We are so proud of our 3rd grade teacher, Ms. Natalie Tidler. She presented at the 15th annual Teacher 2 Teacher Conference at the University of North Carolina Charlotte. Her presentation was titled “ Creating a Family, Not Just a Classroom.” During this presentation, she spoke about the importance of culturally responsive teaching and building relationships that foster safety, belonging, and as a result, success in the classroom. Rocky Point Elementary is appreciative that she is focusing on developing positive connections in her classroom and our school.
Students are also invited to wear orange this week to show that they are committed to being a good friend to all and to stand up for those students who are in need of support. Together, we can prevent bullying! #OnePender
We’re so proud of Marlene Barrett and Kelly Gray for being recognized by the Board of Education for their outstanding commitment and excellence in teaching exceptional children! Ms. Barrett is in her 6th year teaching at Rocky Point Elementary and has be in education for 13 years. Ms. Gray has been teaching at Rocky Point Elementary for 15 years and in education for over 20 years,
Both educators were nominated by their peers for the incredible impact they make each day—showing dedication, compassion, and a true heart for their students. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor
Buenas tardes, familias de las Escuelas del Condado de Pender. A medida que el sistema de tormentas continúa debilitándose, queremos informarles que todas las escuelas comenzarán en su horario normal el lunes. ¡Esperamos tener una excelente semana!
Cape Fear Community College’s Student Veterans Organization invited the community to attend a free, family-friendly Trunk-or-Treat event on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at CFCC Downtown Campus.
This “spooktacular” event will feature decorated trunks, candy, costumes, and Halloween-themed activities for the whole family. Families are encouraged to come dressed in their favorite costumes and enjoy a safe, festive evening filled with treats, tricks, and thrills.
“Trunk-or-Treat is a wonderful way for us to bring people together,” said Jason Bocchino, CFCC Veteran Services Director. “It gives our student veterans an opportunity to connect with the community, share some Halloween fun, and show our appreciation for the support we receive year-round.”
The celebration will take place in Student Parking Lot #2 on CFCC’s Downtown Campus. A map of the downtown Wilmington campus can be found by the qr code and at https://cfcc.edu/about/maps-locations/wilmington-campus/
If you have photos of a special veteran that you would like included in our pre-ceremony slideshow, please email them to laura_black@pender.k12.nc.us or send a copy in with your student. All photos will be returned. #OnePender
All month long, we’ll be celebrating the incredible principals of Pender County Schools by sharing short video spotlights. 🎥
From what inspired them to lead, to their favorite memories from school, to the advice they’d give their younger selves — you’ll get a chance to see the heart, humor, and humanity behind the title “Principal.” 💙💛
Stay tuned throughout October as we feature principals from across our district. We can’t wait for you to hear their stories and get to know them even better! YouTube link - https://youtube.com/shorts/W7Y3twySX90
#OnePender
Pender County Schools is raising awareness this month, and this week, we are focused on raising Mental Health Awareness. Wear green this week to show your support!
You can learn more about mental health at these links:
- What is Mental Health? video
- Resilience Guide for Parents & Teachers
- Why We Need to Practice Self-Compassion
Did you know that there are resources available 24/7?
For the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, call, text, or chat 988
Online: 988lifeline.org
For the Crisis Text Line, text "HELLO" to 741-741.
#OnePender
The annual Yearbook Cover Art Contest is underway! Information is going home with students this week, and entries are due to Mrs. Laura Black by Friday, October 24th. The winning artwork will be featured on the front cover of our 2025-26 yearbook and the winner will receive a FREE yearbook!
If you have any questions, please reach out to your student's teacher or Mrs. Black.
This week we’re proud to recognize Ms. Adriana Perez, Family Liaison & Student Support at Rocky Point Elementary School. Adriana has been a dedicated part of the Rocky Point community for years, first as a supportive parent and stakeholder, and now in her vital role as Family Liaison. With so many Spanish-speaking families at RPES, Adriana serves as a translator for parents and students, ensuring that language is never a barrier to engagement. From Curriculum Night to Winter Concerts to Hispanic Heritage Night, she plays a key role in connecting families to their school community.
One of her biggest contributions has been helping coordinate the annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration, held each October. She works closely with families and community partners to highlight culture and tradition, including helping organize Rocky Point’s “Bailadores del Sol” dance group, where students learn and perform Hispanic dances for the school community.
Adriana’s influence extends well beyond events. She is known for her warmth, kindness, and willingness to help with anything—from translating in classrooms, to supporting students in the hallway, to calling parents and encouraging engagement. Her positive energy shines daily, making Rocky Point Elementary a stronger, more connected school community.
💛💙 Thank you, Adriana, for your dedication, your heart for families, and the countless ways you uplift Rocky Point Elementary!
