Duplin County Schools is pioneering a comprehensive approach to leadership development for school principals as well as a college readiness focus at every grade level. Known as “The Duplin Promise,” the district is making a systematic effort to prepare every student for college and careers based on the early successes witnessed at Duplin Early College High School.

“Duplin’s goal is to ensure that each student gets what they need to pursue their dreams,” Chief Officer for Districtwide Early College and Professional Development Kevin Smith said. “When we say every student, we really mean every student. Regardless of background, history, performance, it’s our goal to serve every student based on what they need.”

One way the district maintains this consistent, districtwide mission is by implementing NC New Schools’ Design Principles and aligned instructional systems along with a culture of college awareness in all schools at all grade levels, pre-kindergarten through grade 12. Another critical part of this effort has been the district’s emphasis on leadership development for all Duplin principals.

“We want to increase expectations and increase outcomes,” Smith said. “And the focus on leadership is key to making that change.”

For the past three years, high school principals in Duplin County have received leadership development training from the North Carolina Center for Educational Leadership, an initiative of NC New Schools. This year, elementary and middle school principals will join the group so that all principals in the county have the opportunity to enhance their leadership skills and achieve personal and professional goals through individual leadership assessments and coaching.