Planning a future in health care? Atrium Health’s Rise to Success program helps high school graduates turn that goal into a career. Through this program, students can earn an associate’s degree or certification at a local community college with tuition, textbooks, fees, and scrubs paid by Atrium Health. Participants are also hired into entry-level positions while completing their studies, gaining hands-on experience and professional connections along the way.
This opportunity is designed for motivated seniors with a 3.0 GPA or higher who are ready to begin careers in areas such as nursing, radiology, respiratory therapy, surgical technology, medical assisting, and medical laboratory technology. Applications are open now through March 1. Learn more about eligibility and apply here: https://bit.ly/4q8YgDP
#WeAreLINCOLN #CTEOpportunities
This opportunity is designed for motivated seniors with a 3.0 GPA or higher who are ready to begin careers in areas such as nursing, radiology, respiratory therapy, surgical technology, medical assisting, and medical laboratory technology. Applications are open now through March 1. Learn more about eligibility and apply here: https://bit.ly/4q8YgDP
#WeAreLINCOLN #CTEOpportunities
Not every career starts in a lecture hall. Many start with hands-on training, real equipment, and skills you can use right away.
At the Rhino Roadmap to CTE Careers Event, high school students can explore career pathways in fields like manufacturing, technology, health sciences, and more. You’ll meet instructors, see labs, and learn how career and technical education can lead directly to college credentials and jobs.
Join Gaston College on February 24, 2026 from 5:30–8 p.m. and start mapping out what’s next after high school.
Register here: https://www.gaston.edu/cte-roadmap/
#WeAreLINCOLN #FutureReady
At the Rhino Roadmap to CTE Careers Event, high school students can explore career pathways in fields like manufacturing, technology, health sciences, and more. You’ll meet instructors, see labs, and learn how career and technical education can lead directly to college credentials and jobs.
Join Gaston College on February 24, 2026 from 5:30–8 p.m. and start mapping out what’s next after high school.
Register here: https://www.gaston.edu/cte-roadmap/
#WeAreLINCOLN #FutureReady
Being responsible doesn’t always mean turning in homework or meeting deadlines. Sometimes it means taking a moment to spread kindness.
During February, our community can send Messages of Appreciation to any Lincoln County Schools staff member. Every message is printed and delivered, and these notes mean more to our staff than you may realize.
Be responsible. Spread kindness. Tell a staff member they matter.
Submit your message here: https://forms.gle/94fKaRdfUbe8HuAZ6
#WeAreLINCOLN #SpreadKindness
During February, our community can send Messages of Appreciation to any Lincoln County Schools staff member. Every message is printed and delivered, and these notes mean more to our staff than you may realize.
Be responsible. Spread kindness. Tell a staff member they matter.
Submit your message here: https://forms.gle/94fKaRdfUbe8HuAZ6
#WeAreLINCOLN #SpreadKindness
LCS Besties Feature — Alix & Jennifer
Alix and Jennifer both began their journeys at St. James in 2020, teaching third grade for the first time with classrooms directly across from each other at the end of the hall. From day one, they were inseparable — planning lessons together, popping into each other’s rooms with quick questions, dressing up for spirit weeks, and sharing plenty of laughs, hugs, and even a little friendly grade-level competition during events like Fun Run and Penny Wars.
A longtime colleague jokingly nicknamed them the “step sisters,” and before long, students were calling them “teacher besties,” a title that fit perfectly.
Even when Alix looped up to fourth grade, their connection never slowed down. They still found time for quick planning check-ins, hallway hugs when their classes passed each other, and constant encouragement through every challenge and celebration.
Though they now work in different hallways and grade levels, their bond remains just as strong, and their students still light up every time the besties reunite — proof that some school friendships are built to last.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSProud
Alix and Jennifer both began their journeys at St. James in 2020, teaching third grade for the first time with classrooms directly across from each other at the end of the hall. From day one, they were inseparable — planning lessons together, popping into each other’s rooms with quick questions, dressing up for spirit weeks, and sharing plenty of laughs, hugs, and even a little friendly grade-level competition during events like Fun Run and Penny Wars.
A longtime colleague jokingly nicknamed them the “step sisters,” and before long, students were calling them “teacher besties,” a title that fit perfectly.
Even when Alix looped up to fourth grade, their connection never slowed down. They still found time for quick planning check-ins, hallway hugs when their classes passed each other, and constant encouragement through every challenge and celebration.
Though they now work in different hallways and grade levels, their bond remains just as strong, and their students still light up every time the besties reunite — proof that some school friendships are built to last.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSProud
During National Apprenticeship Week, we are proud to spotlight East Lincoln High School student Kevin Mondragon Arenas, a first-year apprentice at Blum Inc.
Through hands-on learning and mentorship, Kevin is building real-world skills that connect the classroom to a high-demand career pathway. Apprenticeships like this give students the opportunity to earn, learn, and grow while preparing for a successful future right here in Lincoln County.
We are grateful for community partners like Blum Inc., who invest in our students and help them take the next step toward their goals.
#WeAreLINCOLN #ApprenticeshipNC
Through hands-on learning and mentorship, Kevin is building real-world skills that connect the classroom to a high-demand career pathway. Apprenticeships like this give students the opportunity to earn, learn, and grow while preparing for a successful future right here in Lincoln County.
We are grateful for community partners like Blum Inc., who invest in our students and help them take the next step toward their goals.
#WeAreLINCOLN #ApprenticeshipNC
Congratulations to WLHS Senior Cooper Boyles for his incredible achievement as a Morehead-Cain finalist and for honoring an educator who has made a lasting difference in his life.
Cooper named WLHS science teacher, Nicole Scism, as his Impact Educator, recognizing her as the teacher who has had the most profound influence on his journey. This nomination reflects the leadership, dedication, and genuine care Mrs. Scism brings to her classroom every day.
The Morehead-Cain Scholarship is the nation’s first merit-based scholarship and celebrates students and educators who inspire driven, courageous, and inquisitive leaders. We are incredibly proud to see both Cooper and Mrs. Scism representing West Lincoln High School in such a meaningful way.
Congratulations to Cooper and thank you, Mrs. Scism, for the positive impact you continue to have on our students and our school community.
#WeAreLINCOLN
Cooper named WLHS science teacher, Nicole Scism, as his Impact Educator, recognizing her as the teacher who has had the most profound influence on his journey. This nomination reflects the leadership, dedication, and genuine care Mrs. Scism brings to her classroom every day.
The Morehead-Cain Scholarship is the nation’s first merit-based scholarship and celebrates students and educators who inspire driven, courageous, and inquisitive leaders. We are incredibly proud to see both Cooper and Mrs. Scism representing West Lincoln High School in such a meaningful way.
Congratulations to Cooper and thank you, Mrs. Scism, for the positive impact you continue to have on our students and our school community.
#WeAreLINCOLN
LCS Besties Feature
Some friendships start small and grow stronger with time.
These two first met in high school through a mutual friend, never knowing that simple introduction would turn into years of shared memories, support, and trust. Through every stage of life, they have stayed connected, building a bond filled with laughter, meaningful moments, and steady encouragement along the way.
Their story is a reminder that some of the strongest relationships are built over time, rooted in loyalty, shared experiences, and always showing up for each other — both inside and outside of school.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSProud
Some friendships start small and grow stronger with time.
These two first met in high school through a mutual friend, never knowing that simple introduction would turn into years of shared memories, support, and trust. Through every stage of life, they have stayed connected, building a bond filled with laughter, meaningful moments, and steady encouragement along the way.
Their story is a reminder that some of the strongest relationships are built over time, rooted in loyalty, shared experiences, and always showing up for each other — both inside and outside of school.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSProud
Will you check yes and join our team? Lincoln County Schools is hiring for several important roles across the district, from classroom and student support positions to coaching and operations. If you are looking for a place where your work makes a difference every day, we would love to connect with you. View current openings and apply online at https://lcsnc.schoolspring.com/
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#WeAreLINCOLN #JoinLCS
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#WeAreLINCOLN #JoinLCS
February is Love the Bus Month, and the week of February 9–15 is Love the Bus Week. This is a special time to recognize and thank our incredible bus drivers and transportation staff who safely get our students to and from school each day. Their dedication, patience, and care make a difference for thousands of students across Lincoln County, and we are grateful for all they do for our school communities.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LoveTheBus
#WeAreLINCOLN #LoveTheBus
Homework assignment: spread kindness.
This February, we’re inviting students, families, coworkers, and community members to complete the easiest homework ever — tell a Lincoln County Schools staff member that they matter.
Messages of Appreciation are printed and delivered to staff across the district, and they mean more than you may realize. If someone has made a difference for you or your child, take a minute to let them know.
Submit your message here: https://forms.gle/94fKaRdfUbe8HuAZ6
#WeAreLINCOLN #SpreadKindness
This February, we’re inviting students, families, coworkers, and community members to complete the easiest homework ever — tell a Lincoln County Schools staff member that they matter.
Messages of Appreciation are printed and delivered to staff across the district, and they mean more than you may realize. If someone has made a difference for you or your child, take a minute to let them know.
Submit your message here: https://forms.gle/94fKaRdfUbe8HuAZ6
#WeAreLINCOLN #SpreadKindness
We know these past two weeks have been difficult for parents and caregivers in many different ways. Remote learning isn’t easy, and rearranging work schedules isn’t easy. Please know that the people making these decisions are parents too—many of us have children in Lincoln County Schools—and we are navigating the same challenges alongside you.
As we look ahead to the remainder of winter, we want families to be aware that any future weather cancellations or delays will require Lincoln County Schools to consider how and if to make up missed instructional days. We have now exhausted the five remote learning days allowed by the NC General Assembly. At this time, we still have minimal instructional hours remaining that could be forgiven.
If additional cancellations occur, make-up days may be scheduled in no particular order:
1. Teacher workdays
2. Saturdays within the same week or grading period
3. Spring Break
4. Adding minutes to the school day
We understand schedule changes impact families, and we will communicate any adjustments as early as possible. Thank you for your flexibility, patience, and continued partnership.
#WeAreLINCOLN
As we look ahead to the remainder of winter, we want families to be aware that any future weather cancellations or delays will require Lincoln County Schools to consider how and if to make up missed instructional days. We have now exhausted the five remote learning days allowed by the NC General Assembly. At this time, we still have minimal instructional hours remaining that could be forgiven.
If additional cancellations occur, make-up days may be scheduled in no particular order:
1. Teacher workdays
2. Saturdays within the same week or grading period
3. Spring Break
4. Adding minutes to the school day
We understand schedule changes impact families, and we will communicate any adjustments as early as possible. Thank you for your flexibility, patience, and continued partnership.
#WeAreLINCOLN
February is Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, a time to celebrate the programs that prepare students with real-world skills for college, careers, and beyond. The week of February 9 is also National Apprenticeship Week, highlighting opportunities for students to learn through hands-on experiences while building pathways to high-demand careers. We are proud of the work happening in our CTE programs across Lincoln County Schools as students celebrate today and own tomorrow.
#WeAreLINCOLN #CTEMonth
#WeAreLINCOLN #CTEMonth
Today's LCS Love Story:
Joanna and Matt met in 2004 at a high school football game, and from that night on, their story was set in motion. They dated throughout high school and college while both attended NC State, building a relationship rooted in friendship, faith, and plenty of Wolfpack pride. After college, they were married in 2012 and began their next chapter together.
For seven years, they taught side by side at Lincolnton Middle School before Matt transitioned into administration. Those years in the same building strengthened not only their marriage but also their shared commitment to students and to Lincoln County Schools.
Today, they are the proud parents of three children—Maddox, Lilly Kate, and Hayes. Their family life revolves around basketball, baseball, and football, along with trips to the beach and cheering on the Wolfpack in every sport they can.
Joanna and Matt continue to share a strong bond with Lincoln County Schools and love supporting students wherever they are—in the classroom, on the field, or on the stage.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCouples
Joanna and Matt met in 2004 at a high school football game, and from that night on, their story was set in motion. They dated throughout high school and college while both attended NC State, building a relationship rooted in friendship, faith, and plenty of Wolfpack pride. After college, they were married in 2012 and began their next chapter together.
For seven years, they taught side by side at Lincolnton Middle School before Matt transitioned into administration. Those years in the same building strengthened not only their marriage but also their shared commitment to students and to Lincoln County Schools.
Today, they are the proud parents of three children—Maddox, Lilly Kate, and Hayes. Their family life revolves around basketball, baseball, and football, along with trips to the beach and cheering on the Wolfpack in every sport they can.
Joanna and Matt continue to share a strong bond with Lincoln County Schools and love supporting students wherever they are—in the classroom, on the field, or on the stage.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCouples
A LCS Love Story:
Jeff and Andie’s story began in 1996 at Stanley Junior High (now Stanley Middle), during their very first year in public education. What started as two new educators finding their footing quickly turned into something much more — and they’ve been side by side ever since.
Together, they’ve built a beautiful family. Their son Casey, now in Heaven, remains forever in their hearts. Their daughter Chelsea is married to Ronald Key, and their son Gabriel is married to Leslie. And yes, their household also includes two very loved pups — Chewie (short for Chewbacca) and Moose — who keep things lively at home.
After 26 years of marriage, Jeff and Andie give all the credit to the Good Lord for guiding their journey, sustaining their love, and blessing their family along the way. From hallways at Stanley to a lifetime together, their story is one more reminder that sometimes the best things really do start at school. 💛
Jeff and Andie’s story began in 1996 at Stanley Junior High (now Stanley Middle), during their very first year in public education. What started as two new educators finding their footing quickly turned into something much more — and they’ve been side by side ever since.
Together, they’ve built a beautiful family. Their son Casey, now in Heaven, remains forever in their hearts. Their daughter Chelsea is married to Ronald Key, and their son Gabriel is married to Leslie. And yes, their household also includes two very loved pups — Chewie (short for Chewbacca) and Moose — who keep things lively at home.
After 26 years of marriage, Jeff and Andie give all the credit to the Good Lord for guiding their journey, sustaining their love, and blessing their family along the way. From hallways at Stanley to a lifetime together, their story is one more reminder that sometimes the best things really do start at school. 💛
Guess who showed up to greet car riders at S. Ray Lowder today?
We can neither confirm nor deny that this upside-down inflatable may have a very familiar personality inside. Students were all smiles, trying to solve the mystery, giving high fives, and starting the day with laughter before the first bell.
Mornings like this remind us that school should feel joyful, welcoming, and a little bit fun. Nice work, SRL team, for bringing the smiles to arrival.
#WeAreLINCOLN #SRLPride
We can neither confirm nor deny that this upside-down inflatable may have a very familiar personality inside. Students were all smiles, trying to solve the mystery, giving high fives, and starting the day with laughter before the first bell.
Mornings like this remind us that school should feel joyful, welcoming, and a little bit fun. Nice work, SRL team, for bringing the smiles to arrival.
#WeAreLINCOLN #SRLPride
LCS Besties Feature — Bartley & Jennifer
Some friendships truly last a lifetime, and Bartley and Jennifer’s story goes all the way back to childhood.
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Bartley’s grandparents were Jennifer’s neighbors, and the two spent their days playing together, feeding goats, and helping gather watermelons to stack under the shade of a big oak tree. Years later, they found themselves together again at West Lincoln High School in marching band — Bartley on trumpet and Jennifer on clarinet — building even more memories they still laugh about today.
After graduation, they both attended Appalachian State University and eventually began their teaching careers at Love Memorial Elementary, where they worked side by side for 19 years. During that time, they team taught lessons, completed research projects with students, presented at educator workshops across North Carolina, and co-coached Battle of the Books teams that earned several medals. And for anyone who knows them, there was always plenty of laughter along the way.
Beyond school, their bond runs even deeper. They describe themselves as more than friends — as brother and sister in faith — studying the Bible and praying together with their families. Bartley taught both of Jennifer’s children in fifth grade, and now Jennifer teaches his children in library class. Their families have shared vacations to the beach, Dollywood, and the mountains of North Carolina, continuing to build memories together.
This school year brought a change when Bartley moved to West Lincoln Middle School while Jennifer remained at Love Memorial. While they no longer work on the same hallway, their friendship hasn’t missed a beat, with daily phone calls and teacher workday lunches still keeping them connected.
Their story is a beautiful reminder that the relationships built in our schools can last far beyond the classroom.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSProud
Some friendships truly last a lifetime, and Bartley and Jennifer’s story goes all the way back to childhood.
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Bartley’s grandparents were Jennifer’s neighbors, and the two spent their days playing together, feeding goats, and helping gather watermelons to stack under the shade of a big oak tree. Years later, they found themselves together again at West Lincoln High School in marching band — Bartley on trumpet and Jennifer on clarinet — building even more memories they still laugh about today.
After graduation, they both attended Appalachian State University and eventually began their teaching careers at Love Memorial Elementary, where they worked side by side for 19 years. During that time, they team taught lessons, completed research projects with students, presented at educator workshops across North Carolina, and co-coached Battle of the Books teams that earned several medals. And for anyone who knows them, there was always plenty of laughter along the way.
Beyond school, their bond runs even deeper. They describe themselves as more than friends — as brother and sister in faith — studying the Bible and praying together with their families. Bartley taught both of Jennifer’s children in fifth grade, and now Jennifer teaches his children in library class. Their families have shared vacations to the beach, Dollywood, and the mountains of North Carolina, continuing to build memories together.
This school year brought a change when Bartley moved to West Lincoln Middle School while Jennifer remained at Love Memorial. While they no longer work on the same hallway, their friendship hasn’t missed a beat, with daily phone calls and teacher workday lunches still keeping them connected.
Their story is a beautiful reminder that the relationships built in our schools can last far beyond the classroom.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSProud
Warning: Completing this form may result in excessive smiling, random happy tears, and awkward hallway thank-yous.
Side effects may also include staff members keeping your note in their desk, on their fridge, or taped to their computer for the rest of the year.
Proceed with kindness by submitting a Message of Appreciation for any Lincoln County Schools staff member. It only takes a minute, and the results are pretty great.
Link: https://forms.gle/hegb6jmnQPP9HZV17
#WeAreLINCOLN #SpreadKindness
Side effects may also include staff members keeping your note in their desk, on their fridge, or taped to their computer for the rest of the year.
Proceed with kindness by submitting a Message of Appreciation for any Lincoln County Schools staff member. It only takes a minute, and the results are pretty great.
Link: https://forms.gle/hegb6jmnQPP9HZV17
#WeAreLINCOLN #SpreadKindness
🌟 Flashback Friday: From Student to Principal! 🌟
Meet Mr. Matthew Hovis, a proud Lincoln County Schools graduate and now the principal at Lincolnton Middle School!
Matthew attended Pumpkin Center Middle and North Lincoln High, where his teachers inspired his love for math and challenged him to think critically. Today, he’s paying that inspiration forward—leading LMS with heart, dedication, and a deep connection to the community he grew up in.
Mr. Hovis says, “The students and staff I get to work with every day make this job so rewarding. Watching them grow and seeing those ‘ah-ha’ moments make all the hard work worth it!”
We’re so proud to celebrate another LCS alum making a difference right here at home. 💙🍎
#FlashbackFriday #WeAreLincoln #LincolnCountySchools #FromStudentToStaff
Meet Mr. Matthew Hovis, a proud Lincoln County Schools graduate and now the principal at Lincolnton Middle School!
Matthew attended Pumpkin Center Middle and North Lincoln High, where his teachers inspired his love for math and challenged him to think critically. Today, he’s paying that inspiration forward—leading LMS with heart, dedication, and a deep connection to the community he grew up in.
Mr. Hovis says, “The students and staff I get to work with every day make this job so rewarding. Watching them grow and seeing those ‘ah-ha’ moments make all the hard work worth it!”
We’re so proud to celebrate another LCS alum making a difference right here at home. 💙🍎
#FlashbackFriday #WeAreLincoln #LincolnCountySchools #FromStudentToStaff
Progress reports will be sent home on Friday, February 13 instead of Monday, February 9. This adjustment allows time for remote work completed during recent weather cancellations and delays to be turned in, graded, and accurately reflected on student progress reports.
Thank you for your flexibility and understanding as we work to ensure families receive the most up-to-date picture of student learning. If you have questions, please reach out to your child’s school.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSUpdates
Thank you for your flexibility and understanding as we work to ensure families receive the most up-to-date picture of student learning. If you have questions, please reach out to your child’s school.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSUpdates
Dr. Allen has officially reached the “patiently waiting for kids to come back” stage. He’s set up camp in the art room, cutting paper snowflakes, testing out watercolor palettes, and pretending he totally remembers how to use a glue stick. If you see an unusually artistic superintendent today, just know—he’s ready for the halls to be full again.
Due to changing weather conditions, patchy black ice, and to ensure better visibility for drivers, Lincoln County Schools will operate on a two-hour delay for students and staff on Friday, February 6, 2026. Buses will run full routes. High school students, including LCST, will report to first period. Refer to your school’s direct messaging for further details regarding today’s schedule. Breakfast will be served at all schools.
#WeAreLINCOLN #NoMoreSNOW
Due to changing weather conditions, patchy black ice, and to ensure better visibility for drivers, Lincoln County Schools will operate on a two-hour delay for students and staff on Friday, February 6, 2026. Buses will run full routes. High school students, including LCST, will report to first period. Refer to your school’s direct messaging for further details regarding today’s schedule. Breakfast will be served at all schools.
#WeAreLINCOLN #NoMoreSNOW
