Lenoir County Public Schools hosted its annual legislative breakfast Monday morning, bringing together educators, lawmakers and community leaders to discuss district progress and future needs.

Superintendent Brent Williams outlined continued gains across the district and has seen sustained academic improvement across schools in recent years. He noted that the system has posted steady gains in student achievement and growth the past several years.

Williams pointed to districtwide recognition in STEM education, including three schools earning STEM School of Distinction honors, as well as accolades for digital learning and accreditation performance in the top tier nationally. He also reported record-high graduation rates, record-low dropout and exclusionary discipline rates, and increasing scholarship totals for graduates. 

He further emphasized expanded partnerships with higher education and industry, including new career pathways with Lenoir Community College and emerging collaborations aimed at workforce development.

Board of Education Chair W.D. Anderson highlighted key priorities, including recruiting and retaining staff, maintaining safe and modern facilities and ensuring students have access to rigorous instruction.

“Our schools are the foundation of our future,” Anderson said.

Board member John Wiggins emphasized the role of educators and community support in the district’s success.

“When you have the highest quality staff who are continuously evaluating how to better educate our children, and people in place who are willing to help, you can get so much done,” Wiggins said.

Lawmakers also addressed ongoing challenges at the state level.

Rep. Chris Humphrey spoke about delays in passing a comprehensive state budget, noting the impact on educators and staff.

“You deserve honesty,” Humphrey said. “My mother taught me that public service is about showing up, not just when it's easy, but especially when it's hard. This school system reinforced that lesson every single day as I'm a product of Lenoir County Public Schools, and I'm grateful to be back here.”

Sen. Bob Brinson said budget negotiations remain ongoing and emphasized the importance of increasing pay for teachers and state employees.

Both legislators praised the district’s progress, noting that its academic outcomes and programs are gaining attention across the state.

Speakers throughout the event emphasized the importance of collaboration among schools, local government and community partners in supporting student success.

The breakfast also included a federal update, highlighting continued support for K-12 education programs, particularly in rural communities, and the need to sustain progress as pandemic-era funding ends.

The event underscored a shared message: Continued partnership will be critical to maintaining momentum and expanding opportunities for students across Lenoir County Public Schools.

Speakers throughout the event emphasized the importance of collaboration among schools,

local government and community partners in supporting student success.

The breakfast also included a federal update, highlighting continued support for K-12 education

programs, particularly in rural communities, and the need to sustain progress as pandemic-era

funding ends.

The event underscored a shared message: Continued partnership will be critical to maintaining

momentum and expanding opportunities for students across Lenoir County Public Schools.