Group Prides Itself in Helping to Develop Bright Young Minds

Story by Cal Bryant, Roanoke Chowan News Herald

Who is better suited to show young students the correct path towards a successful career other than someone who has already traveled that road?

While the Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) takes immense pride in its mission to inspire and increase community engagement by the citizens of Gates County for the educational and social development of its youth, they were once in the same shoes as those they are assisting today.

Guided by a Board of Directors whose background and upbringing lie within Gates County, GCCP benefits from a range of professional skills, individual experiences, and the generosity of volunteers dedicated to the betterment of their home county.

Rooted in the soil of civic pride and purpose, GCCP was established in October 2018 and was almost immediately recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit entity. Since their founding, GCCP has remained a catalyst for positive change across Gates County. Its current Board of Directors are Chante Jordan, President; Benjamin Saunders, Jr., Vice-President and Treasurer; Sherley Jones, Jr., Secretary; Brian Rountree, Director; and Sandra Jordan Branch, Director. Each matriculated through Gates County Schools.

Jordan said she joined GCCP to help make a positive difference and give back to the youth in the local community.

"Being a part of an organization with such a dedication to educational and societal development allows me to directly contribute to improving the lives of young people, helping them gain access to educational resources and opportunities,” said Jordan, who holds several degrees from East Carolina University and works with Gates County Public Schools as the Human Resources Director and Exceptional Children’s Program Director.

Jordan said it is exciting to witness and to be a part of a group of like-minded individuals with such a firm commitment to the overall development of local youth and the Gates County community.

"The various initiatives and activities each provide opportunities for community members to connect, communicate, and support one another,” she said.

Jordan feels that the academic enrichment, mentoring initiatives, and educational partnerships, all programs fostered by GCCP, have made the biggest impact thus far on the lives of local students.

As to the future, Jordan pointed to programs to address mental health and mentorship opportunities that would support the continued development of local youth.

"The Partnership has recently been engaged in the initiation of projects to address these topics,” Jordan stated.

Saunders, an engineering graduate of North Carolina A&T State University and the University of Detroit Mercy, is a charter member of the GCCP. He was on the ground floor when the organization, in its infant stages, partnered with Morehead Planetarium and Science Center of UNC-Chapel Hill to launch the Saunders Science Scholars program, a STEM enrichment, youth development, and college readiness initiative.

"We are adamant about access for all and have not charged for any programming directed towards the community we serve, as we want to ensure everyone can participate,” Saunders noted.

In addition to the Saunders Science Scholars, he pointed to three other programs that he feels have made the biggest impact on Gates County's youth. They are:

The Access Initiative - the donation of over 140 laptops to local students and funding for 15 mobile hotspots for local internet access.

Opening GATES / ACTivate Futures that has provided college readiness programming and college tours to dozens of local youth.

GCCP NC Promise Tuition Scholarship that has funded the first year of college tuition for 10 Gates County High School graduates.            .

Other programs in the works include Busting Boundaries (a male mentoring program at Central Middle School) and "Let's Chat,” an initiative that will promote spontaneous conversations in a welcoming environment.

Jones, who served 30 years in the U.S. Air Force and currently works for the National Aeronautics Space Administration (NASA), is also a GCCP charter member.

"The opportunity to engage with young people and share my story while also encouraging them to be the best version of themselves is what excites me about the GCCP," Jones said. "It also gives me the opportunity to be a positive figure, showing students that dreams really do come true and providing awareness of forums available to them to achieve greater.”

When asked about the other impacts that the GCCP has made locally, Jones answered by saying, "The programs where we have brought in STEM advocates to raise awareness to students the college opportunities through scholarships and grants and also trade programs available to them in the local area and in the state of North Carolina. Also, the Access Initiative program where we have given computers to needy families, which help kids do well in school and help alleviate stress from parents to support them with academic resources.”

Like his other colleagues on the GCCP Board of Directors, Jones feels that the work they've done thus far is just the tip of the iceberg.

"I would like to see us provide program support to teachers, whether it be academic resources, more advance technology, or even funding for teachers to attain their certification or complete further degrees to provide an optimal classroom environment,” he said. "Another program to offer would be one for parents to raise their awareness and competencies on technology while also helping them bridge the academic gap to support student learning and behaviors in school environments.”

In addition to its existing programs, the GCCP has helped secure grants to support the Carnegie Learning Math Program as well as with funding for the new athletic training facility at Gates County High School and a Youth Athletics and Academics Grant, a development program for student athletes emphasizing the balance between sports and academics.

GCCP also supports its community in other ways. It led an initiative to provide free broadband access and purchase and install two large screen TVs at the Gates County Community Center. The purpose was to support the senior population and the rest of the local community.

To learn more about the organization or for information on how you can become involved, send an email to [email protected].


Jones Featured at Veterans Day Salute

Gates County Index

GATESVILLE - A local military veteran with a penchant for helping Gates County young people reach their goals educationally served as the featured speaker here Monday at the annual Veterans Day service held in the 1836 Gates County Courthouse.

U. S. Air Force Chief Master Sergeant (Ret) Sherley Jones, Jr., a native of Sunbury, talked about the importance of military service, how it builds character and leads to a life of serving in other ways.

A 1986 graduate of Gates County High School, Jones served 30 years in the United States Air Force and currently works for NASA.

In his role as a Director of Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP), Jones is part of a nonprofit organization whose mission is to inspire and increase community engagement by the citizens of Gates County for the educational and social development of its youth. The organization provides funding for and sponsors various programs and activities supporting youth in Science Technology Engineering and Math activities, minority engagements for academia, college tours, career professions exposure, summer camps, and other events.

His life of service extends to helping those fighting substance abuse. Jones is a Pre-Licensed Mental Health and Substance Abuse Certification Professional, working part time as a therapist/counselor at Choice Therapeutic Solutions and Healing Waters Wellness and Counseling Center. He also works with men being released from prison through a transitional program aiding them in reorienting in society providing substance abuse and mental health counseling. Prior to this, he was a counselor with Brightview Addiction Center.

His full-time job is with NASA in Washington, DC as the Alternate Dispute Resolution and Equal Opportunity Manager and as the Diversity and Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Programs Specialist at Wallops Flight Facility.

Jones served 30 years in the U. S. Air Force. That career saw Jones excel in assignments, human relations education and training, unit climate assessments, and wartime taskings that included force readiness, posturing, and sourcing. He held various positions at the squadron, wing, direct reporting unit and major command levels during his career.

Over the course of his military service, Jones was awarded the Meritorious Services Medal with three oak leaf clusters, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Korean Defense Service Medal.

Jones holds a Bachelors degree in Workforce Education and Training Development from Southern Illinois University, a Masters degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University, and completed the U. S. Air Force Enterprise Leadership Seminar in the Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia.

Monday’s salute to military veterans was presided over by Lyndon Askew, Gates County High School Class of 2010.


Central Middle School Presents the 2024 Coastal Athletic Conference Cheer Competition

On a vibrant Saturday, February 3, 2024, Central Middle School in Gatesville, North Carolina, transformed into a dynamic arena for the Coastal Athletic Conference Middle School Cheer Competition. The event saw young cheerleaders from various schools displaying a stylish fusion of athleticism and spirit.

Demonstrating their precision and teamwork, the participants captivated the audience with their high-energy routines. Each team performed a meticulously choreographed sequence lasting two minutes and thirty seconds, featuring awe-inspiring stunts, flawless tumbling, high jumps, and spirited chants. Their polished execution and synchronization underscored their impressive dedication and skill.

The cheerful revelry was further amplified by the exhibition performances put on by the Chowan University Sapphire Cheer Squad and the spirited Gates County High School Red Barons. Setting the tempo for the entire event was Alvin “DJ Smooth” Hobbs, whose musical selections kept the crowd's energy up. Makayla Gregory brilliantly captured the day's highlights through her photography and videography.

This year's cheer competition was made possible through the generosity and support of Gates County Community Partnership, S&T Storage, River Road Enterprise, Lee Insurance, Thomas Langston Plumbing, The Petaler, Dalton and Chaney’s, along with community supporters Lola Rountree and Dr. Althea Riddick.

A heartfelt expression of gratitude is extended to all the sponsors, volunteers, parents, and avid cheer fans whose commitment and support played a pivotal role in the success of this exuberant celebration of community spirit and young talent.

Conference results were as follows:

Central Middle School, Reba Green-Holley, Head Coach, Regan Robinson, Asst. Coach

Gold – 1st Place
Build Team Routine
Individual Routine
Jump-Off
Spirit – Most Energetic and Spirited Cheerleader

2nd Place
Jump-Off
Stunt-Off

Chowan County Middle School, Tina Downing, Head Coach, Robin Mount, Asst. Coach

Gold – 1st Place
Non-Build Team Routine
Tumble -Off

2nd Place
Jump- Off

3rd Place
Spirit – Most Energetic and Spirited Cheerleader

Martin County Middle School, Mechelle Brown, Head Coach, Carolyn Brown, Asst. Coach

Gold – 1st Place
Stunt-Off

2nd Place
Non-Build Team Routine
Individual Routine
Spirit – Most Energetic and Spirited Cheerleader

3rd Place
Jump-Off

 


Science for All Summit: Completion of the Vision

By CRYSTAL HARDEN, EdD

CHAPEL HILL, NC (Jan. 17, 2024) — After many years of voicing the purpose of my IDEA work, I decided to put those words down in writing. Once an avid blogger, I decided to share my thoughts again about the why, how, when, and where we think about creating safe spaces where all of us can belong and feel comfortable in a welcoming environment. My new blog series will share these thoughts and the importance of these spaces for those of us working in the IDEA field as well as those seeking a better understanding of equity in STEM.

What sparked the vision? After a visit to Washington, DC, to a convening meeting in May 2022 where I watched colleagues and peers gather to discuss equity in STEM, I thought North Carolina needed a similar gathering and conversation. The central region of North Carolina is a hub for scientific innovation, discovery, and learning; therefore, I felt it needed to have this type of focus on equity in STEM. We were not seeing it as a focus in other spaces here in North Carolina. I brought my vision back home to North Carolina and sought understanding and support from the Burroughs Wellcome Fund. The Burroughs Wellcome Fund has been a staunch advocate for this work and these conversations for years. The next step was to put it all together. Fortunately, a great team of people was there to help and support this vision and the work.

Morehead created the tagline “Science for All” and has used it as a guiding principle for the organization. Establishing the Science for All Summit was a “no-brainer” for me through my visionary lens. In my mind, I envisioned this convening of colleagues in education and science, thought leaders, and change agents working to create safe spaces of belonging and well-being for those historically excluded and marginalized in STEM education and STEM fields.

After months of hard work and planning, April 2023 brought my vision into existence. More than I could have imagined was the reality of what came to pass in April 2023. Educators, scientists, university/college staff, students, and more gathered to hear about advocating for equity in STEM through the tenets of IDEA (inclusion, diversity, equity, and access). Through their feedback and data, we know that the keynote speakers were inspirational and the best aspect of the conference for our attendees.

What do I hope for 2024? I hope that the energy and vibe in Chapel Hill will be even more engaging for our attendees. I hope that our attendees will be excited to see this year’s dynamic keynote speakers and presenters, as well as participate in an amazing cultural evening experience at Morehead Planetarium and Science Center.

What else do I envision for the Science for All Summit? I have a vision for this gathering to grow into a full statewide—then national—convening space for those doing and wanting to do IDEA work for STEM. The journey to the Science for All Summit has not inflicted any “pains” except my own personal anxiety to birth this vision. A vision that was born to bridge people of all backgrounds and their cultural identities into STEM was, at times, weighed down by my own personal anxiety around the acceptance of this work from the field and community. Ultimately, as a reconciliation within myself, I had to remember that the fight for equity is never a dream deferred.

We hope that you will join us on February 28-29, 2024. It is a gathering for a vision complete.

Crystal Harden, EdD, is the director of program and inclusion initiatives at Morehead Planetarium and Science Center and an adjunct professor at the UNC School of Education.

 

 


2023 Recipients of The Student STEM Enrichment Program Announced

NOVEMBER 14, 2023 - RUSS CAMPBELL

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. (13 November 2023)— The Burroughs Wellcome Fund is proud to introduce the recipients of the 2023 Student STEM Enrichment Program. This program was created nearly 30 years ago to empower and inspire North Carolina students to pursue excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) through activities taking place outside of the traditional classroom schedule.

“The Burroughs Wellcome Fund is committed to nurturing the next generation of STEM leaders and innovators,” said Chief Diversity Officer and Senior Program Officer, Alfred Mays. “The diversity of these programs and the students they will interact with represent the future of scientific discovery and technological advancement, and we are excited to support them in their educational journeys.”

The 2023 recipients are:

  • Digi-Bridge | Advancing STEM Education through Digi-Bridge Programming and Robotics Squads
  • Global Health Connections International | Preparing For My Future “FULL STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Arts Math) AHEAD”
  • Hickory Day School | Lego Education Robotics Club & FIRST Lego League Team
  • High Point University | STEMtastic Adventures
  • North Carolina Aquarium | A Year of STEM at the North Carolina Aquariums
  • North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences | North Carolina Young Scientist Society
  • Partners In Ministry | Career and Exploration STEM Academy (CESA)
  • Patterson School Foundation | Appalachian Appropriate Technology Camp
  • Surry County Schools | Emerging Medical Leaders Program
  • Triangle Land Conservancy | The Pathways into Natural Environments and Science (PINES) Fellowship
  • University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill | Geo-Health Interns: Geoscience and Environmental Health Career Connections for Robeson County High School Students
  • University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill | Morehead Planetarium and Science Center Saunders Science Scholars Program Support
  • Wayne County Public Schools | STEM Adventures

The 2023 recipients have been chosen from a competitive pool of applicants from all over the state. SSEP supports diverse programs with a common goal: to enable primary and secondary students to participate in creative, hands-on STEM activities for K-12 students and pursue inquiry-based exploration in BWF’s home state of North Carolina. These awards provide up to $60,000 per year for three years. Since the program’s inception in 1996, BWF has awarded 275 grants totaling $41.4 million to 130 organizations.

SSEP awards support career-oriented and practical programs intended to provide creative STEM enrichment activities for students in K-12 education who have shown exceptional skills and interest in STEM, as well as those perceived to have high potential.  After-school programs are demonstrating value in helping to close opportunity gaps for underserved and underrepresented students.

For more information about the Burroughs Wellcome Fund and its programs, please visit bwfund.org.


Gates County Community Partnership's “The Access Initiative” Helps Bridge the Digital Divide

In an initiative to help bridge the significant digital divide prevalent in rural America, Gates County Community Partnership (GCCP) has relaunched “The Access Initiative.” This program aims to provide laptops to eligible students at Central Middle School and Gates County High School, fostering improved educational outcomes and empowering the next generation.

The digital divide refers to the inequality in access to technology and online resources, creating barriers for students in rural areas. Recognizing the urgency of addressing this disparity, Gates County Community Partnership has taken proactive steps to equip local students with the essential tools they need to succeed academically and beyond.

To qualify for “The Access Initiative,” students must be currently enrolled at Central Middle School or Gates County High School and eligible for free or reduced lunch. By targeting those who demonstrate financial need, the program ensures laptops are distributed to those who will benefit the most.

“The importance of technology in homes cannot be overstated. It has become an integral part of our education system, enabling students to access information, engage in online learning platforms, and develop critical digital literacy skills,” emphasized Gates County Community Partnership Director, Chante Jordan. "The Access Initiative aims to level the playing field for our students, ensuring they have the necessary technology to succeed academically. By providing laptops, we are striving to close the digital gap and empower our students to meet their full potential."

Through this initiative, students will have the ability to conduct research, complete assignments, and collaborate on projects using online resources, creating a more interactive and engaging learning environment. By breaking down the barriers caused by the digital divide, Gates County Community Partnership is fostering equity in education and promoting exceptional academic outcomes for all students.

Applications can be found at https://gatescountycp.org/event/access-initiative-2/ and can be submitted to [email protected]. The deadline is Friday, November 3, 2023.

For more information on “The Access Initiative,” please contact Gates County Community Partnership at 252-220-5051 or email [email protected].

 


Gates County Community Partnership Supports Navy National Defense Cadet Corps

Gates County Community Partnership has stepped up to offer unwavering support to Gates County High School’s Navy National Defense Cadet Corps (NNDCC) with a donation of $1,000. This contribution will play a crucial role in assisting the cadets by covering expenses for various activities that enhance their overall experience.

Unlike many similar programs across the nation, the NNDCC receives no financial assistance from the US Navy. As a result, it must actively engage in fundraising efforts and rely on the support of the local community to provide the resources necessary for the success and development of the program.

When asked about the donation, Benjamin C. Saunders, Jr., President of the Gates County Community Partnership, emphasized the organization's commitment to supporting local educational initiatives, stating, "We firmly believe in investing in our youth and providing them with opportunities to explore the Armed Forces. The Navy National Defense Cadet Corps is an exceptional program, and we are proud to assist them in achieving their goals."

The NNDCC program aims to cultivate leadership skills while fostering a sense of discipline among its cadets, all within the context of national defense. Students who participate in the program learn teamwork, responsibility, and citizenship skills. By exposing cadets to diverse aspects of the military, the program provides them with valuable experiences that will significantly impact their future.

The Navy National Defense Cadet Corps expresses its deep gratitude to Gates County Community Partnership for their dedication to the program's mission. The NNDCC encourages more organizations and community members to follow the example, ensuring the long-term success and stability of the program for years to come. Together, Gates County can empower and inspire future leaders.

For those interested in supporting the Navy National Defense Cadet Corps, donations can be made by contacting Gates County High School directly at 252-357-0720. Every contribution, regardless of its size, will be of great value to the growth and success of this essential educational initiative.


Gates County Community Partnership Receives Burroughs Wellcome Fund Grant

Gates County Community Partnership recently received a $5,000 grant from the Burroughs Wellcome Fund to support youth enrichment initiatives in Gates County.

"We would like to thank the Burroughs Wellcome Fund for Investing in youth development in Gates County, as it is not only an investment in the future but it creates a brighter present," stated Sandra Jordan Branch, Director, Gates County Community Partnership. "Empowering young minds and providing them with opportunities and mentorship enables them to reach their full potential and become the change-makers our world needs."

The Burroughs Wellcome Fund serves and strengthens society by nurturing a diverse group of leaders in biomedical sciences to improve human health through education and powering discovery in frontiers of greatest need.

More information on the Burroughs Wellcome Fund can be found at:

www.bwfund.org

Twitter

@bwfund

 


Athletic Training Facility Opens

September 27, 2022  by Cal Bryant, Roanoke Chowan News Herald

GATESVILLE – What’s old is new at Gates County High School.

Thanks to grant funding from several sources plus the vision of local education officials and community organizations, the school’s old gym has been transformed into a state-of-the-art fitness facility.

After years of planning and several rounds of applying for the needed grant funding, school system officials and invited guests took part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 16 to formally open the Gates County Schools Athletic Training Facility.

In addition to the new weight-lifting devices and exercise equipment is an “indoor field”, a smaller version of the outdoor stadium, complete with synthetic turf, that can be used by athletic teams to practice in case of inclement weather.

“What a great day it is for fitness,” stated Gates County Schools Superintendent Dr. Barry Williams to kick off the ribbon cutting ceremony who then recognized the county’s board of education members present. Ray Felton, chair of that board, also gave remarks.

“The fitness facility was truly a collaborative effort of many individuals and groups providing the vision, design, construction and funding to make our fitness facility come to fruition.” Dr. Williams stated, “I want to thank so many people, because it takes a team to make things happen and your efforts are appreciated.”

Williams noted that the funding for the fitness facility came from grants earmarked specifically for athletic facilities. The sources of the grants were the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI)-Athletics and grants through private organizations specifically written and approved for health and wellness.

He added that because the decision was made to transform the old gym into the fitness facility, savings were realized due to the fact that a new building was not needed.

“A lot of time and effort was put into writing grants to fund this much needed facility,” Dr. Williams remarked. “We are very appreciative for the funding and know that many will benefit from this project.”

Noted contributors to the project include the Gates County Board of Education, Benjamin Saunders – President of Gates County Community Partnership – the Obici Healthcare Foundation, The Blocker Foundation, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, Jeremy Wright – District Athletic Director / Director of Student Services – GCHS Principal Jonathan Hayes, GCHS Athletic Director Jacob Harrell, GCHS head football coach Matt Biggy, Johnny Greene – Director of Maintenance, and the Maintenance Crew – Bracey Perry, Ken Cowper, Randy Lowe, Jesse Matthews, Rowdy Harrell, Carlton White and Lynne Rountree.

He credited Wright, Harrell and Coach Biggy for assisting in the designing/planning stage of the facility. The Gates County Maintenance Department was given high praise for their work in making all the plans into a reality.

“It’s been about two years in the making,” said Dr. Williams. “At first we talked about doing a metal building. It kept blossoming and blossoming into what you see right here. We converted the old high school gym into an amazing fitness facility that is one of the best high school facilities in the state.”

Williams continued, “Most importantly, this is a true example of a variety of groups working together to achieve something great. We are going to continue to be champions, not only for our students but for our staff and community as well to provide a space for a healthier lifestyle.”

The new space, with its increased square footage over the old weight room, will allow more students to participate in fitness routines.

“This facility will allow us to double maybe even triple the number of students we are able to safely put in our weightlifting classes,” said Hayes. “Several of our staff members have already asked for a tutorial on how to use the equipment. The facility will help our students and staff create a healthy lifestyle.”

“I am extremely grateful for the amount of support on this project that will benefit our students, athletic programs, and Gates County community. We set out to build one of the nicest facilities in North Carolina and I believe we have achieved that,” noted Harrell.

As mentioned earlier, the facility would not have been possible without the assistance of community organizations such as the Gates County Community Partnership. Along with Saunders, other members of the group attending last week’s ribbon cutting were Brian Rountree, Sherley Jones, Jr., Sandra Jordan Branch, and Chante Jordan.

Saunders said he reached out to Dr. Williams to share information about the Obici Healthcare Foundation in an effort to see if that organization would financially support the new fitness center.

Saunders said he toured the old weight room at the high school.

“The equipment looked like what we had 30 years ago when I was here and is not conducive to athletic performance. Our students deserve better. We will never be great if we don’t figure something out,” Saunders said.

Despite the first grant proposal being rejected by the Obici Healthcare Foundation, a second effort was made.

“We had in-depth conversations with Obici and Coach Biggy, Mr. Hayes, working with Mr. Harrell and Mr. Greene, and others in Gates County Schools,” Saunders said. “Dr. Williams worked his magic and in January 2022 dreams became reality. Obici Healthcare Foundation agreed to provide the seed funding for the Gates County Schools Athletic Training Facility This space will be a catalyst for improved health outcomes for our citizens and students. It will also advance the level of performance of our athletes with equipment specifically designed for that purpose.”

Saunders stressed that the Gates County Community Partnership is all about unity and prioritizes courtesy and respect.

“We don’t focus on changing viewpoints; we focus on bonding on a human level,” he said. “A community that works together, in love and with good intentions, can do big things. A community that is objective, gives each other the benefit of the doubt, understands that each of us is inherently good; a community that is civil and strives to understand and befriend those deemed different. Nothing is more honorable. Let’s be eager to find opportunities to serve, without condition or expectation.”