Today, Family Ambassadors along with school administrators, district leaders and families gathered for a special end-of-year celebration honoring their invaluable contributions to Cumberland County Schools (CCS). This group is made up of individuals who are sharing information and fostering relationships to support districtwide family engagement.
This year’s event brought a fun and refreshing twist, taking place at Rockfish Camp and Retreat Center. Attendees enjoyed a variety of activities including relay races, fishing, games and more.
A highlight of the event was the recognition of Family Ambassadors with certificates, acknowledging their ongoing commitment to family engagement. CCS Superintendent Dr. Marvin Connelly, Jr., delivered remarks, commending the group’s efforts. "There are some who dream of making a difference, and then there are Family Ambassadors who become the difference," said Dr. Connelly. "I sincerely thank you for every call you have made, every time you have 'shown up' and every step you have taken to support our students and families."
Launched nearly three years ago by the CCS Communications and Community Engagement Department, the Family Ambassadors initiative has grown into a powerful force for connection. This year, Family Ambassadors organized fundraisers to support student scholarships and facilitated mental health workshops in collaboration with district leaders. They also contributed to revising the student Code of Conduct, informed parents about the updated attendance policy and engaged families in conversations about the new Opengate Weapons Detection System implemented in schools. In addition, they supported families in Western N.C. affected by Hurricane Helene and worked with CCS schools to gather much-needed items.
"Much of the important work we do would not be possible without our Family Ambassadors, and today we wanted to celebrate their incredible impact," said Dr. Lindsay A. Whitley, associate superintendent of Communications and Community Engagement. "Each month, our Family Ambassadors take the information and resources we share and turn them into action — building connections, engaging families and supporting school improvement across our district. Strong family engagement is essential to student success, and we are grateful for their creativity, commitment and heart."
Below are photos captured during
today's Family Ambassadors End-of-Year Celebration
About CCS' Family Ambassador Program
The Family Ambassador Program has created volunteer positions for one parent or family member at each CCS school to serve as a Family Ambassador. The Ambassadors meet monthly with CCS officials to learn more about what is happening in CCS and work closely with the school leadership to plan and promote family engagement activities and outreach opportunities that will benefit families throughout the district and receive resources to support their family engagement outreach efforts. Family Ambassadors can receive up to $150.00 monthly for completing certain family engagement tasks.