2022-2023 Chatham County system school year off to a successful start

Pittsboro, NC – Thousands of students returned to class throughout Chatham County Schools as the district launched the 2022-2023 school year Monday.

First day of school at Pittsboro Elementary (photo by school principal Lemondrè Watson)

“We are happy to see our students and staff return to the classroom,” said Superintendent Dr. Anthony
Jackson. “I am pleased with how smoothly our first day went and was excited to see strong instruction
taking place. Everyone on staff did their part to ensure a great first day. Our buses got students to and
from school safely, our custodial staff did a great job getting our buildings in good shape for our students
to return and our cafeteria staff were making chicken and waffles for students. We are off to a great start.”
Highlights from the start of the year include:
● 8,965 students are now enrolled in CCS in pre-K through 12th, which is 500 more students than last year at this time.
● Virginia Cross Elementary kindergartner Seth Burnette got to ride the bus to school with Superintendent Jackson, a tradition he does every year with a kindergartner on the opening day of
school.
● The district welcomed five new principals. (They are at North Chatham Elementary, Jordan-Matthews High School, Pittsboro Elementary, Silk Hope School and Bonlee.)
● The district rolled out the Here Comes the Bus app to make it easier for families to track their student’s bus.
● The launch of the district’s new five-year One Chatham Strategic Plan that sets goals in 5 key areas.
● The district only has a 10% vacancy rate across positions. They are still hiring for bus drivers and instructional assistants. A list of openings and how to apply can be found here.

“I want everyone to have a safe, successful year,” Jackson said. “I’m looking forward to seeing what our
students and staff accomplish this year. Remember, one person has the power to change a life. It’s the
power of one. We are united as one, striving to provide the best academic, athletic and arts opportunities
for our children.”