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
2 months ago, LCS Communications
Graphic with a pink border and an aerial photo of a Lincoln County Schools campus in the background. The Lincoln County Schools logo appears at the top left, and a green banner with the word “NEW” overlays the headline “JOBS POSTED.” Listed positions include: Coordinator of Athletics, Safety, and Custodial Services (Operations Department); Locksmith/General Maintenance Technician (Maintenance Department); Child Nutrition Manager (Union Elementary); Director of Administrative Services/Principal (Lincoln County School of Technology); Track Varsity Head Coach – Women’s Team (North Lincoln High, spring season); and Track Assistant Coach – Women’s Team (East Middle, spring season). The bottom reads “APPLY ONLINE” with the link https://lcsnc.schoolspring.com/ .
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
2 months 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
2 months 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
2 months ago, LCS Communications
On a white background, the blue and gold National FFA emblem appears on the left, featuring an eagle, shield, plow, owl, and rising sun with the words “Agricultural Education FFA.” On the right, blue text reads “National FFA Week” with a red line underneath, and the Lincoln County Schools logo appears below the text.
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 months ago, LCS Communications
Three middle school students walk down a school hallway lined with lockers, smiling and carrying backpacks and lunch bags. Other students are visible in the background. In the top right corner, a graphic reads “Public Schools Week” with an open book icon. The Lincoln County Schools logo appears in the lower left corner.
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
2 months ago, LCS Communications
A student wearing a black chef’s jacket stands in front of a Johnson & Wales University backdrop with a university seal displayed behind her. She is wearing a bronze medal around her neck and stands with hands clasped in front of her, smiling proudly. A blue tablecloth in front of her displays the Johnson & Wales University logo and “Charlotte Campus.”
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.
2 months 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
2 months 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
2 months ago, LCS Communications
Promotional graphic titled “LCS Former Student, Current Staff — Flashback Friday.” On the left, labeled “Then,” is a childhood school photo of a young girl sitting in a chair and reading a book in front of a bookshelf backdrop. On the right, labeled “Now,” is a professional portrait of an adult woman with long dark hair wearing a light-colored top and a headband, smiling at the camera. The right photo is outlined in red; the left photo is outlined in black. Text identifies her as “Mrs. Erika Taylor Beard.” Additional text explains that she attended G.E. Massey, Pumpkin Center Elementary & Middle, and North Lincoln High School, and is now an English teacher at North Lincoln High who was inspired by her third-grade teacher and loves working with students and seeing them pursue their dreams. Lincoln County Schools logo appears in the top right corner.
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
2 months 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
2 months 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
2 months 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.
2 months 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
2 months 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
2 months 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
2 months ago, LCS Communications
Lincoln County Schools logo with a red apple. CTE INTERNSHIP PROGRAM. A CTE Internship is a work based learning experience related to classroom instruction. Must be a Junior or Senior. Must be currently enrolled or have had a CTE course. Bulleted list with checkmarks: Increase skill development, Real work experience, Professional networking, Build your resume. Photos: A student in black scrubs using a stethoscope to take a blood pressure reading, and a student working under the hood of a car. Reach out to the Career Development Coordinator at your school for more information. Career and Technical Education CTE logo.
Another LCS Love Story!

Brett and Taylor’s story started long before college, careers, and kids. It started in seventh grade. Brett had a reputation for lots of girlfriends, but by eighth grade he asked Taylor “out,” and they dated for a bit… until an unfortunate haircut ended the relationship. Once the haircut improved, they found their way back to each other in ninth grade.

In tenth grade, they went on their first official date in 2010, and from there, their story really took off. They attended Appalachian State University together, got engaged their senior year in 2015, and were married after graduating in 2016.

From 2017 to 2021, both worked at East Lincoln High School, where Brett taught math and Taylor supported students who needed it most. Taylor says marrying Brett was the best decision she has ever made. She describes him as a devoted husband and father who works incredibly hard and loves his family even harder.

Brett would like the record to show that the haircut “was not that bad,” and that he knew early on he had something special. He says Taylor is not only an amazing wife and mom to Nell and Sully, but someone who genuinely changes lives through the way she cares for her students. He’s confident Counselor of the Year is in her future.

From middle school hallways to college classrooms, from coworkers to parents, Brett and Taylor’s journey is one built on friendship, growth, and a whole lot of love. Their story is a reminder that sometimes the best partnerships are the ones that grow with you every step of the way.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCouples
2 months ago, LCS Communications
A family of four stands in front of a colorful balloon arch and a festive backdrop with stars and hearts. Two adults stand in the center, each holding a young child. The adult on the left wears a light shirt and cap and holds a child in a green outfit, and the adult on the right wears a light patterned dress and holds a child wearing glasses and denim overalls. Heart graphics and the text “Lincoln County Schools couple” appear across the top. A pink banner at the bottom reads “The Bowens” and “East Lincoln and Lincolnton High Schools.”
We love welcoming new team members to Lincoln County Schools.

We are currently hiring for positions across the district, including instructional, custodial, transportation, and coaching roles. If you or someone you know is looking to make a difference in the lives of students, we encourage you to apply.

View current openings and apply online at https://lcsnc.schoolspring.com/

Join us and be part of something meaningful. #WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCareers
2 months ago, LCS Communications
Graphic with a pink border and heart designs over an aerial photo of a school campus. Text reads: “Lincoln County Schools – We ♥ New Employees!” Listed positions include: Temporary Teacher Assistant (3.2.26–6.1.26) at North Brook Elementary; Head Custodian at Love Memorial Elementary; Temporary Teacher (CTE: Career Explorations) at East Lincoln Middle; Head Football Coach at East Lincoln Middle; Custodian (4 hr) and Bus Driver (4 hr) at West Lincoln High; Track Assistant Coaches (2) – girls and boys at East Lincoln Middle. Bottom text reads: “APPLY ONLINE https://lcsnc.schoolspring.com/”
Our talented middle and high school musicians represented Lincoln County Schools with excellence at Friday’s All-County Band performance.

Students from across the district came together to rehearse, collaborate, and perform under the direction of guest conductors, showcasing both their individual skills and the power of a unified ensemble. The dedication required to prepare music at this level is impressive, and their performance reflected hours of focused practice and teamwork.

We are proud of these students and grateful to our band directors for the leadership and support they provide every day.

#WeAreLINCOLN
2 months ago, LCS Communications
A large high school concert band performs on a stage under bright lights. Students dressed in formal black attire sit in semicircle rows holding instruments including clarinets, flutes, trumpets, and tubas. A conductor stands on a podium facing the musicians with baton raised. Audience members sit in the foreground watching the performance.
A middle school concert band performs on stage beneath concert lighting. Students wearing red, blue, green, and black school shirts sit in rows with music stands and instruments, including clarinets, flutes, and brass. A conductor stands on a podium leading the ensemble. An audience is seated in the foreground observing the performance.
Special Olympics Lincoln County Swim Practice begins February 27 and runs through May 25, 2026. Practices will be held Fridays from 5:00–7:00 PM and Mondays from 6:00–7:00 PM. Participants must be registered online and must be able to swim. For more information, contact Judy Wooten at 704-473-8382, Coach Terri Reel at 704-530-6435, or Lisa Frazier, Local Coordinator.

#WeAreLINCOLN #SpecialOlympics

2 months ago, LCS Communications
Colorful promotional flyer for Special Olympics Lincoln County Swim Practice. Bold text reads “SWIM PRACTICE” over a blue pool background with lane markers at the top. Schedule states practices run February 27–May 25, 2026 on Fridays 5:00–7:00 PM and Mondays 6:00–7:00 PM. Notice reads, “You must be registered online and you must be able to swim.” Contact information lists Judy Wooten 704-473-8382, Coach Terri Reel 704-530-6435, and Lisa Frazier, Local Coordinator. Logos for Special Olympics Lincoln County and United Way of Lincoln County appear at the top. Illustration at bottom shows two swimmers practicing in a pool with goggles.