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School’s in session
Dr. Frazier gives the announcement to all students and staff every morning over intercom. | Photo by WStoday
Remember your early school days? Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools partnered with Greater Winston-Salem to do just that — give community members a firsthand experience of how public schools run. Editor Kellina had the opportunity to visit Bolton Elementary School, located right outside of the Ardmore neighborhood, as part of Principal for a Day.
Fast facts
374 students
Pre-K through 5
Principal: Dr. Sheryl Frazier
Editor Kellina got to visit classrooms from Pre-K through grade 5.
Photo courtesy of Bolton Elementary school staff
What’s the bus situation?
Buses drop off students on site at 8:15 a.m. Once they arrive, they are greeted by staff with a warm welcome and smiles all around. You’ll see high fives here and there, hugs, and fist bumps. School Principal Frazier interacts with the kids as they enjoy their breakfast in the cafeteria.
What’s the first order of business?
Dr. Frazier makes announcements over the intercom, in which she reads the Bolton promise. I was moved by this statement, knowing how much power words can have, and a can-do attitude goes a long way for our future generations.
Carolina University has selected its next leader after longtime president Dr. Charles Pettit died in May 2025. Dr. Heather Burkard will now serve as the new president after serving as an interim for the past 10 months. Burkard has been with the school for nearly six years.
Edu
Winston-Salem’s school system is strengthening. Wake Forest Law received a grant, making legal education more accessible for NC students. Through the AccessLex Grant, the school will streamline applications from nearby colleges, including Winston-Salem State University, North Carolina A&T, UNC Charlotte, and UNC Greensboro.
Closed
Fratellis closed its doors for renovations. The Italian steakhouse plans to upgrade its atmosphere, giving guests a refreshed experience. In the meantime, check out Spotted Cow Steakhouse for your next date night. We’ll keep you updated once it reopens.
Arts
Changes are coming to Art Crush. Each month will have a brand new theme, plus artists will no longer need to purchase an annual membership. Want to chime in with your ideas? Attend the Art District’s annual meeting at Chad’s Chai on Friday, Feb. 27, from 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Biz
Canvas Cake Studio has a new home. The cake decorating shop has taken over the former Gigi’s cupcake’s spot on South Stratford Road. The space features a café and open studio hours where guests can decorate their cakes at their own pace. (Winston-Salem Journal)
Try This
Looking for ways to invest back in the community? Become a role model through our local Big Brothers and Big Sisters program. After a few steps, you’ll be matched with a child and receive the tools to build a meaningful connection.
Eat
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Pro Tip
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Finance
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Health
Crowded restaurants, bustling cafés, lively gatherings — your social life can be loud. These best-selling hearing aids cut through the noise so you hear every word with clarity + confidence. Built with cutting-edge technology and a nearly invisible design, they fit seamlessly into your life. Start a 45-day no-risk trial.*
And the learning continues. TEDxWakeForest University has revealed its lineup of 2026 speakers. Four-time world champion triathlete Leanda Cave is part of the lineup. She was the first woman in history to win both the IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 World Championships in the same year (2012). Register to attend the event on Sunday, March 22, at 2 p.m. at Wait Chapel.
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To close out the day on a sweet note, Dr. Frazier surprised us with these thoughtful notes that instantly took me back to my elementary school days. Can we bring back gold stars for adults who do a good job?
The best report card from my school day at Bolton Elementary School.
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