✨ Big news: LCPS is getting a brand-new online home.
Today, we're beginning the launch of our new district and school websites, designed to make it easier for students, families, staff, and our community to find the information they need and stay connected to everything happening across Lenoir County Public Schools.
As we update our systems, some visitors may still see our previous websites while others may already be viewing the new versions. This is a normal part of the transition as internet providers update their records over the next several hours.
During this time, website appearances and content may vary depending on your device, browser, or internet provider. Think of it as a digital grand opening happening in real time!
If you see the old site, hang tight. If you see the new one, welcome to the future of LCPS online.
Thank you for your patience as we launch a new online experience for our students, families, staff, and community. We can't wait for everyone to see what's next.
Today, we're beginning the launch of our new district and school websites, designed to make it easier for students, families, staff, and our community to find the information they need and stay connected to everything happening across Lenoir County Public Schools.
As we update our systems, some visitors may still see our previous websites while others may already be viewing the new versions. This is a normal part of the transition as internet providers update their records over the next several hours.
During this time, website appearances and content may vary depending on your device, browser, or internet provider. Think of it as a digital grand opening happening in real time!
If you see the old site, hang tight. If you see the new one, welcome to the future of LCPS online.
Thank you for your patience as we launch a new online experience for our students, families, staff, and community. We can't wait for everyone to see what's next.
📚☀️ The 2025-2026 school year is officially in the books!
As the buses pulled away, they carried students who have spent the year learning, growing, achieving, and creating memories that will last far beyond the classroom. From academic accomplishments and athletic successes to performances, competitions, field trips, and everyday moments of growth, this has been a remarkable year for our students and staff.
We are incredibly grateful to our teachers, support staff, administrators, families, and community partners who make a difference in the lives of our students every single day. Thank you for your dedication, encouragement, and support throughout the year.
To our students, congratulations on all you have accomplished. Whether you are moving up to a new grade, transitioning to a new school, or preparing for graduation, we are proud of you and excited for what comes next.
LCPS proudly celebrates our outstanding transportation staff at the Annual Transportation Banquet! 🚌💙
The evening was filled with great food, fun, fellowship and well-deserved recognition for the individuals who work tirelessly each day to safely transport our students to and from school. From early morning routes to afternoon drop-offs, our transportation team plays an essential role in the success of our district, and we are so grateful for their dedication.
One of the highlights of the evening was recognizing 26 transportation employees who achieved perfect attendance during the 2025-2026 school year. Their commitment and dependability are truly remarkable, and each honoree received a $500 award in appreciation of their hard work and dedication. 👏
Congratulations also goes to Banks Elementary, winner of this year’s table decorating contest! Their creative and spirited table setup helped bring extra fun and excitement to the event. 🎉
Thank you to every member of our transportation department for the care, professionalism and support you show our students and families every day. LCPS is better because of you, and we appreciate all that you do to keep our buses rolling safely all year long! 🚌✨
Perfect Attendance Honorees:
Darry Best, Loretta Dave, Sherry Gardner, Barbara Gooding, April Grady, Diane Graham, Marguerite Hooker, Latoya Jacobs, Dwight Jones, Janet Lambert, Nina Lee, Renata Lovick, Harriette Nelson, Ramona Outlaw, Sorita Powell, Tameka Roach, Laura Rowe, Yolanda Shackleford, Ronnie Southerland, Dortha Sutton, Gertrude Taft, Rodney Thomas, Jean Watts, Kimberly Whitfield, Sherry Williams, Marlene Whitfield
The evening was filled with great food, fun, fellowship and well-deserved recognition for the individuals who work tirelessly each day to safely transport our students to and from school. From early morning routes to afternoon drop-offs, our transportation team plays an essential role in the success of our district, and we are so grateful for their dedication.
One of the highlights of the evening was recognizing 26 transportation employees who achieved perfect attendance during the 2025-2026 school year. Their commitment and dependability are truly remarkable, and each honoree received a $500 award in appreciation of their hard work and dedication. 👏
Congratulations also goes to Banks Elementary, winner of this year’s table decorating contest! Their creative and spirited table setup helped bring extra fun and excitement to the event. 🎉
Thank you to every member of our transportation department for the care, professionalism and support you show our students and families every day. LCPS is better because of you, and we appreciate all that you do to keep our buses rolling safely all year long! 🚌✨
Perfect Attendance Honorees:
Darry Best, Loretta Dave, Sherry Gardner, Barbara Gooding, April Grady, Diane Graham, Marguerite Hooker, Latoya Jacobs, Dwight Jones, Janet Lambert, Nina Lee, Renata Lovick, Harriette Nelson, Ramona Outlaw, Sorita Powell, Tameka Roach, Laura Rowe, Yolanda Shackleford, Ronnie Southerland, Dortha Sutton, Gertrude Taft, Rodney Thomas, Jean Watts, Kimberly Whitfield, Sherry Williams, Marlene Whitfield
Our final senior staff visits of the year gave us an up-close look at the creativity, innovation, and dedication happening across Lenoir County Public Schools.
We began last week at Banks Elementary School where staff observed an exciting interdisciplinary lesson combining physical education and music. Students used rhythm and beat to guide movement activities, turning the gym into a space where coordination, timing, and musical understanding came together in a hands-on, energetic learning experience. It was a great example of how multiple subjects can connect in meaningful ways that keep students engaged and active.
From there, we visited Southeast Elementary School where we saw the school’s new dance team in action, bringing energy and pride to their program. We also heard from the drama department about their upgraded, grant-funded sound system, which is already making a noticeable difference in how students learn technical production skills. From performances to behind-the-scenes sound mixing, students are gaining real-world experience in the arts through improved resources and instruction.
This week, our visits continued at Northwest Elementary School where we spent time with the 5th grade science club. Students shared their experience raising and releasing rockfish, offering a strong example of authentic, hands-on science learning that extends beyond the classroom. We also observed a gym class that integrated STEM concepts, as students explored force and motion while collecting and analyzing movement data using iPads. This innovative lesson also highlighted their status as an Apple Distinguished School, showcasing how technology is being used to deepen student learning.
We wrapped up our visits with a stop alongside our transportation department. Staff spent time in the bus garage and learned more about the daily operations that keep our district running smoothly. With 126 yellow buses in service and a total fleet of 180 vehicles, our transportation team travels approximately 1.6 million miles each year to safely get students to and from school.
These visits were a powerful reminder of the work happening across every corner of the district. From classrooms and stages to science labs and bus routes, our staff continues to create meaningful learning experiences and support students in every way possible. We look forward to continuing these senior staff visits next year and building on the great momentum we saw across our schools this year.
We began last week at Banks Elementary School where staff observed an exciting interdisciplinary lesson combining physical education and music. Students used rhythm and beat to guide movement activities, turning the gym into a space where coordination, timing, and musical understanding came together in a hands-on, energetic learning experience. It was a great example of how multiple subjects can connect in meaningful ways that keep students engaged and active.
From there, we visited Southeast Elementary School where we saw the school’s new dance team in action, bringing energy and pride to their program. We also heard from the drama department about their upgraded, grant-funded sound system, which is already making a noticeable difference in how students learn technical production skills. From performances to behind-the-scenes sound mixing, students are gaining real-world experience in the arts through improved resources and instruction.
This week, our visits continued at Northwest Elementary School where we spent time with the 5th grade science club. Students shared their experience raising and releasing rockfish, offering a strong example of authentic, hands-on science learning that extends beyond the classroom. We also observed a gym class that integrated STEM concepts, as students explored force and motion while collecting and analyzing movement data using iPads. This innovative lesson also highlighted their status as an Apple Distinguished School, showcasing how technology is being used to deepen student learning.
We wrapped up our visits with a stop alongside our transportation department. Staff spent time in the bus garage and learned more about the daily operations that keep our district running smoothly. With 126 yellow buses in service and a total fleet of 180 vehicles, our transportation team travels approximately 1.6 million miles each year to safely get students to and from school.
These visits were a powerful reminder of the work happening across every corner of the district. From classrooms and stages to science labs and bus routes, our staff continues to create meaningful learning experiences and support students in every way possible. We look forward to continuing these senior staff visits next year and building on the great momentum we saw across our schools this year.
The Association of Educational Office Professionals wrapped up the school year with our annual Administrator of the Year Celebration. The evening brought members together to reflect on another successful year of supporting students, staff, and schools across Lenoir County Public Schools.
Guests enjoyed a meal catered by Debra Dail Catering as the organization recognized its student scholarship recipients, honored this year’s award winners, and installed the 2026-2027 officers. Through fundraising efforts held throughout the school year, the Association of Educational Office Professionals was proud to award each scholarship recipient with more than $300 to support their future educational goals.
Congratulations to our scholarship recipients:
🎓 Phillip Jefferson – North Lenoir High School
🎓 Myrka Rojas Baten – North Lenoir High School
🎓 Braden Barnett – South Lenoir High School
🎓 Chloe Jones – South Lenoir High School
The organization also recognized outstanding leadership and service with this year’s special awards:
🏆 Administrator of the Year – Helen Hooker
🌟 Association of Educational Office Professionals Member of the Year – Ivey Price
In addition, the following officers were installed to serve during the 2026-2027 school year:
• President – Ashley Heath
• Vice President – Jenny Hatcher
• Secretary – Ivey Price
• Treasurer – Sandra Jones
Thank you to everyone who supported the Association of Educational Office Professionals throughout the year and helped make this celebration a meaningful way to recognize the dedication and accomplishments of so many individuals within our school community!
Guests enjoyed a meal catered by Debra Dail Catering as the organization recognized its student scholarship recipients, honored this year’s award winners, and installed the 2026-2027 officers. Through fundraising efforts held throughout the school year, the Association of Educational Office Professionals was proud to award each scholarship recipient with more than $300 to support their future educational goals.
Congratulations to our scholarship recipients:
🎓 Phillip Jefferson – North Lenoir High School
🎓 Myrka Rojas Baten – North Lenoir High School
🎓 Braden Barnett – South Lenoir High School
🎓 Chloe Jones – South Lenoir High School
The organization also recognized outstanding leadership and service with this year’s special awards:
🏆 Administrator of the Year – Helen Hooker
🌟 Association of Educational Office Professionals Member of the Year – Ivey Price
In addition, the following officers were installed to serve during the 2026-2027 school year:
• President – Ashley Heath
• Vice President – Jenny Hatcher
• Secretary – Ivey Price
• Treasurer – Sandra Jones
Thank you to everyone who supported the Association of Educational Office Professionals throughout the year and helped make this celebration a meaningful way to recognize the dedication and accomplishments of so many individuals within our school community!
An unforgettable evening celebrating the Lenoir County Early College High School Class of 2026!
Wednesday's graduation ceremony was filled with reflection, gratitude, laughter, and celebration as graduates shared memories from their time at the Early College and looked ahead to the future. Student speakers spoke about overcoming challenges, building friendships, embracing uncertainty, and finding confidence throughout their journey.
“One of the things this school looks for in students is curiosity,” graduate Jenna Van shared. “When things didn’t go as planned, we still embraced them as opportunities to grow.”
Graduate Hayden Cauley encouraged classmates to move boldly into the future, even when faced with uncertainty. “The obstacles are not stopping you. They are the path,” Cauley said. “Every setback, every rejection, and every failure is not the end of the story. That is the part that builds it.”
Throughout the ceremony, students reflected on the teachers, families, and classmates who supported them along the way, while Superintendent Brent Williams praised the class for making history through their accomplishments and leadership.
Congratulations to the Lenoir County Early College High School Class of 2026! Your future is bright, and we cannot wait to see all you accomplish next. 🎉❤️🖤
Wednesday's graduation ceremony was filled with reflection, gratitude, laughter, and celebration as graduates shared memories from their time at the Early College and looked ahead to the future. Student speakers spoke about overcoming challenges, building friendships, embracing uncertainty, and finding confidence throughout their journey.
“One of the things this school looks for in students is curiosity,” graduate Jenna Van shared. “When things didn’t go as planned, we still embraced them as opportunities to grow.”
Graduate Hayden Cauley encouraged classmates to move boldly into the future, even when faced with uncertainty. “The obstacles are not stopping you. They are the path,” Cauley said. “Every setback, every rejection, and every failure is not the end of the story. That is the part that builds it.”
Throughout the ceremony, students reflected on the teachers, families, and classmates who supported them along the way, while Superintendent Brent Williams praised the class for making history through their accomplishments and leadership.
Congratulations to the Lenoir County Early College High School Class of 2026! Your future is bright, and we cannot wait to see all you accomplish next. 🎉❤️🖤
Lenoir County Public Schools continues to shine ✨
At this month’s Board of Education meeting, we celebrated an incredible group of students and staff whose hard work, leadership, and dedication are making an impact across our district and beyond.
🌟 LCPS LEAP Scholar
Parker Ball, a North Lenoir graduate and current East Carolina University student, has been named an LCPS LEAP Scholar. This program supports future educators as they prepare to return and serve in our schools.
🏫 North Lenoir – Rose Zayyad
Rose Zayyad has been selected for the UNC Scholars Program at UNC-Chapel Hill and was also named a finalist for the Gates Scholarship. These honors recognize her academic excellence, leadership, and bright future ahead.
💰 Taryn Barnett of Lenoir County Early College High School earned the highly competitive J.A. Campbell Scholarship at Campbell University, valued at more than $140,000 and awarded to students who demonstrate excellence in academics, leadership, and character.
✨ Kinston High School – Dowdy Scholars
Davion Koonce and Melondia Crouell have been named Lewis and Elizabeth Dowdy Scholars at North Carolina A&T State University. Out of just 20 students selected nationwide, Kinston High is proud to have TWO recipients. This full four-year scholarship covers tuition, housing, and more. An outstanding achievement!
🎓 North Lenoir – Teaching Fellows
Kate Denton and Haley Hemby have been named North Carolina Teaching Fellows and will attend East Carolina University to pursue elementary education. This prestigious program supports future educators while they prepare to give back to North Carolina classrooms.
🏅 FCCLA National Qualifiers
North Lenoir students are headed to nationals after impressive performances at the state level:
• Ahleeya Bryant – Career Investigation (Gold, 3rd Place)
• Myrka Rojas Baten – Leadership (Gold, 2nd Place)
• Adwin Momaca Lopez – Say Yes to FCS Education (Bronze, 2nd Place)
• Juan Castro-Ortiz – Sustainability Challenge (Silver, 3rd Place)
We are proud to see them represent North Carolina on the national stage!
💙 FCCLA National Scholarship
Myrka Rojas Baten was also selected as a recipient of the FCCLA National Technical Honor Society Scholarship, recognizing her leadership, service, and commitment to excellence.
📚 Middle School State Qualifiers
Our 8th grade students showed outstanding research and presentation skills, with several advancing to state competition in Greensboro:
• Ashlyn Jacobs – 1st Place (Paper)
• Caroline Foss, Conner Byrant, Bryce Harrison, Savannah Jernigan, Kenize Carson – 3rd Place (Group Documentary)
📖 National Recognition – Tracy Rayner
Tracy Rayner has been named a national Read 180 Awards winner and is the ONLY educator in North Carolina to receive this honor this year. Her impact on student literacy is truly making a difference.
We are proud of each of these individuals and the way they represent Lenoir County Public Schools. The best is yet to come! 💛🖤
Join us in celebrating these outstanding individuals
At this month’s Board of Education meeting, we celebrated an incredible group of students and staff whose hard work, leadership, and dedication are making an impact across our district and beyond.
🌟 LCPS LEAP Scholar
Parker Ball, a North Lenoir graduate and current East Carolina University student, has been named an LCPS LEAP Scholar. This program supports future educators as they prepare to return and serve in our schools.
🏫 North Lenoir – Rose Zayyad
Rose Zayyad has been selected for the UNC Scholars Program at UNC-Chapel Hill and was also named a finalist for the Gates Scholarship. These honors recognize her academic excellence, leadership, and bright future ahead.
💰 Taryn Barnett of Lenoir County Early College High School earned the highly competitive J.A. Campbell Scholarship at Campbell University, valued at more than $140,000 and awarded to students who demonstrate excellence in academics, leadership, and character.
✨ Kinston High School – Dowdy Scholars
Davion Koonce and Melondia Crouell have been named Lewis and Elizabeth Dowdy Scholars at North Carolina A&T State University. Out of just 20 students selected nationwide, Kinston High is proud to have TWO recipients. This full four-year scholarship covers tuition, housing, and more. An outstanding achievement!
🎓 North Lenoir – Teaching Fellows
Kate Denton and Haley Hemby have been named North Carolina Teaching Fellows and will attend East Carolina University to pursue elementary education. This prestigious program supports future educators while they prepare to give back to North Carolina classrooms.
🏅 FCCLA National Qualifiers
North Lenoir students are headed to nationals after impressive performances at the state level:
• Ahleeya Bryant – Career Investigation (Gold, 3rd Place)
• Myrka Rojas Baten – Leadership (Gold, 2nd Place)
• Adwin Momaca Lopez – Say Yes to FCS Education (Bronze, 2nd Place)
• Juan Castro-Ortiz – Sustainability Challenge (Silver, 3rd Place)
We are proud to see them represent North Carolina on the national stage!
💙 FCCLA National Scholarship
Myrka Rojas Baten was also selected as a recipient of the FCCLA National Technical Honor Society Scholarship, recognizing her leadership, service, and commitment to excellence.
📚 Middle School State Qualifiers
Our 8th grade students showed outstanding research and presentation skills, with several advancing to state competition in Greensboro:
• Ashlyn Jacobs – 1st Place (Paper)
• Caroline Foss, Conner Byrant, Bryce Harrison, Savannah Jernigan, Kenize Carson – 3rd Place (Group Documentary)
📖 National Recognition – Tracy Rayner
Tracy Rayner has been named a national Read 180 Awards winner and is the ONLY educator in North Carolina to receive this honor this year. Her impact on student literacy is truly making a difference.
We are proud of each of these individuals and the way they represent Lenoir County Public Schools. The best is yet to come! 💛🖤
Join us in celebrating these outstanding individuals
After helping launch nearly 600 graduates into their futures, Lenoir County Public Schools turned its attention last Tuesday to another important milestone: celebrating the employees whose careers have helped shape generations of students.
Thirty-six educators and staff members were honored during the district’s annual retirement luncheon at the Lenoir County Shrine Club, representing an incredible 937 years of combined service to LCPS.
Superintendent Brent Williams thanked retirees for their dedication, compassion and commitment to students throughout their careers.
“Through your dedication, compassion and commitment, you have helped to shape future generations one day at a time and one student at a time,” Williams said. “Today is your day. It is a day of celebration for you and a celebration of what you’ve meant to this school system.”
Family members, friends and colleagues joined district leaders and members of the Board of Education to celebrate the Class of 2026 retirees and recognize the lasting impact they have made across Lenoir County schools.
Thank you to these dedicated employees for nearly a millennium of service to our students, schools and community. 💙💛 #LCPSShines #ThankYouRetirees
Thirty-six educators and staff members were honored during the district’s annual retirement luncheon at the Lenoir County Shrine Club, representing an incredible 937 years of combined service to LCPS.
Superintendent Brent Williams thanked retirees for their dedication, compassion and commitment to students throughout their careers.
“Through your dedication, compassion and commitment, you have helped to shape future generations one day at a time and one student at a time,” Williams said. “Today is your day. It is a day of celebration for you and a celebration of what you’ve meant to this school system.”
Family members, friends and colleagues joined district leaders and members of the Board of Education to celebrate the Class of 2026 retirees and recognize the lasting impact they have made across Lenoir County schools.
Thank you to these dedicated employees for nearly a millennium of service to our students, schools and community. 💙💛 #LCPSShines #ThankYouRetirees
Free meals are available for children all summer through Lenoir County Public Schools.
Beginning today, June 22, and continuing through August 6, children can receive free breakfast and lunch at several LCPS locations.
Open meal sites:
📍 Kinston High School
📍 Contentnea-Savannah K-8 School
📍 Northeast Elementary
📍 North Lenoir High School
📍 South Lenoir High School
Breakfast is served from 7:45-8:15 a.m.
Lunch is served from 10:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Southwood Elementary will also offer meals from June 22 through July 16.
Middle school summer program sites at Frink Middle, Rochelle Middle and Woodington Middle will serve meals July 13-23. Families interested in those programs are encouraged to register.
Families who registered for non-congregate meal pickup can begin picking up meals today through August 3.
• Grainger Stadium (formerly Northeast pickup): 9:30-11 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays
• South Lenoir High School: 9:30-10:30 a.m. Mondays only for families previously assigned to Backstreet, Dahlia, Ashland Drive, Mary Ann Lane, Deabler and Lenoir Mobile Home Estates
• Pink Hill Library: 9:15-9:30 a.m.
• Moss Hill: 10-10:15 a.m.
• North Lenoir High School: 9:30-10:30 a.m. Mondays only
Please note that non-congregate pickup sites require prior registration.
No child should go hungry during the summer. We are proud to continue serving our students and families all season long.
Beginning today, June 22, and continuing through August 6, children can receive free breakfast and lunch at several LCPS locations.
Open meal sites:
📍 Kinston High School
📍 Contentnea-Savannah K-8 School
📍 Northeast Elementary
📍 North Lenoir High School
📍 South Lenoir High School
Breakfast is served from 7:45-8:15 a.m.
Lunch is served from 10:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
Southwood Elementary will also offer meals from June 22 through July 16.
Middle school summer program sites at Frink Middle, Rochelle Middle and Woodington Middle will serve meals July 13-23. Families interested in those programs are encouraged to register.
Families who registered for non-congregate meal pickup can begin picking up meals today through August 3.
• Grainger Stadium (formerly Northeast pickup): 9:30-11 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays
• South Lenoir High School: 9:30-10:30 a.m. Mondays only for families previously assigned to Backstreet, Dahlia, Ashland Drive, Mary Ann Lane, Deabler and Lenoir Mobile Home Estates
• Pink Hill Library: 9:15-9:30 a.m.
• Moss Hill: 10-10:15 a.m.
• North Lenoir High School: 9:30-10:30 a.m. Mondays only
Please note that non-congregate pickup sites require prior registration.
No child should go hungry during the summer. We are proud to continue serving our students and families all season long.
