
Excitement filled the air as Cumberland County Schools proudly announced Kimberly Wilson, a dedicated teacher assistant at Morganton Road Elementary School (MRES), as its 2026 Teacher Assistant of the Year (TAOY) during the district’s annual celebration reception at the Cape Fear Botanical Gardens.
With a decade of service as both a teacher assistant and bus driver, Wilson has distinguished herself through her commitment to students and staff. In the nomination packet, MRES Principal Tiana Thompson highlighted Wilson’s flexibility, dedication and unwavering support as qualities that make her an exceptional Instructional Assistant.
“With students, she [Wilson] is encouraging, patient and consistent, helping them stay focused and confident in their learning,” said Thompson in the nomination. “Ms. Wilson's reliability and supportive nature create a sense of stability, making both students and staff feel valued, supported and motivated to succeed.”
On Monday, June 1, 2026, Tribe members from District 2 and District 15, the districts surrounding the area currently planned for the casino, met for a community meeting.Amidst the glitz and glamour of the idea of a new casino coming to the Lumbee Tri
This is the fourth year that ETI has hosted the event, and in years past Freeman has seen a host of innovative technology, including various drone types and programming, robotic dogs, 3D printed houses, and airspace scanners. Photo provided by USSOCO
Crystal McLean (left) with Scott Embry (right). Money Box Academy received a $10,000 grant from United Way of Cumberland County’s Youth Growth Stock Trust. Photos provided by Crystal McLean.The Youth Growth Stock Trust Committee, administered by the