Tulls Creek Elementary School Delayed to Fall 2026

News Summary

The anticipated Tulls Creek Elementary School in Moyock, Currituck County, has been delayed to fall 2026 due to construction challenges and health concerns. The postponement aims to ensure a smooth transition for students and families. Meanwhile, Moyock Elementary undergoes renovations and faces health concerns with a recent contagious outbreak affecting student attendance. The community remains hopeful for future educational advancements.

Major Setback for Tulls Creek Elementary School Opening in Currituck County

The eagerly anticipated Tulls Creek Elementary School in Moyock, Currituck County, North Carolina, will now be opening its doors in fall 2026, as the Currituck County Board of Education has unanimously decided to postpone the school’s opening until the 2026-2027 academic year. This delay comes as a disappointment to many, especially considering the significant investments and community discussions surrounding the new educational facility.

Reasons Behind the Delay

Construction challenges have plagued the school project, primarily due to inclement weather that has stalled progress. Additionally, the complexities involved in facilitating an opening during the middle of the academic year have prompted leaders to prioritize a smooth transition for all stakeholders involved. The objective is to ensure that students, educators, and families have a seamless experience when Tulls Creek Elementary finally welcomes its first pupils.

What to Expect from Tulls Creek Elementary

The new school, designed to be a state-of-the-art educational facility, will feature a two-story building encompassing 118,000 square feet. With 44 classrooms and a capacity to accommodate up to 800 students, the school aims to provide ample space for a growing student population in the area. This modern learning environment is anticipated to facilitate enhanced educational experiences and foster a thriving community of learners.

Leadership Changes at Moyock Elementary

Kristen Saunders-Rivera has been appointed as the new principal for Moyock Elementary School for the 2023-24 school year, set to officially start on June 19, 2023. This change comes after the previous principal, Brandi Kelly, decided to relocate to Pinehurst.

Mrs. Saunders-Rivera brings with her a wealth of experience, boasting 26 years in the education field. Her background spans roles across elementary, middle, and high school administration, establishing her as a capable leader during these transitional times. Previously, she has served as an elementary school principal for six years and taught various subjects, including English Language Arts and Spanish. Her remarkable educational qualifications include a Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill and a Master’s in Education from Elon University.

Celebrations Amidst Challenges: Renovation at Moyock Elementary

While the community awaits the new school, the successful completion of a $14 million renovation project at Moyock Elementary School has brought a glimmer of positivity. The renovation includes the addition of 16 new classrooms and a brand-new cafeteria, catering to the needs of an active learning environment. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate these improvements, with attendance from local officials marking a significant milestone for the school.

Health Concerns Impacting Moyock Elementary School

In an unexpected turn of events, over 100 students were reported absent due to a contagious stomach virus at Moyock Elementary School, with the number rising to over 140 in a short period. The school, which typically has nearly 500 enrolled students, faced a crisis as staff worked diligently alongside local and state health departments to disinfect the building amidst health concerns.

In light of this outbreak, parents were advised to keep ill children at home for at least 24 hours and emphasize the importance of proper handwashing among students to curtail the virus’s spread.

Looking Ahead

The changes and challenges facing Currituck County Schools are set against a backdrop of aspiration for a bright future in education. The community remains hopeful for the successful opening of Tulls Creek Elementary and the leadership of Kristen Saunders-Rivera at Moyock Elementary, as both institutions strive to provide quality education to their students.

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Additional Resources

• WTKR: Leaders Vote to Push Back Opening Date of New Currituck Co Elementary School
• Wikipedia: Currituck County, North Carolina
• The Coastland Times: New Principal Named for Moyock Elementary School
• Google Search: Moyock Elementary School
• Daily Advance: Currituck Officials Celebrate Completed Renovations at Two Moyock Schools
• Google Scholar: Currituck County schools
• WAVY: Over 100 Students at Moyock Elementary School Absent After Stomach Virus Outbreak
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Moyock