Bull City B.E.S.T.
"To be the best, I begin by thinking I am the best.
When I begin thinking I am the best, I come to know that I am the best.
Because I know that I am the best, I will always think, speak, and behave as the best."
DR. WILLIAM T. LOGAN
Durham Public Schools 2023 PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR
Hillside High School
Bull City BEST Educator of the Month:
Maria Fugon​
Glenn Elementary
We are thrilled to announce that this month’s Bull City B.E.S.T. Educator of the Month is Mrs. Maria Fugon of Glenn Elementary School. Mrs. Fugon embodies what it means to bring her BEST every day, leaving a profound impact on students, colleagues and families alike through her dedication, resilience, and commitment to her classroom, her school, and her community.
A lifelong learner with a passion for education, Mrs. Fugon began her journey as an instructional assistant before returning to school at North Carolina Central University, earning her degree and licensure to become a certified classroom teacher, all while continuing to work full time. To this day she continues to work tirelessly at her craft, participating in regular professional development, summer workshops, and continuously seeking opportunities to better herself and those around her.
Mrs. Fugon is especially passionate about supporting English Language Learners, drawing from her own experiences to create a welcoming and empowering classroom environment. She works tirelessly to ensure her students not only grow academically but also develop confidence and a strong sense of belonging.
Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Fugon is a leader in her school community. She co-leads professional development initiatives, facilitates parent engagement sessions, and advocates for greater understanding of the challenges and triumphs of immigrant students and families. Her impact reaches far beyond test scores—she is shaping lives, inspiring futures, and breaking down barriers for the next generation.
Mrs. Fugon’s resilience, passion, and dedication to her students embody the very spirit of Bull City BEST. We are proud to celebrate her and the incredible difference she makes every day. Congratulations, Mrs. Fugon!
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Do you know somebody who embodies what it means to Build, Educate, and Strengthen Together in your school? Click the link below to nominate your BEST educator of the month form March! Nominations are due on March 15, 2025 and will be announced on March 28, 2025!​​​​​​
A VERY special thank you to Chapel Hill Restaurant Group for donating a $50 gift card for the winner!
Coming in 2025!
Afterschool Programming
Tutoring & Mentoring
Partnered with NCCU and DPS schools, we will provide needs based 1-on-1 and small group tutoring and mentoring.
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​Mental Toughness Training
These sessions are built for students who struggle with confidence, control, commitment or challenges in the classroom, outside world and or as student athletes.
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Media & Communications
​Through membership with The Peoples Channel and strategic community partnerships the media club will create and produce community based content for various media outlets.​
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Arts
Classes will be interest based and will very between visual (painting & photography) and performing (dance, drumline, acting). ​​​​​​
Bull City R.E.A.D.S.
Using the Bull City R.E.A.D.S. model students will develop an appreciation for the power of reading!
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Bull City R.E.A.D.S. captures a focus on literacy (Reading, Education), inclusivity (Access), growth (Development), and community empowerment (Support).
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Looking for additional information on afterschool programming?
Please contact Meghan or Chris Wilder at (919) 441-1157 or email info@bullcitybest.org.
BEST in the Bull Events
Winter & Spring
Community Day
Bi-monthly day of service
Middle & High School All-Star Basketball Game
Step Show
Battle of the Bands
**Youth of the Year
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