This post was written by Dr. William T. Vann III, a 20+ year educator serving as executive director of federal programs and student services at Clinton City Schools. His role includes supporting innovative efforts such as the Dark Horse Fellows Program to enhance student opportunities.
This phrase is spoken with meaning in Clinton City Schools, and that meaning is brought to life through the Dark Horse Fellows Program — a “grow-your-own” teacher preparatory program in Sampson County. Through intentional investment and belief in the capabilities of Clinton City Schools’ rising juniors and seniors who aspire to become future educators, this innovative program, paired with a proactive vision, has helped the district combat the growing teacher shortage.
What makes the program truly special is the commitment it represents. This program will provide forgivable loans toward college tuition to selected recipients, work experience, mentor support and experience-based learning opportunities. This full-circle design allows current and future students to see, in real time, how impactful sustained support and opportunity can be, reinforcing that Once a Dark Horse is not just a phrase — it is a lifelong commitment to dreams, growth and community.
Founded by longtime Clinton City Schools music teacher Vevlyn Lowe and funded by the Anonymous Trust, the initiative provides a four-year, renewable $10,000 loan for up to two students per year pursuing a teaching degree at a four-year university. For each year a fellow returns to work in Clinton City Schools, $10,000 of the loan is forgiven. This intentional investment removes financial barriers and underscores the district’s long-term commitment to recruiting, developing and retaining educators rooted in the community they serve.
Beyond financial support, recipients benefit from intentional mentor guidance and the opportunity to take dual-credit teacher education courses through Sampson Community College. By earning college credit while still in high school, students often enter university requiring fewer credits toward graduation. This not only reduces tuition expenses but can limit the need for extended or multi-year loans, positively impacting both students and their families.
Students also gain early classroom experience through structured observation opportunities, providing insight that many college education majors do not receive until much later. Paid internships further help develop the whole student while introducing lessons in financial literacy, responsibility and long-term stability. Visits to schools of education ease the transition to college and support overall well-being, helping to reduce anxiety and better prepare fellows for the next stage of their educational journey.
Upon graduation and teacher certification, the program supports job placement within Clinton City Schools, demonstrating the district’s commitment to helping students transition confidently into professional life. While the program was founded locally, its influence extends beyond the district — strengthening the teaching workforce across North Carolina and serving as a model with potential national impact. Early, intentional investment equips students to succeed individually and to contribute meaningfully to classrooms, communities and the profession.
Designed with community impact in mind, the program reflects a vision of sustained success. It seeks not only to support students in the present but to shape the future of education in Clinton City Schools for years to come. This thoughtful, purpose-driven initiative embodies the district’s unwavering commitment to continuous learning and affirms a belief that students should be fully prepared to thrive beyond high school and well beyond the district’s direct care.
Clinton City Schools is often recognized for its athletic programs — and we certainly do not mind that recognition (after all, Dark Horse Strong is a phrase many know well). Yet the strength we celebrate through this educational initiative is equally remarkable. It reinforces that while our athletes achieve excellence on the field, our students demonstrate that same excellence in classrooms and throughout the community. In doing so, the work supports both the district’s and the state’s shared vision of achieving educational excellence and highlights the importance of celebrating success through meaningful action — not just words. May we all continue to be Dark Horse Strong and be fortunate enough to learn, lead and serve alongside a Dark Horse Fellow.