Rockingham County Schools is pleased to announce Ms. LaRinda Redd Neal has been selected as the next principal of Douglass Elementary School in Eden, North Carolina. She will start her new role on July 1, 2025. Ms. Neal’s journey in education began over 22 years ago. Ms. Neal began her teaching career in Rockingham County Schools as a first-grade teacher at Douglass Elementary. Ms. Neal has a relationship-driven style, collaborative nature, and commitment to her school community. Ms. Neal most recently served as an Assistant Principal at Rockingham County High School for three years, earning the honor of being named as Rockingham County’s 2024 Assistant Principal of the Year. Ms. Neal is excited to return to the Douglass Elementary family, where her Rockingham County classroom journey began. She proudly says, “Coming full circle to serve is a true privilege.”
Rockingham County Schools celebrated the 2024–2025 school year retirees . This year we honored 57 retirees, collectively representing an impressive 1,272 years of service. Pictured below are: Deborah Williams, Connie Slade, Chrystal Thomas, Carolyn Thomas, Benjamin Goodes, Angela Chestnut-Black.
Rockingham County Schools celebrated the 2024–2025 school year retirees This year we honored 57 retirees, collectively representing an impressive 1,272 years of service. Pictured below are: Malinda Bonesteel, Lisa Moore, Karen Williams, Karen Belton, June Nealy, Joyce Smith, Jonathan Goins, Elizabeth Berteotti, Devan Walsh, Denise Brooks.
Rockingham County Schools celebrated the 2024–2025 school year retirees. This year we honored 57 retirees, collectively representing an impressive 1,272 years of service. Pictured below are: Tina Whitten, Stephanie Hall, Shelby Goins, Ruth Robertson, Rita Williamson, Randy Epling, Phyllis Gray, Merrianne McCall, MaryBeth Slaughter, Marcia Bullins
The RCS Board of Education has accepted new draft calendars for public comment for the 2025-2026 school year: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1FvbRLKpRtzs1OxFlc6IypMQNXUm93uG2?usp=drive_link.
These calendars are available for those who wish to contribute feedback by filling out the attached Google form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdpze-zzO4utreOjUv-k_oC_Ion2LvrgFYYJJbBHU5b6lUfng/viewform
The Rockingham County Board of Education recognized Rockingham County School's District Secondary Math Teacher of the Year, Amy Cuthbertson. She teaches at Dalton McMichael High School.
Rockingham County High School's Ava Pruitt named Player of the year
2025 Senior Spotlight: Zavier Watlington
Zavier Watlington, a standout senior at Morehead High School, has achieved remarkable academic success despite facing a challenging high school journey. Once struggling in middle school, Zavier turned his life around by surrounding himself with a more positive and motivating peer group. He credits his transformation to the strong support of his family—especially his father, who continues to inspire him to strive for more.
With a deep passion for computers and design, Zavier has earned certifications in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Design, as well as in Web Design and Internet Marketing through Rockingham Community College. His dedication has also earned him spots on the A/AB Honor Roll, the prestigious Mighty Panther Award, and recognition as a Junior Marshall
Zavier expresses gratitude for the teachers who made a lasting impact on his education—especially Ms. Hazelwood, Mr. Everett, and Mr. Reddick—who not only made learning accessible but encouraged his involvement in school life. He says what he'll miss most are the teachers’ support and daily interactions with his close friends.
Looking ahead, Zavier plans to attend Rockingham Community College to study Coding and Web Design, then transfer to a four-year university to pursue his dream of a career in video game design and development. His journey proves that the right mindset and support system can truly change everything.
2025 Senior Spotlight Graduate: Shikha Patel
My name is Shikha Patel, and my journey from India to the United States has been the most transformative chapter of my life. Ever since 7th grade, I dreamed of studying in an American high school—and that dream has become a powerful reality, filled with growth, challenges, and unforgettable experiences.
Adjusting to a new country came with its struggles—navigating a different language, culture, and way of life—but I’ve come a long way. Experiencing both Indian and American education systems has given me a unique perspective. In India, school was more formal and discipline-focused, while American schools encouraged creativity, individuality, and hands-on learning. I’m grateful to have experienced the strengths of both worlds.
One of the most memorable moments of my high school journey was attending prom. During my junior year, I proudly wore a traditional Indian outfit, embracing my roots while being welcomed with warmth and appreciation. This year, for senior prom, I’m excited to wear a traditional American dress—a symbolic blend of where I come from and where I am now.
Playing tennis has also been a highlight, teaching me resilience, teamwork, and giving me friendships that made this transition feel like home. Above all, it’s the people—the kindness, support, and understanding—that have made this journey truly special.
After graduation, I plan to pursue my passion for fashion design. My vision is to create styles that fuse Indian traditions—like intricate embroidery and vibrant patterns—with the bold creativity of American fashion. I want my designs to celebrate culture, tell stories, and connect people.
In just two years, I’ve grown more than I ever imagined. I turned uncertainty into confidence and new beginnings into lasting memories. This journey has shaped not only my education, but my identity—and I’m excited for the next chapter.
2025 Senior Spotlight: James Gross
My name is James Gross, and I’m a proud senior at Rockingham County High School. Over the past four years, I’ve experienced both triumphs and challenges that have shaped who I am today. Football played a central role in my high school journey—I dedicated four years to the sport, pushing through injuries and setbacks while learning perseverance and discipline.
Beyond the field, I was actively involved in school clubs, including Beta Club and the National Honor Society, where I had the honor of serving as President my senior year. Leading NHS has been both my most rewarding and most challenging experience. Our team organized community events like a Trunk-or-Treat and an Easter Egg Hunt, allowing me to grow in public speaking, leadership, and event coordination.
Balancing AP and college-level courses, a part-time job, and leadership roles was not easy, but I committed to giving my best in everything I did. I’m incredibly thankful for the support I received along the way, which helped keep my path steady and fulfilling.
This fall, I’ll attend Appalachian State University to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation Management. I’m proud to have earned the Appalachian Excellence Scholarship and am hopeful for others I’ve applied for. As I close this chapter, I carry immense gratitude and look back on high school as a time of growth, memories, and personal achievement.
2025 Senior Spotlight: Nate Revis
Meet Nathaniel "Nate" Revis, a standout senior at Rockingham County High School. This fall, Nate will attend NC State University to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Biology with a concentration in Life Sciences, aspiring to become a physical therapist or athletic trainer.
Throughout high school, Nate has excelled academically and athletically. A dedicated member of both the Beta Club and National Honor Society, he contributed to numerous service projects, including volunteering at the Humane Society, assisting at a soup kitchen, working concessions, and coaching youth basketball. He was also honored as a Junior Marshal for his leadership and service.
Athletics have been a central part of Nate’s journey. He competed in varsity cross country, played junior varsity and varsity basketball—earning MVP in JV—and was a key player and captain on the varsity baseball team. Under his leadership, the team earned back-to-back conference championships and consistent state playoff appearances. Nate was twice named all-conference and selected for all-tournament teams.
Balancing rigorous academics—including multiple AP courses—with sports was no small feat. One of his biggest challenges came during his junior year when an arm injury sidelined him mid-season. This setback, though difficult, introduced him to physical therapy and sparked his passion for the profession he now plans to pursue.
Nate leaves high school with pride, purpose, and excitement for what’s next at NC State.
2025 Senior Spotlight Graduate: Olivia Walker
Hi, I’m Olivia Walker, a senior at Rockingham County High School, and I’m thrilled to be continuing my journey this fall as a Musical Theatre major at East Carolina University!
This year has been filled with both challenges and triumphs. Navigating the audition process for theater programs was tough—rejections hit hard, especially when social media highlights everyone else’s victories. But that experience taught me resilience and reminded me to lean on the support of those around me. Committing to ECU’s Musical Theatre program has been the most rewarding end to that journey, and I couldn’t be more excited.
Beyond academics, senior year has been full of unforgettable moments—painting senior jeans, attending senior sunrise, cheering at homecoming, and dancing the night away at prom. Prom, especially, was a highlight. Being surrounded by friends and feeling the love from our community made it a night to remember.
Another exciting part of my year has been playing the role of Cinderella in RCHS’s production of Rodgers + Hammerstein's Cinderella. Taking on my first princess role and bonding with my castmates has been a dream come true.
I’m incredibly honored to have received the Chancellor’s Scholarship from ECU and to have been selected for the Theater and Dance Living Learning Community. These recognitions feel like the perfect wrap-up to an incredible senior year.
To future seniors: rejection doesn’t define your worth, and this season of life moves fast—so cherish it. Stay grounded, stay focused, and most importantly, stay true to yourself.
Here’s to the Class of 2025—and to a future full of opportunity. Go Pirates! 💜💛
2025 Graduate Spotlight: Parker Smith
Whether in the classroom, on stage, or leading her peers, Parker Smith exemplifies the character and intellect of a true International Baccalaureate (IB) scholar. A standout at Reidsville High School, Parker has distinguished herself as a reflective thinker and purposeful communicator—core qualities of the IB Learner Profile.
Parker’s journey has been defined by thoughtful reflection. In her IB Literature course, she approached texts with analytical depth and emotional insight, consistently drawing powerful connections between literary themes and real-world issues. Her questions challenged assumptions, and her interpretations illuminated the human experience, demonstrating that for Parker, reflection is both intellectual inquiry and personal growth.
This introspective strength also shaped her work in the arts. In her role as Fate One in Hades town, Parker infused her performance with nuance, symbolism, and a precise awareness of tone. Her ability to merge critical analysis with artistic expression speaks to a rare maturity as both a thinker and a performer.
But Parker is not just reflective—she’s a dynamic communicator. In IB Theatre, she co-wrote and performed in a satirical play on political discourse, blending wit with social commentary. Her collaborative spirit, openness to feedback, and ability to navigate sensitive topics with empathy were central to the project’s success. As a student council representative, Parker brought that same clarity and compassion to her leadership, helping to build a more inclusive and understanding school culture. Parker’s future ambition to become a speech therapist is a natural extension of the qualities she’s cultivated: empathy, intentionality, and a deep respect for the power of language. With her thoughtful voice and unwavering purpose, Parker Smith is sure to make a meaningful impact far beyond the walls of Reidsville High.
2025 Graduate Spotlight Student Ruby Holland, a senior at Morehead has quite the resume to say the least. Growing up in a low-income environment did not limit Ruby’s opportunities . Ruby achieved greatness at Morehead and her love of school led to her taking a Latin class her freshman year which quickly became her niche. Latin created an interest in the French language, and French created an interest in the Spanish language after a while, Ruby realized that she had an interest in all languages. Ruby also has a love for literature and was encouraged to read outside of assignments which led to a passion for writing. Her writing potential helped her become a published author in the "Thread Literary Magazine" as well as the founder of her own editing service known as “Ruby Edits Papers”. She also participates in many extracurricular activities in and out of school including Battle of the Books, Academic Challenge Competition, National Honor Society, MHS French Club, and the MHS Book Club. Her outside activities include being a volunteer at the Eden Public Library and an NC Virtual Public School tutor. Some other accomplishments include scoring Summa Cum Laude on her National Latin exam, receiving the AP Scholar Award, being Treasurer of the NHS and receiving the Academic Challenge MVP Award two times. After high school, Ruby is set to attend Davidson College where she plans to major in Global Literary Theory with concentrations in French and Latin. Throughout her lifetime, Ruby ultimately hopes to be a helping hand in society in some way!
2025 Graduate Spotlight: Trinzail Williams reflects on his time at Morehead High School as a journey of growth, resilience, and transformation. Though his early years were marked by academic struggles, Trinzail turned a corner in his junior year, choosing to refocus and commit to his success. From that point forward, he consistently earned A/B Honor Roll recognition, a testament to his determination and drive. Fueled by a lifelong passion for business—first sparked in the fourth grade when he began sketching ideas in a notebook he still treasures—Trinzail found a unique outlet through Adobe design classes with Ms. Thompson. What started as an elective quickly became a calling. Ms. Thompson’s unwavering support and mentorship helped him hone his skills and push through challenges. Trinzail’s talent and perseverance culminated in an extraordinary achievement: competing at the 2024 Certiport Adobe Certified Professional US National Championship in Orlando, Florida. There, he tackled a rigorous seven-hour exam, demonstrating his mastery of Adobe programs and making Morehead High School proud. Looking ahead, Trinzail will attend Rockingham Community College in the college transfer program, majoring in Business Administration. With aspirations of owning a café or clothing brand, he is committed to one day giving back to the community that helped shape him.
2025 Graduate Spotlight Student, Makayla Hairston is a Rockingham Early College High School Graduate. Growing up she never imagined what it meant to become the best version of herself—or how to inspire others to do the same. When she arrived at Rockingham Early College, she had no idea how much she would grow academically and personally. Makayla's childhood was shaped by her mother’s struggles—emotionally, financially, and mentally. Watching her endure hardship without support instilled a powerful determination to be someone who could stand strong and prove that we are more than our circumstances. At just 12 years old, she survived a drive-by shooting. At the time, she didn’t grasp the emotional toll it would take. Many would expect someone in a similar position to shut down or turn to destructive habit but instead ,she channeled her trauma into growth. She learned to advocate for herself, process emotions, and most importantly, forgive. She chose to see the humanity in those who hurt her and move forward with purpose. That mindset carried Makayla through high school, discovering a passion for health and fitness through swimming at Morehead High School. Over four years, she transformed pain into power, building relationships, discipline, and confidence. Today, she's proud to say she's been awarded a full-ride scholarship to UNC-Chapel Hill to pursue a career in Sports Psychology.
RCHS' Lady Cougars Softball Team beat Scotland County 5-2 last night. The team finished the 2 game sweep today with a walk off hit to win 1-0. The Lady Cougars are the 3A Softball 2025 Champions! Congratulations!
2025 Graduate Spotlight Student, Cooper Martin is a graduating senior at Rockingham Early College High School. Throughout his high school career, he has excelled in athletics, academics, and service. He works as a tutor in the Academic Resource Center at RCC. He was also a member of the Morehead High School basketball team and served as captain of the Morehead High School Cross Country team. Within his school and local community, he serves as chair of the Eden City Youth Council, vice president of RECHS National Honor Society, vice president of Public Relations in Phi Theta Kappa, and a member of the RECHS Student Government. He is optimistic and believes in seeing the positive in people and any circumstance. The benefits he has come to relish from being a RECHS student are the teachers and professors he has had the pleasure of meeting, and being a part of his zonal school, Morehead High School, through athletics for the past four years. These amazing people are what have created his fondest memories. The advice he would give to his fellow peers is to be resilient and always remain positive. After graduating with a high school diploma and associate's degree in science, Cooper will attend UNC-Chapel Hill in the fall and will be part of the Honors Carolina program. He plans to major in biomedical engineering with the goal of attending medical school to become a Primary Care Physician. We are proud of Cooper!
2025 Dalton McMichael High School Graduate Spotlight Student, Kyosha Dalton exemplifies the characteristics of good character and citizenship. To demonstrate her citizenship and political action, Kyosha was instrumental in creating DMHS' Environmental Science Club while she was a student in AP Environmental Science class. She was elected as the club's president and has demonstrated great leadership and effective communication. The club raised money for local environmental groups through a student coin collection competition and held a reuse/recycle yard sale. Kyosha and the club members volunteered time and effort at a school clean-up, a local animal shelter, and participated in a local art project. Kyosha has organized club meetings and planned club events including field trips in her role as president. Kyosha cares deeply about the political process and shows that through her participation. Kyosha embodies honesty, integrity, and inclusiveness as well. During lab assignments she would help share her knowledge with others and keep the data collection without bias keeping the validity of the experiment. Other accomplishments include participating in the district science fair and Beta Club which requires service hours each year. While serving as President of the Environmental Science Club, she has made sure to include all grade levels and is open to any student’s ideas. Kyosha is a detailed oriented individual and proudly represents McMichael High School during her present and future endeavors.
2025 Senior Spotlight Student, Bobby Huffman is known for being dependable and has an impactful presence at Reidsville High School.
If you’ve spent any time at Reidsville High School, there’s a good chance you’ve met or at least benefited from his work. He is always answering phones in the front office, organizing inventory in the library, or helping a fellow student troubleshoot a tech issue. Throughout his time at RHS, Bobby has been a standout in his CTE courses, especially in Technology and Engineering Design, Adobe Digital Design, Digital Design & Animation, and Video Design. His passion for hands-on learning and problem-solving is clear to every teacher lucky enough to work with him. One of his proudest academic moments came as a SparkNC scholar, where he was among the first students to fully dive into the program and even created a weather app from scratch. His work was featured in a district-wide newsletter, a testament to both his technical talent and his creative curiosity. While still in middle school he was offered an internship in the Paxton Patterson lab where he discovered his ability to lead others and help them find their own confidence with technology. That kind of growth is what his time at RHS has been all about: quiet strength, steady effort, and a willingness to rise to the challenge. Bobby has been more than a student, he’s been a behind-the-scenes MVP being a Media Assistant and Office Assistant. Bobby even repairs staff members’ personal tech usually asking only to keep the tools in return. He works so hard people ask, “Wait… he’s a student?” One teacher was overheard saying, “This school couldn’t run without you, Bobby.” Bobby’s bright, humble personality and strong work ethic have made him a valued part of the RHS family. Bobby plans to attend RCC and hopes to pursue a career in IT or office administration, though some of us are already lobbying RCS to keep him around. Thank you, Bobby Huffman, for everything you've done for Reidsville High School. You may have started out shy and reserved but you’re graduating as a leader, a helper, and a standout human being. We can't wait to see where your talents take you next!
