PINEHURST — PSRC staff presented Tuesday at the North Carolina Principals and Assistant Principals Association (NCPAPA) Fall Instructional Symposium.
The presentation, titled One School District’s Story: Creating Pathways, Moving Forward, Finding Success, highlighted how PSRC is improving student achievement and expanding learning opportunities for all students.
“Presenting this work to administrators across the state allows us to share not just our progress, but the belief that every school can grow with the right systems, support, and teamwork. We are proud to contribute to the statewide conversation on strengthening outcomes for all students,” said Dr. Darlene Cummings, a PSRC Edmentum Coach/Facilitator.
Presenters included Dr. Darlene Cummings, a PSRC Edmentum Coach/Facilitator; Dr. Jill Hathaway, a PSRC Edmentum Coach/Facilitator; and Dr. Anthony Barton, Principal of Fairmont High School.
During the presentation, the team shared how PSRC is using digital learning tools to help students stay on track—especially in areas like credit recovery, test preparation, and virtual learning. The team also shared information about how the district’s leadership is driving positive change.
Fairmont High School’s Growth Story
Dr. Barton highlighted Fairmont High School’s recent progress, including higher graduation rates, better scores on ACT, WorkKeys and End-of-Course exams and improved school performance.
The school’s growth measures improved over a three-year span, with its growth classification rising from “Not Met” to “Met” and ultimately to “Exceeded.” He also highlighted the school’s performance grade improvement, noting that the school’s letter grade increased from a D to a C.
Dr. Barton also shared how strong instructional leadership, clear expectations and targeted academic support helped drive these improvements.
“This was my first time presenting at the conference and I was so grateful to share instructional practices from our district with other administrators across the state,” Dr. Barton said.
“The improvement happening in our district is because of instructional leadership under the direction of Superintendent Dr. Freddie Williamson,” he added.
A Model Focused on Access and Opportunity
PSRC’s presentation also demonstrated how the district is creating multiple ways for students to earn credits, get extra help and prepare for college or careers. Tools like Apex Learning, Edmentum Courseware, and online learning programs are helping students who need flexibility or additional support.
“We are proud to represent the district at this statewide event and to share strategies that are helping students grow, achieve and succeed,” said Dr. Jill Hathaway, a PSRC Edmentum Coach/Facilitator.
PSRC Superintendent Dr. Freddie Williamson commended the team on their work and presentation.
“These educators demonstrate exemplary professionalism and a steadfast commitment to continuous improvement. Their efforts reflect a disciplined approach to instructional leadership and a deep dedication to advancing student achievement. I am proud of their accomplishments and their willingness to share this important work with colleagues across the state,” Dr. Williamson said. “We’re growing, we’re improving, and we’re putting strong systems in place to help every school succeed.”