Online as freshmen: Cumberland Schools chief celebrates Class of 2024’s remarkable journey

Dr. Marvin Connelly Jr.
Updated ·3 min read

As we approach graduation season in Cumberland County Schools (CCS), it is an honor and a privilege to reflect on the extraordinary journey of the Class of 2024. These students have demonstrated remarkable resilience, adaptability and determination, having begun their high school journey amidst the unprecedented challenges of COVID-19.

Their freshman year, conducted largely online, was a test of their ability to navigate new technologies and learning modalities. However, this experience has only strengthened their resolve and prepared them for future challenges.

More: Meet our 29 Future Black History Makers of Fayetteville for 2024

Marvin Connelly
Marvin Connelly

The theme of this year's graduation season, "We Are CCS: Ready for a Career, College and Life!" perfectly describes our graduating seniors. They have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement. Many of them are graduating with associate degrees or have amassed significant college credits.

Their post-graduation plans are as diverse as their talents, with students heading to Ivy League schools, universities within the UNC system as well as across the state and nation, community colleges, military academies and various branches of the military. Others are directly entering the workforce, equipped with valuable credentials and practical experience gained through the district’s robust career and technical education programs.

More: Pitts: Calls for death. Anti-Muslim. Dissing public schools. Morrow a wild pick for NC schools chief

The achievements of the Class of 2024 are a testament to the support and opportunities provided by CCS. Our dedicated teachers, staff and administrators have played a crucial role in guiding these students toward success. From providing rigorous academic programs and diverse extracurricular activities to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment, CCS has equipped these graduates with the skills and knowledge needed for their future endeavors.

The community’s role in supporting our students cannot be overstated. Parents, guardians and community members have been instrumental in encouraging and nurturing these young minds. Their involvement and commitment have helped shape our students into well-rounded individuals ready to make meaningful contributions to society.

More: Pitts: Cumberland schools roll out AI chatbot for kids’ sliding mental health. It can only help.

As we count down to the graduation ceremonies, scheduled from May 21 through June 5 at the Cumberland County Crown Coliseum, we celebrate not just the completion of high school, but the beginning of a new chapter in the lives of our graduates. Each diploma awarded represents a story of perseverance, growth and achievement. Our students have shown that they are ready for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Students have their temperatures checked as they arrive for the first day of in-person learning at Pine Forest High School on Monday, March 15, 2021.
Students have their temperatures checked as they arrive for the first day of in-person learning at Pine Forest High School on Monday, March 15, 2021.

The Class of 2024 embodies the values and educational excellence of Cumberland County Schools. They are also poised to become leaders and innovators in their communities and beyond. Congratulations to the Class of 2024. You have made us proud, and we are confident that you are ready to make your mark on the world.

For more information about our 2024 graduations, including detailed profiles of Standout Seniors, the graduation schedule and more, visit our dedicated graduation website at www.graduation.ccs.k12.nc.us.

Dr. Marvin Connelly Jr. is Superintendent  of Cumberland County Schools.

This article originally appeared on The Fayetteville Observer: Cumberland schools’ resilient Class of ’24 ready for career, college, life