
Altrusimo, Amistad. Isibindi. Reveur.
They may sound like made-up words, but at B.T. Bullock they're the heart of a creative "house system" that connects students across grade levels.
Just like Hogwarts from Harry Potter fame, every new student is sorted into one of four houses, sparking a year-long competition that encourages positive behavior, builds friendships, and adds some fun every school day.
Programs like the house systems at B.T. Bullock and J. Glenn Edwards are just one way Lee County Schools are building culture, supporting the whole child, and helping students thrive.
#WellBeingWednesday #LCSthrive
They may sound like made-up words, but at B.T. Bullock they're the heart of a creative "house system" that connects students across grade levels.
Just like Hogwarts from Harry Potter fame, every new student is sorted into one of four houses, sparking a year-long competition that encourages positive behavior, builds friendships, and adds some fun every school day.
Programs like the house systems at B.T. Bullock and J. Glenn Edwards are just one way Lee County Schools are building culture, supporting the whole child, and helping students thrive.
#WellBeingWednesday #LCSthrive


Dear Parents and Guardians,
We are currently experiencing a regional internet outage that is impacting several counties. As a result, our phone lines are also temporarily down.
In the event of an emergency, please contact your child’s school using the following methods:
Elementary Schools: ClassDojo
Middle and High Schools: ParentSquare
Thank you for your understanding and patience as service providers work to resolve this issue.
We are currently experiencing a regional internet outage that is impacting several counties. As a result, our phone lines are also temporarily down.
In the event of an emergency, please contact your child’s school using the following methods:
Elementary Schools: ClassDojo
Middle and High Schools: ParentSquare
Thank you for your understanding and patience as service providers work to resolve this issue.

Parents, guardians, and caretakers! Your feedback is essential to the ongoing growth of Lee County Schools.
The 2025 Parent/Guardian/Caretaker Survey is a key part of our Thrive In Lee Strategic Plan. It will guide both school and district level planning as we move forward together.
Go to https://tinyurl.com/ThriveinLeeSurvey to complete the survey and provide your voice! Surveys are due by October 20, 2025. We appreciate your partnership in making Lee County Schools a place where all students can thrive!
#LCSthrive
The 2025 Parent/Guardian/Caretaker Survey is a key part of our Thrive In Lee Strategic Plan. It will guide both school and district level planning as we move forward together.
Go to https://tinyurl.com/ThriveinLeeSurvey to complete the survey and provide your voice! Surveys are due by October 20, 2025. We appreciate your partnership in making Lee County Schools a place where all students can thrive!
#LCSthrive



First-year teacher Sarah Elliott has jumped right into the classroom at J.R. Ingram Elementary after finishing her degree program at NC State in May. Full of energy and excitement, she's passionate about instilling the joy of learning in each student.
"There is a moment when a student finally understands something, and that's an amazing moment. I love to capture that moment," she shared.
Sarah said she chose Lee County Schools because of the strong support system for new teachers, including the district's beginning teacher mentorship program. "Even knowing that the county office knows who I am, even though it is my first year, is really nice. I'm not just a small fish in a big pond. The amount of support in Lee County is really incredible ... My mentors are amazing. Just having that kind of family where you can be adopted into a teacher community is something first year teachers really need to succeed."
Welcome to the LCS family, Sarah! We're excited to see the difference you will make!
If you or someone you know is interested in starting their career in Lee County Schools, reach out to Patricia Coldren (pcoldren@lee.k12.nc.us) in our Human Resources Department or explore opportunities here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/o/lcs/page/careers
#LCSthrive #MeetTheStaffMonday
"There is a moment when a student finally understands something, and that's an amazing moment. I love to capture that moment," she shared.
Sarah said she chose Lee County Schools because of the strong support system for new teachers, including the district's beginning teacher mentorship program. "Even knowing that the county office knows who I am, even though it is my first year, is really nice. I'm not just a small fish in a big pond. The amount of support in Lee County is really incredible ... My mentors are amazing. Just having that kind of family where you can be adopted into a teacher community is something first year teachers really need to succeed."
Welcome to the LCS family, Sarah! We're excited to see the difference you will make!
If you or someone you know is interested in starting their career in Lee County Schools, reach out to Patricia Coldren (pcoldren@lee.k12.nc.us) in our Human Resources Department or explore opportunities here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/o/lcs/page/careers
#LCSthrive #MeetTheStaffMonday


Future Teachers see AVID in Action at SanLee
At SanLee Middle School, AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) isn't just an elective, it is a school-wide commitment to preparing students for future success through proven study skills, effective teaching strategies, and a supportive learning community.
Recently, SanLee welcomed NC State University Teaching Fellows and College of Education students to see AVID in action. These future educators saw firsthand how AVID strategies help students grow, thrive and prepare for the opportunities ahead.
Partnerships like this with NC State and other area programs help us build pathways for student success today, while also inspiring tomorrow's teachers. At Lee County Schools, we're focused on building bright futures for everyone in public education.
#LCSthrive #FutureFocusedFriday
At SanLee Middle School, AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) isn't just an elective, it is a school-wide commitment to preparing students for future success through proven study skills, effective teaching strategies, and a supportive learning community.
Recently, SanLee welcomed NC State University Teaching Fellows and College of Education students to see AVID in action. These future educators saw firsthand how AVID strategies help students grow, thrive and prepare for the opportunities ahead.
Partnerships like this with NC State and other area programs help us build pathways for student success today, while also inspiring tomorrow's teachers. At Lee County Schools, we're focused on building bright futures for everyone in public education.
#LCSthrive #FutureFocusedFriday

Capturing Resilience & Problem-Solving
In Lee County Schools, Chess Club is more than just a game - it is a powerful tool for growing young minds from elementary through high school.
Through competitive, fun, and community-building play, students sharpen problem-solving skills, build resilience, and learn how to bounce back from challenges, both on the chess board and in life.
Programs like Chess Club are just one of the many ways we're preparing the whole student to thrive in class and beyond.
#LCSthrive #WellBeingWednesday
In Lee County Schools, Chess Club is more than just a game - it is a powerful tool for growing young minds from elementary through high school.
Through competitive, fun, and community-building play, students sharpen problem-solving skills, build resilience, and learn how to bounce back from challenges, both on the chess board and in life.
Programs like Chess Club are just one of the many ways we're preparing the whole student to thrive in class and beyond.
#LCSthrive #WellBeingWednesday


Today we surprised Natalie Johnson with the EC Educator of Excellence Award for LCS!
Ms. Johnson is the Exceptional Children Teacher and department lead at WB Wicker. She said that it was almost like working as an EC Teacher chose her. We couldn't agree more!
Read more about her here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2442049
Celebrate Ms. Johnson with a word of encouragement in the comments!
#LCSthrive #ECEducatorofExcellence
Ms. Johnson is the Exceptional Children Teacher and department lead at WB Wicker. She said that it was almost like working as an EC Teacher chose her. We couldn't agree more!
Read more about her here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2442049
Celebrate Ms. Johnson with a word of encouragement in the comments!
#LCSthrive #ECEducatorofExcellence


Meet the Staff Monday
He literally helped build Tramway Elementary as a brick mason, and for the past 14 years, Mr. Victor Boykin has continued building its heart as a dedicated custodian. A foundational part of the school community, he ensures every student feels supported and seen.
It is not uncommon to see Mr. Boykin step into a classroom during special events, filling in for students whose parents can't attend. For him, it's about making sure no child feels left out.
"I helped build this place, so it is a part of me. I have a bond with this school," Boykin said. "It's important to make sure the kids know if they need us, we're here. If a parent can't make it, I'm there. Everybody needs to feel wanted and supported."
From spotless hallways and restrooms, to a warm smile and helping hand, Mr. Boykin is always there, making Tramway a place where every student can thrive.
#LCSthrive #MeetTheStaffMonday
He literally helped build Tramway Elementary as a brick mason, and for the past 14 years, Mr. Victor Boykin has continued building its heart as a dedicated custodian. A foundational part of the school community, he ensures every student feels supported and seen.
It is not uncommon to see Mr. Boykin step into a classroom during special events, filling in for students whose parents can't attend. For him, it's about making sure no child feels left out.
"I helped build this place, so it is a part of me. I have a bond with this school," Boykin said. "It's important to make sure the kids know if they need us, we're here. If a parent can't make it, I'm there. Everybody needs to feel wanted and supported."
From spotless hallways and restrooms, to a warm smile and helping hand, Mr. Boykin is always there, making Tramway a place where every student can thrive.
#LCSthrive #MeetTheStaffMonday


Arts in Education is Arts for the Future
A recent survey shows that 81% of businesses use graphic design in some form. Of the 19% that don't, two-thirds say they would if it were easier and more cost-effective.
That's why giving students hands-on experience with industry-standard tools like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop - and the chance to earn Visual Design certifications - is such a game changer in our local public high schools.
Beautiful designs. Modern tools. Marketable skills. This is how Arts in Education creates future-focused pathways for our students.
#FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive #ArtsInEd2025
A recent survey shows that 81% of businesses use graphic design in some form. Of the 19% that don't, two-thirds say they would if it were easier and more cost-effective.
That's why giving students hands-on experience with industry-standard tools like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop - and the chance to earn Visual Design certifications - is such a game changer in our local public high schools.
Beautiful designs. Modern tools. Marketable skills. This is how Arts in Education creates future-focused pathways for our students.
#FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive #ArtsInEd2025




Sprinting into new territory!
Yesterday, Lee County and Southern Lee met on the flag football field for the first time as the two new programs held a scrimmage to help each team acclimate to the new sport. From the smiles to the speed and effort, there were a lot of bright spots to highlight! Enjoy a few photos from the afternoon and don't forget that Southern Lee kicks off their season at South Johnston on September 24 at 5 PM with Lee County starting their season on October 1st at West Johnston!
#LCSthrive #JacketPride #CavPride
Yesterday, Lee County and Southern Lee met on the flag football field for the first time as the two new programs held a scrimmage to help each team acclimate to the new sport. From the smiles to the speed and effort, there were a lot of bright spots to highlight! Enjoy a few photos from the afternoon and don't forget that Southern Lee kicks off their season at South Johnston on September 24 at 5 PM with Lee County starting their season on October 1st at West Johnston!
#LCSthrive #JacketPride #CavPride











Arts In Education Week 2025
The arts are more than a class or performance, they are a pathway to whole-student well being.
When students take the stage, pick up an instrument, or create something new, they are not just practicing skills, they're learning to manage emotions, build self-confidence, and connect with others. Theatre arts and other creative programs provide safe spaces where students can explore who they are, take risks, and celebrate their individuality.
These experiences strengthen social and emotional health, give students tools to cope with challenges, work as a team, and find joy in expressing themselves. Here in Lee County Schools, the arts help students thrive - mind, body, and spirit.
#LCSthrive #WellBeingWednesday #ArtsInEd2025
The arts are more than a class or performance, they are a pathway to whole-student well being.
When students take the stage, pick up an instrument, or create something new, they are not just practicing skills, they're learning to manage emotions, build self-confidence, and connect with others. Theatre arts and other creative programs provide safe spaces where students can explore who they are, take risks, and celebrate their individuality.
These experiences strengthen social and emotional health, give students tools to cope with challenges, work as a team, and find joy in expressing themselves. Here in Lee County Schools, the arts help students thrive - mind, body, and spirit.
#LCSthrive #WellBeingWednesday #ArtsInEd2025





📣 Families of AIG students, we want to hear from you!
Join us for the AIG Advisory Council Meeting on Monday, September 17, from 6–7 PM. This meeting is open to parents, guardians, students, educators, and interested community members. This is a great opportunity to share your voice, connect with other families, and help shape the future of our AIG program.
🗓 Date: Wednesday, September 17
⏰ Time: 6–7 PM
📍 Heins Education Building (106 Gordon St., Sanford)
Your input matters—together, we can continue to support and inspire our students to reach their full potential. ✨
Join us for the AIG Advisory Council Meeting on Monday, September 17, from 6–7 PM. This meeting is open to parents, guardians, students, educators, and interested community members. This is a great opportunity to share your voice, connect with other families, and help shape the future of our AIG program.
🗓 Date: Wednesday, September 17
⏰ Time: 6–7 PM
📍 Heins Education Building (106 Gordon St., Sanford)
Your input matters—together, we can continue to support and inspire our students to reach their full potential. ✨


Meet the Staff Monday!
This week we are excited to highlight Caleigh Davis, Band Teacher at SanLee Middle School!
For Ms. Davis, music isn't just about learning notes and rhythms, it is about creating a place where students can grow, belong, and shine. She said, "Band and music really became my happy place when I was in middle school. It gives kids a creative outlet to try something new, to make mistakes, overcome them, and do it all with friends."
We are so grateful for Ms. Davis' passion in helping SanLee students find their own "happy place" through music!
#LCSthrive #MeetTheStaff Monday #ArtsInEd25
This week we are excited to highlight Caleigh Davis, Band Teacher at SanLee Middle School!
For Ms. Davis, music isn't just about learning notes and rhythms, it is about creating a place where students can grow, belong, and shine. She said, "Band and music really became my happy place when I was in middle school. It gives kids a creative outlet to try something new, to make mistakes, overcome them, and do it all with friends."
We are so grateful for Ms. Davis' passion in helping SanLee students find their own "happy place" through music!
#LCSthrive #MeetTheStaff Monday #ArtsInEd25


This week we join schools across North Carolina in celebrating Arts in Education Week!
The arts are a powerful way to connect students to learning and to their school community. From theatre performances to ceramics projects, the arts encourage creativity, discipline, collaboration, and imagination, while helping students build critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Through the arts, students discover new ways to communicate, express ideas, and understand the world around them. Join us as we celebrate the incredible impact of the arts in our public schools!
#LCSthrive #ArtsInEdWeek25
The arts are a powerful way to connect students to learning and to their school community. From theatre performances to ceramics projects, the arts encourage creativity, discipline, collaboration, and imagination, while helping students build critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Through the arts, students discover new ways to communicate, express ideas, and understand the world around them. Join us as we celebrate the incredible impact of the arts in our public schools!
#LCSthrive #ArtsInEdWeek25


🌎✨ A Beautiful Day for Collaboration! ✨🌎
Fifth and Second Grade students at Tramway Elementary teamed up to explore how weather and climate shape our daily lives. Together, they researched locations around the world—discovering how weather impacts activities, clothing choices, and comfort in each place.
After gathering their findings, the students presented to their peers, practicing communication, teamwork, and presentation skills that will benefit them well beyond the classroom.
These projects may seem simple, but they’re powerful first steps toward building strong futures—where collaboration, teamwork, and problem-solving make all the difference. 💡🙌
#FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive
Fifth and Second Grade students at Tramway Elementary teamed up to explore how weather and climate shape our daily lives. Together, they researched locations around the world—discovering how weather impacts activities, clothing choices, and comfort in each place.
After gathering their findings, the students presented to their peers, practicing communication, teamwork, and presentation skills that will benefit them well beyond the classroom.
These projects may seem simple, but they’re powerful first steps toward building strong futures—where collaboration, teamwork, and problem-solving make all the difference. 💡🙌
#FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive

Go from TA to Teacher with Lee County Schools! We are committed to growing our employees and through LocalLEE - an initiative to provide pathways for students and current employees to become licensed teachers - we invite all classified employees interested in teaching to take their first step toward licensure with us on Thursday, September 25 at 6:00 PM at the Moore Center!
Not a current LCS employee? You’re welcome, too! Come learn how to join LCS as a Teacher Assistant and pursue our TA-to-Teacher Pathway to earn your license and teach in Lee County.
High school seniors and anyone interested in the program are also welcome to attend.
Representatives from Lee County Schools, Central Carolina Community College (CCCC), East Carolina University (ECU), and the Lee County Education Foundation will be on hand to answer questions about admissions/registration, course plans, timelines, and financial aid. We can also review transcripts on-site to help identify your best pathway.
RSVP is not required, but it is appreciated if you can let us know you would like to attend at this link: http://bit.ly/41PuMRZ
#TAtoTeacher #LocalLee #LCSthrive
Not a current LCS employee? You’re welcome, too! Come learn how to join LCS as a Teacher Assistant and pursue our TA-to-Teacher Pathway to earn your license and teach in Lee County.
High school seniors and anyone interested in the program are also welcome to attend.
Representatives from Lee County Schools, Central Carolina Community College (CCCC), East Carolina University (ECU), and the Lee County Education Foundation will be on hand to answer questions about admissions/registration, course plans, timelines, and financial aid. We can also review transcripts on-site to help identify your best pathway.
RSVP is not required, but it is appreciated if you can let us know you would like to attend at this link: http://bit.ly/41PuMRZ
#TAtoTeacher #LocalLee #LCSthrive


New this fall: Girls Flag Football makes its debut at Lee County Schools! 🏈
We’re thrilled to welcome girls’ flag football to Southern Lee High School and Lee County High School this Fall 2025 season, marking an exciting expansion of our athletic and well-being opportunities. Read more here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2410839
Flag football isn’t just about scoring points. It's about grit, resilience, teamwork, integrity, and finding your place in the school community. Together, we're not just playing a game—we're building stronger, more confident, and connected students.
#WellBeingWednesday #GirlsFlagFootball #LCSthrive
We’re thrilled to welcome girls’ flag football to Southern Lee High School and Lee County High School this Fall 2025 season, marking an exciting expansion of our athletic and well-being opportunities. Read more here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2410839
Flag football isn’t just about scoring points. It's about grit, resilience, teamwork, integrity, and finding your place in the school community. Together, we're not just playing a game—we're building stronger, more confident, and connected students.
#WellBeingWednesday #GirlsFlagFootball #LCSthrive


🏈 It’s Jamboree Time!
Don’t miss your chance to see the Jacket and Cavalier stars of the future as we kick off the Middle School Football Season with the Lee County Middle School Jamboree tomorrow at 5:00 PM at Southern Lee High School!
All three of our local middle schools will hit the field for head-to-head scrimmages in their first test of the season:
🟡 West Lee vs. SanLee (5:00 PM)
🔵 East Lee vs. SanLee (5:50 PM)
🟡 West Lee vs. East Lee (6:40 PM)
Come out, cheer loud, and support the future of Lee County football—see you there!
Don’t miss your chance to see the Jacket and Cavalier stars of the future as we kick off the Middle School Football Season with the Lee County Middle School Jamboree tomorrow at 5:00 PM at Southern Lee High School!
All three of our local middle schools will hit the field for head-to-head scrimmages in their first test of the season:
🟡 West Lee vs. SanLee (5:00 PM)
🔵 East Lee vs. SanLee (5:50 PM)
🟡 West Lee vs. East Lee (6:40 PM)
Come out, cheer loud, and support the future of Lee County football—see you there!


🍎 Meet the Staff Monday
Meet Josie Guin, who thought she might not make it back to college to finish her degrees when her grandmother was diagnosed with cancer during her second year. She uses her personal story to connect with students and show them that while their path may not be perfect, they can still thrive.
“I am so grateful everyday that I put my life back together four years later and went back to school to honor my grandmother. I get to talk to my students about it being okay to pick back up in unexpected ways, and be an example that even though something did not “go right” the first time, they can try again.”
#LCSthrive
Meet Josie Guin, who thought she might not make it back to college to finish her degrees when her grandmother was diagnosed with cancer during her second year. She uses her personal story to connect with students and show them that while their path may not be perfect, they can still thrive.
“I am so grateful everyday that I put my life back together four years later and went back to school to honor my grandmother. I get to talk to my students about it being okay to pick back up in unexpected ways, and be an example that even though something did not “go right” the first time, they can try again.”
#LCSthrive


STEM learning in our elementary schools is more than just science experiments and building projects—it’s planting the seeds of curiosity, problem-solving, and innovation. 🌱
By exploring STEM at an early age - like these students in Ms. Smith's STEM Exploratory Class at Broadway Elementary - our students gain the confidence and skills to dream big and pursue future careers in engineering, medicine, technology, space exploration, and beyond. 🌎✨
Today’s classroom explorers are tomorrow’s scientists, engineers, and innovators—and their journeys start here! 💡 #FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive
By exploring STEM at an early age - like these students in Ms. Smith's STEM Exploratory Class at Broadway Elementary - our students gain the confidence and skills to dream big and pursue future careers in engineering, medicine, technology, space exploration, and beyond. 🌎✨
Today’s classroom explorers are tomorrow’s scientists, engineers, and innovators—and their journeys start here! 💡 #FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive