Local school districts prepare for new school year

SOUTHEASTERN NC (WWAY) — Students across the Cape fear region are preparing to return to the classroom Monday, and school leaders in New Hanover and Pender counties are focusing on attendance, academic achievement and student support.

New Hanover County Schools Superintendent Christopher Barnes said his priorities this year include improving student attendance and graduation rates, as well as student performance in Math 1 and third-grade reading.

“I’ll tell you my focus this year is going to be specifically about helping improve student attendance, continue to work on improving our graduation rate, Math 1, third grade reading, and making sure that our schools are safe and supportive learning environments for kids,” Barnes said.

In Pender County, Superintendent Brad Breedlove said attendance also is a top priority. He encouraged families to communicate early with teachers and school administrators if students encounter problems.

“If things aren’t going well, you know, communicate early and often with the teachers, starting with the teacher and then, of course, the school administration where there may be issues there,” Breedlove said.

With students returning to school Monday, both superintendents are asking families to give themselves extra time during the morning commute.

Barnes said drivers should expect increased traffic as about 100 school buses take to area roads.

“Remember that this city is difficult to drive in. So, give yourself extra time on Monday,” Barnes said.

He said traffic will move more slowly as bus drivers and other motorists prioritize student safety.

“Things will be moving kind of slow, for sure, because safety is paramount to everything else,” Barnes said. “So everything’s going to slow down a little bit.”

As families prepare for the first day of school, pediatrician Dr. Andres Afanador of Novant Health also recommends paying attention to children’s bedtime routines.

Afanador said parents should consider limiting screen use before bedtime to help children wind down and get better sleep.

“One good rule of thumb is to avoid screens for like 30 minutes to an hour before bedtime,” Afanador said.

He said using that time to get ready for bed, brush teeth and wind down without a phone, tablet or television can be beneficial.