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KENANSVILLE — The Duplin County Board of Education opened its December meeting with a prayer led by Kloe DeHoyos, a Fellowship of Christian Athletes leader from North Duplin Junior/Senior High School, who prayed for the future of Duplin County Schools and FCA.
With no public comment, the board approved the meeting agenda and reappointed Brent Davis as board chairman and Reginald Kenan as vice chair.
Erica Jones, director of grades 9–13 curriculum and Career and Technical Education, presented an update on Advanced Placement programs across the district. Jones said Duplin County offers 40 AP courses and continues to expand access. She shared participation data by school and student group, prompting board discussion about equitable access and limited in-person AP offerings at some schools.
Jones said students at schools without on-site AP instructors, including James Kenan High School, can enroll in online AP courses. She also noted that AP enrollment may be affected by competition from college courses offered through James Sprunt Community College. Unlike AP credits, which vary by university based on exam scores, college courses may provide more consistent transfer options, though final decisions remain with four-year institutions. Only the state’s articulation agreement for completed two-year degrees guarantees broader credit transfer. Jones said she will provide additional data requested by the board.
The board approved a comprehensive consent agenda, including $357,957.89 in liability insurance with Surry Insurance, a new press box for North Duplin Junior/Senior High School, and a $30,000 donation from House of Raeford FLOCK to support de-escalation and sensory reset rooms at Beulaville and Chinquapin elementary schools. Two artist residencies funded through the N.C. Arts Council Grassroots Grant were also approved.
Additional approvals included school fundraisers and field trips, North Carolina Education Lottery funds for awnings and lighting at Kenansville and Chinquapin elementary schools, and an online surplus sale through Floyd’s Auction from Dec. 16 to Jan. 5, 2026.
The board later met in closed session to discuss personnel and approved related recommendations upon returning to open session. Members also congratulated Wallace-Rose Hill High School on its state championship in men’s soccer and recognized James Kenan High School’s run to the Eastern Regional Finals in football. The meeting adjourned with holiday well wishes.
