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An open letter of thanks to our committed community
- Details
- Wednesday, 14 May 2025
- Written by Dr. Lindsay Whitely
Dear Volunteers and Community Partners,
As we approach the end of the school year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the incredible support that surrounds our students and schools each day. Cumberland County Schools is deeply grateful for the unwavering dedication of our nearly 1,500 Community Partners and more than 9,000 volunteers who have helped us move our mission forward throughout the 2024-2025 school year.
Whether you’ve dedicated a few hours or made a consistent weekly commitment, the time, talents and resources you’ve shared have had a profound impact. From reading with students and leading classroom activities to organizing supply drives, offering professional expertise and showing up at events to cheer our students on – you’ve shown us what it truly means to be a ‘true partner in education.’This year alone, you’ve provided countless hours of service, and your contributions go far beyond time. You’ve given generously through financial gifts, in-kind donations and personal investments. Thanks to you, our schools have the resources needed to create safe, enriching and nurturing environments for all students. You’ve supported teacher appreciation efforts, hosted family engagement nights, served on advisory councils and spoken at career days. You’ve helped build connections that show our students just how many people believe in their potential.
One area where your impact has been especially visible is in Career and Technical Education. Through job shadowing, internships, mentorships and classroom presentations, you’ve opened doors to real-world learning experiences that inspire students to pursue their goals with purpose. You’ve helped students explore career paths, gain industry certifications and understand the skills needed to thrive in the workforce. Your partnership has truly bridged the gap between education and opportunity.
Your presence matters. Students feel encouraged when they see familiar faces return week after week. Staff feel supported when volunteers show up to lend a hand or brighten the school day. Families feel connected when community partners offer resources and support. The work you do, both behind the scenes and in front of the classroom, does not go unnoticed.
This collective impact reminds us all that it truly takes a village to educate and support every child. The efforts of our volunteers and partners strengthen our schools, empower our educators and help create a brighter future for students across Cumberland County.
As we move into the summer months, we encourage you to take pride in the role you’ve played this year. Because of you, students have learned new skills, gained confidence and built relationships that will carry them forward. You’ve helped lay the foundation for their success – not just academically, but personally and professionally.
And the story doesn’t end here.
Next month, we’ll focus on ways we can continue Keeping Learning Alive throughout the summer. Opportunities for involvement and enrichment don’t stop in June, and with your continued support, we can ensure students stay engaged, curious and ready to start the next school year strong.
For now, we want to extend our sincere thanks to each and every community partner and volunteer who has contributed to our CCS family this year. Your belief in our students and staff fuels the work we do – and we are better together because of you.
Not yet part of the CCS village? We invite you to get involved, make an impact and help shape brighter futures – one student at a time. Visit ceo.ccs.k12.nc.us to discover how
