The “U Rock” movement is making its way across Lincoln County Schools.

From St. James Elementary to S. Ray Lowder Elementary and now North Brook Elementary, staff members across the district are receiving their hand-painted reminder that “U Rock.”

Retired veteran Mark Bartholomew has been personally delivering the rocks he painted to schools across the county, and employees are enjoying the chance to meet the man behind the message. His visits are bringing smiles, conversations, and a small but meaningful reminder of appreciation for the work our staff do every day.

Thank you, Mr. Bartholomew, for sharing your kindness with Lincoln County Schools. #WeAreLINCOLN #KindnessMatters
7 months ago, LCS Communications
Three women stand close together smiling while holding small gray rocks painted with bright orange “U” letters. They pose in front of a colorful mural background, each holding their rock up near their faces so the painted letter is clearly visible.
Two women stand against a hallway wall, smiling and holding up small rocks painted with orange “U” letters. One wears a striped blue shirt and the other wears glasses and a brown jacket with a lanyard. Student photos and decorations are displayed on the wall behind them.
Three women stand together inside a classroom, smiling while holding small rocks painted with orange “U” letters. Behind them are classroom posters showing color words like “purple,” “red,” and “yellow,” along with student drawings displayed on the wall.
A man wearing an orange polo shirt stands beside a smiling woman in a school office or lobby area. Both hold small rocks painted with orange “U” letters. The man has his arm around the woman’s shoulder while framed photos and a television screen are visible on the wall behind them.
Teachers from across Lincoln County Schools recently attended the Southwest Education Alliance Literacy Conference at UNC Charlotte alongside educators from surrounding districts. The conference provided practical literacy strategies and instructional ideas that teachers are excited to bring back to their classrooms. Opportunities like this help our educators continue to grow their practice and strengthen literacy instruction for students across the district.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSLearns
7 months ago, LCS Communications
A group of Lincoln County Schools teachers pose together in front of a green wall sign that reads “University of North Carolina Charlotte.” The group stands and kneels in two rows, smiling for the photo during their visit to the SWEA Literacy Conference at UNC Charlotte.
Lincoln County Schools teachers sit on a school bus smiling toward the camera while traveling together to attend the SWEA Literacy Conference at UNC Charlotte. The group fills several rows of seats inside the bus.
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
7 months ago, LCS Communications
Graphic promoting the Lincoln County Schools EC Recruitment Fair. The top features the Lincoln County Schools logo and #WeAreLINCOLN above bold red text reading “Recruitment Fair.” The event invites recent graduates, career changers, and individuals with a passion for teaching to explore becoming a special education teacher. Event details: March 19, 2026, from 5:00–7:00 PM at Lincoln County Schools, 201 Jeb Seagle Drive, Lincolnton, NC 28092. Phone: 704-736-1017 ext. 30134. A QR code is included to register. A “What to Expect” section lists: Networking with Principals, On-Site Interviews, Certification Support Information, Same Day Job Offers, and Appetizers & Door Prizes. Career opportunities website listed as www.lincoln.k12.nc.us .
Graphic explaining Residency Teacher Licensure for North Carolina. Headline reads “Residency Teacher Licensure.” Text explains it is a one-year license, renewable twice, and replaces the lateral entry license. Requirements include: holding a bachelor’s degree with a 2.7 GPA; completing 24 hours of coursework in the requested licensure area or passing required NCSBE content exams; enrollment in a recognized Educator Preparation Program (EPP); and meeting additional State Board pre-service requirements. Event reminder included: EC Teacher Recruitment Fair, March 19, 2026, Lincoln County Schools Central Services, 5–7 PM. A QR code and “Register Now” button appear at the bottom.
Graphic titled “Teachers Wanted: Why Lincoln? Why Now?” promoting benefits of teaching EC in Lincoln County Schools. Highlights include: Low Caseloads (average EC caseload is 20), Teacher Support with coaching and differentiated professional development, 9% yearly supplement, Compliance Specialists who support referrals and IEP development, and Instructional Coaches who assist with specially designed instruction and co-teaching models. Event reminder: EC Recruitment Fair, March 19, 2026, Lincoln County Schools Central Services Building, 5–7 PM. QR code and “Register Now” button included.
Today we recognize the skilled and dedicated maintenance workers who keep our schools running safely and smoothly.

From early-morning repairs to behind-the-scenes problem solving, their work ensures our students and staff learn in clean, comfortable, and well-maintained environments. Their attention to detail, pride in craftsmanship, and commitment to our schools make a difference every single day.

Thank you to our Maintenance team for all you do for Lincoln County Schools.

#WeAreLINCOLN #MaintenanceAppreciation
7 months ago, LCS Communications
Dark blue graphic with large white text reading “Maintenance Worker Appreciation Day.” Below the text is a crossed hammer and wrench illustration. The hammer has an orange handle with a small apple icon near the base.
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month — a time to celebrate the strengths, talents, and contributions of individuals with developmental disabilities and to reaffirm our commitment to inclusion in every school, every classroom, and every opportunity.

In Lincoln County Schools, we believe every student deserves to be seen, valued, and supported. This month, we recognize the students, families, educators, and support staff who work together to create learning environments where all students can learn, lead, and thrive.

#WeAreLINCOLN #DDAM2026
7 months ago, LCS Communications
Graphic with a teal and blue ribbon forming a heart held by two stylized hands on the left. On the right, bold navy text reads “March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.” The background is light gray with a subtle repeating ribbon pattern along the sides.
Lincoln County Schools CTE is hosting a Future Ready Expo for local businesses.

This event provides an opportunity to recruit students, discuss college options, conduct informal interviews, and share internship or apprenticeship opportunities.

Thursday, April 23
8:30 AM – 11:00 AM
LCS Central Services

Businesses can register here: https://bit.ly/4c4i2wD

We look forward to connecting students with real-world opportunities and strengthening partnerships across Lincoln County.

#CTE #WeAreLINCOLN
7 months ago, LCS Communications
Flyer titled “Future Ready Expo” with large bold blue lettering at the top. The flyer lists opportunities for businesses including: Recruit Students, Discuss College Options, Conduct Informal Interviews & Job Applications, and Inform Students About Internship or Apprenticeship Opportunities. Event details include: Thursday, April 23 from 8:30 AM – 11:00 AM at LCS Central Services. A Business Registration section includes a QR code and registration link: https://bit.ly/4c4i2wD . Sponsored by LCS CTE, Lincoln County Schools, LEDA, NC Works, and the CTE Business Advisory Council
Yesterday, our classrooms were filled with stories, laughter, and the joy of reading as we celebrated Read Across America Day across Lincoln County Schools.

District leaders traded in their office chairs for rocking chairs and classroom rugs, spending time reading to and reading with our elementary students. From picture books on the carpet to interactive read-alouds on the big screen, it was a powerful reminder that reading connects us all.

When leaders show up in classrooms, it sends a clear message: literacy matters, relationships matter, and our students matter. Thank you to our school teams for welcoming us in and to our students for sharing their love of books.

Every day is a great day to read in LCS.

#WeAreLINCOLN #ReadAcrossAmerica
7 months ago, LCS Communications
A group of elementary students crowd around an adult wearing a brown bear costume and oversized gold chain necklace. The adult sits at a desk with a laptop open while students smile and hold up hand signs. A children’s book rests on a yellow box in the foreground, and classroom posters and photos are visible on the wall behind them.
A teacher with curly blonde hair sits in front of a large interactive display screen, holding open a picture book and reading aloud to a group of students seated on the floor. A whiteboard with a daily schedule is visible on the wall, and students face the teacher attentively.
An adult male sits on a chair at the front of a classroom, holding open a picture book and reading to a group of elementary students seated cross-legged on the floor. Classroom shelves, student desks, and bulletin boards surround the group as students listen closely.
A teacher sits at the front of a classroom holding up a colorful picture book while students sit at desks facing her. An interactive board displays a document with highlighted text, and classroom decorations and learning materials line the walls.
A simple rock. A powerful message.

Mark Bartholomew — a retired veteran and the husband of an LCS employee — has made it his personal mission to remind every Lincoln County Schools staff member that they matter. Over the past several months, he has collected and hand-painted more than 2,000 rocks, each marked with a bright orange “U” as a daily reminder: U Rock.

Mark didn’t just paint them — he personally delivered enough rocks to every school and district site so that each employee could receive one. These photos capture his visit to Battleground Elementary and the smiles that followed.

Small gesture. Big impact.

Thank you, Mark, for taking the time to recognize the incredible work our employees do each and every day. #WeAreLINCOLN
7 months ago, LCS Communications
A smiling woman in a blue sweater holds a sheet of paper with the letters “HE” and an arrow written in black marker while pointing playfully toward a bald man standing beside her. The man smiles and holds a small rock with an orange painted letter on it. A classroom wall behind them displays a sign that reads “EXTRA EXTRA! READ ALL ABOUT IT!” along with posted papers and decorations.
A woman with long dark hair and glasses smiles while holding up a small rock painted with an orange letter. She wears a patterned cardigan, a graphic T-shirt, and a beaded lanyard necklace. The background shows a school hallway with red-framed windows and heart-shaped decorations on the wall.
Three women stand together in a school hallway, each holding a small rock painted with an orange letter. One woman holds a notebook or binder. Red-framed windows and heart-shaped decorations are visible behind them.
Close-up of a hand holding a small gray rock with an orange painted letter shaped like a “U.” The rock rests across the person’s fingers, with a desk surface, keyboard, and office items blurred in the background.
It’s National School Breakfast Week.

This year’s theme, “The Quest for School Breakfast,” celebrates the important role a healthy breakfast plays in fueling student success. Each morning, our School Nutrition team helps students start the day ready to learn, focus, and achieve.

We are grateful for the dedicated staff who prepare and serve nutritious meals with care — and for the students who begin their quest for learning with breakfast in our cafeterias.

#WeAreLINCOLN #NSBW2026
7 months ago, LCS Communications
Three elementary-aged students stand at a school cafeteria counter receiving breakfast trays while a staff member serves them from behind the counter. A graphic in the top right corner features a castle illustration and reads “The Quest for School Breakfast – National School Breakfast Week – March 3–6, 2026.” The Lincoln County Schools logo appears in the bottom left corner.
Summer Career Exploration Camps are back!

Rising 7th and 8th grade students are invited to explore hands-on career experiences at the Lincoln County School of Technology.

Camp Dates:
• June 8–11
• June 15–18
• June 22–25

Cost: $20

Students will participate in hands-on activities, hear from guest speakers, go on field trips, and discover future career pathways while building skills for high school CTE and beyond.

Register early — space is limited.
bit.ly/4b8TTnM

#CareerReady #WeAreLINCOLN
7 months ago, LCS Communications
Colorful promotional flyer titled “Summer Career Exploration Camps – Hosted by Lincoln County Schools.” The flyer states: Who: Rising 7th & 8th Grade Students. Where: Lincoln County School of Technology, 1 Timken Drive, Lincolnton, NC. Camp Dates: June 8–11, June 15–18, June 22–25. Cost: $20. The design highlights hands-on activities, field trips, guest speakers, and career discovery opportunities. A “Why Attend?” section lists: Learn About Future Careers, Build New Skills, Meet Industry Pros, Prepare for High School CTE. The bottom includes a call to action: Register Early! Space is Limited. Registration website is listed along with contact phone number 704-736-1017 x30243.
Four high school teams. Sixteen books. Months of preparation.

Today, our high school students competed in the 2026 Lincoln County Schools Battle of the Books competition — and the depth of knowledge, focus, and teamwork on display was outstanding.

Congratulations to North Lincoln High School for earning 1st place.
2nd place: Lincolnton High School
3rd place: West Lincoln High School

North Lincoln Coaches: Lindsay Fier and Ellen Harrill

Team Members:
Rebecca B.
Elyse C.
Madalyn H.
Morgan L.
Mallory M.
Hallie M.
Isabella R.
Jonathan K.
Gabby H.
Anna S.

We are proud of every student who committed to reading 16 books and competing at this level. Academic excellence is alive and well in Lincoln County Schools.

#WeAreLINCOLN #BattleOfTheBooks
7 months ago, LCS Communications
Digital display screen showing “Lincoln County Schools – High School Battle of the Books Competition – March 2, 2026” over a bookshelf background.
Group of East Lincoln High School students posing on stage in front of a Lincoln County Schools backdrop. One student holds a sign reading “East Lincoln – Go Mustangs! – 2026.”
West Lincoln High School students and coaches wearing red shirts and medals pose on stage. A student in front holds a sign reading “West Lincoln – Go Rebels! – 2026.”
Lincolnton High School students wearing gray shirts and medals stand together on stage. A student in the center holds a sign reading “Lincolnton – Go Wolves! – 2026.”
North Lincoln High School students and a coach pose on stage with medals. Students hold a trophy, a plaque, and a sign reading “North Lincoln – Go Knights! – 2026.”
Today is Read Across America Day — and all month long, we celebrate Read Across America Month.

Reading opens doors to imagination, understanding, and opportunity. Across Lincoln County Schools, students are building literacy skills, exploring diverse stories, and discovering the joy of books that reflect the world around them.

Whether it’s a favorite classroom read-aloud, a library checkout, or a quiet moment with a new novel, every page turned matters.

Let’s keep reading — today and all month long.

#WeAreLINCOLN #ReadAcrossAmerica
7 months ago, LCS Communications
Blue graphic in the shape of the United States map with large white text reading “Read Across America.” Smaller text at the top reads “National Education Association,” and at the bottom it says, “Celebrating a Nation of Diverse Readers.”
We have new job opportunities available across Lincoln County Schools.

Open positions include teacher assistants, EC teachers, bus drivers, child nutrition staff, tutors, an ISS coordinator, and coaching roles at multiple campuses including East Lincoln High, Lincolnton High, North Middle, Iron Station Elementary, Love Memorial Elementary, North Brook Elementary, and Lincolnton Middle.

If you are ready to make a difference for students, we encourage you to apply online at: https://lcsnc.schoolspring.com/

Join our team and help us continue building strong schools and strong communities.
#NowHiring #WeAreLINCOLN
7 months ago, LCS Communications
Graphic with a green border featuring the Lincoln County Schools logo in the top left corner and the headline “New! Jobs Posted” at the top. The background is an aerial photo of a school campus. Listed positions include: EC Teacher Assistant and Sub Bus Driver at East Lincoln High; Teacher Assistant and Sub Bus Driver at Love Memorial Elementary; ISS Coordinator at Lincolnton High; Child Nutrition Assistant and Sub Bus Driver at Lincolnton High; Teacher (Extended Content Curriculum, Self-Contained) at Iron Station Elementary; Teacher (EC-General) at North Middle; EC Pre-K Teacher Assistant (Temporary 3.2.26–5.21.26) at Love Memorial Elementary; Cheer Assistant Coach (Fall Football and Winter Basketball 2026–2027) at Lincolnton Middle; and Tutor (during the day) at North Brook Elementary. The bottom of the graphic reads “Apply Online” with the link https://lcsnc.schoolspring.com/ .
March is National Athletic Training Month, and we are proud to recognize the dedicated professionals who provide “Care You Can Count On” for our student-athletes every single day.

Thank you to our outstanding athletic trainers:
Rachel Jenkins, East Lincoln High
Addie McGinnis, North Lincoln High
Gianna Cusano, West Lincoln High
Alicia Rhodes, Lincolnton High

From prevention and treatment to game-day support and rehabilitation, these professionals work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep our athletes safe, healthy, and competing at their best. We are grateful for the expertise, compassion, and steady presence they bring to our schools.

#WeAreLINCOLN #NationalAthleticTrainingMonth
7 months ago, LCS Communications
Blue graphic reading “National Athletic Training Month” in white and orange text, with the tagline “Care You Can Count On” and “March 2026” at the bottom. A large light-blue medical staff with a snake wrapped around it appears on the right side of the image.
This week, we celebrate School Social Work Week.

Our school social workers serve as advocates, problem-solvers, and trusted supports for students and families. They help remove barriers to learning, connect families with resources, and ensure students feel safe, supported, and ready to succeed.

Thank you to our Lincoln County Schools social workers for the compassion, expertise, and dedication you bring to our schools each and every day.

#WeAreLINCOLN #SchoolSocialWorkWeek
7 months ago, LCS Communications
Graphic reading “Happy School Social Work Week – March 1–7, 2026.” The School Social Work Association of America logo appears in the top left corner and the words “Unite to Ignite” with a colorful human figure logo appear in the top right. The bottom of the image shows a diverse group of illustrated people holding hearts.
Music connects us. It builds discipline, teamwork, creativity, and confidence — and it brings our schools together in powerful ways.

During Music In Our Schools Month, we celebrate the students who practice with dedication, the directors who inspire excellence, and the programs that give every child a chance to find their voice.

From band rooms to concert stages, Lincoln County Schools is proud to be United Through Music.

#WeAreLINCOLN #MusicInOurSchools
7 months ago, LCS Communications
Students seated in a music classroom play brass instruments, including trombones and trumpets, while reading from black music stands. A colorful poster with a large treble clef and musical notes hangs on the wall in the background. In the top right corner, a graphic reads “United Through Music – Music In Our Schools Month.” The bottom of the image includes a Lincoln County Schools script logo.
Here’s a look at important dates for March 2026 in Lincoln County Schools. Please mark your calendars for student holidays, our Board of Education meeting, and report cards.

March 3 – No School for Students
March 9 – No School for Students
March 10 – School Board Meeting at 6 p.m.
March 20 – Report Cards

We appreciate your partnership as we head into a busy spring season.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCalendar
7 months ago, LCS Communications
Graphic styled like lined notebook paper with a black header reading “March 2026.” The Lincoln County Schools logo appears at the top with a green shamrock and red apple. Listed dates include: March 3 – No School for Students; March 9 – No School for Students; March 10 – School Board Meeting at 6 p.m.; March 20 – Report Cards.
Taylor and Haley’s story began in 2019 at Shelby Middle School, where both were teaching. Taylor had just moved back to the area from Colorado and was eager to get involved in athletics and coaching at SMS. Haley had already been at the school for several years and was serving as the Athletic Director, so when Taylor reached out about coaching opportunities, a meeting was scheduled.

What started as a professional conversation quickly turned into something more when they realized how much they had in common. Not long after that meeting, they went on their first date at the Apple Festival in Hendersonville — and the rest moved quickly from there. They were engaged by Thanksgiving of 2019 and married in October 2020. Today, they are proud parents of one son and are eagerly awaiting the arrival of their second child in just a few short months.

Taylor, a graduate of East Lincoln High School, had always hoped to return to the district that gave him so many opportunities as a student. When he saw an opening to teach English and coach at North Lincoln High under one of his former administrators, he knew it was the perfect fit. Around the same time, Haley took a leap of faith of her own, stepping into school administration after earning her degree and moving beyond the classroom and coaching.

Now both serving in Lincoln County Schools, Taylor and Haley are grateful for the paths that brought them back to this community and are excited to continue building their careers — and their family — right here for many years to come.

#WeAreLINCOLN #StaffLoveStory
7 months ago, LCS Communications
A couple stands on a porch holding a young child between them, smiling at the camera. An American flag hangs behind them, and pastel beach houses line the street in the background. A pink banner across the bottom reads “The Hoyles – North Lincoln High and Asbury Academy,” and a heart garland with the text “Lincoln County Schools couple” appears across the top of the image.
Iron Station Elementary’s own Rhonda West has been recognized as Lincoln County Schools’ Bus Driver of the Month for February.

Rhonda goes above and beyond each day to ensure our students arrive safely and feel welcomed from the moment they step onto her bus. Her dedication, consistency, and care make a meaningful difference for families and schools across our district.

We are grateful for the commitment and heart she brings to her role each and every day. Congratulations, Rhonda, and thank you for representing Iron Station and LCS so well.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSBusDrivers
7 months ago, LCS Communications
A smiling woman and man stand together in an elementary classroom. The woman holds a white sign that reads “Lincoln County Schools School Bus Driver of the Month Works Here!” Students sit at desks in the background. Colorful classroom decorations and hanging paper lanterns are visible.
Reminder for Lincoln County Schools families:

There will be no school for students on March 3 due to school sites being used as polling locations, and March 9 due to a scheduled teacher workday.

We appreciate our educators using this time for planning, collaboration, and professional responsibilities that support student learning.

We look forward to welcoming students back after each workday.

#WeAreLINCOLN #LCSCalendar
7 months ago, LCS Communications
Graphic with a grid-paper background featuring two yellow pencils placed diagonally across the image. Large black text reads “NO SCHOOL” and “MAR. 3 & 9.” A box at the bottom says “TEACHER WORKDAYS.” The Lincoln County Schools logo appears in the top left corner.