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
19 days 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. 💕

19 days 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
19 days 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.
19 days 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
19 days 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
19 days 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
20 days 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
20 days 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
21 days 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
21 days 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.
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
21 days 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
21 days 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
21 days 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
22 days 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
22 days 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
23 days 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.
24 days ago, LCS Communications
Close-up photo of a smiling couple taking a selfie indoors, with framed pictures visible on the wall behind them. A banner of pink hearts across the top reads “Lincoln County Schools couple.” A pink label at the bottom reads, “The Kolasinskis – East Lincoln Middle and District Office.”
BATTLE OF THE BOOKS

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

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

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

Union Elementary will advance to the regional competition this Spring.

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

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

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSBattleOfTheBooks
24 days ago, LCS Communications
A large digital display screen shows a colorful graphic reading “Elementary Battle of the Books” with the date February 20, 2026. The design features illustrated bookshelves filled with books and small plants on both sides.
Students from Union Elementary wearing matching gray team shirts stand on stage with medals around their necks, holding a championship plaque. Several adult coaches stand with them. The Lincoln County Schools “Educating the Future” backdrop is displayed behind the group.
Another elementary school team in matching blue Battle of the Books shirts stands on stage with medals around their necks. Two adult coaches stand at the ends of the group. The Lincoln County Schools “Educating the Future” backdrop is visible behind them.
A group of elementary students wearing matching blue Battle of the Books shirts stand on a stage with medals around their necks. They are joined by two adult coaches. Behind them is a Lincoln County Schools backdrop with the phrase “Educating the Future.”
Flashback Friday: Former student, current staff.

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

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

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