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
25 days 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
25 days 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.
26 days 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
26 days 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
27 days 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
27 days 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
27 days 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
28 days 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
28 days 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

28 days 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.
Traveling back to ancient Egypt at North Lincoln Middle School.

Students in Patty Fedo’s class brought history to life while studying ancient Egypt. Students designed and created detailed sarcophagi complete with wrapped mummies and Canopic jars. To conclude the unit, the class held a mock burial ceremony, where the Egyptian gods Anubis and Osiris guided the departed mummies to the afterlife.

Hands-on learning experiences like this allow students to deepen their understanding of history while engaging their creativity and collaboration skills.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LincolnLearns
29 days ago, LCS Communications
Five North Lincoln Middle School students sit on the classroom floor working together to build and decorate sarcophagus projects from cardboard boxes and colored paper. One student uses a hot glue gun while others hold yellow paper pieces. Classroom posters and supply shelves are visible in the background.
Four students sit in a small group on the classroom floor near a bookshelf, cutting and gluing purple and pink paper onto cardboard boxes to create sarcophagi. Scissors, paper scraps, and craft supplies are spread around them as they smile at the camera.
Three students sit on the classroom floor assembling bright yellow cardboard sarcophagi. One student uses a hot glue gun while another presses paper into place. Craft materials and paper scraps are scattered nearby
Two students sit at a classroom desk decorating a cardboard sarcophagus with brown and green paper. Scissors, tape, and a water bottle sit on the desk. The classroom background includes desks, baskets, and instructional posters.
Two students sit at desks cutting paper and assembling colorful sarcophagi projects. One holds a worksheet featuring drawings of Egyptian canopic jars while the other works on a pink decorated box. A classroom world map and storage shelves are visible behind them.
Meet this LCS Couple!

Sometimes, love stories begin with a broken computer.

When Devon was almost 17, her mom bought the family’s first computer for Christmas. When it stopped working over the holiday break, she called someone she knew from LCST who worked in school technology. His name was Steven.

On a Sunday evening, during a Panthers playoff game, Steven knocked on their door to fix the computer. Devon remembers being so shy she told her mom, “There’s a boy at the door.” But before long, they were talking, laughing, and getting to know each other. The repair took a while, the nerves faded, and at one point, Devon even shot him with her brother’s Nerf gun.

Not long after that visit, Steven was permanently hired by Lincoln County Schools to start the district’s IT department. A friendship grew into something more, and in 2001, Devon and Steven were married.

Devon later began teaching at St. James Elementary, and today she teaches kindergarten at Union Elementary. Steven now serves as the district’s Chief Technology Officer. That original computer still sits in their basement, and Steven refuses to get rid of it, even though it may not even turn on anymore.

They have three children, all connected to Lincoln County Schools in their own way, and they still enjoy spending time together taking day trips to the mountains to hike and explore.

From a service call to a lifetime together, their story is a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful connections start in the most unexpected ways.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCouples
29 days ago, LCS Communications
A couple sits closely together on a couch indoors, smiling at the camera. The person on the left wears a dark jacket and a baseball cap, and the person on the right has curly red hair and wears a pink long-sleeve top. A decorated Christmas tree and window are visible behind them. Heart graphics and the text “Lincoln County Schools couple” appear across the top. A pink banner at the bottom reads “The Hoyles” and “Technology Department and Union Elementary.”
Tonight's LCS Couple Feature:

Jonathan and Meg Carpenter are both proud graduates of Lincoln County Schools. Jonathan graduated from West Lincoln High School and UNC Charlotte, and Meg graduated from East Lincoln High School and Western Carolina University.

The two met in 2004 and were married in 2005—thanks to a family friend from Jon’s class who set them up on a blind date. The rest is history.

They are blessed with three children. Their oldest, Erin, is married and recently purchased her first home. Kamryn is a freshman at Western Carolina University majoring in Communication Science Disorders, and Cooper is a freshman at North Lincoln High School where he also plays travel baseball.

As a family, they enjoy spending time together, cheering on their children at sporting events, and making memories at the beach. Their roots in Lincoln County Schools run deep, and they are proud to continue serving and supporting students in our community.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCouples
29 days ago, LCS Communications
Jonathan and Meg Carpenter stand together smiling at a formal indoor event. Jonathan wears glasses, a tan blazer, blue shirt, and tie, and has a long gray beard. Meg wears a dark top with a floral-patterned jacket. The background shows softly lit walls and other guests. A banner of pink hearts appears across the top with “Lincoln County Schools couple,” and a pink caption bar reads “The Carpenters – North Lincoln High and Rock Springs Elementary.”
February 15 is School Resource Officer Appreciation Day, and since it falls on a Sunday this year, we invite students and families to share their appreciation all week long. Our SROs build positive relationships, support safe schools, and serve as trusted adults for our students every day. Thank you for the care and commitment you bring to our schools and our community.

#WeAreLINCOLN #SROAppreciation
29 days ago, LCS Communications
An elementary school resource officer gives a fist bump to a young student in a school hallway while a line of children waits to walk past. A teacher stands nearby smiling as students move down the hallway. Vertical text on the left side reads “School Resource Officer,” and text at the bottom reads “Appreciation Day February 15.” The Lincoln County Schools logo appears in the lower right corner.
February check-in: 💌
We love when you’re here!
Every day. Every class. Every smile.
#WeAreLINCOLN #AttendanceWins
about 1 month ago, LCS Communications
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A Lincoln County Love Story

Dr. Allen, Superintendent of Lincoln County Schools, and his wife, Tammie, currently the Media Coordinator at West Lincoln High School, actually went to the same high school — but they didn’t really know each other back then. Years later, their paths crossed in the most LCS-kind-of-way… at school.

After college, Dr. Allen returned home to teach at Kings Mountain High School. At the same time, Tammie’s twin sister was also teaching there. Not long after, Tammie joined the staff too. What started as a connection between colleagues quickly turned into something more, and the two began dating.

Then came a turning point. While on a mission trip to Honduras, Dr. Allen says he realized that Tammie was “the one.” When he returned, life kept moving forward — and so did their careers. He accepted a position as assistant principal at North High, and in 2004, they got married.

They made their home in Kings Mountain and continued building both their family and their careers in education. Together, they’ve lived in three homes across two counties, welcomed three children, and balanced busy school schedules with busy family life.

Now, 22 years into their marriage, their story is still rooted in the same things that brought them together in the first place — education, service, and a shared commitment to their community and family.

From the same high school halls… to school hallways as educators… to leading and serving side by side for more than two decades — their story is one of growth, faith, and finding your person when you least expect it.
about 1 month ago, LCS Communications
A smiling couple stands close together inside a restaurant with other diners in the background. The man wears a light blue short-sleeve button-down shirt and has a short beard. The woman wears a sleeveless top, gold hoop earrings, and has short blonde hair. Decorative heart graphics appear across the top of the image, with text reading “Lincoln County Schools couple.” A pink banner at the bottom reads “The Allens — West Lincoln High and District Office.”
FORM CLOSES AT MIDNIGHT!

Pop quiz: Who made your day better this year?

Was it a teacher who never gave up on you, a bus driver who always greeted your child by name, a cafeteria worker who made mornings brighter, or an office staff member who helped when you needed it most?

Now’s your chance to tell them. Messages of Appreciation are printed and delivered to staff across Lincoln County Schools, and your words truly matter.
Submit your message here: https://forms.gle/94fKaRdfUbe8HuAZ6

#WeAreLINCOLN #SpreadKindness
about 1 month ago, LCS Communications
White lined notebook paper background with red hand-drawn hearts scattered across the page. Bold text in the center reads “Pop Quiz!” Below it, smaller text says “Who made your day better this year? Tell them!” The Lincoln County Schools logo appears near the bottom right corner.
More LCS Besties!

In 2017, Courtney and Ashley became teammates at Lincolnton Middle School, brought together by shared students, shared hallways, and a shared love for learning. What started as lesson plans and team meetings quickly grew into something more.

Outside of school, they discovered a shared passion for travel and set a bold goal of visiting all 50 states. Weekend trips turned into lasting memories, and those miles on the road built trust, laughter, and a friendship that reached far beyond the classroom.

They supported each other through the challenges of COVID, long seasons of uncertainty, and life’s biggest milestones, always showing up when it mattered most.

Nearly a decade later, they are still teammates on the Leading Leopards team. Mrs. Todd continues to inspire students through ELA, while Mrs. Marquardt brings learning to life in math. Together, they are shaping future leaders just as they have from the very beginning.

They are grateful for a friendship that started at LMS and grew into a lifelong bond rooted in teamwork, shared dreams, and years of trust. What began as colleagues has become sisterhood, proving that sometimes the most meaningful journeys start right where you are.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSBesties
about 1 month ago, LCS Communications
Two adults stand on a school gym floor, each holding out a red apple toward the camera and smiling. One wears a yellow ruffled top and black pants, and the other wears a floral blouse with a dark cardigan and jeans. Behind them are black and yellow gym banners, bleachers, and a basketball hoop, with low-lying fog near the floor. Heart graphics and the text “Lincoln County Schools besties” appear across the top. A pink banner at the bottom reads “Ashley Todd and Courtney Marquardt” and “Lincolnton Middle School.”
Oops — we accidentally left off AP Chemistry in our earlier post.

AP Chemistry will be administered on Tuesday, May 5 at 8:00 AM.

Please review the updated 2026 AP Exam schedule and make sure you have the correct date and time for each exam. Schools will communicate site-specific testing details and locations closer to the exam date.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSAcademics
about 1 month ago, LCS Communications
Graphic titled “2026 AP Exams” displaying a table of AP test names, dates, and times. AP Chemistry is listed as Tuesday, May 5 at 8:00 AM. A note at the bottom states that schools will communicate site-specific testing details and that missed exams may result in a fee.
Side effects may include happy tears and awkward hallway thank-yous.

When you send a Message of Appreciation, your note is printed and delivered to a Lincoln County Schools staff member, and the impact is real. These messages stick with people far longer than February.

If someone has made your school experience better, take a minute to let them know.
Submit your message here: https://forms.gle/94fKaRdfUbe8HuAZ6

#WeAreLINCOLN #SpreadKindness
about 1 month ago, LCS Communications
White lined notebook paper background with red hand-drawn hearts scattered across the page. Bold text in the center reads “Side Effects:” with smaller text underneath that says “Happy Tears” and “Awkward hallway thank-yous.” The Lincoln County Schools logo appears near the bottom right corner.