Stokes County Schools Families,
We are writing to provide an update regarding the recent cybersecurity incident involving Instructure, the parent company of Canvas, a learning management system used in Stokes County Schools
Over the weekend, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) received an interim assessment from CrowdStrike, the third-party cybersecurity firm advising on the incident. The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) has been informed by Instructure that the Canvas environment throughout the nation and here in North Carolina has no ongoing signs of compromise.
As a result, NCDPI will restore statewide connectivity with Canvas today, May 11th, at approximately 4 p.m.
For an overview of the incident and the latest updates from Instructure, families may visit the company’s incident status page: https://www.instructure.com/incident_update
Thank you for your continued support as we work to protect student and educator information and support uninterrupted teaching and learning.
We are writing to provide an update regarding the recent cybersecurity incident involving Instructure, the parent company of Canvas, a learning management system used in Stokes County Schools
Over the weekend, the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) received an interim assessment from CrowdStrike, the third-party cybersecurity firm advising on the incident. The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) has been informed by Instructure that the Canvas environment throughout the nation and here in North Carolina has no ongoing signs of compromise.
As a result, NCDPI will restore statewide connectivity with Canvas today, May 11th, at approximately 4 p.m.
For an overview of the incident and the latest updates from Instructure, families may visit the company’s incident status page: https://www.instructure.com/incident_update
Thank you for your continued support as we work to protect student and educator information and support uninterrupted teaching and learning.
Incredible athletes from around Stokes County who competed in the Special Olympics at South Stokes High School on May 1st.
Each athlete showed what true courage, determination, and joy look like. From the starting line to the finish, you could see the pride, the effort, and the unbreakable spirit in every moment. These athletes didn’t just compete—they inspired everyone watching.
A huge thank you to the coaches, volunteers, families, and supporters who made this day possible. Your encouragement and dedication help create opportunities that truly change lives.
To our athletes: you are champions in every sense of the word. We are so proud of you and honored to cheer you on. 🏅
Special Thanks to Mikayla Perdue for capturing images from the days events.
More pictures from the event can be found by clicking the link: https://msphotonc.pixieset.com/stokescountyschools/
#SpecialOlympics #StokesCounty #Inspiration #Champions
Each athlete showed what true courage, determination, and joy look like. From the starting line to the finish, you could see the pride, the effort, and the unbreakable spirit in every moment. These athletes didn’t just compete—they inspired everyone watching.
A huge thank you to the coaches, volunteers, families, and supporters who made this day possible. Your encouragement and dedication help create opportunities that truly change lives.
To our athletes: you are champions in every sense of the word. We are so proud of you and honored to cheer you on. 🏅
Special Thanks to Mikayla Perdue for capturing images from the days events.
More pictures from the event can be found by clicking the link: https://msphotonc.pixieset.com/stokescountyschools/
#SpecialOlympics #StokesCounty #Inspiration #Champions
Happy Mother’s Day 💐💖
Today we celebrate the incredible mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures who give so much love, strength, and support every single day. Your care, guidance, and sacrifices make a lasting impact that shapes lives in the most meaningful ways.
Thank you for all that you do—for the big moments and the small ones in between. You are truly appreciated today and every day.
#MothersDay #CelebrateMom #ThankYouMom #Gratitude
Today we celebrate the incredible mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures who give so much love, strength, and support every single day. Your care, guidance, and sacrifices make a lasting impact that shapes lives in the most meaningful ways.
Thank you for all that you do—for the big moments and the small ones in between. You are truly appreciated today and every day.
#MothersDay #CelebrateMom #ThankYouMom #Gratitude
🎉 May 2026 Employee of the Month 🎉
Stokes County Schools is proud to recognize Mr. Justin Bulla, Theater Arts Teacher at South Stokes High School, as our May 2026 Employee of the Month!
Mr. Bulla began his journey with Stokes County Schools in 2008, serving as a Theater Arts and Chorus teacher at both North Stokes High School and South Stokes High School until 2012. We were thrilled to welcome him back in October 2024, where he now continues to inspire students through theater arts at South Stokes High.
His dedication, passion, and commitment to students make a lasting impact every day. South Stokes High School—and all of Stokes County Schools—are stronger because of his contributions.
👏 Congratulations, Mr. Bulla, and thank you for all you do!
#EmployeeOfTheMonth #StokesCountySchools #ExcellenceInEducation
Stokes County Schools is proud to recognize Mr. Justin Bulla, Theater Arts Teacher at South Stokes High School, as our May 2026 Employee of the Month!
Mr. Bulla began his journey with Stokes County Schools in 2008, serving as a Theater Arts and Chorus teacher at both North Stokes High School and South Stokes High School until 2012. We were thrilled to welcome him back in October 2024, where he now continues to inspire students through theater arts at South Stokes High.
His dedication, passion, and commitment to students make a lasting impact every day. South Stokes High School—and all of Stokes County Schools—are stronger because of his contributions.
👏 Congratulations, Mr. Bulla, and thank you for all you do!
#EmployeeOfTheMonth #StokesCountySchools #ExcellenceInEducation
Early Childhood Educator Day 💙🍎
On Friday, May 8, 2026, we celebrate the incredible childcare providers, early childhood educators, and teachers who make a lasting impact on our youngest learners. Observed each year on the Friday before Mother’s Day, this day honors those who nurture, teach, and inspire with patience and care.
Thank you for creating safe, supportive environments where children can grow, learn, and thrive. Your dedication does not go unnoticed—you truly make a difference every day!
#EarlyChildhoodEducators #MakingADifference
On Friday, May 8, 2026, we celebrate the incredible childcare providers, early childhood educators, and teachers who make a lasting impact on our youngest learners. Observed each year on the Friday before Mother’s Day, this day honors those who nurture, teach, and inspire with patience and care.
Thank you for creating safe, supportive environments where children can grow, learn, and thrive. Your dedication does not go unnoticed—you truly make a difference every day!
#EarlyChildhoodEducators #MakingADifference
Stokes County Schools – Canvas Data Security Notice
This week, Instructure, the company that provides the Canvas learning management system, notified school districts and the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction of a cybersecurity incident involving staff and student data.
According to Instructure, the incident occurred on April 25, 2026, and was carried out by what the company described as a “criminal threat actor.” The unauthorized activity was detected on April 29, 2026. Instructure reports that the threat has been contained, access to affected systems has been blocked, and there is currently no evidence of ongoing unauthorized activity. Federal law enforcement agencies have been notified and are assisting with the investigation.
Importantly, no Stokes County Schools internal networks or systems were breached.
How This May Affect You
The investigation remains ongoing, and Instructure has not yet confirmed the full scope or specific type of data that may have been accessed.
Canvas is used by Stokes County Schools teachers and students for coursework, assignments, grading, and communication. Based on the information currently available, some personal information belonging to current staff and students may have been accessed. At this time, there is no indication that passwords, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, financial information, or other government-issued identifiers were involved in the incident.
Stokes County Schools will continue to monitor updates from Instructure and will provide additional information as it becomes available.
Next Steps
Stokes County Schools will continue working closely with state and vendor partners as more details become available. Updates will be shared with families and staff as appropriate.
For additional information and updates from Instructure, please visit:
"Instructure Status Page" - https://status.instructure.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
This week, Instructure, the company that provides the Canvas learning management system, notified school districts and the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction of a cybersecurity incident involving staff and student data.
According to Instructure, the incident occurred on April 25, 2026, and was carried out by what the company described as a “criminal threat actor.” The unauthorized activity was detected on April 29, 2026. Instructure reports that the threat has been contained, access to affected systems has been blocked, and there is currently no evidence of ongoing unauthorized activity. Federal law enforcement agencies have been notified and are assisting with the investigation.
Importantly, no Stokes County Schools internal networks or systems were breached.
How This May Affect You
The investigation remains ongoing, and Instructure has not yet confirmed the full scope or specific type of data that may have been accessed.
Canvas is used by Stokes County Schools teachers and students for coursework, assignments, grading, and communication. Based on the information currently available, some personal information belonging to current staff and students may have been accessed. At this time, there is no indication that passwords, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, financial information, or other government-issued identifiers were involved in the incident.
Stokes County Schools will continue to monitor updates from Instructure and will provide additional information as it becomes available.
Next Steps
Stokes County Schools will continue working closely with state and vendor partners as more details become available. Updates will be shared with families and staff as appropriate.
For additional information and updates from Instructure, please visit:
"Instructure Status Page" - https://status.instructure.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
💚 Big Feelings Deserve Big Support 💚
Today is National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day, a vital reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health—especially for our youngest explorers.
Growing up is a journey filled with peaks and valleys. By fostering environments where kids feel safe to express their emotions, we aren't just helping them through a tough day; we’re giving them the tools to build a resilient future.
How can we show up for the kids in our lives?
Normalize the Conversation: Talk openly about feelings. Let them know it’s okay to feel sad, frustrated, or overwhelmed.
Active Listening: Sometimes, a child doesn't need a solution—they just need to know they’ve been heard.
Model Healthy Habits: Show them how you manage stress and practice self-care.
Seek Support Early: There is incredible strength in asking for help. If a child is struggling, professional resources can make a world of difference.
Today is National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day, a vital reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health—especially for our youngest explorers.
Growing up is a journey filled with peaks and valleys. By fostering environments where kids feel safe to express their emotions, we aren't just helping them through a tough day; we’re giving them the tools to build a resilient future.
How can we show up for the kids in our lives?
Normalize the Conversation: Talk openly about feelings. Let them know it’s okay to feel sad, frustrated, or overwhelmed.
Active Listening: Sometimes, a child doesn't need a solution—they just need to know they’ve been heard.
Model Healthy Habits: Show them how you manage stress and practice self-care.
Seek Support Early: There is incredible strength in asking for help. If a child is struggling, professional resources can make a world of difference.
Join us for Summer Theatre Camp!
Students will enjoy theatre games, acting, music, dance, set painting, prop making, and all things theatre.
Dates: July 13th –24th
Performances: July 24 at 6:30 PM and July 25 at 2:00 PM
Location: South Stokes High School Auditorium
Cost: $150 per student
See website for more details: http://stokestheatre.weebly.com
Students will enjoy theatre games, acting, music, dance, set painting, prop making, and all things theatre.
Dates: July 13th –24th
Performances: July 24 at 6:30 PM and July 25 at 2:00 PM
Location: South Stokes High School Auditorium
Cost: $150 per student
See website for more details: http://stokestheatre.weebly.com
Happy Sign Language Interpreters Day 🤟🧏♀️
Today we recognize and celebrate the dedicated professionals who help bridge communication gaps and ensure access for the Deaf and hard of hearing community. Their skill, compassion, and commitment make a meaningful difference every day.
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the vital role interpreters play in creating more inclusive and accessible spaces for all.
#SignLanguageInterpretersDa
Today we recognize and celebrate the dedicated professionals who help bridge communication gaps and ensure access for the Deaf and hard of hearing community. Their skill, compassion, and commitment make a meaningful difference every day.
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the vital role interpreters play in creating more inclusive and accessible spaces for all.
#SignLanguageInterpretersDa
Celebrating Our School Nurses!
It’s School Nurse Appreciation Week, and we’re highlighting the healthcare heroes who keep our schools healthy, safe, and ready to learn!
School nurses are often the first responders in our hallways. From managing chronic conditions and mental health crises to calming scraped knees and navigating public health, they wear many hats—all while providing a compassionate "home base" for students in need.
It’s School Nurse Appreciation Week, and we’re highlighting the healthcare heroes who keep our schools healthy, safe, and ready to learn!
School nurses are often the first responders in our hallways. From managing chronic conditions and mental health crises to calming scraped knees and navigating public health, they wear many hats—all while providing a compassionate "home base" for students in need.
Happy National Teacher Day 🍎📚
Today we celebrate the educators who inspire, guide, and empower students every day. Teachers do so much more than teach—they encourage curiosity, build confidence, and shape the future one student at a time.
Thank you for your dedication, passion, and the countless ways you make a difference in and beyond the classroom.
#NationalTeacherDay #ThankATeacher #EducationMatters #Gratitude
Today we celebrate the educators who inspire, guide, and empower students every day. Teachers do so much more than teach—they encourage curiosity, build confidence, and shape the future one student at a time.
Thank you for your dedication, passion, and the countless ways you make a difference in and beyond the classroom.
#NationalTeacherDay #ThankATeacher #EducationMatters #Gratitude
Due to a power outage, South Stokes High School will operate on a two-hour delay this morning.
While Duke Energy is currently estimating that power will be restored by 5:00 pm this evening, we have communicated with individuals on site who believe repairs could be completed earlier this morning.
We will continue to monitor the situation closely and will provide an update if any changes are necessary by 9:00 am.
Thank you for your understanding and flexibility.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
🍎 Not All Heroes Wear Capes—Some Teach!
It’s Teacher Appreciation Week (May 4–8, 2026), and it’s time to turn up the volume for the educators who give their all every single day.
Teachers do so much more than follow a lesson plan. They are mentors, cheerleaders, innovators, and safe harbors for our students. They don't just teach subjects; they spark curiosity and build the confidence that lasts a lifetime.
It’s Teacher Appreciation Week (May 4–8, 2026), and it’s time to turn up the volume for the educators who give their all every single day.
Teachers do so much more than follow a lesson plan. They are mentors, cheerleaders, innovators, and safe harbors for our students. They don't just teach subjects; they spark curiosity and build the confidence that lasts a lifetime.
Every Voice Deserves to be Heard
May is Speech-Language Pathology Month, a time to celebrate the incredible professionals who help people find their voice, share their thoughts, and connect with the world! 🌟
Communication is a fundamental human right, but for many, it doesn't always come easily. Whether it’s helping a toddler say their first words, supporting a student with social communication, or assisting an adult in regaining speech after a stroke, SLPs are the dedicated guides on the journey to better communication.
May is Speech-Language Pathology Month, a time to celebrate the incredible professionals who help people find their voice, share their thoughts, and connect with the world! 🌟
Communication is a fundamental human right, but for many, it doesn't always come easily. Whether it’s helping a toddler say their first words, supporting a student with social communication, or assisting an adult in regaining speech after a stroke, SLPs are the dedicated guides on the journey to better communication.
May is Better Hearing and Speech Month 👂🗣️
This month highlights the importance of communication and raising awareness about hearing, speech, and language disorders. Clear communication helps us connect, learn, and thrive every day.
If you or a loved one have concerns about hearing or speech, don’t hesitate to seek support—early care can make a meaningful difference.
Let’s raise awareness, support one another, and celebrate the power of communication.
#BetterHearingAndSpeechMonth #CommunicationMatters #HearingHealth #SpeechAwareness
This month highlights the importance of communication and raising awareness about hearing, speech, and language disorders. Clear communication helps us connect, learn, and thrive every day.
If you or a loved one have concerns about hearing or speech, don’t hesitate to seek support—early care can make a meaningful difference.
Let’s raise awareness, support one another, and celebrate the power of communication.
#BetterHearingAndSpeechMonth #CommunicationMatters #HearingHealth #SpeechAwareness
May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month 💪🏃♀️🏀
It’s the perfect time to get moving, stay active, and prioritize your health! Whether it’s a walk around the neighborhood, hitting the gym, playing your favorite sport, or trying something new—every step counts.
Physical activity not only strengthens your body, but also boosts your mood, energy, and overall well-being.
Find what you enjoy, stay consistent, and make your health a priority this month and beyond!
#PhysicalFitnessMonth #StayActive
It’s the perfect time to get moving, stay active, and prioritize your health! Whether it’s a walk around the neighborhood, hitting the gym, playing your favorite sport, or trying something new—every step counts.
Physical activity not only strengthens your body, but also boosts your mood, energy, and overall well-being.
Find what you enjoy, stay consistent, and make your health a priority this month and beyond!
#PhysicalFitnessMonth #StayActive
May is Military Appreciation Month
This month, we recognize and honor the brave men and women who have served—and continue to serve—our country. Their dedication, sacrifice, and commitment protect the freedoms we enjoy every day.
Let’s take a moment to show our gratitude to service members, veterans, and their families. Whether it’s a simple thank you, a kind gesture, or offering support, it all makes a difference. 🎖️🎗️
#MilitaryAppreciationMonth #ThankYouForYourService #SupportOurTroops
This month, we recognize and honor the brave men and women who have served—and continue to serve—our country. Their dedication, sacrifice, and commitment protect the freedoms we enjoy every day.
Let’s take a moment to show our gratitude to service members, veterans, and their families. Whether it’s a simple thank you, a kind gesture, or offering support, it all makes a difference. 🎖️🎗️
#MilitaryAppreciationMonth #ThankYouForYourService #SupportOurTroops
Happy School Principal Day 🍎📚
Today we recognize the leaders who keep our schools running strong. Principals wear many hats—mentor, problem-solver, encourager, and advocate—working every day to support students, staff, and families.
Thank you for your dedication, leadership, and commitment to creating positive learning environments where everyone can succeed.
#SchoolPrincipalDay #ThankAPrincipal #EducationLeaders #Gratitude
Today we recognize the leaders who keep our schools running strong. Principals wear many hats—mentor, problem-solver, encourager, and advocate—working every day to support students, staff, and families.
Thank you for your dedication, leadership, and commitment to creating positive learning environments where everyone can succeed.
#SchoolPrincipalDay #ThankAPrincipal #EducationLeaders #Gratitude
May is Mental Health Awareness Month 💚
Since 1949, this month has been dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and encouraging support for those experiencing mental health challenges.
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Checking in on yourself—and on others—can make a real difference. A kind word, a listening ear, or simply showing up can help someone feel seen and supported.
#MentalHealthAwarenessMonth #EndTheStigma #YouAreNotAlone
Since 1949, this month has been dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and encouraging support for those experiencing mental health challenges.
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Checking in on yourself—and on others—can make a real difference. A kind word, a listening ear, or simply showing up can help someone feel seen and supported.
#MentalHealthAwarenessMonth #EndTheStigma #YouAreNotAlone
