Halifax County Superintendent Honored – EducationNC

The North Carolina School Superintendents’ Association (NCSSA) recently announced that Halifax County Schools Superintendent Dr. Eric Cunningham is the recipient of the 2024 Dr. Dwayne Stallings Leadership Award. The award recognizes a Northeast Regional Education Service Alliance school superintendent who demonstrates a strong commitment to public education, a commitment to academic excellence, and a continued focus on professional growth and student learning.

“This recognition fuels our commitment to continue to strive for excellence and make a meaningful difference in our community,” Cunningham said. “Let us continue to inspire and lead with purpose.”

Under Dr. Cunningham’s leadership, the Halifax County School District has achieved significant milestones including improved student academic achievement, successful community partnerships, and enhanced educational programs. Superintendent Cunningham serves as a dedicated navigator, guiding the school district through educational challenges with a strong focus on equity and inclusion. His tenure has been defined by his insistence that every student receives the support they need to thrive. The journey to academic excellence has been marked by key accomplishments such as implementing action-based learning, integrating technology into the curriculum, enhancing the student learning environment through capital improvements, administering comprehensive safety measures, and fostering a positive and collaborative culture that ensures the district remains a beacon of excellence. With determination, Halifax County Schools is charting a new course for student achievement.

— NCSSA Press Release

The award is named in honor of Dr. Dwayne Stallings, who served as NERESA’s executive director on Aug. 9, 2020, at the age of 63, according to a press release. Stallings began his career as a teacher in education in the Chowan, Gates and Pasquotank school districts. He later served in the Perquimans County School System as an assistant principal, principal, assistant principal and principal.

“Dr. Cunningham served as superintendent of Halifax County Schools for eight years and exemplifies the qualities that have guided Dr. Dwayne Stalling’s career in educational leadership,” said NCSSA Executive Director Jack Hoke. “He has demonstrated a strong commitment to public education, dedication to academic excellence, and a continued focus on professional growth and student learning for Halifax County Schools.”

“It is a true honor to receive this award,” Cunningham said. “The Dr. Dwayne Stallings Leadership Award is a very meaningful recognition of not only myself, but also the collective efforts and dedication of the Halifax County Schools team. I feel privileged to work with talented individuals who continue to inspire and advance Halifax County Schools.”

Mebane Rash

Mebane Rash is the CEO and Editor-in-Chief of EducationNC.