Federal Impact Aid Forms Went Home Yesterday!
Families, please check your student's backpack! Federal Impact Aid forms were sent home yesterday and must be completed and returned by Thursday, December 19.
These forms help our district secure important federal funding that directly supports student learning and school resources.
If you have questions about Federal Impact Aid, please visit the Federal Programs page on our website: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/page/federal-programs
Thank you for taking a few minutes to complete and return your form. Your support makes a big difference!
Families, please check your student's backpack! Federal Impact Aid forms were sent home yesterday and must be completed and returned by Thursday, December 19.
These forms help our district secure important federal funding that directly supports student learning and school resources.
If you have questions about Federal Impact Aid, please visit the Federal Programs page on our website: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/page/federal-programs
Thank you for taking a few minutes to complete and return your form. Your support makes a big difference!
Warren Williams Preschool teacher Mrs. Paula Goldston is shaping bright futures every single day and her passion for building strong foundations for our youngest learners shines through in everything she does.
From celebrating "lightbulb moments" to teaching critical social, emotional, and early literacy skills, Mrs. Goldston is helping students grow with confidence, joy, and love.
Read her full story and see why preschool truly is "the place to be": https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2574015
#MeetTheStaffMonday #LCSthrive
From celebrating "lightbulb moments" to teaching critical social, emotional, and early literacy skills, Mrs. Goldston is helping students grow with confidence, joy, and love.
Read her full story and see why preschool truly is "the place to be": https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2574015
#MeetTheStaffMonday #LCSthrive
HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS!
Today, we pause to reflect on the countless reasons we are thankful. At the top of that list: our students, families, staff, and community who work together every day to make our schools a place where learning, belonging, and growth thrive.
This season reminds us that gratitude is more than a feeling. It is something we see in the acts of kindness in our classrooms, the support of our families, and the partnerships that strengthen our district. Whether it is a teacher going the extra mile, a student lending a helping hand, or a community member stepping up to serve, thankfulness is woven into the fabric of who we are.
From our school family to yours, we wish you a warm, safe, and joyful Thanksgiving filled with rest, connection, and plenty of delicious food.
Happy Thanksgiving, Lee County!
#LCSthrive
Today, we pause to reflect on the countless reasons we are thankful. At the top of that list: our students, families, staff, and community who work together every day to make our schools a place where learning, belonging, and growth thrive.
This season reminds us that gratitude is more than a feeling. It is something we see in the acts of kindness in our classrooms, the support of our families, and the partnerships that strengthen our district. Whether it is a teacher going the extra mile, a student lending a helping hand, or a community member stepping up to serve, thankfulness is woven into the fabric of who we are.
From our school family to yours, we wish you a warm, safe, and joyful Thanksgiving filled with rest, connection, and plenty of delicious food.
Happy Thanksgiving, Lee County!
#LCSthrive
STRONG STUDENTS START WITH STRONG FAMILIES
This week, we're celebrating the power of community partnerships and the incredible impact that they have on the well-being of our students and their families. Thanks to the generosity of Mountaire Farms, 75 Lee County Schools families - including both student and staff households - will receive complete Thanksgiving meal boxes through the Thanksgiving for Thousands initiative.
When our community wraps around families with support, it strengthens the foundation our students need to learn, grow, and thrive. Partnerships like this ensure that no family faces the holiday season alone, and that every child comes to school feeling cared for and supported.
We're grateful for Mountaire Farms and for all community partners who lift up our schools in meaningful ways.
#WellBeingWednesday #CommunityPartners #LCSthrive
This week, we're celebrating the power of community partnerships and the incredible impact that they have on the well-being of our students and their families. Thanks to the generosity of Mountaire Farms, 75 Lee County Schools families - including both student and staff households - will receive complete Thanksgiving meal boxes through the Thanksgiving for Thousands initiative.
When our community wraps around families with support, it strengthens the foundation our students need to learn, grow, and thrive. Partnerships like this ensure that no family faces the holiday season alone, and that every child comes to school feeling cared for and supported.
We're grateful for Mountaire Farms and for all community partners who lift up our schools in meaningful ways.
#WellBeingWednesday #CommunityPartners #LCSthrive
STUDENT VOICES MATTER
Over the last week, Dr. Dossenbach continued our commitment to elevating student perspectives by meeting with Student Advisory Groups at all of our high schools. These conversations with district & school leadership give students a platform to share feedback, discuss what is working, and offer ideas that help shape the future of our schools.
Their insight guides district decisions, strengthens communication, and ensures that every student knows their voice is heard and valued.
Thank you to our Student Advisory members for your leadership and honesty. We're proud of the future you are helping build!
#LCSthrive #StudentVoiceMatters
Over the last week, Dr. Dossenbach continued our commitment to elevating student perspectives by meeting with Student Advisory Groups at all of our high schools. These conversations with district & school leadership give students a platform to share feedback, discuss what is working, and offer ideas that help shape the future of our schools.
Their insight guides district decisions, strengthens communication, and ensures that every student knows their voice is heard and valued.
Thank you to our Student Advisory members for your leadership and honesty. We're proud of the future you are helping build!
#LCSthrive #StudentVoiceMatters
We're excited to introduce Mr. Danmart Hernandez, one of the newest members of the Lee County High School Math Department and an international exchange teacher from the Philippines!
With 19 years of teaching experience and a passion for helping students grow in confidence, Mr. Hernandez is already making a meaningful impact on campus. "I hope that my students remember me as a teacher who always believed in them, even on the days that they didn't believe in themselves," he said.
Read his inspiring story and learn more about his journey to LCHS here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2567428
#MeetTheStaffMonday #LCSthrive
With 19 years of teaching experience and a passion for helping students grow in confidence, Mr. Hernandez is already making a meaningful impact on campus. "I hope that my students remember me as a teacher who always believed in them, even on the days that they didn't believe in themselves," he said.
Read his inspiring story and learn more about his journey to LCHS here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2567428
#MeetTheStaffMonday #LCSthrive
Competition that drives futures forward. That's at the heart of the Head of Class Competition, sponsored each year by the Lee County Education Foundation.
Yesterday, the Foundation and district administration surprised West Lee Middle School Staff with exciting news: The Pride are the 2024-2025 Middle School Head of Class Award Winners!
Thanks to incredible teamwork and dedication, West Lee staff helped students achieve remarkable growth resulting in a 17-point increase in the school's State Report Card grad in just one year.
As part of the award, the school will receive $50,000, which will be shared among staff members who were on last year's roster and remain at West Lee this year. This friendly competition among middle schools is just one example of the extra spark that motivates our educators to innovate, strengthen performance, and accelerate student success.
We're deeply grateful for partners like the Lee County Education Foundation, whose future-focused investment helps our schools, teachers - and most importantly - our students thrive.
#FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive
Yesterday, the Foundation and district administration surprised West Lee Middle School Staff with exciting news: The Pride are the 2024-2025 Middle School Head of Class Award Winners!
Thanks to incredible teamwork and dedication, West Lee staff helped students achieve remarkable growth resulting in a 17-point increase in the school's State Report Card grad in just one year.
As part of the award, the school will receive $50,000, which will be shared among staff members who were on last year's roster and remain at West Lee this year. This friendly competition among middle schools is just one example of the extra spark that motivates our educators to innovate, strengthen performance, and accelerate student success.
We're deeply grateful for partners like the Lee County Education Foundation, whose future-focused investment helps our schools, teachers - and most importantly - our students thrive.
#FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive
🚨 We’re Hiring! Join the Lee County Schools Team 🚨
Lee County Schools is now hiring Permanent Custodial Staff to help keep our campuses clean, safe, and welcoming for students and staff. If you're dependable, hardworking, and ready to make a real difference in your community, we want to hear from you!
💼 Position: Permanent Custodian
💰 Pay: $16.00/hour
🚌 Applicants must obtain a bus license within one year of employment.
What You’ll Do:
✨ Perform daily cleaning before, during, and after school hours
✨ Maintain all areas of school buildings, including floors, windows, furniture & restrooms
✨ Assist with deep cleaning during summer, winter, and spring breaks
✨ Support school events throughout the year
Start your new job today and become part of a team that supports student success every day!
👉 Apply now at: ESS.com
📧 Contact: KSmith@ESS.com
📞 336-480-6576
Lee County Schools is now hiring Permanent Custodial Staff to help keep our campuses clean, safe, and welcoming for students and staff. If you're dependable, hardworking, and ready to make a real difference in your community, we want to hear from you!
💼 Position: Permanent Custodian
💰 Pay: $16.00/hour
🚌 Applicants must obtain a bus license within one year of employment.
What You’ll Do:
✨ Perform daily cleaning before, during, and after school hours
✨ Maintain all areas of school buildings, including floors, windows, furniture & restrooms
✨ Assist with deep cleaning during summer, winter, and spring breaks
✨ Support school events throughout the year
Start your new job today and become part of a team that supports student success every day!
👉 Apply now at: ESS.com
📧 Contact: KSmith@ESS.com
📞 336-480-6576
Governor's Advisor Dr. Ashburn Visits Tramway Elementary!
On Wednesday, Dr. Elena Ashburn, the Senior Advisor for Education Policy to Governor Josh Stein and former NC Principal of the Year, visited Tramway Elementary to connect with students, teachers and school leaders.
From stopping by classrooms (including a fourth grade class learning about state government!) to hearing directly from educators, Dr. Ashburn emphasized the importance of listening to those who make a difference every day in our schools.
Principal Andrea Cummings and her team appreciated the opportunity to share both successes and challenges, helping ensure state leaders stay grounded in the reality of classroom life. Cummings said, "Nothing strengthens school culture like giving teachers a seat at the table."
Read the full story about Dr. Ashburn's visit here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2560125
#LCSthrive #EducationMatters
On Wednesday, Dr. Elena Ashburn, the Senior Advisor for Education Policy to Governor Josh Stein and former NC Principal of the Year, visited Tramway Elementary to connect with students, teachers and school leaders.
From stopping by classrooms (including a fourth grade class learning about state government!) to hearing directly from educators, Dr. Ashburn emphasized the importance of listening to those who make a difference every day in our schools.
Principal Andrea Cummings and her team appreciated the opportunity to share both successes and challenges, helping ensure state leaders stay grounded in the reality of classroom life. Cummings said, "Nothing strengthens school culture like giving teachers a seat at the table."
Read the full story about Dr. Ashburn's visit here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2560125
#LCSthrive #EducationMatters
This week, Dr. Sharron Williams, our Director of Student Interventions and Success, teamed up with our dedicated school social workers for an important deep dive into student support. Using Branching Minds, an educational platform that brings together behavior, attendance, and academic data in one place, the team worked to identify students who need extra support and made a plan to track their progress over time.
Together, they explored effective strategies for analyzing student data and shared best practices to strengthen attendance through targeted intervention plans that remove barriers to student attendance and performance. Their collaborative work is helping us build a responsive, data-informed system that ensures every student gets the support they need to thrive in and out of the classroom.
Supporting the whole child is at the heart of what we do, and leaders like Dr. Williams and her team make it happen.
#WellBeingWednesday #LCSthrive
Together, they explored effective strategies for analyzing student data and shared best practices to strengthen attendance through targeted intervention plans that remove barriers to student attendance and performance. Their collaborative work is helping us build a responsive, data-informed system that ensures every student gets the support they need to thrive in and out of the classroom.
Supporting the whole child is at the heart of what we do, and leaders like Dr. Williams and her team make it happen.
#WellBeingWednesday #LCSthrive
Meet the Staff Monday | Angie Dezso, CTE Teacher @ East Lee Middle School
After a successful career in the private sector, East Lee Middle School's Angie Dezso took a leap of faith into teaching - and it's changing lives every day.
From building students' confidence to helping them unlock their potential, Dezso's journey is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to make an impact.
Read her inspiring story here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2552333
#MeetTheStaffMonday #LCSthrive
After a successful career in the private sector, East Lee Middle School's Angie Dezso took a leap of faith into teaching - and it's changing lives every day.
From building students' confidence to helping them unlock their potential, Dezso's journey is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to make an impact.
Read her inspiring story here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2552333
#MeetTheStaffMonday #LCSthrive
Powering Up Real-World Careers
Today we're shining a spotlight on the electrifying opportunities students in our local public schools gain through Career & Technical Education (CTE) in the electrical and skilled trades.
From wiring circuits to troubleshooting real equipment, students in these courses are not just learning about the world of work, they are experiencing it first hand. Under the guidance of industry-trained instructors, they gain practical skills, safety training, and certifications that directly align with high-demand careers in fields like the electrical field.
Whether they choose to become electricians, lineworkers, maintenance technicians, or continue into advanced apprenticeship programs, our CTE students graduate with confidence and a powerful head start. These hands-on pathways help students understand that skilled trades are not only essential, but full of opportunity, stability, and upward mobility.
Because when students learn by doing, they're not just preparing for a job, they are powering their future.
#FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive #CTEworks
Today we're shining a spotlight on the electrifying opportunities students in our local public schools gain through Career & Technical Education (CTE) in the electrical and skilled trades.
From wiring circuits to troubleshooting real equipment, students in these courses are not just learning about the world of work, they are experiencing it first hand. Under the guidance of industry-trained instructors, they gain practical skills, safety training, and certifications that directly align with high-demand careers in fields like the electrical field.
Whether they choose to become electricians, lineworkers, maintenance technicians, or continue into advanced apprenticeship programs, our CTE students graduate with confidence and a powerful head start. These hands-on pathways help students understand that skilled trades are not only essential, but full of opportunity, stability, and upward mobility.
Because when students learn by doing, they're not just preparing for a job, they are powering their future.
#FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive #CTEworks
WELL-BEING WEDNESDAY: Nourishing Minds and Bodies
We know that students learn best when their basic needs are met - and that starts with a healthy meal. Thanks to the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), every student in Lee County Schools receives breakfast and lunch at no cost this school year.
Through this program, we are proud to have served an incredible 425,099 to students through October 31st - all provided free of charge. At a time when food uncertainty is high in our community and in our nation, that is 452,099 opportunities for our students in our local public schools to fuel their learning, focus on success, and thrive in and out of the classroom.
When students are nourished, they're ready to learn. That is a win for the well-being of our entire community.
#WellBeingWednesday #LCSthrive
We know that students learn best when their basic needs are met - and that starts with a healthy meal. Thanks to the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), every student in Lee County Schools receives breakfast and lunch at no cost this school year.
Through this program, we are proud to have served an incredible 425,099 to students through October 31st - all provided free of charge. At a time when food uncertainty is high in our community and in our nation, that is 452,099 opportunities for our students in our local public schools to fuel their learning, focus on success, and thrive in and out of the classroom.
When students are nourished, they're ready to learn. That is a win for the well-being of our entire community.
#WellBeingWednesday #LCSthrive
Today, we pause to honor the brave men and women who have served our country with courage, dedication, and sacrifice. Their commitment to protecting our freedoms and ensuring a better future for all inspires us every day.
In our schools, we are especially grateful for the veterans among our staff, families, and community who continue to serve - whether still on active duty or now serving through education, mentorship, and leadership. Your example teaches our students what it means to live with integrity, compassion, and purpose.
From all of us at Lee County Schools, thank you for your service and your continued impact on our community. We are proud to honor you today and every day!
#VeteransDay #LCSthrive
In our schools, we are especially grateful for the veterans among our staff, families, and community who continue to serve - whether still on active duty or now serving through education, mentorship, and leadership. Your example teaches our students what it means to live with integrity, compassion, and purpose.
From all of us at Lee County Schools, thank you for your service and your continued impact on our community. We are proud to honor you today and every day!
#VeteransDay #LCSthrive
This week, we are proud to highlight Mr. Brett Tyler, a dedicated teacher at Bragg Street Academy whose journey from the U.S. Army to the classroom is a true story of service, adaptability, and heart.
After 20 years in the military - first as a Cavalry Scout and later in Civil Affairs - Mr. Tyler found a new way to make a difference through education. At Bragg Street, he's known for his unique teaching style, supportive relationships with students, and genuine appreciation for the close-knit family atmosphere among staff.
"The students here are the most unique and authentic," Tyler shared. "The staff is so supportive, it really does feel like a family. That is why I have stayed as long as I have."
Now in his second year of teaching, Mr. Tyler says the best part is working alongside his wife and son. Read more about Mr. Tyler's inspiring transition from the Army to the classroom and how he continues his mission of service each day: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2541065
#MeetTheStaffMonday #LCSthrive #VeteransInEducation
After 20 years in the military - first as a Cavalry Scout and later in Civil Affairs - Mr. Tyler found a new way to make a difference through education. At Bragg Street, he's known for his unique teaching style, supportive relationships with students, and genuine appreciation for the close-knit family atmosphere among staff.
"The students here are the most unique and authentic," Tyler shared. "The staff is so supportive, it really does feel like a family. That is why I have stayed as long as I have."
Now in his second year of teaching, Mr. Tyler says the best part is working alongside his wife and son. Read more about Mr. Tyler's inspiring transition from the Army to the classroom and how he continues his mission of service each day: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2541065
#MeetTheStaffMonday #LCSthrive #VeteransInEducation
G.A.M.E.time = Growing Academic Minds Everyday
At Broadway Elementary, learning goes into primetime with daily small-group interventions in reading and math designed to help every student succeed.
This innovative approach has already led to big gains, including a 9-point jump in the school's NC Report Card score and major growth for English Learner students!
Principal Wendy Perrell calls it a "synchronized, highly coordinated dance" of teachers, assistants and tutors all working together to give students the personalized help they need to thrive.
Read how Broadway's G.A.M.E.time program is laying a foundation for future students success: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2534877
#LCSthrive #FutureFocusedFriday
At Broadway Elementary, learning goes into primetime with daily small-group interventions in reading and math designed to help every student succeed.
This innovative approach has already led to big gains, including a 9-point jump in the school's NC Report Card score and major growth for English Learner students!
Principal Wendy Perrell calls it a "synchronized, highly coordinated dance" of teachers, assistants and tutors all working together to give students the personalized help they need to thrive.
Read how Broadway's G.A.M.E.time program is laying a foundation for future students success: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2534877
#LCSthrive #FutureFocusedFriday
The National Association of School Psychologists has designated Nov. 3–7 as National School Psychology Week. This year’s theme, "Finding Your Path," honors the essential role school psychologists play in helping students discover their strengths, set goals and navigate their educational journeys.
School psychologists, like Randall Staats and Angela Piekielniak here in LCS, help students find their path by identifying barriers, fostering resilience and creating supportive environments where every child can thrive. Whether it's through individualized support, collaboration with educators and families, or innovative wellness initiatives, school psychologists are making a difference in ways that are both measurable and meaningful.
#LCSthrive #SchoolPsychologistsWeek
School psychologists, like Randall Staats and Angela Piekielniak here in LCS, help students find their path by identifying barriers, fostering resilience and creating supportive environments where every child can thrive. Whether it's through individualized support, collaboration with educators and families, or innovative wellness initiatives, school psychologists are making a difference in ways that are both measurable and meaningful.
#LCSthrive #SchoolPsychologistsWeek
AWARD-WINNING MILITARY FAMILY SUPPORT
With 10 of our 17 schools earning the prestigious Purple Star Designation from the NC Department of Public Instruction, Lee County Schools continue to lead in providing exceptional, personalized support for military-connected families and students.
From trained staff to help families navigate transfers and mid-year moves, to compassionate counselors and mental health staff who facilitate peer groups for students coping with deployments or transitions, our Purple Star Schools are committed to going above and beyond to serve those who sacrifice for our nation.
That's what makes today's Veterans' Day Parade at J. Glenn Edwards Elementary especially meaningful. It's a celebration not only of our veterans, but also of the deep commitment our schools have to ensuring that every student - especially those from military families - has the support to thrive.
#PurpleStarSchools #LCSthrive #WellBeingWednesday
With 10 of our 17 schools earning the prestigious Purple Star Designation from the NC Department of Public Instruction, Lee County Schools continue to lead in providing exceptional, personalized support for military-connected families and students.
From trained staff to help families navigate transfers and mid-year moves, to compassionate counselors and mental health staff who facilitate peer groups for students coping with deployments or transitions, our Purple Star Schools are committed to going above and beyond to serve those who sacrifice for our nation.
That's what makes today's Veterans' Day Parade at J. Glenn Edwards Elementary especially meaningful. It's a celebration not only of our veterans, but also of the deep commitment our schools have to ensuring that every student - especially those from military families - has the support to thrive.
#PurpleStarSchools #LCSthrive #WellBeingWednesday
COMMUNITY & SUPPORT AT WLMS
When international teacher Crystal Tapper joined the West Lee Middle School team last year through the Participate Learning exchange program, she found more than a new classroom - she found family.
Now in her seventh year of teaching and her second year in the U.S., Ms. Tapper brings her vibrant Jamaican culture into her sixth grade science and math classes, blending hard work, fun, and encouragement.
"The great thing at this school is I can integrate my culture because the environment is welcoming and we get a chance to learn how to respect and encourage one another. Part of Jamaican culture is motivating each other even when things are hard. We find fun in things, and I believe that helps students in my classroom."
She says the support from her school, coworkers, district and the Sanford community has been incredible.
"Everyone really looks out for each other. You have people you can rely on - people who will be there for you."
Thank you, Ms. Tapper, for bringing your passion, energy, and joy to Lee County Schools! We are so grateful for our international teachers who enrich our schools with culture, care, and community.
#MeetTheStaffMonday #LCSthrive
When international teacher Crystal Tapper joined the West Lee Middle School team last year through the Participate Learning exchange program, she found more than a new classroom - she found family.
Now in her seventh year of teaching and her second year in the U.S., Ms. Tapper brings her vibrant Jamaican culture into her sixth grade science and math classes, blending hard work, fun, and encouragement.
"The great thing at this school is I can integrate my culture because the environment is welcoming and we get a chance to learn how to respect and encourage one another. Part of Jamaican culture is motivating each other even when things are hard. We find fun in things, and I believe that helps students in my classroom."
She says the support from her school, coworkers, district and the Sanford community has been incredible.
"Everyone really looks out for each other. You have people you can rely on - people who will be there for you."
Thank you, Ms. Tapper, for bringing your passion, energy, and joy to Lee County Schools! We are so grateful for our international teachers who enrich our schools with culture, care, and community.
#MeetTheStaffMonday #LCSthrive
This week schools across the district celebrated Red Ribbon Week, a powerful, annual reminder that the choices we make today shape the futures we build tomorrow.
Whether it was through a pajama day, hat day, or wacky-tacky day, like this picture from J. Glenn Edwards, students across the district were reminded that living drug-free isn't just about saying "no" - it is about saying "yes" to opportunity, health and success. Whether it is pursuing a career goal, chasing a dream, or simply being the best version of themselves, staying drug-free helps students stay on the path toward a bright and successful future.
Together, we're building a community where every student can thrive, make positive choices, and follow their future-focused pathway to success.
#FutureFocusedFriday #RedRibbonWeek #LCSthrive
Whether it was through a pajama day, hat day, or wacky-tacky day, like this picture from J. Glenn Edwards, students across the district were reminded that living drug-free isn't just about saying "no" - it is about saying "yes" to opportunity, health and success. Whether it is pursuing a career goal, chasing a dream, or simply being the best version of themselves, staying drug-free helps students stay on the path toward a bright and successful future.
Together, we're building a community where every student can thrive, make positive choices, and follow their future-focused pathway to success.
#FutureFocusedFriday #RedRibbonWeek #LCSthrive
