Craven County Schools Hosts Middle School Collaborative Learning Day

Craven County Schools proudly hosted its Middle School Collaborative Learning Day on Monday, February 16th at Grover C. Fields Middle School, bringing together middle school educators from across the district for a full day dedicated to professional growth, collaboration, and instructional excellence.

The event, held from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., focused on strengthening instruction in all core subject areas while emphasizing vertical alignment and strategic practices that support both teacher effectiveness and student success. By creating intentional time for collaboration, the district continues to invest in equipping educators with meaningful tools and shared strategies that positively impact classrooms districtwide.

Superintendent Dr. Matthew Cheeseman opened the day with encouraging remarks, recognizing the dedication of middle school educators and reinforcing the importance of being difference makers. He emphasized that when educators grow professionally, students benefit academically and personally.

Participants also heard an uplifting and motivational message from special guest Mr. Si Seymour, former ECU Voice of the Pirates Basketball. His remarks centered on leadership, perseverance, and the power of influence, inspiring educators to continue making a lasting difference in the lives of their students.

Each Middle School also selected a student representative to share their middle school experience and how they have evolved as a student mostly because of the people that believed in them at their school.

Throughout the day, teachers engaged in collaborative sessions, content-specific discussions, and strategic planning designed to strengthen instructional alignment across grade levels. The focus on vertical alignment ensures that students experience a seamless progression of skills and expectations as they move through middle school and beyond.

The Middle School Collaborative Learning Day reflects Craven County Schools ongoing commitment to academic excellence and continuous improvement. By prioritizing professional learning and collaboration, the district empowers educators with innovative strategies that support student achievement both inside and outside the classroom.

When teachers learn together, students succeed together and this day was a powerful example of that shared commitment. Many colors, ONE VISION!