School is starting for Ocracoke! Wish I was going!

August 25 is the first day of classes for students on Ocracoke Island. Even though most of the students will tell you they love summer, I think many are also ready for school to start. As most things on this island, at least to me, Ocracoke School is an incredible place. Most of the students really like school. I know this is a surprise but Ocracoke has an amazing group of teachers, administrators, assistants, personnel and volunteers that work very hard to make school a fun learning experience. The school includes grades K – 12 and last year was the largest student population ever; with an enrollment of about 150. Yes, that’s only150 in K – 12! Last years graduation class had nine students, which you may think is small but the year before there were 4. Now percentage wise, that is over a 50% increase. (See I paid attention most of the time at school way back when.) The classes are still small – I think we have about 7 seniors this year. Most of these kids have gone to school together since pre-school, so they know each other very well. Many of the teachers are called by their first names, preceded by Mr. or Ms – such as Mr. Howard and Ms Rita.

Ocracoke School is one school, if not the only school in NC without a cafeteria. The students either pack a lunch or go home. A couple of microwaves were added in the last few years so grades alternate what days they can bring something to heat, as opposed to days they bring something to eat cold. The school doesn’t have school busses that transport students between school and home. They are either dropped off, or they ride bikes or walk. It is quite a site to watch the goings and comings when school starts, during lunch break, or at the end of the day. There is an activity bus that takes students “off island” for field trips and athletic events.

The island is a buzz about the new school gym – almost completed. This building was made possible by some special funding and was it ever needed! School basketball is really a big deal on Ocracoke. We have boys and girls varsity, and younger boys and girls teams. When there is one game, there are usually four, since it is a feat to get a team here: Or to transport our teams to a competitor. The closest team we play is from Hatteras which is a good hour and half away including the 40 minute ferry ride. The old gym was so small there was never enough room for all the spectators to sit and those who had a seat on the sideline were on constant watch – their toes almost touching the line. The Dolphins team mascot is always fun to watch at the games. If not always winners they are great sportsmen as the games are always exciting and entertaining.

There is also a new running club, this being the second year. And of course they are stars – taking quite a few trophies last year – in their first year of competition. Practice started a few days ago and while I was taking an early morning scud about the island at 6 am, the runners were meeting to start practice: Which is so important to do it early morning, especially with the heat we’ve been having. That shows dedication.

So when you are visiting, come check out a school sporting event or attend a school fund raiser. Talk about some fine eating! A BBQ was held just last weekend and other such fun events occur on a fairly regular basis. They also have great hats and shirts to buy and support the school events. I was a financial supporter of the school during my life and still support and enjoy them in my spirithood.

Since I have to rest once in a while, I’m headed back to the Castle! The cookies are due out of the oven and there is no better smell on the island. I wonder what will be cooking tomorrow for breakfast! Come see us and “Go Dolphins”!