
From all of us at Lincoln County Schools Central Services and our administrative team, we wish every student, staff member, and family an incredible first day and a successful 2026–2027 school year.
Whether you're walking into kindergarten, beginning your senior year, starting a new position, or returning to a familiar classroom, know that we're cheering you on every step of the way. We can't wait to see all that you'll learn, the ways you'll lead, and how you'll thrive this year.
Welcome back, Lincoln County Schools. Let's make it a great year!
#WeAreLINCOLN #LearnLeadThrive

Members of the Lincoln County Board of Education, Central Services leadership, county leadership, former St. James administrators, current staff, and project partners gathered for a ribbon-cutting and dedication celebrating the completion of several major improvements to the school.
During the ceremony, special recognition was given to the St. James staff for their flexibility and patience as they taught and worked through construction throughout last school year. The school’s custodial team was also thanked for the tremendous work they put into preparing the expanded and renovated building for the start of a new year.
Representatives from Beam Construction and Holland & Hamrick Architects joined the celebration and were thanked for their partnership in bringing the project to life.
Principal Jennifer Carroll officially cut the ribbon before guests walked the halls to see the improvements firsthand, including 10 new classrooms, an expanded cafeteria, new parking areas, additional office spaces, and other updates throughout the campus.
The construction is finished. The classrooms are ready. And most importantly, the St. James teachers and staff are ready to welcome students and begin another great year!
We are grateful to everyone who invested in the future of St. James Elementary and the students who will learn and grow within these walls for years to come.
#WeAreLINCOLN #StJamesElementary




Before the first bell rings, take a minute to download the LCSNC app and make sure you’re ready to stay connected with Lincoln County Schools all year long.
With the LCSNC app, parents and guardians can keep district and school information in one convenient place, including important announcements, school news, calendars, dining menus, notifications, and more.
Already have the app? Now is a great time to open it, check your settings, make sure you’re following the correct school(s), and turn on notifications.
Don’t have it yet? Search “LCSNC” in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and download it before Day 1!
One app. Your schools. The information you need.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LearnLeadThrive

Open House is almost here, and we can't wait to welcome our students and families back into our schools!
Tomorrow is your chance to:
• Meet your teachers
• Visit your classrooms
• Drop off school supplies
• Find your bus information (if applicable)
• Connect with school staff
• Get excited for an amazing 2026–2027 school year
Open House – Tuesday, August 11
Central Schools
5:00–7:30 p.m. (All Schools)
West Zone
Elementary: 4:00–6:00 p.m.
Middle & High: 6:00–8:00 p.m.
East Zone
Elementary: 4:30–6:30 p.m.
Middle & High: 5:30–7:30 p.m.
North Zone
Elementary: 4:00–6:00 p.m.
Middle: 5:00–7:00 p.m.
High: 6:00–8:00 p.m.
We'll see you tomorrow as we kick off another incredible year in Lincoln County Schools!
#WeAreLINCOLN #BackToSchool

Newly posted opportunities include:
• Mechanic II – LCS Transportation Department
• Assistant Athletic Director – North Lincoln High
• Assistant Athletic Director – North Lincoln Middle
• JV Volleyball Head Coach – West Lincoln High
• Pre-K Teacher Assistant/Sub Bus Driver – S. Ray Lowder Elementary
• Women’s Cross Country Head Coach – Lincolnton Middle
• Football Assistant Coach – Lincolnton Middle
• EC Teacher Assistant/Sub Bus Driver – East Lincoln High
• Receptionist – Lincolnton Middle
Whether your place is in the classroom, on the field, in the front office, or behind the scenes keeping our district moving, there may be a place for you at LCS.
View current openings and apply at lcsnc.schoolspring.com.
Come learn, lead, and thrive with us!
#WeAreLINCOLN #LearnLeadThrive

Lincoln County Schools is proud to announce the selection of four students who will serve as Student Representatives to the Lincoln County Board of Education for the 2026–2027 school year.
The group includes one rising senior from each of the district’s four traditional high schools: William Bayless of West Lincoln High School, Finley Westall of East Lincoln High School, Bailey Dibbell of North Lincoln High School, and Olivia Wray of Lincolnton High School.
The Student Representative program was established to provide students with an opportunity to share their perspectives directly with district leadership while gaining firsthand experience in leadership, governance, and civic engagement.
Throughout the school year, student representatives will attend Board of Education work sessions and may participate in student-focused committee discussions when appropriate. They will share student perspectives with district leadership, serve as ambassadors for their schools and Lincoln County Schools, and contribute to discussions related to student experiences and school life.
Student representatives are not voting members of the Lincoln County Board of Education.
William Bayless | West Lincoln High School
William Bayless will represent West Lincoln High School, where he is proud to be a voice for the Rebels. His Christian faith is an important part of his life, and he is passionate about his belief in the second coming of Jesus Christ. Following graduation, Bayless plans to pursue a career as an electrician.
Finley Westall | East Lincoln High School
Finley Westall will represent East Lincoln High School. An active member of the Mustang community, Westall enjoys showing up for her school in many ways, whether she is playing volleyball, supporting her friends, or leading a club.
Her Christian faith and time spent with her church family are also important parts of her life. After high school, Westall hopes to pursue a career as a physician, with a particular interest in specializing in pediatric endocrinology.
Bailey Dibbell | North Lincoln High School
Bailey Dibbell will represent North Lincoln High School. A member of the North Lincoln High School Dance Team, Dibbell will begin her 13th and final year as a student in Lincoln County Schools this fall.
Outside of school, Dibbell spends much of her free time running her own small business, where she creates hand-painted banners and custom buttons. Her creativity, entrepreneurship, and involvement at North Lincoln are among the experiences she brings to her new role as a student representative.
Olivia Wray | Lincolnton High School
Olivia Wray will represent Lincolnton High School. Wray is passionate about music and has found a home within the choir and theater programs at LHS. She will also serve as president of Future Teachers of America during her senior year.
Her involvement in education extends to her plans beyond high school. Wray hopes to major in elementary education and ultimately become a teacher.
Selection and Eligibility
Students selected for the program were required to be rising seniors for the 2026–2027 school year and enrolled at one of Lincoln County Schools’ traditional high schools. Applicants were also required to be in good academic standing, maintain good attendance and discipline records, and demonstrate leadership, professionalism, and strong communication skills.
Each applicant was required to receive recommendations from both their principal and a school counselor.
The four representatives will officially begin their terms during the 2026–2027 school year and will provide the Board of Education and district leadership with an important student perspective throughout the year.
Lincoln County Schools congratulates William, Finley, Bailey, and Olivia and looks forward to hearing their voices as they represent their schools and fellow students.
About Lincoln County Schools
Lincoln County Schools partners with students, families, and the community to foster a safe environment and provide purposeful and meaningful learning opportunities that support the success of all students.




Parents and guardians, now is the perfect time to download the LCSNC app and make sure you're ready for the new school year. The app puts important district and school information right at your fingertips, including news, announcements, events, dining menus, notifications, and more.
Once you've downloaded the app, be sure to select the schools you want to follow and turn on notifications so you don't miss important updates throughout the year.
Search “LCSNC” in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and download it today!
Stay informed. Stay connected. Stay #WeAreLINCOLN.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LearnLeadThrive

Today, our teachers officially returned to their buildings, and the countdown to the first day of school is on! At Iron Station Elementary, classrooms are already coming to life as teachers unpack boxes, organize supplies, prepare lessons, decorate spaces, and get everything ready to welcome students back.
There’s a lot of work that happens before that first student walks through the door, and our teachers are making sure every detail is ready for Day 1.
The halls may be quiet today, but not for long. We can’t wait to fill them with students on August 13!
#WeAreLINCOLN #LearnLeadThrive




After careful consideration, comments on the Lincoln County Schools Facebook page will be turned off beginning August 12, 2026.
While we value communication and community engagement, maintaining an open comment platform requires continuous monitoring to ensure profanity, vulgar language, spam, misinformation, and inappropriate content are addressed in a timely manner. At this time, the district does not have the staffing capacity to provide that level of full-time moderation while also continuing to prioritize direct communication with families, students, staff, and the community.
Our Facebook page will continue to serve as an official source for district news, announcements, celebrations, updates, and important information. If you have a question or concern regarding your child or a school-specific matter, we encourage you to first contact your child's school, as most questions can be resolved at the school level. If additional assistance is needed or your inquiry pertains to district operations, please contact the district office or email lcs-communications@lincoln.k12.nc.us. Inquiries received through the Communications Office will be directed to the appropriate staff member or department, and we ask that you allow up to 72 hours for a response.
We appreciate the continued support of our schools and remain committed to clear, accurate, and respectful communication with our community.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LincolnCountySchools

Teachers who are brand new to the profession and those joining us from other districts came together for New Teacher Induction, where they learned about Lincoln County Schools, explored the many resources available to support students and staff, collaborated with district leaders, and spent time diving into curriculum and instructional practices.
Starting a new school year is exciting, and we're committed to making sure every new teacher feels prepared, supported, and connected from day one. We are grateful they've chosen Lincoln County Schools and can't wait to see the impact they'll have on our students this year.
Welcome to the LCS family...we're so glad you're here!
#WeAreLINCOLN #LearnLeadThrive




Through scorching temperatures and humid summer days, these student-athletes have been training with purpose, building endurance, sharpening their skills, and preparing for the challenges of the upcoming fall season. The work happening now, long before the first whistle blows, is laying the foundation for success when it matters most.
The heat may be relentless, but so is their determination.
Good luck to the Knights as they kick off another exciting season!
#WeAreLINCOLN #GoKnights




The Lincoln County Board of Education approved the appointments of two assistant principals and one dean of instruction during its work session on Tuesday, Aug. 4. The new administrative leaders will serve at G.E. Massey Elementary School, Iron Station Elementary School, and North Lincoln High School, bringing a combined wealth of experience in instructional leadership, student support, and school improvement.
Jeremy Quick, Ed.D., has been named assistant principal at G.E. Massey Elementary School. Dr. Quick most recently served as assistant principal with Iredell-Statesville Schools, where he supervised staff, led school safety initiatives, coordinated testing and daily operations, and implemented restorative discipline practices to strengthen school climate. Prior to that role, he served as the district's Exceptional Children LEA and coordinator for manifestation determination reviews, and previously worked as an adapted physical education specialist and health and physical education teacher. He holds a Doctor of Education and a Master of Arts in School Administration from Gardner-Webb University.
Amanda Shearin has been named assistant principal at Iron Station Elementary School. A Lincoln County native and graduate of East Lincoln High School, Shearin brings 14 years of educational experience, including the past eight years serving students and families in Lincoln County Schools. She previously served as both a classroom teacher and math coach at East Lincoln Middle, where she led professional learning, supported curriculum alignment, analyzed student achievement data, and coached teachers in research-based instructional practices. She earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and is currently completing her principal licensure.
"As a Lincoln County native and proud graduate of East Lincoln High School, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the community that has always been home," said Shearin. "I have been in education for 14 years, with the past eight years serving students and families in Lincoln County. As a wife and mother of two young boys, I understand the importance of strong partnerships between home and school. I look forward to building meaningful relationships with our students, staff, and families and working together to make this a successful school year."
Lisa Montgomery has been named dean of instruction at North Lincoln High School. Montgomery brings nearly three decades of educational experience spanning elementary, middle, and high school settings. She previously served as ESL Program and Compliance Facilitator for Gaston County Schools and has also served as a lead ESL teacher, AIG teacher, instructional technology facilitator, and classroom teacher. Throughout her career, she has led professional development at the district and state levels, earned numerous instructional recognitions, and has been recognized as both a Teacher of the Year and Gaston County Schools Central Office Employee of the Year. Montgomery holds a bachelor's degree from Belmont Abbey College, a master's degree from UNC Charlotte, and is completing her administrative licensure. She also began her career in Lincoln County Schools as a third-grade teacher at G.E. Massey Elementary School.
Montgomery and her husband, James, have been married for 34 years. James is a retired Executive Director of High Schools and former principal of Highland School of Technology in Gaston County and currently serves as an assistant principal at Stanley Community Charter School. Together, they have two grown children, Tyler and Meleah, daughter-in-law Liz, four grandchildren, and four beloved pets.
"Strong school leadership plays a vital role in creating positive learning environments where students and staff can thrive," said Superintendent Dr. Aaron Allen. "We are excited to welcome Dr. Quick, Mrs. Shearin, and Mrs. Montgomery into these leadership roles. Each brings a unique set of experiences, a passion for serving students, and a commitment to excellence that will strengthen our schools and support our mission of helping every student succeed."
The appointments are effective for the 2026-2027 school year.



The YMCA's Before & After School Program is available at the following Lincoln County Schools:
• Catawba Springs
• G.E. Massey
• Iron Station
• Union
• Pumpkin Center
• Rock Springs
• Norris S. Childers
• S. Ray Lowder
• St. James
Program Hours:
• Before School: 6:00 a.m. until the school bell
• After School: School dismissal until 6:00 p.m.
• Serving students in Kindergarten through 5th grade
The program offers:
• Safe, fun, and enriching activities
• Academic support, tutoring, STEM, and creative arts
• Daily snacks, games, and team-building activities
• Flexible rates for YMCA members and non-members
• Caring, trained staff who help children grow and thrive
Financial aid is available for qualifying families, with 25–65% assistance.
Enrollment is open now for the 2026–2027 school year, but spots fill quickly! Scan the QR code or visit ymcacv.org to register and learn more.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LearnLeadThrive

Join us this Saturday, August 8, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at West Lincoln Middle School for a morning dedicated to helping students and families prepare for a successful school year.
Families can access free resources including:
• Haircuts
• School supplies
• Backpacks
• Clothing
• Groceries
• Food and more
Students from North Brook Elementary, Norris S. Childers Elementary, Love Memorial Elementary, Union Elementary, West Lincoln Middle School, and West Lincoln High School are invited to attend.
If you haven't already, be sure to RSVP by scanning the QR code on the flyer. We look forward to welcoming our West Lincoln families and kicking off the 2026-27 school year together.
See you at West Fest!
#WeAreLINCOLN #WestFest2026

Substitutes make a real difference in our schools each day — stepping in to support classrooms, encourage students, and help keep learning moving forward from the very first bell to the last.
If you’ve been thinking about applying, now is the perfect time to join the LCS team. Flexible schedules are available, and every day is an opportunity to make an impact.
We can’t wait to welcome students back next week — and we’d love to welcome you, too.
Apply today:
https://tinyurl.com/3c3h7t7v
#NowHiring #WeAreLINCOLN

The celebration recognized an incredible year of athletic excellence and brought together those who helped make it possible. Principal Van Eseltine, NLHS Athletic Director Dennis Frye, and Lincoln County Schools Athletic Director David Avery were joined by an auditorium full of student-athletes, their families, coaches, school board members, and supporters to celebrate this outstanding achievement.
The NCHSAA Championship Cup represents excellence across an entire athletic program, recognizing success in competition, sportsmanship, and overall program achievement. This honor reflects the dedication, hard work, and commitment of our student-athletes, coaches, staff, and the entire North Lincoln community.
Congratulations, Knights, on an unforgettable year and a well-deserved championship!
#WeAreLINCOLN #NCHSAA




Beginning Teachers from across the district came together for a day of learning focused on the foundations of effective teaching, classroom management, and building positive learning environments. Led by Rachel Frye and Kennan Eaddy, the session provided practical strategies, valuable insights, and opportunities to connect with fellow educators before the school year begins.
We're proud to invest in our Beginning Teachers and grateful to the experienced leaders who are helping them build confidence, sharpen their skills, and prepare to make a difference for students from day one.
Here's to a great first year and an even greater future. Welcome to the LCS family!
#WeAreLINCOLN #LearnLeadThrive




The first day of school is just around the corner, and now is the perfect time to make sure you're ready!
If you haven't picked up school supplies yet, Lincoln County Schools has all 2026–2027 supply lists available in one convenient location through TeacherLists. Families can view, print, save, and even shop directly from their school's list online. Lists are available in more than 100 languages.
Take a few minutes to check your child's list and start the school year prepared and ready to learn.
Get started here: https://app.teacherlists.com/districts/1000203218-lincoln-county-schools
We'll see everyone soon for another great year in Lincoln County Schools!
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSFirstDayReady


August is here, and that means a new school year is just around the corner!
Mark your calendars for these important Lincoln County Schools dates:
• August 11 – Open Houses
• August 11 – Board of Education Meeting, 6:00 p.m.
• August 13 – First Day of School (Full Day)
We can't wait to welcome our students and staff back for another incredible year of learning, leading, and thriving. Be sure to check with your child's school for specific Open House times and any back-to-school information.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LearnLeadThrive

Current openings include:
• Teacher Assistant/Sub Bus Driver – G.E. Massey Elementary
• Custodian – Pumpkin Center Primary & North Lincoln High
• Long-Term Substitute (6th Grade ELA) – North Lincoln Middle
• Child Nutrition Assistant/Sub Bus Driver – Rock Springs Elementary
• Child Nutrition Assistant/Sub Bus Driver – East Lincoln Middle
• EC Teacher Assistant/Sub Bus Driver – Norris S. Childers Elementary
• Evening Custodian – North Brook Elementary
• Evening Custodian/Bus Driver – Lincolnton Middle
• Bus Driver – Lincolnton High
Whether you're looking to work with students, support our schools behind the scenes, or become part of our transportation team, there's a place for you at LCS.
Apply today: https://lcsnc.schoolspring.com/
#WeAreLINCOLN #LearnLeadThrive
