In the heart of Bertie County, the local government convened for a work session that highlighted the community's commitment to education and support for its residents. As the meeting unfolded, the atmosphere buzzed with optimism, particularly surrounding the updates from Roanoke-Chowan Community College, presented by Dr. Murray.

Dr. Murray shared impressive statistics, revealing that over the past three years, the college has served more than 1,200 students from Bertie County. This included 325 curriculum students and 850 continuing education students, showcasing a significant engagement with local learners. The college's efforts have not gone unnoticed, as enrollment in basic skills and continuing education programs has surged by 7% and 18%, respectively.

A highlight of the presentation was the success of Bertie County students, who have excelled in various performance measures. Notably, the college achieved the highest curriculum completion rate among all community colleges in the state, a testament to the dedication of both students and faculty. Dr. Murray proudly noted that Bertie County students outperformed their peers in transfer rates to four-year institutions, achieving a remarkable 100% transfer rate for two consecutive years.

However, the meeting also addressed a pressing concern: funding. Dr. Murray urged the county commissioners to consider increasing the financial support for the college, which currently stands at 4% of the budget despite a significant portion of students coming from Bertie County. The request for an increase to approximately $237,836 was framed as essential for continuing to serve the educational needs of the community effectively.

In addition to funding for the college, the discussion touched on the need for support for students facing homelessness and hunger. Dr. Murray emphasized the importance of establishing a foundation to assist these vulnerable students, suggesting that a dedicated Bertie County scholarship could make a meaningful difference.

As the meeting drew to a close, the commissioners expressed their appreciation for the updates and the ongoing partnership with Roanoke-Chowan Community College. The session underscored a shared commitment to fostering educational opportunities and addressing the challenges faced by students in Bertie County, leaving attendees hopeful for a future where every resident has access to the resources they need to succeed.