Congratulations to Dr. April Graham on earning her Doctor of Healthcare Administration from Virginia University of Lynchburg. This accomplishment reflects her dedication to serving students, staff, and families across Lincoln County Schools. We are proud to have her leadership as our District Mental Health Coordinator.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSLeads
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSLeads
Ready for Success!
Our students have worked hard all year, and it’s time to shine. End-of-Grade (EOG) and End-of-Course (EOC) testing is right around the corner, and we want every student to feel prepared and confident.
Mark your calendars:
Elementary & Middle: May 8, 12, and 14
Success checklist:
• Get a good night’s sleep
• Arrive at school on time
• Eat a healthy breakfast (at home or at school)
• Dress comfortably (within dress code)
Electronics reminder: To ensure a secure testing environment, cell phones, smartwatches, wireless headphones, and other electronic devices must be powered off and stored away as directed by your school or left at home. Per state guidelines, students found with a device during testing will be dismissed from the testing session.
We believe in you. You are prepared and confident.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSuccess
Looking for a meaningful Teacher Appreciation Week or end-of-year gift for your child’s teacher?
Support them—and the Lincoln County Public Education Foundation—by purchasing a 50/50 Summertime Split raffle ticket. Teachers could instantly win up to $125,000 in cash, and proceeds help provide impactful opportunities for our staff and students.
Purchase here: lcpef.rallyup.com/2026summerraffle
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCommunity
Support them—and the Lincoln County Public Education Foundation—by purchasing a 50/50 Summertime Split raffle ticket. Teachers could instantly win up to $125,000 in cash, and proceeds help provide impactful opportunities for our staff and students.
Purchase here: lcpef.rallyup.com/2026summerraffle
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCommunity
Ms. Julie Carpenter, FACS teacher at Lincolnton High, was selected to attend the Disney Teacher's Celebration last week at Disney World. As part of that, she received a $10,000 grant for the school project of her choice.
Ms. Carpenter is fifth from the right (including Mickey).
#WeAreLINCOLN
Ms. Carpenter is fifth from the right (including Mickey).
#WeAreLINCOLN
May brings new beginnings—and new opportunities to join our team.
We have several positions now open across Lincoln County Schools, including teaching, coaching, CTE, and support staff roles. If you—or someone you know—are ready to make an impact, we encourage you to apply.
View positions and apply: https://lcsnc.schoolspring.com/
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCareers
We have several positions now open across Lincoln County Schools, including teaching, coaching, CTE, and support staff roles. If you—or someone you know—are ready to make an impact, we encourage you to apply.
View positions and apply: https://lcsnc.schoolspring.com/
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCareers
May is the month to finish strong! Every day in class matters as we wrap up projects, prepare for exams, and celebrate a year of growth. Let’s be present and end the year on a high note! #WeAreLINCOLN #AttendanceMatters
Thank You Teachers
Teacher Appreciation Week
This week, we celebrate the educators and staff who make a difference in our students' lives every single day. From the classroom to every corner of our schools, your dedication, care, and commitment shape the future of Lincoln County.
Thank you for the impact you make, the relationships you build, and the difference you create.
#WeAreLINCOLN #TeacherAppreciationWeek
Teacher Appreciation Week
This week, we celebrate the educators and staff who make a difference in our students' lives every single day. From the classroom to every corner of our schools, your dedication, care, and commitment shape the future of Lincoln County.
Thank you for the impact you make, the relationships you build, and the difference you create.
#WeAreLINCOLN #TeacherAppreciationWeek
Looking for the perfect Mother’s Day gift or a meaningful way to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week?
Support Lincoln County Schools and enter for a chance to win BIG with the Lincoln County Public Education Foundation’s Summertime Split 50/50 raffle. Proceeds support innovative projects and technology needs across all 23 schools.
Tickets are on sale now through May 11, and one lucky winner will take home HALF of the total raised—up to $125,000.
Get your tickets today: lcpef.rallyup.com/2026summerraffle
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCommunity
Support Lincoln County Schools and enter for a chance to win BIG with the Lincoln County Public Education Foundation’s Summertime Split 50/50 raffle. Proceeds support innovative projects and technology needs across all 23 schools.
Tickets are on sale now through May 11, and one lucky winner will take home HALF of the total raised—up to $125,000.
Get your tickets today: lcpef.rallyup.com/2026summerraffle
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCommunity
May is here, and there is so much to celebrate in Lincoln County Schools!
Teacher Appreciation Week, Meals That Matter Restaurant Week, Cinco de Mayo, and Mother’s Day are all right around the corner—and it all starts tomorrow.
Join us May 3–10 for Meals That Matter. Participating restaurants across our community will donate a portion of their sales to support our teachers' professional development. Dine in or take out and make a difference while supporting local businesses.
Carolina Steak & Rib
The Cherry Pit
Cooked for You
Giovanni’s
Good Wood Pizzeria
Johnny’s Mexican Grille
Lineberger’s Steakhouse
Poppy’s of Maryland
Let’s celebrate together and show our appreciation in a meaningful way.
#WeAreLINCOLN #MealsThatMatter
Teacher Appreciation Week, Meals That Matter Restaurant Week, Cinco de Mayo, and Mother’s Day are all right around the corner—and it all starts tomorrow.
Join us May 3–10 for Meals That Matter. Participating restaurants across our community will donate a portion of their sales to support our teachers' professional development. Dine in or take out and make a difference while supporting local businesses.
Carolina Steak & Rib
The Cherry Pit
Cooked for You
Giovanni’s
Good Wood Pizzeria
Johnny’s Mexican Grille
Lineberger’s Steakhouse
Poppy’s of Maryland
Let’s celebrate together and show our appreciation in a meaningful way.
#WeAreLINCOLN #MealsThatMatter
May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to pause, check in, and take care of ourselves and each other.
In Lincoln County Schools, we know that mental health matters for everyone—students, staff, and families. Whether it’s taking a moment to breathe, reaching out to someone you trust, or asking for support, small steps can make a big difference.
Let’s continue to create spaces where people feel seen, heard, and supported—because when we take care of our mental health, we’re better able to learn, lead, and thrive.
#WeAreLINCOLN #MentalHealthMatters
In Lincoln County Schools, we know that mental health matters for everyone—students, staff, and families. Whether it’s taking a moment to breathe, reaching out to someone you trust, or asking for support, small steps can make a big difference.
Let’s continue to create spaces where people feel seen, heard, and supported—because when we take care of our mental health, we’re better able to learn, lead, and thrive.
#WeAreLINCOLN #MentalHealthMatters
Congratulations to Nicholas Beninati (NLMS), John Toscano (LMS), and Clare Qin (NLMS) on being selected for the North Carolina All-State Honors Band! They will perform with the middle school group at UNC Greensboro on May 3rd. We are incredibly proud of you all for representing your schools so well!
Nicholas Beninati – Bass Clarinet, North Lincoln Middle
Clare Qin – Mallets, North Lincoln Middle
John Toscano – Tuba, Lincolnton Middle
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSExcellence
Nicholas Beninati – Bass Clarinet, North Lincoln Middle
Clare Qin – Mallets, North Lincoln Middle
John Toscano – Tuba, Lincolnton Middle
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSExcellence
Today is National Principals’ Day!
Today, we recognize the 23 dedicated leaders who guide our schools each day. Our principals support students, empower staff, and help create positive, successful learning environments across Lincoln County Schools.
Thank you for your leadership, your commitment, and the impact you make in every school community.
#WeAreLINCOLN #ThankAPrincipal
Today, we recognize the 23 dedicated leaders who guide our schools each day. Our principals support students, empower staff, and help create positive, successful learning environments across Lincoln County Schools.
Thank you for your leadership, your commitment, and the impact you make in every school community.
#WeAreLINCOLN #ThankAPrincipal
MAY 2026
Lincoln County Schools
12th: School Board Meeting at 6pm
21st: Early Release and Last Day for Students
LAST DAY!
As we wrap up the school year, we’re proud of all that our students and staff have accomplished. We look forward to celebrating a strong finish across Lincoln County Schools.
#WeAreLINCOLN #FinishStrong
Lincoln County Schools
12th: School Board Meeting at 6pm
21st: Early Release and Last Day for Students
LAST DAY!
As we wrap up the school year, we’re proud of all that our students and staff have accomplished. We look forward to celebrating a strong finish across Lincoln County Schools.
#WeAreLINCOLN #FinishStrong
Lincoln County Schools celebrates School Lunch Hero Day
Today, we recognize the incredible members of our nutrition teams who serve our students every single day with care, consistency, and heart. From early mornings to the last lunch line, they make sure every student is welcomed and nourished.
Thank you to our School Lunch Heroes for all you do for Lincoln County Schools.
#WeAreLINCOLN #SchoolLunchHeroDay
Today, we recognize the incredible members of our nutrition teams who serve our students every single day with care, consistency, and heart. From early mornings to the last lunch line, they make sure every student is welcomed and nourished.
Thank you to our School Lunch Heroes for all you do for Lincoln County Schools.
#WeAreLINCOLN #SchoolLunchHeroDay
Purple Star Ceremony Recognizes Nearly 600 NC Schools for Extraordinary Support of Military Students and Families
Nearly 600 schools earned the Purple Star Award designation for the 2025–26 school year, a significant increase from last year, including 145 first-time recipients. Schools and districts were recognized during an April 24 ceremony, highlighting the Purple Star Award, which honors schools that support military-connected students and families. The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction recognizes schools through its Purple Star Award Designation initiative, which first launched in the 2019–20 school year.
Lincoln County Schools is proud to have 9 schools earn this distinction:
Asbury Academy
Catawba Springs Elementary School
East Lincoln High School
Lincolnton High School
Love Memorial Elementary School
North Brook Elementary School
North Lincoln High School
St. James Elementary
Union Elementary School
Mr. Eric Eaker, assistant superintendent of operations and administration, attended the ceremony in Raleigh last week to accept the recognition on behalf of these schools.
Click the link below to learn more about the Purple Star Award program and see the full list of recognized schools and districts.
https://bit.ly/42adUFk
#WeAreLINCOLN #PurpleStar
Nearly 600 schools earned the Purple Star Award designation for the 2025–26 school year, a significant increase from last year, including 145 first-time recipients. Schools and districts were recognized during an April 24 ceremony, highlighting the Purple Star Award, which honors schools that support military-connected students and families. The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction recognizes schools through its Purple Star Award Designation initiative, which first launched in the 2019–20 school year.
Lincoln County Schools is proud to have 9 schools earn this distinction:
Asbury Academy
Catawba Springs Elementary School
East Lincoln High School
Lincolnton High School
Love Memorial Elementary School
North Brook Elementary School
North Lincoln High School
St. James Elementary
Union Elementary School
Mr. Eric Eaker, assistant superintendent of operations and administration, attended the ceremony in Raleigh last week to accept the recognition on behalf of these schools.
Click the link below to learn more about the Purple Star Award program and see the full list of recognized schools and districts.
https://bit.ly/42adUFk
#WeAreLINCOLN #PurpleStar
Dr. Allen wrapped up another round of school visits this week, making stops at Pumpkin Center Primary and West Middle—this time in his now-famous inflatable costumes.
At Pumpkin Center Primary, one moment captured it all. As a student stepped out of their car, they pointed and said, “Look, there’s a baked potato!” Safe to say, the costumes continue to bring smiles, laughter, and a memorable start to the school day.
From greeting students upon arrival to connecting with staff, these visits are all about building relationships, creating joy, and reminding our school communities that leadership can be both present and fun.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSConnects
At Pumpkin Center Primary, one moment captured it all. As a student stepped out of their car, they pointed and said, “Look, there’s a baked potato!” Safe to say, the costumes continue to bring smiles, laughter, and a memorable start to the school day.
From greeting students upon arrival to connecting with staff, these visits are all about building relationships, creating joy, and reminding our school communities that leadership can be both present and fun.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSConnects
Carolina Steak & Rib is joining Meals That Matter: Restaurant Week.
May 3–10, 2026 | Lincoln County, NC
Carolina Steak & Rib
From steaks to ribs and everything in between, enjoy a local favorite while supporting a great cause. When you dine during Restaurant Week, a portion of sales will go back to Lincoln County Schools to support teachers in their professional development needs and requests.
Great food that gives back.
#WeAreLINCOLN #MealsThatMatter
May 3–10, 2026 | Lincoln County, NC
Carolina Steak & Rib
From steaks to ribs and everything in between, enjoy a local favorite while supporting a great cause. When you dine during Restaurant Week, a portion of sales will go back to Lincoln County Schools to support teachers in their professional development needs and requests.
Great food that gives back.
#WeAreLINCOLN #MealsThatMatter
North Lincoln Middle School Educator Selected as 2025–2026 Council Scholar
Laurie Dymes, a teacher at North Lincoln Middle School, has been selected as a 2025–2026 Council Scholar through the World Affairs Council of Charlotte. She is one of ten educators from across the Charlotte region chosen to participate in this prestigious international professional development opportunity.
As part of the program, Dymes will travel abroad this fall, representing both her school and Lincoln County Schools. She will attend the European Dyslexia Association Autumn Seminars in Gdańsk, Poland, where she will engage with international educators and researchers to explore innovative approaches to supporting students with dyslexia in K–12 settings.
Dymes’ selection reflects her deep commitment to literacy and student success. Over the past five years, she has focused her professional learning on dyslexia, attending conferences hosted by the International Dyslexia Association and expanding her advocacy for struggling readers.
“This opportunity allows me to learn from educators around the world and bring those ideas back to our classrooms,” said Dymes. “The world is the best classroom there is, and I’m excited to share what I learn with my students and colleagues.”
Following the seminar, Dymes will travel to Kraków, Poland, where she will visit Auschwitz-Birkenau and Oskar Schindler’s Factory. These visits will deepen her work teaching Holocaust and human rights education, an area she has developed through her training with The Olga Lengyel Institute.
“This experience is both professional and deeply personal,” Dymes said. “Walking these historic sites will strengthen the meaningful connections I strive to create for students as they learn about history, empathy, and human rights.”
The Council Scholars program, led by the World Affairs Council of Charlotte, is designed to support educators in bringing global perspectives into their classrooms and school communities.
“Laurie’s selection as a Council Scholar highlights the caliber of educators we have in Lincoln County Schools,” said Dr. Allen. “Her commitment to literacy, global learning, and meaningful student experiences reflects the very best of our mission to help students learn, lead, and thrive.”
Dymes will share insights from her experience with colleagues and students upon her return, further strengthening global awareness and instructional practices across the district.
Dr. Dymes is pictured as #3
#WeAreLINCOLN #CouncilScholar
Laurie Dymes, a teacher at North Lincoln Middle School, has been selected as a 2025–2026 Council Scholar through the World Affairs Council of Charlotte. She is one of ten educators from across the Charlotte region chosen to participate in this prestigious international professional development opportunity.
As part of the program, Dymes will travel abroad this fall, representing both her school and Lincoln County Schools. She will attend the European Dyslexia Association Autumn Seminars in Gdańsk, Poland, where she will engage with international educators and researchers to explore innovative approaches to supporting students with dyslexia in K–12 settings.
Dymes’ selection reflects her deep commitment to literacy and student success. Over the past five years, she has focused her professional learning on dyslexia, attending conferences hosted by the International Dyslexia Association and expanding her advocacy for struggling readers.
“This opportunity allows me to learn from educators around the world and bring those ideas back to our classrooms,” said Dymes. “The world is the best classroom there is, and I’m excited to share what I learn with my students and colleagues.”
Following the seminar, Dymes will travel to Kraków, Poland, where she will visit Auschwitz-Birkenau and Oskar Schindler’s Factory. These visits will deepen her work teaching Holocaust and human rights education, an area she has developed through her training with The Olga Lengyel Institute.
“This experience is both professional and deeply personal,” Dymes said. “Walking these historic sites will strengthen the meaningful connections I strive to create for students as they learn about history, empathy, and human rights.”
The Council Scholars program, led by the World Affairs Council of Charlotte, is designed to support educators in bringing global perspectives into their classrooms and school communities.
“Laurie’s selection as a Council Scholar highlights the caliber of educators we have in Lincoln County Schools,” said Dr. Allen. “Her commitment to literacy, global learning, and meaningful student experiences reflects the very best of our mission to help students learn, lead, and thrive.”
Dymes will share insights from her experience with colleagues and students upon her return, further strengthening global awareness and instructional practices across the district.
Dr. Dymes is pictured as #3
#WeAreLINCOLN #CouncilScholar
Author and illustrator James Burks brought stories to life across Lincoln County Schools last week, visiting several of our elementary campuses—including G.E. Massey Elementary.
Students had the opportunity to meet the creator behind the bestselling Bird & Squirrel graphic novel series, known for its engaging storytelling and vibrant illustrations that inspire young readers.
During his visit, Burks shared insights into his creative process, encouraged students to explore their own storytelling talents, and built excitement around reading and writing—especially with his newest series, Box Tales, on the horizon.
Experiences like this spark imagination, deepen a love for reading, and remind our students that their own stories matter.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LiteracyMatters
Students had the opportunity to meet the creator behind the bestselling Bird & Squirrel graphic novel series, known for its engaging storytelling and vibrant illustrations that inspire young readers.
During his visit, Burks shared insights into his creative process, encouraged students to explore their own storytelling talents, and built excitement around reading and writing—especially with his newest series, Box Tales, on the horizon.
Experiences like this spark imagination, deepen a love for reading, and remind our students that their own stories matter.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LiteracyMatters
Johnny’s Mexican-American Grill & Bar is joining Meals That Matter: Restaurant Week.
May 3–10, 2026 | Lincoln County, NC
Johnny’s Mexican-American Grill & Bar
From bold flavors to local favorites, Johnny’s is serving up great food for a great cause. When you dine during Restaurant Week, a portion of sales will go back to Lincoln County Schools to support teachers in their professional development needs and requests.
Good food. Strong community. Meaningful impact.
#WeAreLINCOLN #MealsThatMatter
May 3–10, 2026 | Lincoln County, NC
Johnny’s Mexican-American Grill & Bar
From bold flavors to local favorites, Johnny’s is serving up great food for a great cause. When you dine during Restaurant Week, a portion of sales will go back to Lincoln County Schools to support teachers in their professional development needs and requests.
Good food. Strong community. Meaningful impact.
#WeAreLINCOLN #MealsThatMatter
