Today’s scoreboard does not erase the heart, discipline, and determination you carried all season long. You all represented Warren County with pride, resilience, and a spirit that refused to back down. And, that kind of excellence cannot and will not be measured by a single game.

Let’s be clear: you didn’t JUST make it to the State Championship. You sparked something in this community. On a Wednesday evening (yes, Bible Study night), Warren County showed up on the Courthouse Square in downtown Warrenton to celebrate you, stand with you, and send you off with pride. That kind of love? That kind of unity? Had a song produced for YOU? That’s a legacy far bigger than today’s game outcome.

To Coach McRae (or McGOAT, as my son refers to you): Thank you for leading with vision, grit, and belief in these young men. Your comeback story serves as inspiration to all those around you, and we proudly call you one of our own.

Khalil, Nazir, Graham, Jeremiah, Zamir, Elijah, Jeremiahe, Nyjae, and Zane: Continue to hold your heads high. You all made Warren County proud and we will continue to support you, every step of the way.

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The Warren County Schools Alumni Association has done what few can do: they turned tradition into a movement. And the community as a whole is better for it.

When we talk about community, Warren County doesn’t just show up. It shows out!

What started as a homecoming celebration has grown into The Greatest High School Homecoming on Earth. It’s a living, breathing reunion of spirit, legacy, and down home love.

Every fall, the streets of Warren County come alive with that unmistakable hometown vibe. It’s the laughter of classmates reconnecting, the (Eagle) pride of generations sharing stories of yesteryear, and the undeniable joy that comes from seeing our community at its best.

But this isn’t just about a weekend of celebration. It’s about commitment and impact.

Line dance community came together at the WCHS Homecoming Meet and Greet. / Crystal Myrick (Warrenist)

Behind the scenes, this incredible group of alumni has been doing the work that truly transforms lives. They have raised over $14,000 to fund scholarships to help the next generation soar, supported the athletic, band, and trades departments to keep school pride thriving, and organized community events that keep Warren County not only connected but inspired.

And beyond the field, the ripple effect is real. Homecoming weekend pours energy and dollars back into the local economy. From small businesses to local vendors, bars, and restaurants, the entire county feels the love. When the alumni come home, not only the players on the field wins, but everybody wins.

WCS Alumni Association donating to WCHS CTE program. / Credit: WCSAA

But, this is what it looks like when alumni become advocates, when hometown pride becomes purpose, and when legacy meets leadership.

To the Warren County Schools Alumni Association: Thank you for reminding us that homecoming isn’t just where we came from. It’s about who we are.

We are a family bound by pride, purpose, and the power of community, and not by ego.

And, THAT is what makes us the greatest.

——
To join or support the Warren County Schools Alumni Association: Make a Donation.

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In honor of Arts in Education week, the WCHS Dynamic Marching Machine were invited to perform on Sept. 18 for staff at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and education leaders like NC Superintendent Mo Green in Raleigh, NC.

Accompanied by WCS Superintendent Dr. Carol Montague-Davis and WCHS principal Dr. Lionel Kato, the students took center stage on the Halifax Mall and wowed the audience with a high-energy performance that left a lasting impression with onlookers.

If you missed the performance or want to live it, check it out!

For more information about the Dynamic Marching Machine and their next move, visit WCHSBands.org.

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The Warren County High School Class of 2025 was ushered into their next chapter with a resounding message to “keep going” from this year’s commencement speaker and WCHS alum, Bishop J. Terrell Alston. (May 24, 2025)

WATCH: Warren County High School Graduation 2025

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On March 6, 2025, William E. Kearney II reached a significant milestone by graduating from the esteemed Excellence in Government Fellows Program.

“My inspiration to apply for the Excellence in Government Fellows Program comes from a deep-seated passion for public service and a desire to drive meaningful change within government institutions,” Kearney shared. “I was drawn to the program’s emphasis on leadership development, collaboration, and innovation, which align perfectly with my goals of enhancing my skills and contributing to effective governance.”

Throughout the 10-month fellowship through the Partnership for Public Service, Kearney engaged in intensive workshops, seminars, and hands-on projects addressing critical governmental challenges. Collaborating with a diverse cohort of fellows nationwide, he gained valuable insights into effective governance and policy implementation.

A proud native of Warrenton, North Carolina, Kearney is the son of Doris Kearney and the late William E. Kearney. His passion for public service began at Warren County High School, where he graduated in 2002. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Winston-Salem State University and a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management from Southern New Hampshire University.

Beyond academics, Kearney has exemplified leadership and dedication through his service as a United States Army veteran. His commitment to public service continues in his current role as a Lead Investigator for the United States Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service, where he helps ensure the integrity and effectiveness of food assistance programs nationwide.

An active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Kearney remains dedicated to fostering community service and mentorship.

“Completing the program means a great deal to me,” Kearney reflected. “It signifies not only the achievement of personal and professional growth but also a commitment to serving my community with greater effectiveness. The knowledge, insights, and connections gained through the program equip me to address complex challenges in the public sector and inspire others to do the same. It reinforces my dedication to fostering a more responsive and accountable government that truly meets the needs of its citizens.”

With the expertise gained from the Excellence in Government Fellowship, Kearney is well-positioned to address pressing federal issues and advocate for policies that directly impact rural communities. His unwavering commitment to public service reflects his drive to create meaningful, lasting change.

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[WAKE FOREST, NC] The Town of Wake Forest is pleased to announce Julius Jefferson as its Interim Police Chief. Jefferson, who had served as Captain since 2020, succeeds Jeff Leonard who retired February 1.

A Warren County native and WCHS graduate (1992), Jefferson began his career with the Wake County Sheriff’s Office in 1996 as a Detention Officer. In 1999 he was promoted to Detention Sergeant, a position he held until starting Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) at Vance-Granvile Community College in January 2006. He graduated from BLET later that year.

In September 2006, Jefferson began working with the Wake Forest Police Department as a Patrol Officer. Since then, he has worked as a Patrol Sergeant, Impact Sergeant, Traffic Sergeant, Impact Lieutenant, and Impact Captain. He has also served on the Wake County Traffic Safety Task Force.

Jefferson earned an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Vance-Granville Community College in 1996 and a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from UNC Pembroke in 2023. He attended the 69th session of the Administrative Officers Management Program through NC State in 2014, FBI-LEEDA Trilogy (Executive Leadership, Command Leadership, and Supervisor Leadership) 2020-21, FBI Command College in 2022, and Ethical Leadership and Leadership on the Line in 2023.

When he’s not working, Jefferson enjoys watching movies, carpentry, and attending car shows.

“Julius Jefferson’s experience and community knowledge make him the perfect person to succeed Chief Leonard,” said Town Manager Kip Padgett. “He is highly capable and highly respected. He has also demonstrated outstanding leadership throughout his career with the Wake Forest Police Department. I am confident he is the right person to serve as our Interim Chief.”

A permanent police chief will be named later this year following a comprehensive search process.

Source: Wake Forest Police Department Facebook

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In an exhilarating display of athleticism and teamwork, the Warren County High School (WCHS) Eagles delivered a commanding victory against the North Edgecombe Warriors with a 48-0 shutout at their homecoming game last Saturday (9/14). The Eagles’ performance electrified the crowd, who packed the stands to celebrate the annual tradition and watch the home team soar.

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Show how strong your Eagle Pride is with this WCHS Homecoming-themed crossword puzzle!

Don’t miss the action when the WCHS Eagles take on the North Edgecombe Warriors on Saturday, Sept. 14! Get your tickets here!

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Show your Eagle Pride this football season!!!

2024 WCHS EAGLES FOOTBALL SCHEDULE
AUGUST 23: vs Vance County
AUGUST 30: vs JF Webb
SEPTEMBER 6: vs Kipp Pride
SEPTEMBER 14: vs North Edgecombe (Homecoming)
SEPTEMBER 20: vs Rocky Mount Prep
SEPTEMBER 27: @ Southeast Halifax
OCTOBER 4: @ Northampton
OCTOBER 18: vs Wilson Prep
OCTOBER 25: @ Northwest Halifax
NOVEMBER 1: vs Weldon (Senior Night)

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