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.
Ready, set, Kindergarten! Registration for the 2026-2027 school year begins today. Don't wait to register your child for this exciting new chapter. Help us spread the word to neighbors and friends with rising kindergarteners. Detailed information and registration links can be found on our district homepage: www.lcsnc.org
#WeAreLINCOLN #ClassOf2039
#WeAreLINCOLN #ClassOf2039
Professional development was in full swing today at Pumpkin Center Primary and various locations across the district. Our teachers spent the day collaborating, reviewing data, and exploring new digital resources to support student success. We are proud of the dedication our educators show in their continuous pursuit of excellence in teaching.
#WeAreLINCOLN
#ContinuousImprovement
#WeAreLINCOLN
#ContinuousImprovement
Lincoln County Schools is proud to offer the CTE Internship Program, providing students with work-based learning experiences that directly relate to their classroom instruction. To participate, students must be a Junior or Senior and be currently enrolled in or have previously completed a CTE course. This program allows students to increase skill development, gain real work experience, engage in professional networking, and build their resumes. For more information on how to apply, please reach out to the Career Development Coordinator at your school.
#WeAreLINCOLN #CareerTechnicalEducation
#WeAreLINCOLN #CareerTechnicalEducation
Another LCS Love Story!
Brett and Taylor’s story started long before college, careers, and kids. It started in seventh grade. Brett had a reputation for lots of girlfriends, but by eighth grade he asked Taylor “out,” and they dated for a bit… until an unfortunate haircut ended the relationship. Once the haircut improved, they found their way back to each other in ninth grade.
In tenth grade, they went on their first official date in 2010, and from there, their story really took off. They attended Appalachian State University together, got engaged their senior year in 2015, and were married after graduating in 2016.
From 2017 to 2021, both worked at East Lincoln High School, where Brett taught math and Taylor supported students who needed it most. Taylor says marrying Brett was the best decision she has ever made. She describes him as a devoted husband and father who works incredibly hard and loves his family even harder.
Brett would like the record to show that the haircut “was not that bad,” and that he knew early on he had something special. He says Taylor is not only an amazing wife and mom to Nell and Sully, but someone who genuinely changes lives through the way she cares for her students. He’s confident Counselor of the Year is in her future.
From middle school hallways to college classrooms, from coworkers to parents, Brett and Taylor’s journey is one built on friendship, growth, and a whole lot of love. Their story is a reminder that sometimes the best partnerships are the ones that grow with you every step of the way.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCouples
Brett and Taylor’s story started long before college, careers, and kids. It started in seventh grade. Brett had a reputation for lots of girlfriends, but by eighth grade he asked Taylor “out,” and they dated for a bit… until an unfortunate haircut ended the relationship. Once the haircut improved, they found their way back to each other in ninth grade.
In tenth grade, they went on their first official date in 2010, and from there, their story really took off. They attended Appalachian State University together, got engaged their senior year in 2015, and were married after graduating in 2016.
From 2017 to 2021, both worked at East Lincoln High School, where Brett taught math and Taylor supported students who needed it most. Taylor says marrying Brett was the best decision she has ever made. She describes him as a devoted husband and father who works incredibly hard and loves his family even harder.
Brett would like the record to show that the haircut “was not that bad,” and that he knew early on he had something special. He says Taylor is not only an amazing wife and mom to Nell and Sully, but someone who genuinely changes lives through the way she cares for her students. He’s confident Counselor of the Year is in her future.
From middle school hallways to college classrooms, from coworkers to parents, Brett and Taylor’s journey is one built on friendship, growth, and a whole lot of love. Their story is a reminder that sometimes the best partnerships are the ones that grow with you every step of the way.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCouples
We love welcoming new team members to Lincoln County Schools.
We are currently hiring for positions across the district, including instructional, custodial, transportation, and coaching roles. If you or someone you know is looking to make a difference in the lives of students, we encourage you to apply.
View current openings and apply online at https://lcsnc.schoolspring.com/
Join us and be part of something meaningful. #WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCareers
We are currently hiring for positions across the district, including instructional, custodial, transportation, and coaching roles. If you or someone you know is looking to make a difference in the lives of students, we encourage you to apply.
View current openings and apply online at https://lcsnc.schoolspring.com/
Join us and be part of something meaningful. #WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCareers
Our talented middle and high school musicians represented Lincoln County Schools with excellence at Friday’s All-County Band performance.
Students from across the district came together to rehearse, collaborate, and perform under the direction of guest conductors, showcasing both their individual skills and the power of a unified ensemble. The dedication required to prepare music at this level is impressive, and their performance reflected hours of focused practice and teamwork.
We are proud of these students and grateful to our band directors for the leadership and support they provide every day.
#WeAreLINCOLN
Students from across the district came together to rehearse, collaborate, and perform under the direction of guest conductors, showcasing both their individual skills and the power of a unified ensemble. The dedication required to prepare music at this level is impressive, and their performance reflected hours of focused practice and teamwork.
We are proud of these students and grateful to our band directors for the leadership and support they provide every day.
#WeAreLINCOLN
Special Olympics Lincoln County Swim Practice begins February 27 and runs through May 25, 2026. Practices will be held Fridays from 5:00–7:00 PM and Mondays from 6:00–7:00 PM. Participants must be registered online and must be able to swim. For more information, contact Judy Wooten at 704-473-8382, Coach Terri Reel at 704-530-6435, or Lisa Frazier, Local Coordinator.
#WeAreLINCOLN #SpecialOlympics
#WeAreLINCOLN #SpecialOlympics
Traveling back to ancient Egypt at North Lincoln Middle School.
Students in Patty Fedo’s class brought history to life while studying ancient Egypt. Students designed and created detailed sarcophagi complete with wrapped mummies and Canopic jars. To conclude the unit, the class held a mock burial ceremony, where the Egyptian gods Anubis and Osiris guided the departed mummies to the afterlife.
Hands-on learning experiences like this allow students to deepen their understanding of history while engaging their creativity and collaboration skills.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LincolnLearns
Students in Patty Fedo’s class brought history to life while studying ancient Egypt. Students designed and created detailed sarcophagi complete with wrapped mummies and Canopic jars. To conclude the unit, the class held a mock burial ceremony, where the Egyptian gods Anubis and Osiris guided the departed mummies to the afterlife.
Hands-on learning experiences like this allow students to deepen their understanding of history while engaging their creativity and collaboration skills.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LincolnLearns
Meet this LCS Couple!
Sometimes, love stories begin with a broken computer.
When Devon was almost 17, her mom bought the family’s first computer for Christmas. When it stopped working over the holiday break, she called someone she knew from LCST who worked in school technology. His name was Steven.
On a Sunday evening, during a Panthers playoff game, Steven knocked on their door to fix the computer. Devon remembers being so shy she told her mom, “There’s a boy at the door.” But before long, they were talking, laughing, and getting to know each other. The repair took a while, the nerves faded, and at one point, Devon even shot him with her brother’s Nerf gun.
Not long after that visit, Steven was permanently hired by Lincoln County Schools to start the district’s IT department. A friendship grew into something more, and in 2001, Devon and Steven were married.
Devon later began teaching at St. James Elementary, and today she teaches kindergarten at Union Elementary. Steven now serves as the district’s Chief Technology Officer. That original computer still sits in their basement, and Steven refuses to get rid of it, even though it may not even turn on anymore.
They have three children, all connected to Lincoln County Schools in their own way, and they still enjoy spending time together taking day trips to the mountains to hike and explore.
From a service call to a lifetime together, their story is a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful connections start in the most unexpected ways.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCouples
Sometimes, love stories begin with a broken computer.
When Devon was almost 17, her mom bought the family’s first computer for Christmas. When it stopped working over the holiday break, she called someone she knew from LCST who worked in school technology. His name was Steven.
On a Sunday evening, during a Panthers playoff game, Steven knocked on their door to fix the computer. Devon remembers being so shy she told her mom, “There’s a boy at the door.” But before long, they were talking, laughing, and getting to know each other. The repair took a while, the nerves faded, and at one point, Devon even shot him with her brother’s Nerf gun.
Not long after that visit, Steven was permanently hired by Lincoln County Schools to start the district’s IT department. A friendship grew into something more, and in 2001, Devon and Steven were married.
Devon later began teaching at St. James Elementary, and today she teaches kindergarten at Union Elementary. Steven now serves as the district’s Chief Technology Officer. That original computer still sits in their basement, and Steven refuses to get rid of it, even though it may not even turn on anymore.
They have three children, all connected to Lincoln County Schools in their own way, and they still enjoy spending time together taking day trips to the mountains to hike and explore.
From a service call to a lifetime together, their story is a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful connections start in the most unexpected ways.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCouples
Tonight's LCS Couple Feature:
Jonathan and Meg Carpenter are both proud graduates of Lincoln County Schools. Jonathan graduated from West Lincoln High School and UNC Charlotte, and Meg graduated from East Lincoln High School and Western Carolina University.
The two met in 2004 and were married in 2005—thanks to a family friend from Jon’s class who set them up on a blind date. The rest is history.
They are blessed with three children. Their oldest, Erin, is married and recently purchased her first home. Kamryn is a freshman at Western Carolina University majoring in Communication Science Disorders, and Cooper is a freshman at North Lincoln High School where he also plays travel baseball.
As a family, they enjoy spending time together, cheering on their children at sporting events, and making memories at the beach. Their roots in Lincoln County Schools run deep, and they are proud to continue serving and supporting students in our community.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCouples
Jonathan and Meg Carpenter are both proud graduates of Lincoln County Schools. Jonathan graduated from West Lincoln High School and UNC Charlotte, and Meg graduated from East Lincoln High School and Western Carolina University.
The two met in 2004 and were married in 2005—thanks to a family friend from Jon’s class who set them up on a blind date. The rest is history.
They are blessed with three children. Their oldest, Erin, is married and recently purchased her first home. Kamryn is a freshman at Western Carolina University majoring in Communication Science Disorders, and Cooper is a freshman at North Lincoln High School where he also plays travel baseball.
As a family, they enjoy spending time together, cheering on their children at sporting events, and making memories at the beach. Their roots in Lincoln County Schools run deep, and they are proud to continue serving and supporting students in our community.
#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCouples
February 15 is School Resource Officer Appreciation Day, and since it falls on a Sunday this year, we invite students and families to share their appreciation all week long. Our SROs build positive relationships, support safe schools, and serve as trusted adults for our students every day. Thank you for the care and commitment you bring to our schools and our community.
#WeAreLINCOLN #SROAppreciation
#WeAreLINCOLN #SROAppreciation
February check-in: 💌
We love when you’re here!
Every day. Every class. Every smile.
#WeAreLINCOLN #AttendanceWins
We love when you’re here!
Every day. Every class. Every smile.
#WeAreLINCOLN #AttendanceWins
