOL INFORMATION 

You can find a list of elementary, middle and high school open house dates on the OCS website here: OCS Open Houses.

Please check your school website or contact your child’s school to find out more about supply lists and required materials before the school year begins on August 26.  

MEAL BENEFIT APPLICATION OPEN 

Applications for free or reduced lunch are available now. A new meal benefit application is required each school year, unless a family has been directly certified. Paper applications will be available at schools closer to the start of the school year.  

Parents are welcome to start filling out online meal benefit applications for the upcoming school year here: Meal Benefit Applications.  

You can contact the Child Nutrition office with any questions. 

NEWS FROM THE BOARD 

A summary of the regular Onslow County Board of Education meeting on August 13, 2019 can be found here: News from the Board.  

COMMUNITY FLYERS

To see the latest flyers for upcoming events for students and families from our community partners, visit our virtual bulletin board here: Community Flyers. If you are interested in distributing a flyer to OCS families, you can read about Peachjar here: Peachjar Flyer Distribution. 

FOLLOW OCS ON SOCIAL MEDIA 

Keep up with even more OCS happenings on the following platforms:   
Facebook - @OCSNC   
Twitter - @OnslowSchools   
Instagram - onslowcountyschools   
YouTube -  Onslow Schools Television

 

Hello OCS family! Read the latest district news and updates below.

CONTACT INFORMATION 

As the new school year approaches, we encourage our families to ensure that their most up-to-date contact information, including phone numbers and email addresses, are on file at their schools. Having current and accurate information is essential in our effort to provide the OCS family with important notices and updates. You can check in with your child’s school to confirm that your stored information is correct. 

STOP THE BLEED 

 

On Wednesday, August 7, Onslow County Schools, Onslow County Health Department, Onslow County Emergency Medical Services and Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune hosted a joint presentation in promotion of the “Stop the Bleed” campaign and provided awareness on the Public Access Bleeding Control Kits that have been placed in all Onslow County schools, buildings, and vehicles.  

The “Stop the Bleed” campaign teaches non-medical professionals bleeding control techniques and how to provide care until an emergency responder arrives on the scene of an accident or traumatic event. Stop the Bleed is a simple, 60-minute course that teaches participants to recognize life-threatening bleeding and how to treat it.  

OCHD recently received a $46,756 grant through the North Carolina Public Health Preparedness & Response branch. This grant directly funded the purchase of 640 Public Access Bleeding Control Kits that were placed in all Onslow County vehicles and buildings.  

As part of the grant, 100 of those Stop the Bleed kits were given to Onslow County Schools to place throughout our buildings. The kits will provide the school system with a first line of defense in the event of an injury to a student or staff member. 

RETIREMENT RECEPTION 

 

On Tuesday, August 6, OCS retirees from the 2018-2019 school year gathered at SWHS for the annual OCS Retirement Reception, where they were honored and thanked for their service to the children of Onslow County over the years.  

Retirees heard from Chief of Human Resources and Student Services Dr. CJ Korenek, who assured them they would be missed and told them they were welcome back any time, Chief Communications Officer Brent Anderson, who presented them with a certificate and token of Onslow County Schools’ appreciation, and Superintendent Dr. Barry Collins, who left them with final words of gratitude and well wishes.  

Thank you to all of our retirees for your service! 

BACK TO SCHOOL INFORMATION 

You can find a list of elementary, middle and high school open house dates on the OCS website here: OCS Open Houses. 

Please check your school website or contact your child’s school to find out more about supply lists and required materials.   

BUS DRIVERS NEEDED 

 

The next class for those interested in becoming an OCS bus driver will start on August 19. Please contact the OCS Transportation Office for more information.  

MEAL BENEFIT APPLICATION OPEN 

Applications for free or reduced lunch are available now. A new meal benefit application is required each school year, unless a family has been directly certified. Paper applications will be available at schools closer to the start of the school year.  

Parents are welcome to start filling out online meal benefit applications for the upcoming school year here: Meal Benefit Applications.  

You can contact the Child Nutrition office with any questions.

BOE MEETING AUGUST 13 

On Tuesday, August 13, the Onslow County Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m. in the multipurpose room of Blue Creek Elementary School.  

Agenda items include the presentation of the 2019-2022 AIG plan, a request for transfer of property related to new school construction, and proposed revisions to OCS policies 3420 and 3460 related to student progression and placement and graduation requirements.  

COMMUNITY FLYERS 

To see the latest flyers for upcoming events for students and families from our community partners, visit our virtual bulletin board here: Community Flyers. If you are interested in distributing a flyer to OCS families, you can read about Peachjar here: Peachjar Flyer Distribution. 

FOLLOW OCS ON SOCIAL MEDIA 

Keep up with even more OCS happenings on the following platforms:   
Facebook - @OCSNC   
Twitter - @OnslowSchools   
Instagram - onslowcountyschools   
YouTube -  Onslow Schools Television

Hello, OCS Family! We hope your summer break has been fun and restful so far. You can find the latest news and updates below. 

CONTACT INFORMATION 

As the new school year approaches, we encourage our families to ensure that their most up-to-date contact information, including phone numbers and email addresses, are on file at their schools. Having current and accurate information is essential in our effort to provide the OCS family with important notices and updates. You can check in with your child’s school to confirm that your stored information is correct. 

ONSLOW EARLY COLLEGE STARTS SOON 

 

Onslow Early College High School students will return to class on Tuesday, August 6. Owls, enjoy the rest of your summer and we will see you soon! 

SEA SUMMIT 

 

On Monday, July 22 and Tuesday, July 23, nearly 200 educators from across the Southeast region of North Carolina gathered at Swansboro High School to collaborate and learn from one another ahead of the new school year.   

The Southeast Education Alliance is made up of educators from 13 school districts across Southeastern North Carolina, including Onslow County Schools. The SEA is dedicated to developing and supporting education leaders, from district level staff to teachers.   

In a series of breakout sessions at this teacher-focused conference, educators had the opportunity to network with other teachers while learning from their peers’ experiences. Sessions covered topics such as technology, serving military children, math strategies, community and classroom culture.   

SKILLS CENTER TOUR 

 

On Monday, July 15, a group of leaders in the community had the opportunity to tour the new Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center. 

The ENCRSC, which will open to students in August, will offer CTE courses in culinary arts, cybersecurity, automotive technology, collision and repair, animation, welding and more. The facility will be open to students from Onslow, Jones and Duplin counties who are interested in taking higher level CTE courses and earning certifications in their chosen area of study.  

MEAL BENEFIT APPLICATION OPEN 

Applications for free or reduced lunch are available now. A new meal benefit application is required each school year, unless a family has been directly certified. Paper applications will be available at schools closer to the start of the school year.  
Parents are welcome to start filling out online meal benefit applications for the upcoming school year here: Meal Benefit Applications.  

You can contact the Child Nutrition office with any questions.  

PRE-K AND KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION 

If your child will turn 5 before August 31, now is the time to register them for kindergarten. You can register your child in person at their school. You can find more information on registration requirements and how to determine which school your child will attend here: Kindergarten Registration FAQs.

Onslow County Schools is still accepting applications for preschool programs. You can find information on where and how to apply below:  

 

SCHOOL EXPRESS 

The School Express program allows businesses in our area to partner with the school system by offering discounts to OCS employees. If you own a business and would like to offer a discount on your product or services to employees of Onslow County Schools, you can fill out the online participation form here: School Express Participation Form. A list of participating businesses will be sent out to the nearly 4,000 OCS employees in the fall. Discounts and offers are accepted on a rolling basis and our discount list will be updated periodically. If your offer has a set expiration date, please indicate that date in the form, otherwise it will remain on our list until you request to have it removed. Thank you for your support of Onslow County Schools! 

SUMMER FOOD SERVICE ENDS AUGUST 1  

Onslow County Schools will participate in the USDA Summer Food Service Program again this summer. You can learn more about the Summer Food Service Program at www.fns.usda.gov/summerfoodrocks. Meals will be available free-of-charge to children 18 and under at the following times and locations through Thursday August 1:   

 

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES 

Attention OCS staff: The 2019 Summer Professional Development Publication and registration form are now available on the professional development documents page of the OCS website.  Both documents can be accessed here: OCS Professional Development. To view these documents, you will need to be logged in to the county website. The publication is updated often, so please revisit it when looking for professional learning opportunities. 

NEWS FROM THE BOARD 

A summary of the special Onslow County Board of Education meeting on July 18, 2019 can be found here: News from the Board.

COMMUNITY FLYERS 

To see the latest flyers for upcoming events for students and families from our community partners, visit our virtual bulletin board here: Community Flyers. If you are interested in distributing a flyer to OCS families, you can read about Peachjar here: Peachjar Flyer Distribution. 

FOLLOW OCS ON SOCIAL MEDIA 

Keep up with even more OCS happenings on the following platforms:   
Facebook - @OCSNC   
Twitter - @OnslowSchools   
Instagram - onslowcountyschools   
YouTube -  Onslow Schools Television

Hello OCS Family! Read below for the latest district updates and reminders. 

CONTACT INFORMATION 

As the new school year approaches, we encourage our families to ensure that their most up-to-date contact information, including phone numbers and email addresses, are on file at their schools. Having current and accurate information is essential in our effort to provide the OCS family with important notices and updates. You can check in with your child’s school to confirm that your stored information is correct. 

YEAR-ROUND SCHOOLS  

Students who attend Northwoods Elementary and Clyde Erwin Elementary, the county’s two year-round schools, will return to class on Monday, July 15. This means that drivers can expect to see school buses back on the roads and traffic delays at drop-off and dismissal times, particularly in the construction zone on Henderson Drive. Please stay alert!

Students who attends schools using the traditional calendar will return on Monday, August 26. Enjoy the rest of your summer and we will see you soon! 

 

SCHOOL EXPRESS

The School Express program allows businesses in our area to partner with the school system by offering discounts to OCS employees. If you own a business and would like to offer a discount on your product or services to employees of Onslow County Schools, you can fill out the online participation form here: School Express Participation Form. A list of participating businesses will be sent out to the nearly 4,000 OCS employees in the fall. Discounts and offers are accepted on a rolling basis and our discount list will be updated periodically. If your offer has a set expiration date, please indicate that date in the form, otherwise it will remain on our list until you request to have it removed. Thank you for your support of Onslow County Schools!

PRE-K AND KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION 

If your child will turn 5 before August 31, now is the time to register them for kindergarten. You can register your child in person at their school. You can find more information on registration requirements and how to determine which school your child will attend here: Kindergarten Registration FAQs. 

Onslow County Schools is still accepting applications for preschool programs. You can find information on where and how to apply below:  

 

SUMMER LUNCH  

Onslow County Schools will participate in the USDA Summer Food Service Program again this summer. You can learn more about the Summer Food Service Program at www.fns.usda.gov/summerfoodrocks. Beginning Monday, July 15, meals will be available free-of-charge to children 18 and under at the following times and locations:   

 

BOE MEETING JULY 18 

On Thursday, July 18, the Onslow County Board of Education will hold a special meeting at 10 a.m. in Meeting Room 1 of the OCS Central Services Office at 200 Broadhurst Road in Jacksonville.  
Agenda items include time-sensitive roofing bids and discussion on current legislative issues.  

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES 

Attention OCS staff: The 2019 Summer Professional Development Publication and registration form are now available on the professional development documents page of the OCS website.  Both documents can be accessed here: OCS Professional Development. To view these documents, you will need to be logged in to the county website. The publication is updated often, so please revisit it when looking for professional learning opportunities. 

COMMUNITY FLYERS 

To see the latest flyers for upcoming events for students and families from our community partners, visit our virtual bulletin board here: Community Flyers. If you are interested in distributing a flyer to OCS families, you can read about Peachjar here: Peachjar Flyer Distribution. 

FOLLOW OCS ON SOCIAL MEDIA 

Keep up with even more OCS happenings on the following platforms:   
Facebook - @OCSNC   
Twitter - @OnslowSchools   
Instagram - onslowcountyschools   
YouTube -  Onslow Schools Television

Hello OCS Family! We hope that your summer break is off to an excellent start! With the Independence Day holiday approaching, we would like to remind our families that schools and the central services office will be closed on Thursday, July 4, but will be open to the public 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday of that week. Read below for the latest district news and updates.  

CONTACT INFORMATION 

As the new school year approaches, we encourage our families to ensure that their most up-to-date contact information, including cellphone numbers and email addresses, are on file at their schools. Having current and accurate information is essential in our effort to provide the OCS family with important notices and updates. You can check in with your child’s school to confirm that your stored information is correct.  

GRADUATION RECAP 

 

This year, Onslow County Schools is saying goodbye to a total of 1,785 graduates. According to the principals of the district’s seven traditional high schools, there is at least one thing that the members of the Class of 2019 all have in common: resilience.  

While each graduating class faces its own trials and challenges, the Class of 2019 was unique in their ability to overcome one of the largest natural disasters Onslow County has ever experienced. When Hurricane Florence hit our area in September 2018, after students being in class for just two weeks for the new school year, Onslow County Schools closed, with some schools missing as many as 38 days. 

Despite the unique challenges this class faced, they were able to make the most of their senior year and accomplish more than they may have thought possible. The Onslow County Schools Class of 2019 earned a total of $27,484,998.22 in scholarships, led their schools to regional and state championships in athletics, and made lasting memories despite the adversity they faced.  

Videos of the 2019 graduation ceremonies can be found by clicking on the school names here: Dixon High School, Jacksonville High School, Northside High School, Richlands High School, Southwest High School, Swansboro High School, White Oak High School. 

EDUCATORS OF THE YEAR 

 

District leaders, joined by teachers and administrators from across the county, gathered at Northside High School the morning of June 18 for the District Educators of the Year Breakfast. This event recognizes the administrators and teachers selected as the best of the best in eight categories, including arts, AVID, CTE, global, literacy, STEM/STEAM, student support, and tech savvy.  

As she began the presentation of recognitions, Deputy Superintendent Beth Folger said that these awards do not only focus on the tested areas of education, but on all the elements of a well-rounded education.  

Congratulations to the educators selected as the best of the best for the 2018-2019 school year! You can find more photos and a full list of honorees here: The Best of The Best.  

SKILLS CENTER TOUR 

 

On Thursday, June 20, Board of Education members, county commissioners, OCS and county staff, and community partners got a first look inside of the much-anticipated Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center.  

After years of planning, building, and preparation, OCS Chief of Operations Steve Myers began the group’s tour with the announcement of a huge milestone the facility had reached. Just that morning, the ENCRSC received its certificate of occupancy, meaning they could officially host students in the building. While that does not mean that all parts of the building are complete, it means that the facility is one large step closer to operation. 

Mr. Myers led the group on a tour of the facility Wednesday, showing the visitors the industrial-grade kitchen for culinary classes, the garage, lifts and paint booth for automotive and collision classes, welding equipment and classroom spaces. He also showed the group the facility’s multipurpose room which will hold more than 250 people and the dining area that will seat more than 150 people. 

The ENCRSC, which will open to students in August, will offer CTE courses in culinary arts, cybersecurity, automotive technology, collision and repair, animation, welding and more. The facility will be open to students from Onslow, Jones and Duplin counties who are interested in taking higher level CTE courses and earning certifications in their chosen area of study. 

COGNICON AND CAMP INVENTION 

 

Onslow County Schools hosted two summer learning opportunities for students the week of June 24-27. Camp Invention was held for elementary-age students at Northwoods Elementary and CogniCon was held for middle school students at Northside High School.  

Camp Invention, a nationally renowned science camp, gives OCS students entering grades 2-5 the opportunity to learn about science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM, through hands-on activities and experiments. The theme of this year’s camp was “Supercharged,” and the program allowed campers to experience real-world problem solving and creative thinking. 

CogniCon, a “Cognitive Conference,” is a 4-day summer camp for middle school students from across Onslow County who have been identified as “academically gifted.” The theme of this year’s camp was “Express Yourself.” At this summer learning opportunity, 120 campers rotated through four modules that gave them hands-on experiences in music, visual arts, culinary arts, and STEM. 

SUMMER LUNCH  

Onslow County Schools will participate in the USDA Summer Food Service Program again this summer. You can learn more about the Summer Food Service Program at www.fns.usda.gov/summerfoodrocks. Meals will be available free-of-charge to children 18 and under at the following times and locations:   

 

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES 

Attention OCS staff: The 2019 Summer Professional Development Publication and registration form are now available on the professional development documents page of the OCS website.  Both documents can be accessed here: OCS Professional Development. To view these documents, you will need to be logged in to the county website. The publication is updated often, so please revisit it when looking for professional learning opportunities. 

NEWS FROM THE BOARD 

A summary of the special Onslow County Board of Education meeting on June 27, 2019 can be found here: News from the Board. 

COMMUNITY FLYERS 

To see the latest flyers for upcoming events for students and families from our community partners, visit our virtual bulletin board here: Community Flyers. 

FOLLOW OCS ON SOCIAL MEDIA 

Keep up with even more OCS happenings on the following platforms:   
Facebook - @OCSNC   
Twitter - @OnslowSchools   
Instagram - onslowcountyschools   
YouTube -  Onslow Schools Television

Hello OCS Family! A unique and successful 2018-2019 school year is in the books for Onslow County Schools! You can find the latest district news and updates below, as well as special messages from Superintendent Barry Collins and Board Chair Pam Thomas. Please stay tuned over the summer for biweekly updates. We wish you all a wonderful and safe summer break! 

MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

The 2018-2019 school year was one the likes of which we have never seen before. Hurricane Florence barreled into Onslow County on September 14, 2018, and completely changed the direction and focus of our community. We moved from standards and instruction to storm recovery and rebuilding. Through it all, the OCS family showed resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. When we could not immediately reopen our schools, staff found ways to bring learning to our students. As we waited for insurance funds to begin recovery, our district and school staff worked tirelessly to begin repairs and start the long process of setting things right. Parents and students were understanding and supportive in our efforts to get the year moving again. While we still have work to do, much has been accomplished. 

As a family, we have faced challenges created by the impact of events outside our immediate school community, and through it all, the hard work, dedication and focus of our teachers, administrators and staff at all levels, combined with the support of our families and community, has helped us continue to move forward. 

I hope that each of you take the opportunity to relax, spend some time with family and friends and prepare for what is to come. We have much to look forward to in the coming year, and I know that, together, we will continue to provide a first-class education for the students of the Onslow County Schools. 

-Dr. Barry Collins

MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD CHAIR 

Onslow Schools faced many challenges this year and each of those were met head-on with tenacity, flexibility, love and concern for all, and the spirit of a true community. I am so proud of all of you in the Onslow County Schools’ community for everything you did to help others, prepare our buildings, tutor students, have pop-up classes/activities and check on your students, neighbors and coworkers. Our students did these too, and together all of you are my heroes. We certainly proved we are stronger together. 

I wish you all a safe, relaxing and “recharging” summer. There are plenty of good books to read and movies to see, places to visit, family and class reunions to attend so you need to remember to make time for YOU! Before you know it, we’ll all be excited for a new beginning, a new year. Because of you our Onslow County Schools’ future is bright! We are blessed to have you on our team. 

Always, best to you all, 

Pam Thomas

SUMMER HOURS 

With summer break, comes OCS summer hours. Beginning June 24, the Onslow County Schools Central Services Office will be open Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. All schools will be open to the public Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. This excludes the week of July 4, during which schools and the central office will be closed for the July 4 holiday, and open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. 

 

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION SCHEDULE 

High school graduation ceremonies kick off tonight! All ceremonies will be livestreamed on YouTube; you can find a link to the live video by clicking on the school names below. Live videos will begin approximately 30 minutes before the scheduled ceremony time.   

• Southwest High School   
  
  • Friday, June 14, 2019, 7 p.m.  
  • Jacksonville Commons Recreation Complex   
• White Oak High School   
  
  • Saturday, June 15, 2019, 9 a.m.   
  • WOHS Stadium   
• Dixon High School  
  
  • Saturday, June 15, 2019, 10 a.m.   
  • DHS Gymnasium   
• Northside High School   
  
  • Saturday, June 15, 2019, 10 a.m.  
  • NHS Stadium   
• Richlands High School   
  
  • Monday, June 17, 2019, 10 a.m.   
  • RHS Gymnasium   
• Swansboro High School  
  
  • Monday, June 17, 2019, 7 p.m.  
  • SBHS Gymnasium   
• Jacksonville High School   
  
  • Wednesday, June 19, 2019, 7:30 p.m.   
  • JHS Stadium 

OCS RECEIVES GRANTS 

In the past few weeks, Onslow County Schools has been given more assistance and grants to help with the recovery from Hurricane Florence.
  
The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction was awarded a Project SERV Grant in the amount of $2,000,000 for education-related services for public schools in North Carolina that had their learning environments disrupted by Hurricane Florence in September 2018. 
 
Onslow County Schools requested $807,203 to fund transportation services for the greatly increased number of students using McKinney-Vento homeless benefits following Hurricane Florence. The district was granted $726,251.11 of the request. 
 
The district also recently received additional grants from FAST NC and Communities in Schools.  
Florence Aid to Students and Teachers of North Carolina, or FAST NC, was created by a group of former State Superintendents to help public schools as students and educators worked to return to normal following the storm.  

The NC State Board of Education granted Hunters Creek Middle School $623.30 of FAST NC grant money to replace math instructional materials lost in the hurricane. 
 
Communities in Schools of North Carolina granted three FAST NC grants to the district. Dixon Elementary received $16,328.20 for guided reading kits, Southwest High School received $6,661.90 for instructional resources, and Stateside Elementary received $10,367.37 for 25 new laptops. 

SUMMER LUNCH PROGRAM 

Onslow County Schools will participate in the USDA Summer Food Service Program again this summer. An additional summer lunch location has been added at Sand Ridge Elementary School. You can learn more about the Summer Food Service Program at www.fns.usda.gov/summerfoodrocks. Meals will be available free-of-charge to children 18 and under at the following times and locations:  

 

PRESCHOOL REGISTRATION 

OCS is still accepting applications for preschool programs. You can learn more about preschool and how to apply here: Preschool Information.  

 

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES 

Attention OCS staff: The 2019 Summer Professional Development Publication and registration form are now available on the professional development documents page of the OCS website.  Both documents can be accessed here: OCS Professional Development. To view these documents, you will need to be logged in to the county website. The publication is updated often, so please revisit it when looking for professional learning opportunities. 

NEWS FROM THE BOARD 

A summary of the special Onslow County Board of Education meeting on June 13, 2019 can be found here: News from the Board. 

COMMUNITY FLYERS 

To see the latest flyers for upcoming events for students and families from our community partners, visit our virtual bulletin board here: Community Flyers. 

FOLLOW OCS ON SOCIAL MEDIA 

Keep up with even more OCS happenings on the following platforms:   
Facebook - @OCSNC   
Twitter - @OnslowSchools   
Instagram - onslowcountyschools   
YouTube -  Onslow Schools Television

 

Hello OCS Family! You can find the latest district news and reminders below. 

SUMMER IS IN SIGHT 

As the end of the school year nears, we would like to remind our families that the last day of the 2018-2019 year for students is Friday, June 14. Have an excellent last week of school! 

2019 SENIOR WALKS 

Over the last couple weeks, graduating seniors took a walk down memory lane as they visited their elementary schools. Check out footage from this year’s senior walks below! 

 

2019 HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION SCHEDULE 

As the end of the school year approaches, Onslow County seniors are preparing for graduation. The high school graduation ceremonies will be held at the following times and locations:   

• Southwest High School  
  
  • Friday, June 14, 2019, 7 p.m. 
  • Jacksonville Commons Recreation Complex  
• White Oak High School  
  
  • Saturday, June 15, 2019, 9 a.m.  
  • WOHS Stadium  
• Dixon High School  
  
  • Saturday, June 15, 2019, 10 a.m.  
  • DHS Gymnasium  
• Northside High School  
  
  • Saturday, June 15, 2019, 10 a.m.  
  • NHS Stadium  
• Richlands High School  
  
  • Monday, June 17, 2019, 10 a.m.  
  • RHS Gymnasium  
• Swansboro High School   
  
  • Monday, June 17, 2019, 7 p.m.  
  • SBHS Gymnasium  
• Jacksonville High School  
  
  • Wednesday, June 19, 2019, 7:30 p.m.  
  • JHS Stadium 

SUMMER LUNCH PROGRAM 

Onslow County Schools will participate in the USDA Summer Food Service Program again this summer. You can learn more about the Summer Food Service Program at www.fns.usda.gov/summerfoodrocks. Meals will be available free-of-charge to children 18 and under at the following times and locations: 

 

 

NEWS FROM THE BOARD 

A summary of the Onslow County Board of Education meeting on June 4, 2019 can be found here: News from the Board.  

COMMUNITY FLYERS 

To see the latest flyers for upcoming events for students and families from our community partners, visit our virtual bulletin board here: Community Flyers. 

FOLLOW OCS ON SOCIAL MEDIA 

Keep up with even more OCS happenings on the following platforms:   
Facebook - @OCSNC   
Twitter - @OnslowSchools   
Instagram - onslowcountyschools   
YouTube -  Onslow Schools Television