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![Picture of participants praying at the flag pole event.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1787316848/duplinschoolsnet/rpar75ljvarhrqlqcp0h/2026PrayerattheFlagpole.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1787316848/duplinschoolsnet/rpar75ljvarhrqlqcp0h/2026PrayerattheFlagpole.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1787316848/duplinschoolsnet/rpar75ljvarhrqlqcp0h/2026PrayerattheFlagpole.png","width":800}])
Lindsay Skidmore
Kenansville, NC - As Duplin County Schools prepare to begin another year of learning, growth, and opportunity, local faith-based leaders came together to offer encouragement and prayer for the students, staff, families, and community members who will help make the 2026-27 school year a success.
The annual See You at the Pole gathering was held Monday, August 10, 2026, at the Duplin County Schools Board of Education Office in Kenansville. The event provided an opportunity for members of the district’s faith-based community to unite around a shared commitment to supporting schools and the greater Duplin County community.
Pastor Paul Dean opened the gathering with a welcome and invocation before faith-based leaders led a focused time of prayer for groups whose service, leadership, and support are vital to students and schools.
Pastor Aaron Smith offered prayer for DCS students, teachers, and staff, while Reverend A J Connors prayed for the Duplin County Board of Education and school administrators. Superintendent Mr. Daren Tyndall lifted up the families and caregivers of students, and Pastor Sherman Dilley offered prayer for Duplin County’s faith-based community and ministries. Pastor Hank Bellomy prayed for law enforcement, county administrators, and government leaders.
Following the focused prayers, the group gathered in a unified time of prayer, bringing participants together around the hopes and opportunities of the year ahead. Pastor Paul Dean concluded the gathering with the benediction.
The gathering reflected the strong spirit of partnership that exists throughout Duplin County and the many ways community members support public education. As DCS begins the 2026-27 school year, that spirit of encouragement and collaboration remains an important part of creating an environment where students can learn, grow, and pursue their goals.
Duplin County Schools extends its appreciation to the faith-based leaders who participated and to all community partners who continue to encourage and support DCS students, employees, and families throughout the year.