Today, Lincoln County Schools hosted our annual District Spelling Bee, bringing together one outstanding student from each elementary and middle school to compete. We are incredibly proud of every participant for representing their schools with confidence, preparation, and perseverance.
Congratulations to Mihira from Rock Springs Elementary, who was crowned this year’s District Spelling Bee Champion. Ryker from North Lincoln Middle School earned the title of Runner-Up after an impressive performance.
Mihira will advance to compete in the Regional Spelling Bee at Bank of America Stadium on March 1. We wish her the very best as she represents Lincoln County Schools on the regional stage.
#WeAreLINCOLN #SpellingBee
Congratulations to Mihira from Rock Springs Elementary, who was crowned this year’s District Spelling Bee Champion. Ryker from North Lincoln Middle School earned the title of Runner-Up after an impressive performance.
Mihira will advance to compete in the Regional Spelling Bee at Bank of America Stadium on March 1. We wish her the very best as she represents Lincoln County Schools on the regional stage.
#WeAreLINCOLN #SpellingBee
🌟 Flashback Friday: From LCS Student to Speech-Language Pathologist! 🌟
Meet Mrs. Kaiti Chandler Royster, a proud Lincoln County Schools graduate who now serves as a Speech-Language Pathologist at Pumpkin Center Intermediate and North Lincoln Middle!
Kaiti attended Pumpkin Center Elementary, Pumpkin Center Middle, North Lincoln Middle, and North Lincoln High—and now she’s come full circle, serving the same district that shaped her. She says Lincoln County Schools is “in her blood”—her mom was also a teacher here!
When asked what she loves most about her role, Mrs. Royster shared, “I love helping students find their voice and building connections through all forms of communication.” 💬❤️
We’re proud to celebrate another LCS alum making an impact right here at home! 💙🍎
#FlashbackFriday #WeAreLincoln #LincolnCountySchools #FromStudentToStaff
Meet Mrs. Kaiti Chandler Royster, a proud Lincoln County Schools graduate who now serves as a Speech-Language Pathologist at Pumpkin Center Intermediate and North Lincoln Middle!
Kaiti attended Pumpkin Center Elementary, Pumpkin Center Middle, North Lincoln Middle, and North Lincoln High—and now she’s come full circle, serving the same district that shaped her. She says Lincoln County Schools is “in her blood”—her mom was also a teacher here!
When asked what she loves most about her role, Mrs. Royster shared, “I love helping students find their voice and building connections through all forms of communication.” 💬❤️
We’re proud to celebrate another LCS alum making an impact right here at home! 💙🍎
#FlashbackFriday #WeAreLincoln #LincolnCountySchools #FromStudentToStaff
Quarter 3 Progress Reports Are Coming Home Today! 🍎📊
We’re in the home stretch! Progress Reports are heading home this afternoon—don’t forget to check backpacks. This is a great time to celebrate growth, reflect on progress, and set goals for a strong finish to the school year.
Together, we are making every moment count! 💙
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCS #ProgressReports
Yes. This really is the easiest good deed you’ll do all week.
Take a minute to send a Message of Appreciation to any Lincoln County Schools staff member who has made a difference for you or your child. Your words are printed and delivered, and they truly matter.
Kindness doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it starts with a few sentences and a thank you.
Submit your message here: https://forms.gle/94fKaRdfUbe8HuAZ6
#WeAreLINCOLN #SpreadKindness
Take a minute to send a Message of Appreciation to any Lincoln County Schools staff member who has made a difference for you or your child. Your words are printed and delivered, and they truly matter.
Kindness doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it starts with a few sentences and a thank you.
Submit your message here: https://forms.gle/94fKaRdfUbe8HuAZ6
#WeAreLINCOLN #SpreadKindness
Today we had the honor of recognizing our February Sub of the Month, Stacy Byus, at St. James Elementary.
Mrs. Carroll and Mrs. Boorman nominated Mrs. Byus for her ongoing reliability and her willingness to step in anywhere, any day. Her flexibility and commitment to supporting students and staff make a meaningful difference in our schools.
We are grateful for the dedication of all of our substitute teachers who help ensure learning continues smoothly each day.
#WeAreLINCOLN #SubOfTheMonth
Mrs. Carroll and Mrs. Boorman nominated Mrs. Byus for her ongoing reliability and her willingness to step in anywhere, any day. Her flexibility and commitment to supporting students and staff make a meaningful difference in our schools.
We are grateful for the dedication of all of our substitute teachers who help ensure learning continues smoothly each day.
#WeAreLINCOLN #SubOfTheMonth
Another LCS Besties Feature!
Seven years ago at WLHS, a General Education math teacher met a Special Education math teacher, and it was instant best-friend energy—not just coworkers, but “you’re my person” from day one.
One was calm, patient, and always saw the good.
The other was passionate, creatively organized, and once fully convinced she was having a medical emergency after eating an entire bag of cherries.
Their friendship wasn’t sealed in an IEP meeting or during co-planning.
It was sealed when the Special Ed teacher ran in, panicked, saying, “I THINK SOMETHING IS VERY WRONG.”
The Gen Ed teacher calmly assessed the situation, asked questions, and delivered the diagnosis:
“You ate a whole bag of cherries. You’re fine.”
Bestie status confirmed.
They went to NCCAT together, collecting inside jokes and unforgettable memories. Back at school, they became Quiz Bowl coaches, calling time-outs not just for strategy, but for confidence boosts and reminders that their students belonged on that stage.
They showed up early, shared big ideas, and always asked, “How do we make this work for everyone?”
Then they made it fun, accessible, and unforgettable—singing, dancing, and doing whatever it took to help students learn.
They aren’t just co-teachers.
They’re a dream team, champions of inclusion, early-morning motivators, and living proof that the best partnerships are built on trust, laughter, and occasionally reminding your bestie that she’s not dying—she just ate too many cherries.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSBesties
Seven years ago at WLHS, a General Education math teacher met a Special Education math teacher, and it was instant best-friend energy—not just coworkers, but “you’re my person” from day one.
One was calm, patient, and always saw the good.
The other was passionate, creatively organized, and once fully convinced she was having a medical emergency after eating an entire bag of cherries.
Their friendship wasn’t sealed in an IEP meeting or during co-planning.
It was sealed when the Special Ed teacher ran in, panicked, saying, “I THINK SOMETHING IS VERY WRONG.”
The Gen Ed teacher calmly assessed the situation, asked questions, and delivered the diagnosis:
“You ate a whole bag of cherries. You’re fine.”
Bestie status confirmed.
They went to NCCAT together, collecting inside jokes and unforgettable memories. Back at school, they became Quiz Bowl coaches, calling time-outs not just for strategy, but for confidence boosts and reminders that their students belonged on that stage.
They showed up early, shared big ideas, and always asked, “How do we make this work for everyone?”
Then they made it fun, accessible, and unforgettable—singing, dancing, and doing whatever it took to help students learn.
They aren’t just co-teachers.
They’re a dream team, champions of inclusion, early-morning motivators, and living proof that the best partnerships are built on trust, laughter, and occasionally reminding your bestie that she’s not dying—she just ate too many cherries.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSBesties
This week we are proud to celebrate Love the Bus Week across Lincoln County Schools. Every day, our bus drivers are the first smiles of the morning and the last waves of the afternoon. They rise early, check their mirrors, watch the roads, and care for our children as if they were their own.
Across the county, schools and departments found special ways to say thank you with handmade cards, banners, treats, and time together to show appreciation for the people who safely carry our students to learning and back home again.
To every driver, substitute driver, and transportation team member, thank you for your patience, professionalism, and heart. You keep our wheels turning and our community connected.
#LoveTheBus #WeAreLINCOLN
Across the county, schools and departments found special ways to say thank you with handmade cards, banners, treats, and time together to show appreciation for the people who safely carry our students to learning and back home again.
To every driver, substitute driver, and transportation team member, thank you for your patience, professionalism, and heart. You keep our wheels turning and our community connected.
#LoveTheBus #WeAreLINCOLN
REMINDER!
🎓💡 AP Students – Be Ready!
All AP exams take place on the same schedule across the country this May—so whether you took your class in the fall or spring, your exam is in May!
📅 Plan ahead now.
💵 Exam fees are covered by the State of NC (but missing your exam could mean CollegeBoard fees).
👏 Last year, LCS students achieved a 71% AP exam pass rate—higher than the state average! We can’t wait to celebrate another strong year of success!
#WeAreLINCOLN #APExams #AcademicExcellence
🎓💡 AP Students – Be Ready!
All AP exams take place on the same schedule across the country this May—so whether you took your class in the fall or spring, your exam is in May!
📅 Plan ahead now.
💵 Exam fees are covered by the State of NC (but missing your exam could mean CollegeBoard fees).
👏 Last year, LCS students achieved a 71% AP exam pass rate—higher than the state average! We can’t wait to celebrate another strong year of success!
#WeAreLINCOLN #APExams #AcademicExcellence
❤️ LCS Couples Feature — The Robbinses
For our next LCS Couples feature, we’re celebrating Karen and Rodney Robbins, whose love story began 47 years ago on a blind date arranged by their two best friends — and they’ve been going strong ever since.
Rodney works at North Lincoln High School as a teacher assistant, while Karen serves students across the district as an itinerant teacher of deaf and hard of hearing. Though they work in different roles, they share the same heart for supporting students and making a difference in schools every day.
Their story is a beautiful reminder that strong relationships, shared purpose, and lasting commitment are at the heart of our school community. We’re proud to have both of them as part of the Lincoln County Schools family.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSProud
For our next LCS Couples feature, we’re celebrating Karen and Rodney Robbins, whose love story began 47 years ago on a blind date arranged by their two best friends — and they’ve been going strong ever since.
Rodney works at North Lincoln High School as a teacher assistant, while Karen serves students across the district as an itinerant teacher of deaf and hard of hearing. Though they work in different roles, they share the same heart for supporting students and making a difference in schools every day.
Their story is a beautiful reminder that strong relationships, shared purpose, and lasting commitment are at the heart of our school community. We’re proud to have both of them as part of the Lincoln County Schools family.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSProud
February is CTE Month, and we are proud to recognize the incredible Career & Technical Education teachers and staff across Lincoln County Schools. Every day, these educators connect classroom learning to real-world skills, career pathways, and future opportunities for our students. From health sciences to engineering, agriculture to business, their dedication helps students discover passions and prepare for life beyond graduation. Thank you to our entire CTE team for investing in our learners and our community.
#CTEMonth #WeAreLINCOLN
#CTEMonth #WeAreLINCOLN
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
