LUMBERTON — A local church presented Friday scholarships to a class at Rowland-Norment Elementary School in honor of one of their classmates who passed away in April.
Members from Godwin Heights Baptist Church presented a one-time scholarship to each student in Mrs. Lambert's first-grade class in honor of Draquine Floyd, Jr. which allows them to attend the church’s summer sports camp for free.
Draquine's two brothers at Rowland-Norment Elementary School will also both receive scholarships to the camp.
The opportunity was presented for the first time Friday morning to students by the Rev. David Hawes, pastor of the church, and the Rev. Dr. Leslie Sessoms, who serves as the church’s youth pastor.
“I’m excited to be here today because I have a special surprise for all of you guys,” Sessoms said.
“When we heard about Draquine and what happened in the class we were very sad. Sometimes we are sad and we cry tears … but we also want to remember Draquine and we want you to smile,” she said.
Sessoms shared a video containing photos of past activities which took place during the church’s sports camp.
“I’d love that. That looks so fun,” one student said.
“Wow,” said another student.
After the video, Sessoms told students the church would offer them the opportunity to attend the camp for free this summer. Students cheered with excitement. Some even hugged Sessoms.
She then gave out application forms to students for their parents to complete. Students also were given a lanyard.
“The Public Schools of Robeson County would like to sincerely thank Godwin Heights Baptist Church members for this very special way to honor and remember Draquine,” said PSRC Chief Communications Officer Jessica Sealey. “This kind gesture and its great impact will be remembered by Draquine’s family, classmates, school, and district for years to come.”
Donations were raised to cover the cost of the students’ spots within the church’s K-6 sports camp from various individuals within Godwin Heights Baptist Church and others within organizations including Truist and the University of North Carolina at Pembroke, Sessoms said.
Rowland-Norment Elementary School Principal Dr. Joanna Cole shared words about Draquine and the scholarships’ impact.
“Draquine was energetic and loved to laugh,” Cole said.
“The knowledge that his love for enjoying life will be honored through these scholarships for summer camp means a great deal to his school family. There is a special comfort in knowing that even after his classmates have left school for the year they will still be able to gather together over the summer and show support and love to his brothers while at camp,” she said.
Pastor Hawes said the church has a “longstanding partnership” with the school and that the church will “walk alongside them through this difficult time.”
