Dear Cairo Families and Friends,

It is with great pride and joy that I welcome you to the Fall issue of Pilot! This magazine is more than a collection of stories—it is a reflection of who we are as a community and the remarkable people who make Cairo schools a place of promise, care, and opportunity.

In these pages, you’ll meet students just beginning their journey, like Keree White, a fifth grader already radiating leadership, and others stepping confidently into adulthood, like Kymoni Dilworth, who is balancing high school and college through our dual credit program. 

You’ll see how Krishawn Young, Miracle Childs, and Akeylah Johnson are preparing for healthcare careers, and how Jesse Watson and Linard Thomas are gaining hands-on automotive experience that will serve them for life.

You’ll also find inspiration in the dedication of our staff. Tena Harrell’s lifetime of teaching reminds us that classrooms are built on love as much as lessons, while Jay Bennett is bringing new energy to music and tradition. Ra’Kyah Jeter is getting kids moving in PE, and our cafeteria team—Rena Holder, Doris Lowe, Paris Blake, and Joyce Ballentine—show that feeding Cairo with love goes far beyond the lunch line. Our security team and hall monitors, featured in Keeping Watch, demonstrate every day that safety and care go hand in hand.

Leadership, too, shines brightly in this issue. You’ll meet Dr. Kenneth Griffin, our new Assistant Superintendent, whose own journey of resilience inspires a long-term vision for Cairo, and Tanner Calvert, our new Assistant Athletic Director, who is determined to ensure Cairo athletes get the same chances as anyone else. Together, their commitment underscores the belief I share deeply: that education is the greatest equalizer.

Every one of these stories reflects a single truth—Cairo is a family. We face challenges, yes, but we do so with determination, creativity, and heart. Whether it’s academics, athletics, the arts, or simply the everyday kindness shown in our hallways, Cairo schools are filled with people who believe in lifting one another up.

As you turn these pages, I hope you see what I see every day: the extraordinary potential of our students, the devotion of our staff, and the unwavering support of our community. Thank you for being part of this journey with us.

With gratitude and excitement,

Dr. Pamela Rizkallah
Superintendent, Cairo USD 1