The celebration kicked off with a parade through the school, where students and staff filled the atrium to cheer on our participants. The excitement and support from the entire Douglass community set the tone for a day dedicated to celebrating our students and their accomplishments.
Following awards, students enjoyed adaptive games, sensory stations, face painting, Kona Ice, popcorn, and countless opportunities to build confidence, experience success, and have fun with their peers and families.
A heartfelt thank you goes to the amazing Douglass staff, volunteers, families, and community members who made this event possible. Special thanks to Taylor Peach, Erin Moll, Kristy Talbott, Meredith Highfill, Hope Hutchens, Kim Johnson, Avery Neugent, Katie Fain, Lisa Corum, Gail McGuire, Rottura Carlton, our wonderful parents and siblings, and all of the volunteers who helped make today so special.
A special thank you also goes to Principal Larinda Neal for her leadership and support of this event.
Today was a beautiful reminder that every student has unique strengths and talents worth celebrating. We are so proud of our Exceptional Eagles and grateful to everyone who helped make this day a success!
We are excited to announce several new Administrator changes and appointments for the upcoming 2026–2027 school year. All changes and appointments will be effective July 1, 2026.
Please join us in congratulating all of the appointees. We look forward to their leadership and the positive impact they will make in our schools and district.
Josh Eanes – Director of Secondary Schools
Principal David Edrington - Western Rockingham Middle School
Principal Misty Corum – Leaksville-Spray Elementary School
Principal Amanda Wall – Lincoln Elementary School
Principal Dr. Christy Bailey – Bethany Elementary School
Principal Nathan Ziglar – Williamsburg Elementary School
Principal Lori Davis – (TBD)
Assistant Principal Erika Bigelow – Reidsville High School
Assistant Principal Jessica Gillie – Bethany Elementary School
Assistant Principal Mindy Harmon – (TBD)
Assistant Principal Brian Knowles – Rockingham County High School
Assistant Principal Stephanie Lemons - Morehead High School
Assistant Principal Aviana Lindsey – Leaksville-Spray Elementary School
Assistant Principal Justin Terrell – Western Rockingham Middle School
Assistant Principal Katie Tillotson – Dalton McMichael High School
Assistant Principal Christopher Higgs – Rockingham County Middle School
Assistant Principal Lindy Seymore-Carter – Dalton McMichael High School
Nathan Ziglar brings 18 years of experience across three North Carolina school systems and every grade span to his new role. Throughout his career, he has served in several schools across the district as both assistant principal and principal. Ziglar began his career in education as a high school history teacher at Reidsville High School.
A native of Rockingham County and a graduate of Rockingham County Schools, Ziglar previously served as assistant principal at Williamsburg Elementary School from 2018 to 2021 and is honored to once again serve the Williamsburg community.
“It is a privilege to return to the first public school in North Carolina,” Ziglar shared. “I look forward to collaborating with the Williamsburg community and school staff to provide students with the highest quality educational experience possible.”
Ziglar holds a Bachelor of Science degree in History with a concentration in Secondary Education from Appalachian State University, a Master of Public Administration from Appalachian State University, and a Master of School Administration from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. He was also selected as both an NC Teaching Fellow and Principal Fellow.
Dr. Christy Ann Bailey is a proud Rockingham County native and graduate of Morehead High School, where her love for athletics, teamwork, and community first began through soccer. She continued both her academic and athletic career at Greensboro College, playing soccer and lacrosse while earning her degree in Elementary Education. She later earned her Master’s degree in School Administration from Old Dominion University, followed by both her Education Specialist degree and Doctorate in Educational Leadership from University of North Carolina at Greensboro.
Dr. Bailey often shares that some of the most meaningful moments of her career were spent teaching first, fourth, and fifth grade students. Throughout her career with Rockingham County Schools, she has served students, staff, and families in a variety of leadership roles, including assistant principal and Coordinator for Curriculum and Instruction. She has also proudly served as principal at Draper Elementary, Dillard Academy, Holmes Middle School, and Leaksville-Spray Elementary School.
Known for her commitment to building strong school culture, fostering meaningful relationships, and supporting academic excellence for all students, Dr. Bailey believes schools are strongest when students, staff, families, and community members work together.
Dr. Bailey is excited to join the Bethany Elementary School community and shared:
“I am honored to join a school community that so clearly values service, tradition, and relationships. Programs such as the Veterans Program, Grandparents Day, and May Day highlight the heart of Bethany Elementary and the strong community values that make it so special. I look forward to learning from this community, celebrating its traditions, and working together to continue Bethany’s strong tradition of academic excellence.”
Dr. Bailey resides in Eden with her husband and looks forward to becoming part of the Bethany school family.
Mrs. Amanda Wall brings more than nine years of experience in education and school leadership to her new role and most recently served as assistant principal at Leaksville-Spray Elementary School.
During her time at Leaksville-Spray, Mrs. Wall focused on school improvement initiatives, instructional leadership, and fostering strong relationships with families, staff, and the community. In recognition of her leadership and dedication to education, she was named the 2025 Rockingham County Schools Assistant Principal of the Year.
Prior to her work in administration, Mrs. Wall served as an elementary physical education teacher for five years in Franklin County, Virginia, and spent six years as an assistant softball coach at Ferrum College. Mrs. Wall earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Human Performance with an emphasis in Physical Education Teaching from Ferrum College in December 2016. She later earned a Master of Education degree in School Administration and Supervision from Liberty University in December 2020.
“I am incredibly honored and excited to join the Lincoln Elementary community as principal,” said Wall. “While I am excited for this new chapter, Leaksville-Spray Elementary will always hold a special place in my heart. LSE has helped shape me into the educator and leader I am today, and I will forever be grateful for the support and memories built over the last four years.
“I truly believe schools are built on teamwork and a shared love for children, and I cannot wait to get to know the students, staff, and families at Lincoln Elementary. I look forward to celebrating successes, supporting one another through challenges, and creating opportunities for every child while always keeping the best interests of children at the center of our decisions.”
Mrs. Corum brings two decades of educational experience within Rockingham County Schools, including service as a classroom teacher, Title I Coordinator, and assistant principal at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. Most recently, she served as interim principal at Leaksville-Spray Elementary School.
Her diverse leadership background reflects a strong commitment to instructional excellence, student achievement, school safety, and fostering positive school communities. Mrs. Corum holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Guilford College, a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Grand Canyon University, and a Master of School Administration from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She is also a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro’s PPEERS Leadership Program (Cohort 3) and was recognized as a 2024 finalist for Rockingham County Schools Assistant Principal of the Year.
For Mrs. Corum, this appointment is especially meaningful, as Leaksville-Spray Elementary is a school she knows and loves deeply, having previously served the Dolphin community as both a fifth-grade teacher and Title I Coordinator.
Her leadership is grounded in relationship-building, high expectations, and ensuring every child has the academic and emotional support needed to thrive. Mrs. Corum looks forward to serving the staff, families, and community of Leaksville-Spray Elementary and is excited to continue the school’s tradition of excellence while building on opportunities for growth and success for all students.
David Edrington brings more than 25 years of experience in education and technology to his role as principal of Western Rockingham Middle School. Prior to entering education, he spent 15 years as Programming and IT Manager at WTWB/WCWG.
David earned a Bachelor of Science in Middle Grades Education and a Master of Library and Information Studies from UNC Greensboro, as well as a Master’s in Educational Leadership from the University of Arkansas.
During his time at Reidsville Middle School, David taught social studies and science before transitioning to the role of Media Coordinator. He also served on the School Improvement Team, MTSS Committee, and Instructional Leadership Team, contributing to school-wide academic and organizational initiatives.
For the past three years, David has served at McMichael High School, where he has held several leadership roles, including Assistant Principal, Testing Coordinator, Title I Coordinator, and most recently, Interim Principal.
Western Rockingham Middle School looks forward to the leadership, experience, and dedication Mr. Edrington brings as he continues to support students, staff, and the school community.
A graduate of Morehead High School and a proud product of Rockingham County Schools, Mr. Eanes brings 19 years of educational experience within the district to his new role. He began his career as a Special Education teacher at Dillard Elementary School before serving as assistant principal at both Huntsville Elementary School and McMichael High School.
For the past 10 years, Mr. Eanes has served as principal of Bethany Elementary School, where he fostered a culture grounded in strong relationships, high expectations, and student success. Under his leadership, Bethany Elementary consistently met academic proficiency and growth targets, reflecting the school’s ongoing commitment to excellence.
Reflecting on his new role, Eanes shared his enthusiasm for continuing to serve the students, staff, and families of Rockingham County Schools.
“As a lifelong resident of Rockingham County, I am excited about the opportunities ahead as I work alongside our secondary schools and the greater Rockingham County community,” said Eanes. “I understand the importance of supporting our students, families, staff, and schools, and I remain committed to building strong relationships through active involvement in our schools and throughout the community.”
Rockingham County Schools looks forward to the leadership, experience, and dedication Mr. Eanes will bring to the position as the district continues its mission of providing high-quality educational opportunities for all students.
Dr. Stover, Dr. Perkins, and Ms. Lisa Miller recognized five Rockingham County Schools students selected to attend the 2026 North Carolina Governor’s School, a highly competitive summer residential program for gifted and talented high school students held June 21 through July 18, 2026, on two university campuses.
The following students were recognized:
Keira Belter, Rockingham County High School – Mathematics, Governor’s School East at Meredith College
Rebekah Dowdle, Rockingham Early College High School – Theatre, Governor’s School West at Greensboro College
Jonas Jones, Rockingham County High School – Instrumental Music (Trombone), Governor’s School West at Greensboro College
Maria Sanchez-Diaz, Rockingham County High School – Theatre, Governor’s School East at Meredith College
Grace Standley, Rockingham County High School – Dance, Governor’s School West at Greensboro College
Recognition of Students Selected as Winners in the America 250 NC Flag Competition
Dr. Stover and Dr. Perkins recognized students selected as winners in the America 250 NC Flag Competition. The Board congratulated the following students for their achievement:
Kaylynn Anderson, Williamsburg
Elena Bowling, Douglass
Riley Sawyers, Leaksville-Spray
Recognition of Mr. Carlton Hurd
Dr. Stover and Dr. Perkins recognized Mr. Carlton Hurd, Custodian and Bus Driver at Western Rockingham Middle School, for his heroism during a head on school bus accident in 2025. Mr. Hurd was presented a Certificate of Recognition honoring his extraordinary courage, selflessness, and dedication to the safety and well being of others. His quick thinking and heroic actions were recognized as reflecting the highest standards of service and character. A video highlighting Mr. Hurd’s recognition by the Boy Scouts was also shown during the presentation.
As an English Language (EL) learner, Angie has worked tirelessly to overcome language barriers while excelling academically. Her dedication to learning is evident through her successful completion of Honors Math courses over the past two years at Reidsville High School (RHS), where she has continuously challenged herself to achieve at a high level.
In addition to her academic success, Angie has demonstrated outstanding citizenship and leadership through her involvement in Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses and her internship experience working with students at Reidsville Middle School. Even after completing her internship, Angie continued to volunteer her time tutoring middle school students, reflecting her genuine compassion, selflessness, and desire to positively impact others. Her willingness to serve, mentor, and encourage younger students speaks volumes about her integrity, leadership, and commitment to her community.
Angie Ochoa represents the very best of Reidsville High School through her hard work, perseverance, service, and unwavering dedication to helping others succeed.
Rockingham County High School Senior - Jacob Alvarez
My name is Jacob Alvarez, and I am a graduating senior at Rockingham County High School. Over the past four years, I have grown not only as a student but also as an athlete and a person, learning lessons that have shaped who I am today.
One of the most significant obstacles that I have ever encountered took place when I tore my meniscus twice during my third year of high school. The tearing of my meniscus twice made me absent from many classes, including the wrestling season. Wrestling is close to my heart, but the inability to participate made it hard for me to cope.
Throughout high school, my teachers have played a major role in my journey. Their support and encouragement helped me stay focused, especially during tough times. They pushed me to do my best and helped shape my mindset, and I am grateful for the impact they have had on me.
Wrestling has been a central part of my high school experience. It has taught me discipline, commitment, and how to push through challenges. Even after missing a season due to injury, my passion for the sport never changed. I am proud to say that I will be continuing both my academic and athletic career at Shenandoah University, where I have committed to wrestling.
In addition to athletics, I have worked hard academically. I have been honored to receive the SU Promise Award and an academic scholarship, both of which reflect my dedication to my education.
After graduation, I plan to attend Shenandoah University and major in engineering. My goal is to become a civil engineer and use what I learn to help build and improve infrastructure.
My high school journey has had its challenges, but it has also helped me grow into the person I am today. I am excited to take the next step and continue working toward my goals.
Reidsville High School Senior - Jake Law
Jake Law is a dedicated, well-rounded, and highly respected student leader at Reidsville High School. As an International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme student, Jake has consistently demonstrated academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and a strong commitment to personal growth. He willingly embraces rigorous coursework and challenges himself to perform at the highest level while maintaining involvement across numerous areas of school life. Jake has made a significant impact through his leadership and service within the school community.
As captain of the swim team, he led by example through his discipline, teamwork, and encouragement of others. His teammates looked to him not only for guidance, but for the positive energy and accountability he brought each day. In addition, Jake served as Treasurer of the National Honor Society, a role that reflects his responsibility, trustworthiness, and dedication to serving others. His academic accomplishments and character were further recognized through his selection as a Junior Marshal, an honor reserved for students who exemplify excellence and leadership.
Beyond academics and athletics, Jake has also been heavily involved in the Reidsville High School theatre program, where he has earned leading roles in each production he has participated in. His success in theatre highlights not only his talent and confidence, but also his dedication, preparation, and ability to collaborate effectively with others. He consistently brings passion and professionalism to every performance and has become an important part of the program’s success.
What truly sets Jake apart is his character. He is a student that both staff and peers naturally look up to because of his maturity, kindness, and strong work ethic. He is dependable, respectful, and consistently carries himself with integrity in every setting. Jake contributes positively to the environment around him and represents the qualities of an outstanding student leader. His dedication, perseverance, and ability to balance rigorous academics with leadership and extracurricular involvement make him an exceptional individual with a very bright future ahead.
When I first applied to Rockingham County Early College High School, I pictured myself taking college classes and getting ahead. However, I did not really think about everything else that would come with it (the pressure, the time management, and the self-doubt).
Like most students, I struggled with adjusting to high school life. Learning how to balance school, getting my license, and eventually picking up a job all hit around the same time. By senior year, things got even more intense, but also more rewarding. I was working a physically demanding job, going to sports practices, staying involved in the clubs here at RECHS, and then coming home to hours of calculus homework or a physics lecture. It was hard, and there were definitely days when I questioned if I could keep up.
I don't think my biggest challenge was the workload, but rather the doubt. Trying to balance everything while wondering if I was good enough or doing enough was something I had to work through over time.
But looking back, senior year is where I grew the most. Early College gave me opp01tunities I never expected. I learned how to manage my time and stay on top of my responsibilities. I got early exposure to the kind of material I'll be studying in college, and I always had support from amazing teachers and staff. Being part of a smaller graduating class compared to other Rockingham County schools also meant more guidance and stronger connections.
All of that hard work paid off in so many ways. If you had asked me as a freshman if I would be attending an Ivy League school like Columbia University, I probably would have laughed. Now, it will be my reality this fall.
My experience at the Early College had its ups and downs, but it taught me how to push through obstacles and believe in what I am capable of, even when it's hard.
Christian Hampton is an outstanding eleventh-grade student at Reidsville High School whose leadership, character, and dedication make him a shining example of excellence and positive citizenship. Christian has demonstrated tremendous personal growth, maturity, and commitment to serving others, earning the respect and admiration of both his peers and teachers.
His selection as the 2024–2025 Assistant Drum Major, followed by earning the distinguished role of 2025–2026 Drum Major, is a true testament to his perseverance, discipline, and passion for leadership. Becoming Drum Major was a goal Christian set for himself, and through hard work, determination, and unwavering focus, he turned that dream into reality. He leads with integrity, humility, and purpose, consistently putting God first while serving as a positive role model for those around him.
Christian’s impact extends far beyond the band program. He is known for his willingness to encourage others, lead by example, and contribute positively to the school environment. His strong moral character, respect for others, and commitment to excellence embody the qualities of an exceptional student leader and citizen.
Graduating during his junior year is an extraordinary accomplishment that highlights Christian’s remarkable work ethic, academic drive, and perseverance. His Spanish teacher describes him as both kind and creative—qualities that further reflect the thoughtful and compassionate young man he is becoming.
Christian Hampton has a bright and promising future ahead. His plans to attend North Carolina Central University to major in Criminal Justice reflect his desire to continue serving and making a positive impact in the lives of others and his community. There is no doubt that Christian will continue to achieve greatness and inspire those around him through his leadership, faith, and dedication.
McMichael High School Senior - Jason Lucas Smith
Hey my name is Jason Lucas Smith, I am from Stokesdale, NC. I am an 18 year old senior at Dalton L. McMichael, this is a brief story of my life. I remember it was just like yesterday. A normal day, the wind was blowing and it was a brisk sunny day in August. Me, my brother, my sister and my dad all piled in the car and were going to the doctor. But who knows, all of this could be a huge disaster. We get to the doctor and we all get out thinking nothing out of the ordinary, but when the doctor called my sister and dad back, me and my brother didn’t have a clue this was going to be a change in our lives.
We were both young - thinking our whole life was ahead of us, brothers being brothers though we would fight. I remember my dad came out from the back and was getting on us but my sister still had the biggest smile ever like always. We kept piling in the car and went back and forth from doctor to doctor not knowing anything was wrong. But when it was getting close to sunset we got the news that my older sister had to go to UNC Chapel Hill children cancer center. Everyone was so confused because we never knew this would be a start of a new life.
Fast-forward a couple years- my sister has been through treatment and beat the cancer and slipped into remission. The only thing was, 6 months later when she went back for scans, it was back and stronger than ever. She fought for multiple years, but sadly passed away November 13th 2019, it was the toughest time in my life. I was in 6th grade and I was already in over my head, a couple months later, Covid hit and closed everything down for about a year. They closed our school near the end of my 6th grade year and 7th, when I came back into school after Covid in 8th grade I was a train wreck. Anxiety kicked my tail with everything else going on trying to balance school and sports for the first true time. But I fought through that tough time with the power of Christ and the Love of the Bible, finding God was a huge part of my life. I started finding God though in 6th grade around the same time as I started Boy Scouts. My friend Hunter invited me to a couple trips and I fell in love with it, I love outdoors and sports so I thought it was a perfect fit. I battled through adversity, but it was starting to be a normal teenager going into high school.
I was going into my freshman year but my brother was finishing his senior year the same year, so I had a little help. I was having a blast freshman year, I was playing football on varsity and enjoying time as much as I could, but they don’t lie about how fast time flies. My sophomore and Junior year flew by in a blink of an eye, I got to start as a sophomore on Varsity in football and was getting great grades. In the meantime I got a job at Bi-Rite in Stokesdale, NC. I love that job so much I kept it all this time into my senior year. Now we’re here, where everyone said times would take no time to get to but they were right. I wish I listened to them through all this time because life is a gift and we're just living it so fast, but the times you slow down and look at it you realize it’s so beautiful. I played my senior year of football, I tore my meniscus in the first 3 minutes of my first game. The doctor told me I should sit it out, but I didn’t take no for an answer. I pushed through the pain of sitting out 2 games but after that I needed football, so I pushed harder through the pain and came back in week 4. I played the rest of the year on my messed up knee. I knew this was what God wanted me to do. I loved every second as if it was my last. But when senior night came I was crying like the biggest baby losing that game. I never knew that little boy that was watching McMichael football would be in those pads and Jersey playing his lifelong dream. But we made the playoffs with a 2-8 record but I didn’t care, football is football and I had 1 more week to enjoy it. We played the Shelby Golden lions, they went on to win the state championship but that night was so surreal.
Crying in that field felt like breaking a rule . My dad always lived by, “NO CRYING ON THE FIELD" but I couldn’t hold back this time. As time went on it hurts more and more that it’s over but I’m going in the play the sport I love the most at the next level. I’ve got my Eagle Scout completed and earned.
But it doesn't matter how many times you get knocked down, it’s how many times you can get up. I’ve gotten up every time through the easy and hard times. But I’m proud to be here with my friends and family, yes some have gone before us but I know they're looking down at me now so proud of the man I have become. But this is it, after everything I’m here where I am now. I’m proud of myself for carrying along but I’m even more proud of the man my parents have raised.
So I guess all I have to say is thank you mom, dad, everyone else there for me. But mainly thank you God and thank you Dalton L. McMichael.
After graduation, I will be attending North Carolina State University to pursue a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering. I plan to continue to be involved with Special Olympics North Carolina and get connected with the Unified Sports program at NC State. So far I have received the Truliant Federal Credit Union Fred Sarda Scholarship with an amount of $2,000 and am still waiting to hear back from others. I’m blessed with the many opportunities that high school has given me and am very excited for what the future holds. Go Cougars and Go Pack!
One of the biggest challenges I faced was balancing sports and school. Managing practices, games, and assignments was not always easy, and there were times when it felt overwhelming. However, these moments taught me how to stay organized, manage my time, and remain focused. I learned that success comes from consistency and effort, even when things get difficult.
Football, and sports in general, have been a huge part of my life. Being on the field taught me more than just how to play the game; it taught me how to keep going when things get tough and how to be a teammate. From sweating through summer practices to the excitement of Friday night games, sports gave me a reason to work hard and always try to improve. The friends I made and the memories we created at practice, in the locker room, and on the field are things I’ll never forget. We grew up together, challenged each other, and had a lot of laughs along the way. Those friendships made the hard work worth it.
A major accomplishment in my journey has been earning my Associate in Arts degree from Rockingham Community College through dual enrollment. Taking college-level courses while still in high school pushed me to stay disciplined and prepared me for what lies ahead. It is something I am proud of because it reflects the work I put in over time.
After graduation, I plan to attend UNC Charlotte and study Sports Analytics. I am excited to continue my education in a field that combines my interest in sports with data and strategy. I have not received any scholarships yet, but I sure am hoping I do!
Looking back, my high school experience has been about staying committed, making good choices, and putting in the work every day. These lessons have shaped who I am, and they will continue to guide me in the future. Thanks to RCHS for 4 great years!
