FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Swan Quarter, NC — On January 14, 2025, Hyde County Schools proudly celebrated the grand opening of the Mattamuskeet School Industrial Arts Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local dignitaries, state representatives, and members of the community. The event marked the culmination of a collaborative effort to provide Hyde County students with state-of-the-art resources for career and technical education.
Event Highlights: The ceremony began at 4:00 p.m., with a warm welcome from Superintendent Dr. Melanie Shaver. Her remarks emphasized the significance of the Industrial Arts Center as a "symbol of progress, partnership, and promise" for Hyde County.
Pastor Jerald Craddock of Soule Methodist and Watson’s Chapel delivered a heartfelt blessing of the site, setting the tone for the day’s celebration. Following this, Chanta Rickard, Vice Chairman of the Hyde County Board of Education, recognized a host of special guests, including:
· Senator Bobby Hanig (North Carolina Senate)
· Representative Keith Kidwell (North Carolina House of Representatives)
· Members of the Hyde County Board of Commissioners
· County Manager Kris Noble
· Project partners, including Stocks & Taylor Construction and Cahoon & Kasten Architects
· Representatives from the NC Education Lottery
· Dr. David Loope and Dr. Lisa Hill from Beaufort County Community College
· Students and Staff of Hyde County Schools
Adam Owens of the NC Education Lottery spoke about the organization’s commitment to supporting education initiatives like the Industrial Arts Center.
Hyde County students Holden Williams and Roxy Gibbs, alongside CTE teachers, shared the transformative potential of the center for the school and the community.
Superintendent Dr. Shaver highlighted key contributors to the project, including:
· Ben Cahoon of Cahoon & Kasten Architects for translating the district’s vision into reality.
· Jeremy Phelps, Hyde County Schools Operations Director, for his leadership and meticulous oversight of the project.
· Stocks & Taylor Construction for completing the project with precision and care, one year and two days after breaking ground.
Dr. Shaver’s speech underscored the broader mission of the Industrial Arts Center. “This facility is not just about preparing students for jobs—it’s about preparing them for careers,” she said. “Careers that will allow them to contribute to a strong, vibrant economy right here in Hyde County.” The center will serve as a hub for hands-on learning and career-focused training, equipping students with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in a competitive workforce.
The event concluded with the ceremonial ribbon cutting led by Holden Williams and Roxy Gibbs, symbolizing the official opening of the Industrial Arts Center. Attendees were invited to tour the new facility and witness the opportunities it will provide for Hyde County students.
About Hyde County Schools: Hyde County Schools is committed to fostering academic excellence and creating opportunities for students to thrive in an ever-evolving world. The opening of the Industrial Arts Center represents a significant step forward in delivering innovative educational experiences that prepare students for future success.