CARY — The Migrant Education Program of the Public Schools of Robeson County was honored with the 2024 Migrant Education Outstanding Program Award by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction at the North Carolina Migrant Education Program Summit in Cary on Tuesday.
Recognized as the top Migrant Education Program in the state, the school district received the award for its exceptional performance in data accuracy, program implementation, and innovative services tailored to the needs of migratory children. Alex Charles, Consolidated Section Chief of Federal Programs West at NCDPI, praised the district for its dedication to Priority for Service, Pre-K, and out-of-school youth students.
The award was presented to the PSRC Migrant Education Team, led by Superintendent Dr. Williamson and Assistant Superintendent Jennifer Freeman. The team includes Philip Oxendine, PSRC Federal Programs Director; María Hilario Patricio, Migrant Recruiter; Sandra Lopez Greenfield, Migrant COE Reviewer; and Glenys Vasquez, ML/Migrant Program Assistant.
This accolade follows the district’s receipt of the Continuous Program Improvement Award in 2023 and recognition of Freeman for her exceptional leadership in enhancing the Migrant Education Program.
Charles highlighted the district’s consecutive award wins, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to excellence and positive outcomes for migratory children and families. Freeman expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the team’s dedication to student success as their top priority.
Maria Hilario Patricio, the PSRC Migrant Recruiter, attributed the award to the team’s recruitment efforts and services that support migratory students, aiming to eliminate barriers resulting from frequent relocations.
Dr. Williamson, PSRC Superintendent, lauded Freeman and her team for their relentless efforts in ensuring academic success for all students, underscoring their commitment to excellence and leadership.
Charles commended the district for its proactive measures, outstanding summer programs, and consistent high-quality performance in data accuracy and program execution. He noted the district’s significant increase in MEP population within a short period, reflecting the staff and leadership’s meticulous attention to detail and professionalism in resource allocation.
Dr. Freddie Williamson, PSRC Superintendent, expressed pride in the Migrant Education Program Team’s well-deserved recognition, acknowledging their daily dedication to student success and exemplary leadership.
Jessica Sealey serves as the PSRC chief communications officer. She can be reached via email at.