The Performance Learning Center (PLC) continued a nearly 20-year tradition today by hosting its annual Legislative Luncheon, bringing together local and state leaders, educators, and community advocates to spotlight the critical role of alternative education in transforming student lives.  

CCS Superintendent Dr. John Kopicki spoke about the importance of alternative schools like the PLC, which opened in 2008, emphasizing their value not as a last resort, but as “a lifeline.” 

“It’s a privilege to stand before you—not only as an educator and superintendent—but as someone deeply committed to the belief that every student deserves a pathway to success,” said Dr. Kopicki as he welcomed ,more than 100 guests, including PLC seniors, members of the Board of Education, representatives from the Governor’s office, municipal leaders and representatives from various community organizations who support the PLC’s mission, including Communities in Schools. 

The luncheon served as a celebration of student achievement and a call to action for continued legislative support of alternative programs. Since its opening in 2008, the PLC has graduated over 800 students—many of whom may not have completed high school without its personalized approach to learning. This year, the school expects to add 49 more graduates to that number. 

“This school offers more than just academic remediation—it offers renewed hope, restored confidence, and a clear path forward for students who, for any number of reasons, haven’t thrived in traditional settings,” said Dr. Kopicki. “This is not about lowering the bar. It’s about removing the barriers. And when we do that, students rise to meet—and often exceed—those expectations.” 

He also drew a direct connection between the PLC’s impact and district-wide improvement. “In 2008, when the school first opened, the district graduation rate was 72.9%. Last year, for the 2023–24 school year, Cabarrus County Schools achieved a graduation rate of 90.6%. That is not a coincidence.” 

Dr. Kopicki commended the work of Principal Dr. Tyrone Corlew and the entire PLC team, recognizing their creativity, resilience, and unwavering belief in their students. “The work you do every day requires an unshakeable belief in the potential of every young person who walks through your doors.” 

In his remarks to the legislators and policy leaders present, Dr. Kopicki underscored the importance of continued investment in alternative education. “Alternative schools are not ancillary to our mission—they are central to it. They keep students in school and on track to becoming contributing members of our communities. That’s not just good education policy—that’s smart public policy.” 

The annual event is planned and hosted by PLC staff -- led by Robin Stancil, a longtime PLC staff member and advocate for the school.