‘Stixers’ drumline stops by Camden school to get students into the rhythm of a new year

The Philadelphia 76ers drumline, the Stixers, led a pep rally to start the school year off at Creative Arts Morgan Village Academy in Camden, N.J.
The Philadelphia 76ers drumline, the Stixers, led a pep rally to start the school year off at Creative Arts Morgan Village Academy in Camden, N.J. Photo credit Mike Dougherty/KYW Newsradio

CAMDEN, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — Summer is officially over for students in South Jersey. It’s the first day of school in many districts, including Camden. The Philadelphia 76ers drumline, the Stixers, led a pep rally to get things going at a middle school there.

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Students at Creative Arts Morgan Village Academy walked into a lively environment on their first day of school, flanked by drummers and cheers. Seventh grader Faith Davis said she has set some big goals for herself this year.

Eighth grader Zahira Dredden says her summer was great, but she’s ready to get back on the grind.

“My goal is to try to make honor roll and perfect attendance,” Dredden said.

She says math is her biggest weakness, so she will be spending more time on that.

“To get honor roll every marking period. I wanna feel proud of myself this year,” Davis said.

Students met a number of city officials who grew up in the city, including Mayor Vic Carstarphen. He said it’s important to show the kids that success is within reach.

“It reinforces that you can look at individuals who come from where you come from, and you follow the same path, and good things are going to happen for you,” Carstarphen said. “So we’re always up for that challenge.”

Superintendent Katrina McCombs said it’s great having the students back in school, and she’s ready for what she hopes is the best year ever for them.

“They are loved and supported and protected by many, because we want them to feel safe and to feel valued and to be challenged for the future,” McCombs said.

Davis said seeing the mayor, superintendent and County Commissioner Al Dyer at her school gives her confidence that her hard work will pay off down the road. For now, she said, she is focused on improving her reading comprehension and handwriting skills.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Mike Dougherty/KYW Newsradio