Another LCS Love Story!
Alyson and Clint’s story began during the 2004–2005 school year, when Alyson was commuting every day from Rock Hill, South Carolina to West Lincoln to teach. Along the way, two different people — a coworker and a college friend of Clint’s — had the very same thought: these two need to meet.
So, they stepped in and set up a blind date… and the rest really is history.
Now, 18 years of marriage later, Alyson and Clint are raising two children and continuing to build their life together, grateful for the small moments (and helpful friends) that brought them together in the first place.
Alyson and Clint’s story began during the 2004–2005 school year, when Alyson was commuting every day from Rock Hill, South Carolina to West Lincoln to teach. Along the way, two different people — a coworker and a college friend of Clint’s — had the very same thought: these two need to meet.
So, they stepped in and set up a blind date… and the rest really is history.
Now, 18 years of marriage later, Alyson and Clint are raising two children and continuing to build their life together, grateful for the small moments (and helpful friends) that brought them together in the first place.
Reminder for graduating seniors: the application window for Atrium Health’s Rise to Success program closes March 1. This program offers a pathway into health care careers by covering tuition, textbooks, fees, and scrubs while students earn an associate’s degree or certification at a local community college. Participants are also hired into entry-level positions during their studies, gaining valuable experience while they learn.
If you are interested in fields such as nursing, radiology, respiratory therapy, surgical technology, medical assisting, or medical laboratory technology, don’t miss this opportunity. Eligible applicants must be high school graduates, at least 18 by June 15, and have a minimum 3.0 GPA. Learn more and submit your application before the deadline: https://bit.ly/4q8YgDP
#WeAreLINCOLN #CareerReady
If you are interested in fields such as nursing, radiology, respiratory therapy, surgical technology, medical assisting, or medical laboratory technology, don’t miss this opportunity. Eligible applicants must be high school graduates, at least 18 by June 15, and have a minimum 3.0 GPA. Learn more and submit your application before the deadline: https://bit.ly/4q8YgDP
#WeAreLINCOLN #CareerReady
What a powerful evening of music at the Citizens Center as our Middle School and High School All-County Honors Choruses took the stage.
Students from across Lincoln County Schools came together to rehearse, collaborate, and perform at an exceptionally high level. Their dedication, talent, and teamwork were evident in every note. Experiences like this showcase not only musical excellence, but the confidence, discipline, and unity that fine arts programs help cultivate in our students.
Thank you to our chorus directors, accompanists, clinicians, families, and community members who support music education across our district.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSFineArts
Students from across Lincoln County Schools came together to rehearse, collaborate, and perform at an exceptionally high level. Their dedication, talent, and teamwork were evident in every note. Experiences like this showcase not only musical excellence, but the confidence, discipline, and unity that fine arts programs help cultivate in our students.
Thank you to our chorus directors, accompanists, clinicians, families, and community members who support music education across our district.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSFineArts
Calling all LCS 10th graders interested in a future in healthcare.
Join us for the Health Academy Open House at Gaston College’s Lincoln Campus on March 4 from 12–2 p.m. Students will learn more about healthcare pathways, explore hands-on training opportunities, and see how they can get a head start on a high-demand career.
Interested students should speak with their school counselor to sign up.
#WeAreLINCOLN #CareerReady
Join us for the Health Academy Open House at Gaston College’s Lincoln Campus on March 4 from 12–2 p.m. Students will learn more about healthcare pathways, explore hands-on training opportunities, and see how they can get a head start on a high-demand career.
Interested students should speak with their school counselor to sign up.
#WeAreLINCOLN #CareerReady
Another LCS Love Story:
Jason and Anna’s story began in 1985 when Jason’s family moved back to Lincolnton and their families attended the same church. Though they started at different elementary schools—Jason at Asbury and Anna at Iron Station—their paths crossed at G.E. Massey for 5th and 6th grades. Jason later graduated from Lincolnton High School, and Anna finished at West Lincoln High School, their lives continuing to weave in and out of one another over the years.
On April 22, 2006, a rainy spring day, they were married by Jason’s grandfather at Emmanuel Lutheran Church—a meaningful beginning surrounded by family, faith, and deep roots in their community.
Today, Jason and Anna live in Lincolnton with their three boys on their small farm, where life is full of laughter, hard work, and simple joys. Their journey, grounded in shared history and hometown connections, continues to grow right where it all began.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCouples
Jason and Anna’s story began in 1985 when Jason’s family moved back to Lincolnton and their families attended the same church. Though they started at different elementary schools—Jason at Asbury and Anna at Iron Station—their paths crossed at G.E. Massey for 5th and 6th grades. Jason later graduated from Lincolnton High School, and Anna finished at West Lincoln High School, their lives continuing to weave in and out of one another over the years.
On April 22, 2006, a rainy spring day, they were married by Jason’s grandfather at Emmanuel Lutheran Church—a meaningful beginning surrounded by family, faith, and deep roots in their community.
Today, Jason and Anna live in Lincolnton with their three boys on their small farm, where life is full of laughter, hard work, and simple joys. Their journey, grounded in shared history and hometown connections, continues to grow right where it all began.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCouples
February is CTE Month, and this week we also celebrate FFA Week — two powerful reminders of how Career and Technical Education prepares students for real-world success.
At West Lincoln High School, students are building skills across multiple pathways. In Fashion and Textiles, students are developing precision and creativity through hands-on sewing projects. In Culinary Arts, students practice measurement, teamwork, and food science fundamentals. In Agricultural Education, students demonstrate technical skill operating equipment and mastering safety procedures. And through FFA, students grow as leaders while representing North Carolina agriculture with pride.
CTE programs connect classroom learning to future careers, industry certifications, and leadership development. These experiences prepare students to graduate ready to learn, lead, and thrive.
We are proud of the students and teachers at WLHS who make Career and Technical Education meaningful every day.
#WeAreLINCOLN #CTEMonth
At West Lincoln High School, students are building skills across multiple pathways. In Fashion and Textiles, students are developing precision and creativity through hands-on sewing projects. In Culinary Arts, students practice measurement, teamwork, and food science fundamentals. In Agricultural Education, students demonstrate technical skill operating equipment and mastering safety procedures. And through FFA, students grow as leaders while representing North Carolina agriculture with pride.
CTE programs connect classroom learning to future careers, industry certifications, and leadership development. These experiences prepare students to graduate ready to learn, lead, and thrive.
We are proud of the students and teachers at WLHS who make Career and Technical Education meaningful every day.
#WeAreLINCOLN #CTEMonth
Looking to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students?
Join us for the Lincoln County Schools EC Recruitment Fair on March 19, 2026 from 5–7 PM at our Central Services Building. Meet principals, explore residency licensure pathways, interview on-site, and learn more about the strong supports in place for our EC teachers — including low caseloads, instructional coaching, compliance specialists, and a 9% supplement.
Whether you’re a recent graduate, career changer, or ready to pursue residency licensure, we would love to connect with you.
Register using the QR code or visit www.lincoln.k12.nc.us
#WeAreLINCOLN #TeachInNC
Join us for the Lincoln County Schools EC Recruitment Fair on March 19, 2026 from 5–7 PM at our Central Services Building. Meet principals, explore residency licensure pathways, interview on-site, and learn more about the strong supports in place for our EC teachers — including low caseloads, instructional coaching, compliance specialists, and a 9% supplement.
Whether you’re a recent graduate, career changer, or ready to pursue residency licensure, we would love to connect with you.
Register using the QR code or visit www.lincoln.k12.nc.us
#WeAreLINCOLN #TeachInNC
We’re growing our team at Lincoln County Schools.
New positions are now posted, including leadership, maintenance, child nutrition, and coaching opportunities across the district. If you’re passionate about serving students and making a difference in our community, we invite you to apply.
View full job descriptions and apply online at https://lcsnc.schoolspring.com/
Join us and be part of something meaningful. #WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCareers
New positions are now posted, including leadership, maintenance, child nutrition, and coaching opportunities across the district. If you’re passionate about serving students and making a difference in our community, we invite you to apply.
View full job descriptions and apply online at https://lcsnc.schoolspring.com/
Join us and be part of something meaningful. #WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCareers
Last week, Dr. Aaron Allen started the morning at Iron Station Elementary in full duck attire—complete with bright yellow feathers and earmuffs—welcoming students with smiles and high-fives as they headed into class.
This morning, he took things to a whole new level at North Lincoln High School, greeting students in an inflatable blue anglerfish costume by the front entrance. Yes, complete with fins, teeth, and a glowing light.
From elementary car rider lines to high school bus arrivals, Dr. Allen is always finding creative ways to connect with students and bring a little extra joy to the start of the school day. Sometimes leadership looks like a suit and tie. Sometimes it looks like a duck… or a deep-sea fish.
It’s all about showing up for students—wherever they are.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LincolnCountySchools
This morning, he took things to a whole new level at North Lincoln High School, greeting students in an inflatable blue anglerfish costume by the front entrance. Yes, complete with fins, teeth, and a glowing light.
From elementary car rider lines to high school bus arrivals, Dr. Allen is always finding creative ways to connect with students and bring a little extra joy to the start of the school day. Sometimes leadership looks like a suit and tie. Sometimes it looks like a duck… or a deep-sea fish.
It’s all about showing up for students—wherever they are.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LincolnCountySchools
Here is today's LCS Bestie story:
Crystal and Bri first met in 2012 when Bri was hired at Rock Springs Elementary as a 3rd grade teacher—stepping into the classroom Crystal had just left after moving up to 5th grade. What started as a simple timing coincidence at work quickly turned into the beginning of a forever friendship.
Since then, they’ve been basically inseparable. They even started a Bunco group—although it’s much less about Bunco and much more about a group of girlfriends finding any excuse to be together as often as possible.
Over the last 12 years, they’ve shared it all—weddings, baby showers, birthdays, and every big and small life moment in between. Now Crystal teaches Bri’s kids, and Bri’s daughter passes down clothes to Crystal’s daughters, which pretty much proves this friendship has officially gone full circle and full family.
Not only do they choose to spend their free time together, but they also get to spend their days side by side at school. With Bri teaching 3rd grade and Crystal serving as the AIG specialist, they plan lessons, collaborate, support each other, and find ways to laugh through even the busiest days. Getting to work together has been just as special as getting to do life together.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSBesties
Crystal and Bri first met in 2012 when Bri was hired at Rock Springs Elementary as a 3rd grade teacher—stepping into the classroom Crystal had just left after moving up to 5th grade. What started as a simple timing coincidence at work quickly turned into the beginning of a forever friendship.
Since then, they’ve been basically inseparable. They even started a Bunco group—although it’s much less about Bunco and much more about a group of girlfriends finding any excuse to be together as often as possible.
Over the last 12 years, they’ve shared it all—weddings, baby showers, birthdays, and every big and small life moment in between. Now Crystal teaches Bri’s kids, and Bri’s daughter passes down clothes to Crystal’s daughters, which pretty much proves this friendship has officially gone full circle and full family.
Not only do they choose to spend their free time together, but they also get to spend their days side by side at school. With Bri teaching 3rd grade and Crystal serving as the AIG specialist, they plan lessons, collaborate, support each other, and find ways to laugh through even the busiest days. Getting to work together has been just as special as getting to do life together.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSBesties
It’s National FFA Week, and we’re proud to celebrate our students who are developing leadership skills, career readiness, and a passion for agriculture through FFA programs across Lincoln County Schools. Thank you to our advisors and community partners who help create meaningful, hands-on learning experiences for our students.
#WeAreLINCOLN #NationalFFAWeek
#WeAreLINCOLN #NationalFFAWeek
February 23–27 is Public Schools Week, a time to celebrate the impact of public education and the students, staff, and families who make our schools strong. Public schools create opportunities, build community, and prepare students for success in every path they choose. We are proud of the work happening every day across Lincoln County Schools.
#WeAreLINCOLN #PublicSchoolsWeek
#WeAreLINCOLN #PublicSchoolsWeek
Bronze medal and making history!
Lauren T., ELHS student, is the first-ever Lincoln County Schools student to compete in the FCCLA Baking & Pastry Competition at Johnson & Wales University — and she brought home a bronze medal.
In under three hours, Lauren was tasked with baking cookies, muffins, decorating a cake, and preparing a pastry — all while competing against some of the best student bakers in the region.
We are so proud of her skill, focus, and determination. Congratulations, Lauren, on representing Lincoln County with excellence.
#WeAreLINCOLN #CTEExcellence
Lauren T., ELHS student, is the first-ever Lincoln County Schools student to compete in the FCCLA Baking & Pastry Competition at Johnson & Wales University — and she brought home a bronze medal.
In under three hours, Lauren was tasked with baking cookies, muffins, decorating a cake, and preparing a pastry — all while competing against some of the best student bakers in the region.
We are so proud of her skill, focus, and determination. Congratulations, Lauren, on representing Lincoln County with excellence.
#WeAreLINCOLN #CTEExcellence
A LCS Love Story:
Chris and Jennifer’s story began at Appalachian State University during the 2003–2004 school year, when they were both working for University Recreation. While an early dinner invitation didn’t quite seal the deal, Jennifer did say yes to a movie night at the dollar theater on King Street to see Bad Santa — and from that night on, the two were inseparable.
Chris proposed in April 2004, and they were married that December. Right after the wedding, Jennifer began her teaching career at East Lincoln High School in January, while Chris stayed in Boone to finish his role as Intramural Coordinator at App State. For the first six months of married life, they met halfway in Hickory once a week for dinner and spent weekends together — proving that long-distance, even as newlyweds, was no match for their commitment.
The following summer, Chris moved to Lincolnton — Jennifer’s hometown — and began teaching at Pumpkin Center Middle School in August 2005 as they started building their family together.
Now, 21 years later, they’re raising two boys (one a college freshman and one a high school sophomore) and are still proudly serving students in Lincoln County Schools — a love story that started in Boone and continues right here at home.
Chris and Jennifer’s story began at Appalachian State University during the 2003–2004 school year, when they were both working for University Recreation. While an early dinner invitation didn’t quite seal the deal, Jennifer did say yes to a movie night at the dollar theater on King Street to see Bad Santa — and from that night on, the two were inseparable.
Chris proposed in April 2004, and they were married that December. Right after the wedding, Jennifer began her teaching career at East Lincoln High School in January, while Chris stayed in Boone to finish his role as Intramural Coordinator at App State. For the first six months of married life, they met halfway in Hickory once a week for dinner and spent weekends together — proving that long-distance, even as newlyweds, was no match for their commitment.
The following summer, Chris moved to Lincolnton — Jennifer’s hometown — and began teaching at Pumpkin Center Middle School in August 2005 as they started building their family together.
Now, 21 years later, they’re raising two boys (one a college freshman and one a high school sophomore) and are still proudly serving students in Lincoln County Schools — a love story that started in Boone and continues right here at home.
BATTLE OF THE BOOKS
Students from 12 elementary schools read 16 books each to prepare for this year’s Battle of the Books competition — and their hard work showed.
After an exciting quiz-bowl-style tournament, congratulations to Union Elementary for winning the 2026 Lincoln County Schools Elementary Battle of the Books competition for the third year in a row.
Second place: St. James Elementary
Third place: Rock Springs Elementary
Union Elementary will advance to the regional competition this Spring.
We are incredibly proud of every student who committed to months of reading, teamwork, and preparation to reach this level of competition.
Union Elementary Team
Coaches: Mandy Randall, Katie Lynch, Anne Dixon
Team Members: Darcy B., Eva B., Carson C., Gemma G., Faith H., Maddox H., Elliot K., Kayleigh R., Tessa S., Harper W., Mary Y.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSBattleOfTheBooks
Students from 12 elementary schools read 16 books each to prepare for this year’s Battle of the Books competition — and their hard work showed.
After an exciting quiz-bowl-style tournament, congratulations to Union Elementary for winning the 2026 Lincoln County Schools Elementary Battle of the Books competition for the third year in a row.
Second place: St. James Elementary
Third place: Rock Springs Elementary
Union Elementary will advance to the regional competition this Spring.
We are incredibly proud of every student who committed to months of reading, teamwork, and preparation to reach this level of competition.
Union Elementary Team
Coaches: Mandy Randall, Katie Lynch, Anne Dixon
Team Members: Darcy B., Eva B., Carson C., Gemma G., Faith H., Maddox H., Elliot K., Kayleigh R., Tessa S., Harper W., Mary Y.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSBattleOfTheBooks
Flashback Friday: Former student, current staff.
Meet Mrs. Erika Taylor Beard, a proud graduate of Lincoln County Schools who is now an English teacher at North Lincoln High School. Erika attended G.E. Massey, Pumpkin Center Elementary & Middle, and North Lincoln High, and says her third-grade teacher, Mrs. Dixon, inspired her to pursue a career in education through the positive and caring classroom she created.
Today, Mrs. Beard is paying that inspiration forward by teaching and encouraging the next generation of Knights. When asked what she loves most about her job, she says, “I love that I get to teach so many amazing young people and see them go on to chase their dreams.”
#WeAreLINCOLN #FlashbackFriday
Meet Mrs. Erika Taylor Beard, a proud graduate of Lincoln County Schools who is now an English teacher at North Lincoln High School. Erika attended G.E. Massey, Pumpkin Center Elementary & Middle, and North Lincoln High, and says her third-grade teacher, Mrs. Dixon, inspired her to pursue a career in education through the positive and caring classroom she created.
Today, Mrs. Beard is paying that inspiration forward by teaching and encouraging the next generation of Knights. When asked what she loves most about her job, she says, “I love that I get to teach so many amazing young people and see them go on to chase their dreams.”
#WeAreLINCOLN #FlashbackFriday
Another LCS Bestie Story!
Laura and Maria met in 7th grade at West Lincoln Middle School, and from that moment on, their lives became intertwined. They made countless memories throughout high school, spending weekends cruising through downtown Lincolnton and staying active in their church youth groups. They also shared a love for music, both playing mellophone in the West Lincoln Marching Rebels.
After graduating from West Lincoln High School in 1994, they went their separate ways for college—Laura to Chapel Hill and Maria to Appalachian State. That separation didn’t last long. When Laura transferred to App State her sophomore year, the two became roommates and picked up right where they left off.
After college, they began their teaching careers—Laura at Tuttle Middle School and Maria at East Lincoln Middle School—and continued walking through every stage of life side by side. They have stood beside one another as Maid and Matron of Honor, watched their children grow up together, and created new traditions as their families have grown. Every fall, they can still be found camping together and making time for what matters most.
Today, Laura teaches 7th grade at West Lincoln Middle School, and Maria serves as a Communities In Schools Student Support Specialist at North Lincoln Middle School. Nearly 36 years later, their friendship is still going strong—a bond that began, and continues, because of Lincoln County Schools.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSBesties
Laura and Maria met in 7th grade at West Lincoln Middle School, and from that moment on, their lives became intertwined. They made countless memories throughout high school, spending weekends cruising through downtown Lincolnton and staying active in their church youth groups. They also shared a love for music, both playing mellophone in the West Lincoln Marching Rebels.
After graduating from West Lincoln High School in 1994, they went their separate ways for college—Laura to Chapel Hill and Maria to Appalachian State. That separation didn’t last long. When Laura transferred to App State her sophomore year, the two became roommates and picked up right where they left off.
After college, they began their teaching careers—Laura at Tuttle Middle School and Maria at East Lincoln Middle School—and continued walking through every stage of life side by side. They have stood beside one another as Maid and Matron of Honor, watched their children grow up together, and created new traditions as their families have grown. Every fall, they can still be found camping together and making time for what matters most.
Today, Laura teaches 7th grade at West Lincoln Middle School, and Maria serves as a Communities In Schools Student Support Specialist at North Lincoln Middle School. Nearly 36 years later, their friendship is still going strong—a bond that began, and continues, because of Lincoln County Schools.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSBesties
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
#WeAreLINCOLN
#SpecialOlympics
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
#WeAreLINCOLN
#CatawbaSpringsElementary
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.
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.
