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
3 months ago, LCS Communications
White lined notebook paper background with red hand-drawn hearts scattered across the page. Large text in the center reads “Yes.” Below it, smaller text says “This is the easiest good deed you’ll do all week.” The Lincoln County Schools logo appears near the bottom right corner.
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
3 months ago, LCS Communications
A substitute teacher stands smiling at the front of an elementary classroom with student desks arranged in groups, a large screen on the wall behind her, and daylight coming through the windows.
Two women stand side by side in a classroom holding a hand-lettered poster that reads “Stacy Byus Sub of the Month February 2026,” smiling at the camera.
Two women embrace in a classroom, celebrating recognition as colleagues look on and classroom materials are visible in the background.
A substitute teacher smiles while speaking with a colleague who holds a recognition poster in a classroom setting.
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
3 months ago, LCS Communications
Two adults smile in a selfie taken outdoors on a narrow walking path surrounded by trees and grass. One person has light hair pulled back and wears a light-colored top, and the other has dark hair and wears a black top with backpack straps visible. Heart graphics and the text “Lincoln County Schools besties” appear across the top. A pink banner at the bottom reads “Ashley Pittman and Susan Wagoner” and “West Lincoln High School.”
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
3 months ago, LCS Communications
Photo collage celebrating school bus drivers in Lincoln County Schools. Images show staff and community members posing with yellow school buses and handmade appreciation signs. One photo features a man in a red “Rebels Soccer” shirt holding a student-made thank-you poster for bus drivers. Another shows three women standing in a school office with a “Thank You” banner on the wall. A central image shows a group of employees kneeling and standing in front of a parked bus smiling together. On the right, three staff members pose on the steps of a bus under a “Lincoln County Schools – Love the Bus” graphic. Additional photos include a community member holding a plate at a bus lot, a group holding a banner reading “We ❤️ our Bus Drivers!” in front of a bus, and two employees displaying student appreciation posters. Overall tone is cheerful and grateful, highlighting appreciation for transportation staff.
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
3 months ago, LCS Communications
CORRECTED
❤️ 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
3 months ago, LCS Communications
A smiling couple sits at a table inside a fast-food restaurant, both raising one hand in a friendly wave toward the camera. The person on the left wears glasses and a patterned orange shirt, and the person on the right wears glasses and a black-and-white checkered top. Large windows behind them show menu posters and a view of greenery outside. Heart graphics and the text “Lincoln County Schools couple” appear across the top. A pink banner at the bottom reads “The Robbinses” and “North Lincoln High and EC Department.”
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
3 months ago, LCS Communications
Graphic celebrating CTE Month with an orange border and Lincoln County Schools branding. The design thanks Career & Technical Education teachers for all they do for students and lists staff members by program area, including Agricultural Education, Business/Finance/Marketing, Computer Science & IT, Family & Consumer Science, Health Science, JROTC, Technology/Trade/Engineering, Career Development Coordinators, and the CTE Office team. The North Carolina CTE logo and the CTE Month emblem are displayed in the center.
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
3 months 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.
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
3 months ago, LCS Communications
A student wearing a black T-shirt and camouflage hat smiles while operating a CNC machine in a manufacturing lab. He presses buttons on the control panel while standing beside the open machine. Other industrial machines and equipment are visible in the background. Text on the graphic reads: “Feb. 24, 5:30–8 p.m. Rhino Roadmap to CTE Careers” and “gaston.edu/cte-roadmap,” with a rhinoceros mascot logo.
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
3 months ago, LCS Communications
White lined notebook paper background with red hand-drawn hearts scattered across the page. Large text in the center reads “Be Responsible.” with smaller text below that says “Spread Kindness.” The Lincoln County Schools logo appears near the bottom right corner.
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
3 months ago, LCS Communications
A collage of photos shows two adults together in various settings and outfits, smiling and posing at school and community events. Images include them sitting on a bed holding snacks and a red cup, posing in school hallways in themed outfits, standing together in a classroom, celebrating at a decorated event, and taking outdoor selfies. Heart graphics and the text “Lincoln County Schools besties” appear across the top. A pink banner at the bottom reads “Jennifer Panepinto and Alix Turner” and “St. James Elementary.”
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
3 months ago, LCS Communications
Graphic for National Apprenticeship Week 2026 featuring ELHS student Kevin Mondragon Arenas, first-year apprentice at Blum Inc. Left photo shows Kevin standing outside Blum beside an orange company sign. Right photo shows Kevin working at a machine in a manufacturing lab. Design includes CTE and East Lincoln logos with gear and tool illustrations.
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
3 months ago, LCS Communications
A smiling teenage boy and a woman stand side by side in a classroom. The student wears a gray “Carolina” sweatshirt, jeans, and white sneakers with his hand in his pocket. The woman wears a cream sweater with black horizontal stripes, jeans, and a watch. Behind them are classroom cabinets, a periodic table poster, and several school policy signs posted on metal lockers.
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
3 months ago, LCS Communications
Two young women sit back to back, smiling at the camera, both wearing brown short-sleeve tops and jeans against a light, studio-style background. One has dark, curly shoulder-length hair and the other has straight, light brown hair. Heart graphics and the text “Lincoln County Schools besties” appear across the top. A pink banner at the bottom reads “Elisa Sprouse and Ashley Watts” and “St. James Elementary and East Lincoln Middle.”
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/
.

#WeAreLINCOLN #JoinLCS
3 months ago, LCS Communications
Graphic with a bright pink border over an aerial photo of a Lincoln County Schools building. Text reads: “Will you work with us? Check Yes or No.” Job openings listed include Teacher – Visually Impaired/Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialist at the Exceptional Children’s Department; MTSS Tutor at Love Memorial Elementary; JV Softball Head Coach at East Lincoln High; Head Custodian at Union Elementary; Child Nutrition Assistant Managers at Love Memorial Elementary and North Lincoln Middle; Child Nutrition Assistant/Sub Bus Drivers at Catawba Springs Elementary and North Lincoln High; and JV Women’s Soccer Head Coach at West Lincoln High School for Spring 2026. Bottom banner reads “Apply Online” with the web address lcsnc.schoolspring.com.
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
3 months ago, LCS Communications
Graphic reading “February is Love the Bus Month” in pink text on a light striped background. A smiling cartoon yellow school bus with heart-shaped cheeks appears at the bottom left. The Lincoln County Schools logo is in the bottom right corner.
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
3 months ago, LCS Communications
White lined notebook paper background with red hand-drawn hearts scattered across the page. Bold text in the center reads “Homework: Tell a staff member they matter!” The Lincoln County Schools logo appears near the bottom right corner.
We know these past two weeks have been difficult for parents and caregivers in many different ways. Remote learning isn’t easy, and rearranging work schedules isn’t easy. Please know that the people making these decisions are parents too—many of us have children in Lincoln County Schools—and we are navigating the same challenges alongside you.

As we look ahead to the remainder of winter, we want families to be aware that any future weather cancellations or delays will require Lincoln County Schools to consider how and if to make up missed instructional days. We have now exhausted the five remote learning days allowed by the NC General Assembly. At this time, we still have minimal instructional hours remaining that could be forgiven.

If additional cancellations occur, make-up days may be scheduled in no particular order:
1. Teacher workdays
2. Saturdays within the same week or grading period
3. Spring Break
4. Adding minutes to the school day

We understand schedule changes impact families, and we will communicate any adjustments as early as possible. Thank you for your flexibility, patience, and continued partnership.

#WeAreLINCOLN
3 months ago, LCS Communications
Graphic with a black background and white textured paint-stroke panel in the center. Bold text reads: “Information Regarding Future Winter Weather – No More Remote Learning Days – All Days From Here On Out Will Be Made Up.” Red arrows point to the message. Lincoln County Schools logo appears in the top right corner.
February is Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, a time to celebrate the programs that prepare students with real-world skills for college, careers, and beyond. The week of February 9 is also National Apprenticeship Week, highlighting opportunities for students to learn through hands-on experiences while building pathways to high-demand careers. We are proud of the work happening in our CTE programs across Lincoln County Schools as students celebrate today and own tomorrow.

#WeAreLINCOLN #CTEMonth
3 months ago, LCS Communications
Shield-shaped graphic reading “CTE Month” with the words “Celebrate Today, Own Tomorrow!” underneath. The Lincoln County Schools logo appears at the bottom. The design uses blue and orange colors with small sparkle accents on the shield.
Today's LCS Love Story:

Joanna and Matt met in 2004 at a high school football game, and from that night on, their story was set in motion. They dated throughout high school and college while both attended NC State, building a relationship rooted in friendship, faith, and plenty of Wolfpack pride. After college, they were married in 2012 and began their next chapter together.

For seven years, they taught side by side at Lincolnton Middle School before Matt transitioned into administration. Those years in the same building strengthened not only their marriage but also their shared commitment to students and to Lincoln County Schools.

Today, they are the proud parents of three children—Maddox, Lilly Kate, and Hayes. Their family life revolves around basketball, baseball, and football, along with trips to the beach and cheering on the Wolfpack in every sport they can.

Joanna and Matt continue to share a strong bond with Lincoln County Schools and love supporting students wherever they are—in the classroom, on the field, or on the stage.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCouples
3 months ago, LCS Communications
Split photo graphic featuring a couple labeled “The Hovises.” On the left, the pair smiles at a crowded basketball arena filled with fans wearing red. On the right, the same couple stands together outdoors under a teal porch roof, smiling at the camera. A string of pink hearts decorates the top, and a pink caption bar reads “The Hovises – Lincolnton Middle and LCST.”