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Duplin County high school students recently demonstrated their artistic talents through the first annual Duplin County Rising Stars High School Art Show, held in Wallace, NC. The event showcased artwork from 24 students representing four high schools across the county, all inspired by the Cameron Art Museum’s prompt, "A Place Close to Home; Where I Live."

Students from East Duplin High School stood out, with Savannah Kennedy, Sophia Moore, and Georgia Sumner earning spots in the prestigious Cameron Art Museum Student Art Exhibition, set for February 2025.

The selection process began with East Duplin’s visual art students, whose pieces were reviewed in a school-wide vote to select the top six entries. These pieces were then displayed at the countywide art show, where judges from various parts of Duplin County jury-selected the top ten works overall.

The art show highlighted the creativity and cultural pride of young artists across the region, providing them with an opportunity to share their perspectives on what makes home meaningful. Congratulations to all the talented participants and especially to the East Duplin students for their outstanding achievements!

East Duplin High School’s 11th-grade students recently participated in the Reality of Money program, a financial literacy initiative from the North Carolina State Employees’ Credit Union (NCSECU). Delivered in partnership with SECU staff, Duplin County Schools Board of Education employees, teachers, local community members, and parents, the program offered students a hands-on lesson in managing personal finances.

Developed by NCSECU professionals, the Reality of Money program is designed to help students understand key financial concepts, including budgeting, saving, maintaining good credit, and exploring opportunities available through post-secondary education and training.

Students were given life-like “profiles” detailing their job, income, and education level, reflecting average salaries in North Carolina. They then navigated stations simulating real-life expenses, such as health needs, transportation, and childcare. These scenarios illustrated the challenges of balancing expenses and demonstrated how saving and planning can lead to financial stability.

By engaging students in realistic financial situations, the program aims to prepare them for the financial responsibilities they will encounter as adults, equipping them with essential skills for a successful future.

This past Saturday, the Marching Panthers showcased their talent and dedication at the Monarch Invitational, held at Northside High School in Jacksonville. Competing against some of the best high school bands in the region, the Panthers delivered a standout performance, bringing home multiple awards.

The band earned recognition in several key categories, including:

• 3rd Place in Visual Performance
• 3rd Place in General Effect
• 2nd Place in Music Performance
• 2nd Place for Drum Major
• 1st Place in Color Guard

These accomplishments reflect the hard work and determination of every member of the band. Congratulations to the Marching Panthers on a fantastic showing and for making their school proud!

East Duplin High School is rallying its students and community to collect supplies for Western North Carolina after the area was heavily impacted by Hurricane Helene. In a heartfelt gesture, East Duplin is giving back to Freedom High School as a way to show gratitude. In 2018, North Davidson High School supported East Duplin with much-needed resources in the wake of Hurricane Florence, and now EDHS is eager to return the favor.

Schools throughout the state pledged their support to East Duplin and other Duplin County schools following Hurricane Florence, and now EDHS is paying it forward to Freedom High School, which is sorting through the devastation from Hurricane Helene.

For those who wish to contribute online, donations can be made through their Amazon Wishlist.

East Duplin is encouraging students, parents, and other community members to help “Stuff the Principal’s” office with supplies over the next few days. Drop-offs can be made daily in the front office. Together, the community can make a significant difference for those impacted by Hurricane Helene.

East Duplin High School has honored long-time principal Kenneth Kennedy by naming its track after him, recognizing his years of dedication to the school’s athletics and student success. The track, now officially called the Kenneth D. Kennedy Track, stands as a symbol of his lasting impact.

During his tenure, Kennedy worked closely with the late athletic director, Jerry Hunter, coaching staff, Booster Club, and the wider community to improve the school’s athletic facilities. The track was a key part of this collective effort, providing a much-needed addition to East Duplin's athletic fields. Kennedy’s leadership and collaboration have left a lasting legacy, ensuring future generations of students have the resources they need to thrive both academically and athletically.

The ceremony celebrating the track’s dedication was a heartfelt moment for the community, honoring Kennedy’s long-standing contributions to East Duplin High School.