Live Feed | Lincoln County Schools

Calling all LCS 10th graders interested in a future in healthcare.

Join us for the Health Academy Open House at Gaston College’s Lincoln Campus on March 4 from 12–2 p.m. Students will learn more about healthcare pathways, explore hands-on training opportunities, and see how they can get a head start on a high-demand career.

Interested students should speak with their school counselor to sign up.

#WeAreLINCOLN #CareerReady

about 2 hours ago, LCS Communications

Another LCS Love Story:

Jason and Anna’s story began in 1985 when Jason’s family moved back to Lincolnton and their families attended the same church. Though they started at different elementary schools—Jason at Asbury and Anna at Iron Station—their paths crossed at G.E. Massey for 5th and 6th grades. Jason later graduated from Lincolnton High School, and Anna finished at West Lincoln High School, their lives continuing to weave in and out of one another over the years.

On April 22, 2006, a rainy spring day, they were married by Jason’s grandfather at Emmanuel Lutheran Church—a meaningful beginning surrounded by family, faith, and deep roots in their community.

Today, Jason and Anna live in Lincolnton with their three boys on their small farm, where life is full of laughter, hard work, and simple joys. Their journey, grounded in shared history and hometown connections, continues to grow right where it all began.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCouples

about 8 hours ago, LCS Communications

A couple labeled “The Cranfords” stands together smiling in front of a green leafy backdrop. The woman wears a black dress and glasses, and the man wears a light blue suit jacket with a patterned tie. A string of pink hearts and a Lincoln County Schools Couple graphic appear at the top, with a pink caption bar reading “The Cranfords – Transportation Department and District Office.”

February is CTE Month, and this week we also celebrate FFA Week — two powerful reminders of how Career and Technical Education prepares students for real-world success.

At West Lincoln High School, students are building skills across multiple pathways. In Fashion and Textiles, students are developing precision and creativity through hands-on sewing projects. In Culinary Arts, students practice measurement, teamwork, and food science fundamentals. In Agricultural Education, students demonstrate technical skill operating equipment and mastering safety procedures. And through FFA, students grow as leaders while representing North Carolina agriculture with pride.

CTE programs connect classroom learning to future careers, industry certifications, and leadership development. These experiences prepare students to graduate ready to learn, lead, and thrive.

We are proud of the students and teachers at WLHS who make Career and Technical Education meaningful every day.

#WeAreLINCOLN #CTEMonth

about 12 hours ago, LCS Communications

Two students sit at tables using white sewing machines in a classroom. They carefully sew small pink and patterned fabric squares while scissors, thread, and printed instructions are spread across the table.

Three students wearing aprons work together in a culinary classroom. One student measures ingredients into a metal mixing bowl while another smiles and holds a small container. Eggs, measuring cups, and baking supplies are arranged on a tray.

A student drives a green tractor through a skills course marked with orange traffic cones on a gravel lot. A small trailer is attached behind the tractor, and a road work sign and truck are visible in the background.

Seven students stand between two North Carolina FFA Association banners inside a gymnasium. The students are dressed in jeans, boots, and FFA attire and smile for a group photo.

Looking to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students?

Join us for the Lincoln County Schools EC Recruitment Fair on March 19, 2026 from 5–7 PM at our Central Services Building. Meet principals, explore residency licensure pathways, interview on-site, and learn more about the strong supports in place for our EC teachers — including low caseloads, instructional coaching, compliance specialists, and a 9% supplement.

Whether you’re a recent graduate, career changer, or ready to pursue residency licensure, we would love to connect with you.

Register using the QR code or visit www.lincoln.k12.nc.us

#WeAreLINCOLN #TeachInNC

1 day ago, LCS Communications

Graphic explaining Residency Teacher Licensure for North Carolina. Headline reads “Residency Teacher Licensure.” Text explains it is a one-year license, renewable twice, and replaces the lateral entry license. Requirements include: holding a bachelor’s degree with a 2.7 GPA; completing 24 hours of coursework in the requested licensure area or passing required NCSBE content exams; enrollment in a recognized Educator Preparation Program (EPP); and meeting additional State Board pre-service requirements. Event reminder included: EC Teacher Recruitment Fair, March 19, 2026, Lincoln County Schools Central Services, 5–7 PM. A QR code and “Register Now” button appear at the bottom.

Graphic titled “Teachers Wanted: Why Lincoln? Why Now?” promoting benefits of teaching EC in Lincoln County Schools. Highlights include: Low Caseloads (average EC caseload is 20), Teacher Support with coaching and differentiated professional development, 9% yearly supplement, Compliance Specialists who support referrals and IEP development, and Instructional Coaches who assist with specially designed instruction and co-teaching models. Event reminder: EC Recruitment Fair, March 19, 2026, Lincoln County Schools Central Services Building, 5–7 PM. QR code and “Register Now” button included.

We’re growing our team at Lincoln County Schools.

New positions are now posted, including leadership, maintenance, child nutrition, and coaching opportunities across the district. If you’re passionate about serving students and making a difference in our community, we invite you to apply.

View full job descriptions and apply online at https://lcsnc.schoolspring.com/

Join us and be part of something meaningful. #WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCareers

1 day ago, LCS Communications

Last week, Dr. Aaron Allen started the morning at Iron Station Elementary in full duck attire—complete with bright yellow feathers and earmuffs—welcoming students with smiles and high-fives as they headed into class.

This morning, he took things to a whole new level at North Lincoln High School, greeting students in an inflatable blue anglerfish costume by the front entrance. Yes, complete with fins, teeth, and a glowing light.

From elementary car rider lines to high school bus arrivals, Dr. Allen is always finding creative ways to connect with students and bring a little extra joy to the start of the school day. Sometimes leadership looks like a suit and tie. Sometimes it looks like a duck… or a deep-sea fish.

It’s all about showing up for students—wherever they are.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LincolnCountySchools

1 day ago, LCS Communications

A staff member wearing an inflatable yellow duck costume with black earmuffs stands under a school awning greeting three elementary students as they arrive in the morning. The children, wearing winter coats and colorful backpacks, walk toward the entrance on a covered walkway. The school building with red trim and classroom windows is visible in the background in early morning light.

A staff member wearing an inflatable blue anglerfish costume stands outside a school entrance near the bus loop. The costume features large white teeth and a yellow light on top. The staff member stands beside another adult holding a coffee mug while school buses and students arriving for the day are visible in the background.

Here is today's LCS Bestie story:

Crystal and Bri first met in 2012 when Bri was hired at Rock Springs Elementary as a 3rd grade teacher—stepping into the classroom Crystal had just left after moving up to 5th grade. What started as a simple timing coincidence at work quickly turned into the beginning of a forever friendship.

Since then, they’ve been basically inseparable. They even started a Bunco group—although it’s much less about Bunco and much more about a group of girlfriends finding any excuse to be together as often as possible.

Over the last 12 years, they’ve shared it all—weddings, baby showers, birthdays, and every big and small life moment in between. Now Crystal teaches Bri’s kids, and Bri’s daughter passes down clothes to Crystal’s daughters, which pretty much proves this friendship has officially gone full circle and full family.

Not only do they choose to spend their free time together, but they also get to spend their days side by side at school. With Bri teaching 3rd grade and Crystal serving as the AIG specialist, they plan lessons, collaborate, support each other, and find ways to laugh through even the busiest days. Getting to work together has been just as special as getting to do life together.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSBesties

1 day ago, LCS Communications

Two Rock Springs Elementary educators, Brianna Yacos and Crystal Ryczek, stand smiling side by side in a school hallway decorated with student artwork. A banner of pink hearts hangs above them, and colorful “Ballin’ in 2026” student drawings are clipped along the wall behind them. A pink caption bar at the bottom reads their names and school.

It’s National FFA Week, and we’re proud to celebrate our students who are developing leadership skills, career readiness, and a passion for agriculture through FFA programs across Lincoln County Schools. Thank you to our advisors and community partners who help create meaningful, hands-on learning experiences for our students.

#WeAreLINCOLN #NationalFFAWeek

1 day ago, LCS Communications

February 23–27 is Public Schools Week, a time to celebrate the impact of public education and the students, staff, and families who make our schools strong. Public schools create opportunities, build community, and prepare students for success in every path they choose. We are proud of the work happening every day across Lincoln County Schools.

#WeAreLINCOLN #PublicSchoolsWeek

2 days ago, LCS Communications

Bronze medal and making history!

Lauren T., ELHS student, is the first-ever Lincoln County Schools student to compete in the FCCLA Baking & Pastry Competition at Johnson & Wales University — and she brought home a bronze medal.

In under three hours, Lauren was tasked with baking cookies, muffins, decorating a cake, and preparing a pastry — all while competing against some of the best student bakers in the region.

We are so proud of her skill, focus, and determination. Congratulations, Lauren, on representing Lincoln County with excellence.

#WeAreLINCOLN #CTEExcellence

3 days ago, LCS Communications

A LCS Love Story:

Chris and Jennifer’s story began at Appalachian State University during the 2003–2004 school year, when they were both working for University Recreation. While an early dinner invitation didn’t quite seal the deal, Jennifer did say yes to a movie night at the dollar theater on King Street to see Bad Santa — and from that night on, the two were inseparable.

Chris proposed in April 2004, and they were married that December. Right after the wedding, Jennifer began her teaching career at East Lincoln High School in January, while Chris stayed in Boone to finish his role as Intramural Coordinator at App State. For the first six months of married life, they met halfway in Hickory once a week for dinner and spent weekends together — proving that long-distance, even as newlyweds, was no match for their commitment.

The following summer, Chris moved to Lincolnton — Jennifer’s hometown — and began teaching at Pumpkin Center Middle School in August 2005 as they started building their family together.

Now, 21 years later, they’re raising two boys (one a college freshman and one a high school sophomore) and are still proudly serving students in Lincoln County Schools — a love story that started in Boone and continues right here at home.

3 days ago, LCS Communications

Close-up photo of a smiling couple taking a selfie indoors, with framed pictures visible on the wall behind them. A banner of pink hearts across the top reads “Lincoln County Schools couple.” A pink label at the bottom reads, “The Kolasinskis – East Lincoln Middle and District Office.”

BATTLE OF THE BOOKS

Students from 12 elementary schools read 16 books each to prepare for this year’s Battle of the Books competition — and their hard work showed.

After an exciting quiz-bowl-style tournament, congratulations to Union Elementary for winning the 2026 Lincoln County Schools Elementary Battle of the Books competition for the third year in a row.

Second place: St. James Elementary
Third place: Rock Springs Elementary

Union Elementary will advance to the regional competition this Spring.

We are incredibly proud of every student who committed to months of reading, teamwork, and preparation to reach this level of competition.

Union Elementary Team
Coaches: Mandy Randall, Katie Lynch, Anne Dixon
Team Members: Darcy B., Eva B., Carson C., Gemma G., Faith H., Maddox H., Elliot K., Kayleigh R., Tessa S., Harper W., Mary Y.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSBattleOfTheBooks

4 days ago, LCS Communications

A large digital display screen shows a colorful graphic reading “Elementary Battle of the Books” with the date February 20, 2026. The design features illustrated bookshelves filled with books and small plants on both sides.

Students from Union Elementary wearing matching gray team shirts stand on stage with medals around their necks, holding a championship plaque. Several adult coaches stand with them. The Lincoln County Schools “Educating the Future” backdrop is displayed behind the group.

Another elementary school team in matching blue Battle of the Books shirts stands on stage with medals around their necks. Two adult coaches stand at the ends of the group. The Lincoln County Schools “Educating the Future” backdrop is visible behind them.

A group of elementary students wearing matching blue Battle of the Books shirts stand on a stage with medals around their necks. They are joined by two adult coaches. Behind them is a Lincoln County Schools backdrop with the phrase “Educating the Future.”

Flashback Friday: Former student, current staff.

Meet Mrs. Erika Taylor Beard, a proud graduate of Lincoln County Schools who is now an English teacher at North Lincoln High School. Erika attended G.E. Massey, Pumpkin Center Elementary & Middle, and North Lincoln High, and says her third-grade teacher, Mrs. Dixon, inspired her to pursue a career in education through the positive and caring classroom she created.

Today, Mrs. Beard is paying that inspiration forward by teaching and encouraging the next generation of Knights. When asked what she loves most about her job, she says, “I love that I get to teach so many amazing young people and see them go on to chase their dreams.”

#WeAreLINCOLN #FlashbackFriday

4 days ago, LCS Communications

Another LCS Bestie Story!

Laura and Maria met in 7th grade at West Lincoln Middle School, and from that moment on, their lives became intertwined. They made countless memories throughout high school, spending weekends cruising through downtown Lincolnton and staying active in their church youth groups. They also shared a love for music, both playing mellophone in the West Lincoln Marching Rebels.

After graduating from West Lincoln High School in 1994, they went their separate ways for college—Laura to Chapel Hill and Maria to Appalachian State. That separation didn’t last long. When Laura transferred to App State her sophomore year, the two became roommates and picked up right where they left off.

After college, they began their teaching careers—Laura at Tuttle Middle School and Maria at East Lincoln Middle School—and continued walking through every stage of life side by side. They have stood beside one another as Maid and Matron of Honor, watched their children grow up together, and created new traditions as their families have grown. Every fall, they can still be found camping together and making time for what matters most.

Today, Laura teaches 7th grade at West Lincoln Middle School, and Maria serves as a Communities In Schools Student Support Specialist at North Lincoln Middle School. Nearly 36 years later, their friendship is still going strong—a bond that began, and continues, because of Lincoln County Schools.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSBesties

4 days ago, LCS Communications

Two smiling women take a selfie together inside a grocery store aisle lined with snacks. A graphic overlay reads “Lincoln County Schools Besties” with small pink hearts across the top. A pink banner at the bottom identifies them as “Maria Childers and Laura Warren – West Lincoln and North Lincoln Middle Schools.”

It was a striking day at Pin Station in Newton as our students participated in Special Olympics bowling. From every grade level, our athletes showed off their skills, supported one another, and celebrated every pin knocked down. We are so proud of the determination and sportsmanship displayed by all our participants.

#WeAreLINCOLN
#SpecialOlympics

5 days ago, LCS Communications

A busy bowling alley scene during a Special Olympics event. In the foreground, a young girl in a bright pink hoodie stands near a black bowling ramp. To her left, a boy in a black hoodie leans forward to watch his red bowling ball roll down the lane. Many other students and adults are visible in the background.

A young boy wearing a green Catawba Springs Elementary t-shirt and a name tag stands at the top of a bowling lane. He is looking down intently as he holds a bright red bowling ball with both hands, preparing to place it on a black metal bowling ramp.

A student in a tan jersey with the number 23 cheers with his arms outstretched while walking back from the bowling lane. In the background, teachers and volunteers stand by the lanes, one with a hand on a student's back, while pins are visible at the end of the multiple lanes.

A male volunteer in a red t-shirt leans down to speak to a student in a green shirt at a bowling alley. The volunteer has his hand on the student's back in a supportive gesture. Other students and adults are seated in the foreground, watching the activity on the lanes.

There is nothing quite like the energy of a 1st grade classroom during reading groups. From focused independent reading on the rug to collaborative lessons with Mrs. McArthur, these Catawba Springs Elementary students are working hard and having fun. We love seeing our students develop a lifelong love for learning.

#WeAreLINCOLN
#CatawbaSpringsElementary

5 days ago, LCS Communications

A female teacher with her hair in a bun sits at a wooden table, pointing to a page in a book while speaking to a young girl in a purple hoodie. The background features a whiteboard with handwritten vocabulary words like smart and gullible.

High-angle view of two students sitting in blue plastic floor chairs on a green rug with colorful rectangular patterns. Both students are focused on reading their own books.

A young girl with her hair in two buns smiles at the camera while holding a stack of books with a whale illustration on the cover. Other students are in the background of the classroom, which includes a teal bookshelf and a red backpack hanging on the wall.

A teacher gestures with both hands while sitting at a table with four students. One student has their head down on the table, another is looking at the teacher with hands near their face, and two others sit with their backs to the camera. A digital clock on a screen in the background shows the time 14:15.

LCS Besties Feature — From Mountaineers to #WeAreLINCOLN
Some friendships are written into your story long before you even realize it.

Sheila and Denise Wright are sisters who both attended West Lincoln High School, along with Kathryn Graham. The three later headed to Appalachian State University, where another future LCS colleague, Shanti, joined them after moving from Michigan to attend App State.

During Marching Mountaineers band camp, Kathryn became Shanti’s very first friend in NC. Kathryn was rooming with Sheila, and before long, the three were inseparable. When Denise later arrived at App State, she quickly became part of the group, and countless memories were made in Boone that turned a college friendship into a lifelong bond.

Years later, that friendship came full circle when all four found themselves working in Lincoln County Schools.

Today, Sheila serves as an assistant principal at Pumpkin Center Primary, Denise is a first-grade teacher at Norris Childers Elementary, Kathryn is a fourth-grade teacher at St. James Elementary, and Shanti is the Director of Communications and Media Services for Lincoln County Schools.

From high school and college memories to serving students across the district, their story is a reminder that the relationships we build along the way often shape where we end up — and sometimes bring us back together in the very place we’re meant to be.

6 days ago, LCS Communications

Four adults sit together at a wooden table inside a restaurant, smiling at the camera. Drinks and a small tray are on the table. Behind them is a framed wall picture and wood paneling. From left to right, they wear a patterned black top, a green cardigan over a patterned blouse, a black sweatshirt with pink lettering, and a blue sweater. Heart graphics and the text “Lincoln County Schools besties” appear across the top. A pink banner at the bottom reads “Kathryn Graham, Sheila Wright, Shanti Clancy, and Denise Wright” and “St. James, Pumpkin Primary, District Office, Childers Elementary.”

Ready, set, Kindergarten! Registration for the 2026-2027 school year begins today. Don't wait to register your child for this exciting new chapter. Help us spread the word to neighbors and friends with rising kindergarteners. Detailed information and registration links can be found on our district homepage: www.lcsnc.org

#WeAreLINCOLN #ClassOf2039

6 days ago, LCS Communications

2026-2027 Kindergarten Registration. Ready, set...KINDERGARTEN! Registration for the 2026-2027 school year is officially open! We can't wait to welcome our newest little learners to the Lincoln County Schools family. Don't wait—secure your spot today. The image features a colorful illustration of a school building, a playground with slides, and three diverse children with backpacks standing on a green lawn under a blue sky with a sun and clouds.

Professional development was in full swing today at Pumpkin Center Primary and various locations across the district. Our teachers spent the day collaborating, reviewing data, and exploring new digital resources to support student success. We are proud of the dedication our educators show in their continuous pursuit of excellence in teaching.

#WeAreLINCOLN
#ContinuousImprovement

7 days ago, LCS Communications

Five female educators sitting and standing around a classroom table during a professional development session. Two women are looking at laptops, while others examine printed documents. The classroom background features bookshelves, a window with colorful bunting, and educational posters.

A group of teachers engaged in a collaborative meeting at a long table. They are reviewing paper documents and using laptops. A woman in a rust-colored cardigan looks toward a colleague. The background shows a classroom sink area, a refrigerator with photos, and polka-dot wall decorations.

A close-up view from behind a teacher with long dark hair wearing a red sweater, sitting across from a colleague in a tan shirt. They are both looking at laptop screens displaying digital documents and spreadsheets. A large "Be Kind" tote bag sits on the floor next to them.

A wide shot of a classroom filled with teachers seated at tables for a presentation. A facilitator stands at the front of the room near a large digital display screen that reads "Where is it..." and shows screenshots of a website. The room is organized with bins of books and educational posters on the walls.

Lincoln County Schools is proud to offer the CTE Internship Program, providing students with work-based learning experiences that directly relate to their classroom instruction. To participate, students must be a Junior or Senior and be currently enrolled in or have previously completed a CTE course. This program allows students to increase skill development, gain real work experience, engage in professional networking, and build their resumes. For more information on how to apply, please reach out to the Career Development Coordinator at your school.

#WeAreLINCOLN #CareerTechnicalEducation

7 days ago, LCS Communications