Greensboro, NC – The Innovation and Excellence in Public Education Award was awarded to a career and technical education program in Martin County Schools that has delivered outstanding real-world results for students. During the NC School Boards Association Annual Conference Awards Ceremony on November 12, Martin County Schools were honored for the exemplary work of their school board, which found creative solutions to district challenges.
Like many school districts, Martin County Schools faced challenges including workforce shortages in key industries, declining enrollment, and a high-poverty high school identified as low-performing. Because of these factors, many students struggled to envision a successful future.
To address these issues, the district launched an innovative Career and Technical Education Pathway Program including an Early College program in partnership with a local community college, offering students multiple degree options and 37 industry-recognized credentials. The programs have driven dramatic results: graduation rates increased from 68% to 80%, dual enrollment grew 308%, and a district high school moved out of low-performing status for the first time.
Runners-up for this year’s award include Pitt County Schools for unique approaches to Summer Feeding as well as Battle of the Books programs and Wilson County Schools for prioritizing summer school program access for year-round educational opportunities.
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About the North Carolina School Boards Association: NCSBA is the professional organization that represents local boards of education in North Carolina. Founded in 1937, it is a member-driven association that supports the school governance team—school board members, superintendents, senior administrative staff and board assistants—in its complex leadership role.
