14 Knowledge is power, and the United Negro College Fund said it best: “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”
Education is learning what you didn’t know that you didn’t know, and becoming a lifelong learner striving to become the best version of oneself is imperative.
Cumberland County Schools currently have 470 students who dropped out of school, and that is why they are presenting their Back-to-School Launch Party Thursday, July 21 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Alger B. Wilkins High School.

“The purpose of our Back-to-School Launch Party is to reengage students who have gotten out of school for various reasons such as lack of engagement, being unmotivated, having to work during COVID-19, experiencing a sickness, missed a lot of days of school and more,” explained Candice Revels, a school social worker for the Office of Indian Education with Cumberland County Schools.

“And this was a part of that lack of engagement, and they just felt like they were overwhelmed, so we really want to reengage them and give them the best option for their circumstances now.”
The event will discuss the options for students returning to school, if a student qualifies to attend the online academy and what kinds of community resources the student may need.

“There will be tables set up so that students can rotate and receive the information that they need,” said Revels. “For example, Miller-Motte College will be there to assist with information on how to obtain your truck driver certification.”

The party will feature a Speak On It Teen Health Awareness Fair. “They will talk about some of those health aspects to include mental health awareness, safe sex practices, navigating life after COVID-19, self-care, financial literacy, resources and next steps,” Revels said. “They will also discuss what life after high school will look like for the individual.”

There will be many future options presented to potential returning students. “The discussion will center around if the student wants to go into the workforce, join the military or
attend a two-year or four-year college, Revels said.

The event is free and open to the public. Organizers will have door prizes and swag bags will be given to each student who attends the event and reenrolls in school.
Alger B. Wilkins High School is located at 1429 Skibo Road.