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Cadets sending message to troops
Dena Jenkins

East Duplin JROTC Cadets recently took time to create and send a special message of support for BM2 Bradly O’Brien and his crew aboard the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) as they are currently underway on deployment.

The cadets wanted to show their appreciation and support for the sailors who are serving our country and spending time away from their families and homes. Creating the send-off message was a small way for the cadets to recognize their service, dedication, and sacrifice.

We are proud of all the sailors aboard the USS George H.W. Bush for their commitment to protecting and serving our nation. Our thoughts and support are with the entire crew during their deployment.

May they all return home to us safely.

Student athletes pose with coaches for signing day
Dena Jenkins

East Duplin High School is proud to announce that six outstanding student-athletes have committed to continue their athletic and academic careers at the collegiate level. These students have demonstrated dedication, perseverance, and a strong work ethic throughout their high school careers, and their commitment has paid off with the opportunity to compete at the next level.

Branson Norris and Tavarius Dawson have signed with Guilford College to play football, while Shawn Davis will be at Albany State University to continue his football career. Kenley Welborn will continue his golf career at the University of Mount Olive, and Sawyer Marshburn and Colton Holmes have committed to play baseball at Lenoir Community College.

East Duplin is very proud of these outstanding athletes and their accomplishments. Their hard work in the classroom and in athletics has earned them this opportunity, and we look forward to seeing all they accomplish in the future as they represent East Duplin at the collegiate level.

Student pictured is Cadet of the County
Dena Jenkins

East Duplin High School’s JROTC program showcased discipline, determination, and excellence at the Duplin County Cadet of the County competition held yesterday. Competing against top cadets from Wallace-Rose Hill and James Kenan High Schools, East Duplin participants demonstrated why their program continues to be a strong force in the county.

Throughout the event, cadets remained sharp, focused, and professional as they went head-to-head with their peers in a series of challenging evaluations designed to identify the top cadet in Duplin County. Their hard work and preparation paid off, as East Duplin once again proved tough to beat.

Several cadets earned top honors in their respective categories. First-year Cadet Private Second Class Sean Stroud and third-year Cadet Command Sergeant Major Gavin Wiley each secured impressive second-place finishes. Leading the way, fourth-year Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Shihed Scott claimed first place in his division.

Earning top recognition of the day, second-year Cadet Sergeant First Class Zachary Wilkins captured first place in his category and achieved the highest overall score of the competition. With this accomplishment, Wilkins has been named the Duplin County Schools Cadet of the County.

Congratulations to all of the cadets who represented East Duplin with pride. Their performance reflects the strength, leadership, and commitment fostered within the JROTC program.

Colorful sign of the words for the Beta theme: Wired for Success
Dena Jenkins

This year’s Beta Club State Convention looked a little different, as winter weather across the state led to a virtual competition. Despite the change in format, our students proved they were truly “Wired for Success,” showcasing their talents, knowledge, and dedication in a wide range of events.

We are proud to recognize the following students for their outstanding achievements: Halee Forster, who placed 5th in 9th Grade Spelling; Eli Kennedy, who earned 1st place in 9th Grade U.S. History; and Keyla Hernandez, who took home 1st place in Digitally Enhanced Photography. Additional honors include Mary Jones, who placed 3rd in Jewelry, and Arden Kildow, who earned 4th place in Onsite Cake Decorating.

Our group events also excelled, with Campaign Skit earning 2nd place and Group Talent placing 5th overall.

A special congratulations goes to Zoe Thigpen and Eden Haste, who were recognized as Premier Performers and awarded a Golden Ticket to advance directly to Nationals—an incredible accomplishment.

Even in a virtual setting, our Beta members demonstrated that they are truly “Wired for Success.” We are extremely proud of their hard work, resilience, and commitment throughout the year. Congratulations again to all of our Beta students on these outstanding achievements!

Students that are on the SHED team at competition
Dena Jenkins

Students from East Duplin High School recently showcased their skills and teamwork at SHED (Students Hands-on Experience Day), traveling to Topsail High School to compete in an exciting shed-building competition.

Representing East Duplin’s construction class, students were given just three days to build a shed from the ground up. Throughout the competition, they worked through every phase of the construction process — from planning and measuring to framing and final assembly. The experience provided meaningful, real-world application of the skills they have been developing in class.

Under the leadership of construction teacher Nephi Lawson, students collaborated as a team to problem-solve, manage time efficiently, and ensure quality craftsmanship. The event not only tested their technical abilities but also strengthened their communication and teamwork skills.

The East Duplin team was proudly sponsored by Crowder Construction and Hall’s Building and Truck Accessories. Their support helped make this valuable hands-on learning opportunity possible.

SHED continues to provide students with authentic industry experience, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge in competitive, real-world settings. East Duplin is proud of these students for representing their school and community with hard work and dedication.