Panther Creek High School Holds Dedication Ceremony

October 16, 2006-- The Wake County Public School System, the Town of Cary and Wake County held a dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Panther Creek High School Monday, October 16. After the ribbon cutting, the student body president, and presidents of the class of 2010 and 2009 guided guests around campus and answered questions about their new school.

“We are celebrating the beginning of a great school that will only become greater,” said Principal Rodney Nelson.

Superintendent Del Burns, Wake County Board of Education member Ron Margiotta, and Wake County Commissioners Chair Tony Gurley all raved about the new facility, how it will help with growth and be a successful campus.

Panther Creek High School's Dedication and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

“With Principal Nelson at the helm along with his outstanding teachers and staff, Panther Creek will continue Wake County’s tradition of academic excellence,” said WCPSS Superintendent Del Burns. “They will help with my vision for every child educated in the Wake County Public School System to graduate on time, prepared for future challenges.”

Although a new school, Panther Creek’s faculty average 11.5 years of experience; 65 percent of the staff have advanced degrees; and 20 percent have already earned National Board Certification –- the highest standard in the teaching profession.

The new high school was built from a re-used (prototype) three-story design, also seen at Knightdale High School. Panther Creek opened with approximately 900 students in grades 9 and 10 and will add a grade each of the next two school years.

“Within Panther Creek we’ve created a unity, a bond that you can’t find anywhere else,” said Anne Kloefkorn, Student Body President and a member of the Class of 2009.

Panther Creek High offers a full complement of arts, English, healthful living, math, second languages, science and social studies courses that include academic, honors and elective sections. The second year, Panther Creek will also offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses. As the comprehensive school program is implemented, additional options for personalization will be considered. Smaller learning community opportunities, a possible career academy and other programs will integrate core academics, electives and career and technical education courses.

The high school band and vocal jazz ensemble also performed a couple of selections.

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