Arendell Parrott Academy and Bethel Christian Academy began the school year on Monday as both teachers and students were excited to be back in the classroom.
For those entering kindergarten at APA, it was the first day of their school career; for others such as 17-year-old senior Michelle Ballard, Monday marked the beginning of the end.
Ballard said she happy to be back in school.
“I’m excited because it’s a new step once you are finished,” Ballard said.
Coffee and refreshments were provided to parents as Amy Hill, president of the mothers’ committee, made a presentation outlining different ways parents can volunteer at APA. Parents can fill out a volunteer form on the academy’s website and then be put in contact with an appropriate committee.
“The more parental support we get the better,” Hill said. “We are ready for another great school year.”
According to Terah Archie, APA’s director of public information, enrollment currently stands at 730 students but that number could rise as APA is still accepting applications for kindergarteners through second grade.
New at APA this year is the Extended Day Program for students in transitional kindergarten up through the sixth grade. The program will go from 2:45-5:30 p.m. on school days and allow students a place to do homework. It is ideal for students who have parents working full-time, said Archie.
For Marie Swann, who teaches AP and Honors Chemistry, it was her first day at APA after having spent 32 years teaching in the N.C. public school system. Swann is from Beaufort County and is currently staying in the guest house of one of the parents of APA.
She said everyone has made her feel welcome and she is adjusting well to her new classroom.
“I’m looking forward to a good year,” Swann said.
Bethel Christian Academy began its 43rd school year with 333 students enrolled. According to Principal Doug Phillips, it was the smoothest first day in the three years he has been at Bethel.
Students come to Bethel from several different counties around the area and Phillips believes it makes the first day that much more exciting.
“What’s unique is that these kids are from everywhere,” Phillips said. “When we come back, it’s a little more to be excited for.”
Phillips emphasized including technology in the classroom as one of the primary focuses at Bethel this year. The school is in the second year of giving students and parents the options of having their textbooks downloaded to a tablet device instead of using a hard copy. Another program is Info Direct, which will help parents keep track of records.
“Parents and students can access homework and grades 24 hours a day through the Internet,” Phillips said.
Bethel is still accepting applications for enrollment and will continue to do so throughout the school year.
All the public schools in the area begin classes next Monday.
Noah Clark can be reached at 252-559-1073 or Noah.Clark@Kinston.com. Follow him on Twitter @nclark763.