State superintendent visits Duplin

WALLACE — Duplin County Schools welcomed North Carolina State Superintendent Maurice “Mo” Green to Wallace Elementary last week for a student-led tour demonstrating the district’s STEAMA model with dynamic, hands-on learning experiences. Green is currently visiting all eight regions of the state as part of his “Mo Wants to Know” tour to gather insight for the NC Department of Public Instruction (DPI)’s strategic plan by holding listening and learning sessions at schools throughout the state.

Students ambassadors and staff, alongside Board of Education Chairman Brent Davis and Vice-Chairman Reginald Kenan, welcomed Green to Wallace Elementary Monday morning, where his tour began with a second-grade classroom Open Court phonics lesson on vowel blends, followed by a collaborative pollination experiment that demonstrated how bees transfer pollen. Green fielded questions from students on topics such as school safety and emphasized the importance of hiring great teachers and leaders, providing schools with safety resources and teaching students to be proactive in school safety.

Following a Living Literature presentation by BETA students that brought stories to life through creativity and dedication, Superintendent Green spoke to members of the Drama Club about the power of the cultural arts and expressed how theatre and music performances can help students express themselves and build confidence.

The tour next took the state superintendent to the school’s outdoor learning area, where students were engaged in an integrated literacy and math lesson. AG Club students proudly showcased their work in planting, fertilizing, and caring for thriving flocks of chickens and provided an enthusiastic explanation of the intricate process of candling eggs. The superintendent also learned how students take ownership of their program by selling farm-fresh eggs, ensuring sustainability and real-world financial literacy in their agricultural endeavors.

Back in the STEAMA classroom, Green observed a proud student’s coding project replicate the classic puzzle game Tetris and a Robotics Club presentation in which students shared their latest innovations. Wallace Elementary’s energetic Bullpup Bouncers rounded out the superintendent’s visit with a performance that highlighted the importance of physical wellness through movement.

Journalism students took on the role of reporters, seizing on a real-world career exploration opportunity to skillfully document the day’s events. Utilizing photography, interviews and storytelling, students captured the excitement of the superintendent’s visit and gained invaluable experience in media and communications.

Duplin County Schools Superintendent Dr. Austin Obasahon shared his appreciation as he reflected on Green’s visit. “I am incredibly proud of our students and staff for their dedication to innovation and excellence. The engaging learning experiences showcased today are a reflection of the work happening across our district every day,” stated Obasahon, adding that through STEAMA, students are gaining the critical thinking, creativity, and hands-on skills they need to compete on a global scale. “On behalf of our Board of Education and entire school family, we thank Superintendent Green, Dr. Metcalf and their staff for taking time out of their busy schedules to visit Duplin County Schools.  Special thanks to Superintendent Green for giving Chairman Davis and Vice-Chairman Kenan the opportunity to share with him some concerns impacting students, educators, and the educational system,” he continued. “We are grateful for the support of NCDPI and look forward to our continued partnership ensuring student success.”