This week, we celebrate School Social Work Week.

Our school social workers serve as advocates, problem-solvers, and trusted supports for students and families. They help remove barriers to learning, connect families with resources, and ensure students feel safe, supported, and ready to succeed.

Thank you to our Lincoln County Schools social workers for the compassion, expertise, and dedication you bring to our schools each and every day.

#WeAreLINCOLN #SchoolSocialWorkWeek
about 2 months ago, LCS Communications
Graphic reading “Happy School Social Work Week – March 1–7, 2026.” The School Social Work Association of America logo appears in the top left corner and the words “Unite to Ignite” with a colorful human figure logo appear in the top right. The bottom of the image shows a diverse group of illustrated people holding hearts.
Music connects us. It builds discipline, teamwork, creativity, and confidence — and it brings our schools together in powerful ways.

During Music In Our Schools Month, we celebrate the students who practice with dedication, the directors who inspire excellence, and the programs that give every child a chance to find their voice.

From band rooms to concert stages, Lincoln County Schools is proud to be United Through Music.

#WeAreLINCOLN #MusicInOurSchools
about 2 months ago, LCS Communications
Students seated in a music classroom play brass instruments, including trombones and trumpets, while reading from black music stands. A colorful poster with a large treble clef and musical notes hangs on the wall in the background. In the top right corner, a graphic reads “United Through Music – Music In Our Schools Month.” The bottom of the image includes a Lincoln County Schools script logo.
Here’s a look at important dates for March 2026 in Lincoln County Schools. Please mark your calendars for student holidays, our Board of Education meeting, and report cards.

March 3 – No School for Students
March 9 – No School for Students
March 10 – School Board Meeting at 6 p.m.
March 20 – Report Cards

We appreciate your partnership as we head into a busy spring season.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCalendar
about 2 months ago, LCS Communications
Graphic styled like lined notebook paper with a black header reading “March 2026.” The Lincoln County Schools logo appears at the top with a green shamrock and red apple. Listed dates include: March 3 – No School for Students; March 9 – No School for Students; March 10 – School Board Meeting at 6 p.m.; March 20 – Report Cards.
Taylor and Haley’s story began in 2019 at Shelby Middle School, where both were teaching. Taylor had just moved back to the area from Colorado and was eager to get involved in athletics and coaching at SMS. Haley had already been at the school for several years and was serving as the Athletic Director, so when Taylor reached out about coaching opportunities, a meeting was scheduled.

What started as a professional conversation quickly turned into something more when they realized how much they had in common. Not long after that meeting, they went on their first date at the Apple Festival in Hendersonville — and the rest moved quickly from there. They were engaged by Thanksgiving of 2019 and married in October 2020. Today, they are proud parents of one son and are eagerly awaiting the arrival of their second child in just a few short months.

Taylor, a graduate of East Lincoln High School, had always hoped to return to the district that gave him so many opportunities as a student. When he saw an opening to teach English and coach at North Lincoln High under one of his former administrators, he knew it was the perfect fit. Around the same time, Haley took a leap of faith of her own, stepping into school administration after earning her degree and moving beyond the classroom and coaching.

Now both serving in Lincoln County Schools, Taylor and Haley are grateful for the paths that brought them back to this community and are excited to continue building their careers — and their family — right here for many years to come.

#WeAreLINCOLN #StaffLoveStory
about 2 months ago, LCS Communications
A couple stands on a porch holding a young child between them, smiling at the camera. An American flag hangs behind them, and pastel beach houses line the street in the background. A pink banner across the bottom reads “The Hoyles – North Lincoln High and Asbury Academy,” and a heart garland with the text “Lincoln County Schools couple” appears across the top of the image.
Iron Station Elementary’s own Rhonda West has been recognized as Lincoln County Schools’ Bus Driver of the Month for February.

Rhonda goes above and beyond each day to ensure our students arrive safely and feel welcomed from the moment they step onto her bus. Her dedication, consistency, and care make a meaningful difference for families and schools across our district.

We are grateful for the commitment and heart she brings to her role each and every day. Congratulations, Rhonda, and thank you for representing Iron Station and LCS so well.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSBusDrivers
about 2 months ago, LCS Communications
A smiling woman and man stand together in an elementary classroom. The woman holds a white sign that reads “Lincoln County Schools School Bus Driver of the Month Works Here!” Students sit at desks in the background. Colorful classroom decorations and hanging paper lanterns are visible.
Reminder for Lincoln County Schools families:

There will be no school for students on March 3 due to school sites being used as polling locations, and March 9 due to a scheduled teacher workday.

We appreciate our educators using this time for planning, collaboration, and professional responsibilities that support student learning.

We look forward to welcoming students back after each workday.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCalendar
about 2 months ago, LCS Communications
Graphic with a grid-paper background featuring two yellow pencils placed diagonally across the image. Large black text reads “NO SCHOOL” and “MAR. 3 & 9.” A box at the bottom says “TEACHER WORKDAYS.” The Lincoln County Schools logo appears in the top left corner.
MIDDLE SCHOOL BATTLE OF THE BOOKS

Four middle schools read 20 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 North Lincoln Middle School for winning the 2026 Lincoln County Schools Middle School Battle of the Books competition for the second year in a row.

Second place: West Lincoln Middle School
Third place: Lincolnton Middle School

North Lincoln Middle will advance to the regional competition next month.

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

North Lincoln Middle School Team
Coaches: Annette Heavner, Caitlin Grigg, and Dawn Risse
Team Members: Haley B., Polina F., Ethan H., Graysen H., Abbie L., Mac L., Zyela M., Frankie P., Sarabeth P., Juliana W., Leena W., and Owen W.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSLearns
about 2 months ago, LCS Communications
A digital display screen reads “Middle School Battle of the Books – February 27, 2026” with an illustration of stacked books on the left side.
Another middle school team wearing dark green and black shirts pose together with medals in front of a Lincoln County Schools backdrop. Two adult coaches stand at each end of the group.
A team of middle school students dressed in black shirts with a school emblem stand together wearing medals. An adult coach stands beside them in front of a Lincoln County Schools backdrop.
Middle school students wearing black “Reading Is My Jam” shirts pose with medals around their necks in front of a Lincoln County Schools backdrop. An adult coach stands at the side of the group.
Group of middle school students wearing matching blue “Reading Over Everything” shirts stand in front of a Lincoln County Schools backdrop. Several students wear medals, and one student holds a large championship plaque while another holds a trophy. Two adult coaches stand on either side of the group.
Flashback Friday: former student, current staff.

Meet Mrs. Heather Brumbalow Jordan, a proud Lincoln County Schools graduate who now serves as a teacher assistant and bus driver at Catawba Springs Elementary. She attended Catawba Springs, East Middle, and East High, and still remembers the teachers who made learning fun and meaningful along the way.

Mrs. Jordan chose to work in our schools so she could be present for her own children and support students across the classroom, playground, and bus. Her favorite part of the job is building relationships and being a safe, trusted adult for students each day.

#WeAreLINCOLN #FlashbackFriday
about 2 months ago, LCS Communications
Graphic titled “LCS Former Student, Current Staff — Flashback Friday.” On the left is a black-and-white childhood school photo of a young girl labeled “Then.” On the right is a current color staff portrait of the same person labeled “Now.” The current photo shows Mrs. Heather Brumbalow Jordan, a teacher assistant and bus driver at Catawba Springs Elementary, wearing a leopard-print top and smiling. Arrows point from the childhood photo to the current photo. Text on the graphic explains that she attended Catawba Springs, East Middle, and East High, and that her favorite teacher was Mrs. Parker, later Mrs. Walker, who taught her in K/1 and again in third grade. Additional text shares that Mrs. Jordan wanted to work in the school system to be close to her children and loves getting to know students and being a safe person for them.
Today's LCS Love Story:

Cale and Jennifer’s story began at the Apple Festival in 2000, when Jennifer’s cousin—who was also one of Cale’s close friends—finally succeeded in introducing them after many attempts to bring them together. From that day forward, the connection was clear, and they were married in June 2002 while both were serving as educators—Jennifer teaching fourth grade at S. Ray Lowder Elementary and Cale teaching Social Studies at East Lincoln High School.

Education has always been a shared passion. Both earned master’s degrees from Gardner-Webb University—Jennifer in Elementary Education and Cale in School Administration—and Cale later completed his doctorate. Their family grew with the arrival of three children: Caleb in 2006, Ella Kathryn in 2010, and Carter in 2011.

Throughout their careers, they have remained deeply connected to Lincoln County Schools. Jennifer has taught at S. Ray Lowder and Union Elementary, while Cale has served as principal at East Lincoln and West Lincoln High Schools, principal at LCST, CTE Director, and later Chief of Postsecondary Readiness & CTE in the Central Office. Their children have been actively involved in West Lincoln athletics—including football, baseball, golf, volleyball, and dance—and the family is rooted in their faith community at Bethphage Lutheran Church.

When Cale experienced kidney failure in 2022, Jennifer stepped into a new role with unwavering love and strength, becoming his at-home dialysis caregiver. Every other day, she prepares treatments and supports each session, a commitment that reflects the depth of their partnership and devotion to one another. Through every season, their faith, family, and shared calling in education have remained at the heart of their journey.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCouples
about 2 months ago, LCS Communications
Family photo labeled “The Sains” featuring five people standing together in front of a decorated doorway with holiday greenery. All are dressed in red and festive clothing and smiling at the camera. A string of pink hearts and a Lincoln County Schools Couple graphic appear at the top, and a pink caption bar reads “The Sains – Union Elementary and District Office.”
Volunteers Needed for LCS MIDDLE SCHOOL Careers on Wheels!

Lincoln County Schools is rolling out the wheels for our annual Careers on Wheels mobile career fair at East Lincoln Middle, North Lincoln Middle, and Lincolnton Middle! (West Middle had theirs in the fall)

This exciting event gives all 4th and 7th-graders across LCS the chance to explore career pathways, ask questions, and even check out real work vehicles.

We’re looking for community volunteers who are willing to invest their time, talent, and vehicles—whether at all four schools or just the ones that fit your schedule. Help us inspire the next generation!

Event Schedule:

Setup: 7:30 AM

Students Visit: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM

Wrap-Up: 1:00 PM

Locations:

Monday, March 23rd – Lincolnton Middle

Tuesday, March 24th – East Lincoln Middle

Thursday, March 26th – North Lincoln Middle



What to Expect:

10–15 minutes with each class (conversation + Q&A + vehicle exploration)

No formal presentation needed—just share your career story, duties, and vehicle features!

Bring your work vehicle and expertise. (Optional: photos, tools, uniforms, small giveaways, etc.)

Help us spark curiosity, fuel dreams, and show students the many careers that keep our community rolling!

Interested? Contact:
Jennifer Queen, LCS Middle School CDC
828-238-3182 | 704-732-2261 ext. 30247
jqueen@lincoln.k12.nc.us
about 2 months ago, LCS Communications
A collage of photos from a community touch-a-truck or safety event. Images include students gathered around a sheriff’s patrol vehicle as a deputy speaks with them, a Lincoln County EMS ambulance with lights on, a Levine Cancer Institute mobile screening unit, a large black emergency response vehicle open for tours, heavy equipment including a Johnston road machine and a loader near a bright orange “Detour Ahead” road sign, and community tables set up outdoors. In the center of the collage, bold text reads “We Need Your Help” with a red megaphone graphic.
February 26 is Digital Learning Day, a time to highlight how technology supports creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking in our classrooms. From coding and design to research and problem solving, our students are building skills that prepare them for the future.

#WeAreLINCOLN #DigitalLearningDay
about 2 months ago, LCS Communications
Students sit at desktop computers in a classroom computer lab, working on screens while a projected design or coding image appears on the front wall. Over the photo are illustrated graphics and text that read “Digital Learning Day” and “Feb 26,” along with icons representing technology and learning. The Lincoln County Schools logo appears in the lower right corner.

Heather & Stu's Love Story 💗

Heather and Stu's story started long before social media, smartphones, or even profile pictures. In 1994, while Stu was studying Middle Grades Social Studies at Appalachian State and Heather was at Samford University in Birmingham, preparing to teach ELA, the two met in an online chat room — back when the internet was brand-new and you had to actually talk to get to know someone.

They spent five months chatting online before finally meeting in person, when Stu made the trip to Birmingham to meet Heather face-to-face. What started as a long-distance, dial-up connection quickly turned into something real, and after four years of dating, they were married in Lincolnton in 1998.

Both called to education, Heather and Stu built their lives around serving students and families, and they’ve also experienced Lincoln County Schools from another important perspective — as parents. Their daughter is a proud K–12 LCS graduate from Lincolnton High School and is now studying engineering at NC State.

From early internet chats to building a family rooted in education, Heather and Stu's love story proves that sometimes the best connections really do start with just a conversation — even if it’s on a very slow modem. 💕

about 2 months ago, LCS Communications
A couple stands side by side on a wooden walkway, smiling at the camera. The woman wears glasses, a red cardigan, and a floral top, resting one arm on the railing. The man has a gray beard and wears glasses and a short-sleeve plaid shirt. A string of illustrated heart garland and the words “Lincoln County Schools couple” appear at the top of the image. A pink banner at the bottom reads, “The Myerses — District Office and Retiree of Lincolnton Middle.”
Today, every fifth grader in Lincoln County Schools experienced the power of live music at the Citizens Center as they attended a performance by the North Carolina Symphony.

Students didn’t just listen — they learned. From discovering how different instruments work together to participating in an interactive lesson on musical dynamics, our students explored the meaning of forte and piano by raising their hands to demonstrate loud and soft. It was incredible to see the entire auditorium engaged in the language of music.

Experiences like this bring learning to life and give our students opportunities to connect classroom knowledge with real-world artistry.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSLearns
about 2 months ago, LCS Communications
A wide view of a packed auditorium at the Citizens Center shows hundreds of fifth-grade students from across Lincoln County Schools seated in rows. Students in dressy casual attire fill the floor and tiered seating, chatting and waiting for the performance to begin.
The North Carolina Symphony performs on stage at the Citizens Center, with musicians seated in sections playing string, brass, and percussion instruments. Fifth-grade students fill the audience, watching from the floor seats and balcony.
Hundreds of fifth-grade students seated in a large auditorium raise their hands high in the air as they participate in an interactive lesson about musical dynamics, learning the difference between forte and piano during the North Carolina Symphony performance.
A full view of the North Carolina Symphony on stage at the Citizens Center shows musicians dressed in black performing under bright stage lights, with the American and North Carolina flags positioned on either side of the stage.
Another LCS Love Story!

Alyson and Clint’s story began during the 2004–2005 school year, when Alyson was commuting every day from Rock Hill, South Carolina to West Lincoln to teach. Along the way, two different people — a coworker and a college friend of Clint’s — had the very same thought: these two need to meet.

So, they stepped in and set up a blind date… and the rest really is history.

Now, 18 years of marriage later, Alyson and Clint are raising two children and continuing to build their life together, grateful for the small moments (and helpful friends) that brought them together in the first place.
about 2 months ago, LCS Communications
Photo of a couple standing close together outdoors in a wooded area with light snow falling. Both are wearing winter jackets, and trees with snow are visible in the background. A banner of pink hearts across the top reads “Lincoln County Schools couple.” A pink label at the bottom reads, “The Spencers – West Lincoln High and Asbury Academy.”
Reminder for graduating seniors: the application window for Atrium Health’s Rise to Success program closes March 1. This program offers a pathway into health care careers by covering tuition, textbooks, fees, and scrubs while students earn an associate’s degree or certification at a local community college. Participants are also hired into entry-level positions during their studies, gaining valuable experience while they learn.

If you are interested in fields such as nursing, radiology, respiratory therapy, surgical technology, medical assisting, or medical laboratory technology, don’t miss this opportunity. Eligible applicants must be high school graduates, at least 18 by June 15, and have a minimum 3.0 GPA. Learn more and submit your application before the deadline: https://bit.ly/4q8YgDP

#WeAreLINCOLN #CareerReady
about 2 months ago, LCS Communications
Flyer for Atrium Health “Rise to Success” workforce program. Header shows Atrium Health logo and the title “Rise to Success: An Outside In, Inside Up – Atrium Health Workforce Development Program.” A teal banner reads, “OUR GOAL: Creating entry paths to health care careers through education and employment opportunities.” Text explains that the program sponsors high school graduates to earn an associate’s degree or health care certification at a local community college, with tuition, textbooks, fees, and scrubs paid by Atrium Health. Participants are hired into entry-level positions while in college and commit to work for Atrium Health during their program and one additional year after completion. Requirements listed include: high school diploma, 18 years old by June 15, minimum 3.0 GPA, and completed application materials. Example career paths include Radiology, Respiratory Therapy, Surgical Technology, Nursing, Medical Assistant, and Medical Laboratory Technology. A testimonial features Kyonnie Reyes, Imaging Patient Assistant and Northwest Cabarrus High School Class of 2023, describing how the program helped her pursue X-ray technician goals. Bottom of flyer states applications are accepted February 1 to March 1 and includes a website link and QR code.
What a powerful evening of music at the Citizens Center as our Middle School and High School All-County Honors Choruses took the stage.

Students from across Lincoln County Schools came together to rehearse, collaborate, and perform at an exceptionally high level. Their dedication, talent, and teamwork were evident in every note. Experiences like this showcase not only musical excellence, but the confidence, discipline, and unity that fine arts programs help cultivate in our students.

Thank you to our chorus directors, accompanists, clinicians, families, and community members who support music education across our district.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSFineArts
about 2 months ago, LCS Communications
A large middle school honors chorus stands on tiered risers on stage at the Citizens Center. Students wear coordinated black, green, and blue concert attire and hold black music folders while singing. A conductor stands at the front facing the group, and a pianist accompanies them on a grand piano. Stage lighting casts soft green tones on the backdrop.
A large high school honors chorus stands on risers on stage at the Citizens Center wearing formal black concert attire. Students hold black music folders and smile toward the audience. A grand piano sits at the front of the stage, and stage lighting creates a soft green glow on the backdrop.
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
2 months ago, LCS Communications
A smiling student wearing blue medical scrubs and a stethoscope stands in a clinical lab setting, holding medical supplies. Other students and hospital-style equipment are visible in the background. Overlaid text reads: “Health Academy Open House. March 4, 12–2 p.m. | Lincoln Campus.” The Gaston College logo appears at the bottom, along with text that says: “For LCS 10th graders interested in healthcare pathways. Speak with your school counselor to sign up.”
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
2 months 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
2 months 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
2 months ago, LCS Communications
Graphic promoting the Lincoln County Schools EC Recruitment Fair. The top features the Lincoln County Schools logo and #WeAreLINCOLN above bold red text reading “Recruitment Fair.” The event invites recent graduates, career changers, and individuals with a passion for teaching to explore becoming a special education teacher. Event details: March 19, 2026, from 5:00–7:00 PM at Lincoln County Schools, 201 Jeb Seagle Drive, Lincolnton, NC 28092. Phone: 704-736-1017 ext. 30134. A QR code is included to register. A “What to Expect” section lists: Networking with Principals, On-Site Interviews, Certification Support Information, Same Day Job Offers, and Appetizers & Door Prizes. Career opportunities website listed as www.lincoln.k12.nc.us .
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.