
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

Pat and Bob Clarke stopped by earlier this week and gave a VERY generous donation to help us support students in need throughout the year at any of our 17 schools.
We recognize that public education thrives because of individuals like them, those who choose to invest in the future by uplifting young people today. Their commitment sends a clear message: every child deserves the chance to reach their potential. We are honored to have them as partners in this important mission to help all students truly 'Thrive in Lee!'"
#LCSthrive
We recognize that public education thrives because of individuals like them, those who choose to invest in the future by uplifting young people today. Their commitment sends a clear message: every child deserves the chance to reach their potential. We are honored to have them as partners in this important mission to help all students truly 'Thrive in Lee!'"
#LCSthrive


🌟Building Strong Foundations One Breakfast at a Time🌟
Breakfast sets the tone for the whole day — and thanks to Cheri Freeman’s dedication as the Cafeteria Manager at Bragg Street, more students are starting their mornings with the fuel they need to succeed. 🍎🥞
Her efforts to grow participation helped Bragg Street Academy earn the 2025 North Carolina Breakfast Innovator Award! 🏆
👏 Huge thanks to Cheri, Dr. Shuey, the Bragg Street staff - and most importantly, our students - for making this possible. Together, we’re living out our district’s commitment to whole-student well-being by making sure every child has access to a healthy, nutritious and no-cost start to their day. 💙
#WellBeingWednesday #LCSThrive
Breakfast sets the tone for the whole day — and thanks to Cheri Freeman’s dedication as the Cafeteria Manager at Bragg Street, more students are starting their mornings with the fuel they need to succeed. 🍎🥞
Her efforts to grow participation helped Bragg Street Academy earn the 2025 North Carolina Breakfast Innovator Award! 🏆
👏 Huge thanks to Cheri, Dr. Shuey, the Bragg Street staff - and most importantly, our students - for making this possible. Together, we’re living out our district’s commitment to whole-student well-being by making sure every child has access to a healthy, nutritious and no-cost start to their day. 💙
#WellBeingWednesday #LCSThrive


Lee County High School Cheerleaders are hosting a Jr. Jacket Cheerleading Camp for football season! 💛🖤✨
📅 Camp Dates:
Tuesday, September 23
Thursday, September 25
🎉 Performance:
Mini cheerleaders are invited to cheer with the LCHS Cheerleaders at the home football game on Thursday, September 26!
👉 Sign up here: https://forms.gle/WBoux88Wea9fZx4Z6
(All details are included in the form!)
Don’t miss this fun opportunity to learn some cheers, make new friends, and cheer on the Jackets under the lights! 🏈📣🐝
📅 Camp Dates:
Tuesday, September 23
Thursday, September 25
🎉 Performance:
Mini cheerleaders are invited to cheer with the LCHS Cheerleaders at the home football game on Thursday, September 26!
👉 Sign up here: https://forms.gle/WBoux88Wea9fZx4Z6
(All details are included in the form!)
Don’t miss this fun opportunity to learn some cheers, make new friends, and cheer on the Jackets under the lights! 🏈📣🐝


Happy Labor Day!
Today we celebrate the hard work, dedication, and contributions of our incredible staff, families, and community members who make our schools thrive. 💙🍎
Enjoy a safe and restful holiday—you’ve earned it!
#LaborDay #LCSthrive
Today we celebrate the hard work, dedication, and contributions of our incredible staff, families, and community members who make our schools thrive. 💙🍎
Enjoy a safe and restful holiday—you’ve earned it!
#LaborDay #LCSthrive


💻 Did you know? Our students can take Career & Technical Education courses like Cybersecurity!
Through this two-course program, students not only gain the essential skills to stay safe in today’s digital world, but they also graduate with the industry-recognized CompTIA Security+ certification—a credential that sets them apart for jobs and higher education opportunities in the tech field.
This certification highlights their ability to secure networks, applications, and devices while protecting data integrity, confidentiality, and availability. In a world where connected businesses are the norm, we’re preparing students with the foundation they need to succeed—right here in our local public schools, in our community, and wherever life takes them.
#FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive
Through this two-course program, students not only gain the essential skills to stay safe in today’s digital world, but they also graduate with the industry-recognized CompTIA Security+ certification—a credential that sets them apart for jobs and higher education opportunities in the tech field.
This certification highlights their ability to secure networks, applications, and devices while protecting data integrity, confidentiality, and availability. In a world where connected businesses are the norm, we’re preparing students with the foundation they need to succeed—right here in our local public schools, in our community, and wherever life takes them.
#FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive

📸 Building Belonging & Community
Meet the SLHS Cavalier Band Program! 🎶✨ Arts education and student activity groups like band play a powerful role in fostering inclusion and positivity on campus. These programs create a welcoming place of connection, build a sense of belonging, and give students the chance to grow, take on challenges, and develop new skills—together.
As part of our focus on comprehensive student well-being, we are committed to ensuring opportunities like marching band and fine arts programs remain available and accessible for all students—fueling our whole-student approach to quality education.
#WellBeingWednesday #BuildingBelonging #LCSthrive
Meet the SLHS Cavalier Band Program! 🎶✨ Arts education and student activity groups like band play a powerful role in fostering inclusion and positivity on campus. These programs create a welcoming place of connection, build a sense of belonging, and give students the chance to grow, take on challenges, and develop new skills—together.
As part of our focus on comprehensive student well-being, we are committed to ensuring opportunities like marching band and fine arts programs remain available and accessible for all students—fueling our whole-student approach to quality education.
#WellBeingWednesday #BuildingBelonging #LCSthrive


Learning in action! 📚
Mr. Bryant’s Academy of Engineering class at Southern Lee High School is giving students hands-on experience with materials testing as they design and create projects across multiple engineering disciplines. These real-world skills are helping build a strong foundation for success in college, careers, and beyond!
#FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive
Mr. Bryant’s Academy of Engineering class at Southern Lee High School is giving students hands-on experience with materials testing as they design and create projects across multiple engineering disciplines. These real-world skills are helping build a strong foundation for success in college, careers, and beyond!
#FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive

School is about more than academics—it’s about the whole child. 💙
That’s why Comprehensive Student Well-Being, Safety, and Resilience is a cornerstone of our Thrive in Lee Strategic Plan.
Tyshonne McSwain is one of our dedicated school social workers. "Mr. Ty" and his colleagues in the Student Services Department walk alongside students—supporting them socially, emotionally, and academically.
From navigating challenging emotions and behaviors to overcoming life’s obstacles, their work ensures all students have the tools to thrive—inside and outside the classroom.
✨ Real supports. Real care. Real smiles.
#WellBeingWednesday #LCSthrive
That’s why Comprehensive Student Well-Being, Safety, and Resilience is a cornerstone of our Thrive in Lee Strategic Plan.
Tyshonne McSwain is one of our dedicated school social workers. "Mr. Ty" and his colleagues in the Student Services Department walk alongside students—supporting them socially, emotionally, and academically.
From navigating challenging emotions and behaviors to overcoming life’s obstacles, their work ensures all students have the tools to thrive—inside and outside the classroom.
✨ Real supports. Real care. Real smiles.
#WellBeingWednesday #LCSthrive


High Five for Hometown Heroes!
This morning 94.7 QDR announced that one of our own is their Hometown Hero for the week! Kevin Spivey is a School Resource Officer at Deep River Elementary School. He has served at Deep River for the last 8 years and for more than two decades in schools at all levels. He is known for building relationships, reinforcing positive behavior and devotion to students and his community.
We could not think of a better honoree! Deep River had a special assembly this morning to hear the announcement live on the radio!
#LCSthrive
This morning 94.7 QDR announced that one of our own is their Hometown Hero for the week! Kevin Spivey is a School Resource Officer at Deep River Elementary School. He has served at Deep River for the last 8 years and for more than two decades in schools at all levels. He is known for building relationships, reinforcing positive behavior and devotion to students and his community.
We could not think of a better honoree! Deep River had a special assembly this morning to hear the announcement live on the radio!
#LCSthrive

✨ As part of our Thrive in Lee Strategic Plan, we’re committed to operational efficiency and long-term sustainability — and we’re thrilled to give you a sneak peek of the next big step forward!
🏫 The Warren Williams Preschool Program now has a beautiful new home on the campus of W.B. Wicker Elementary. These bright, spacious, and modern learning spaces are designed to give our youngest learners the very best start as they prepare for kindergarten and beyond.
From streamlined security to optimized food service, every detail of this move helps us create the safest, most supportive environment for students to thrive.
📅 For the very first time this year, the full Warren Williams family will come together under this new roof on August 28th — and we can’t wait! 💛
#LCSthrive
🏫 The Warren Williams Preschool Program now has a beautiful new home on the campus of W.B. Wicker Elementary. These bright, spacious, and modern learning spaces are designed to give our youngest learners the very best start as they prepare for kindergarten and beyond.
From streamlined security to optimized food service, every detail of this move helps us create the safest, most supportive environment for students to thrive.
📅 For the very first time this year, the full Warren Williams family will come together under this new roof on August 28th — and we can’t wait! 💛
#LCSthrive











Meet the incredible Central Office team of Lee County Schools — here to serve our schools, support our students, and partner with our families every single day.
From the classroom to the community, everything we do is driven by one goal: helping every child learn, grow, and succeed. Together, we’re committed to making sure this is a year where we all Thrive in Lee.
From the classroom to the community, everything we do is driven by one goal: helping every child learn, grow, and succeed. Together, we’re committed to making sure this is a year where we all Thrive in Lee.


🚀 New Future-Focused Pathway at Bragg Street Academy!
Bragg Street Academy has launched an exciting College & Career Promise (CCP) partnership with the Early Childhood Department at CCCC!
Four BSA students are already enrolled in EDU 119 and are getting a jumpstart on their careers:
📚 2 days/week – Classes on the CCCC campus
🏫 2 days/week – Classes on our campus
🖐 Fridays – Alternating hands-on instruction at Floyd L. Knight and Warren Williams Preschool
By completing this course, students can apply for state certification in Early Childhood Education - a huge step toward being hired in Pre-K settings immediately upon graduation!
This program is another way Lee County Schools is strategically raising the bar and increasing Future-Focused Pathways for students. We're committed to helping every student discover their passion and prepare to thrive on our campuses and beyond.
#LCSthrive #FutureFocusedPathway
Bragg Street Academy has launched an exciting College & Career Promise (CCP) partnership with the Early Childhood Department at CCCC!
Four BSA students are already enrolled in EDU 119 and are getting a jumpstart on their careers:
📚 2 days/week – Classes on the CCCC campus
🏫 2 days/week – Classes on our campus
🖐 Fridays – Alternating hands-on instruction at Floyd L. Knight and Warren Williams Preschool
By completing this course, students can apply for state certification in Early Childhood Education - a huge step toward being hired in Pre-K settings immediately upon graduation!
This program is another way Lee County Schools is strategically raising the bar and increasing Future-Focused Pathways for students. We're committed to helping every student discover their passion and prepare to thrive on our campuses and beyond.
#LCSthrive #FutureFocusedPathway


🎉 PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR ANNOUNCMENT! 🎉
West Lee Middle School’s Aimee Petrarca has been named the 2025-2026 Lee County Schools Principal of the Year — chosen by her fellow principals across the district
With more than 25 years of service in Lee County Schools as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal, Petrarca is known for her "all in" approach, high expectations, and a servant leadership style that puts students first every time.
Superintendent Dr. Chris Dossenbach shared it best: “She does not believe in lowering the bar to meet students; instead she and her team build the support systems needed to help students reach it – and often, go beyond it.”
READ MORE: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2356368
#LCSthrive
West Lee Middle School’s Aimee Petrarca has been named the 2025-2026 Lee County Schools Principal of the Year — chosen by her fellow principals across the district
With more than 25 years of service in Lee County Schools as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal, Petrarca is known for her "all in" approach, high expectations, and a servant leadership style that puts students first every time.
Superintendent Dr. Chris Dossenbach shared it best: “She does not believe in lowering the bar to meet students; instead she and her team build the support systems needed to help students reach it – and often, go beyond it.”
READ MORE: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2356368
#LCSthrive




First Day Feels 📸💛
From big smiles to first-day jitters, from high-fives at the curb to fresh notebooks in the classroom—today was filled with moments worth remembering.
We’re grateful to our teachers, staff, and families for making the first day of the 2025-2026 school year such a warm welcome for our students. Here’s a look at some of our favorite snapshots from across Lee County Schools!
Drop a comment or a photo to show us your favorite first day memory from this year! 🍎✏️
#LCSthrive #BackToSchool
From big smiles to first-day jitters, from high-fives at the curb to fresh notebooks in the classroom—today was filled with moments worth remembering.
We’re grateful to our teachers, staff, and families for making the first day of the 2025-2026 school year such a warm welcome for our students. Here’s a look at some of our favorite snapshots from across Lee County Schools!
Drop a comment or a photo to show us your favorite first day memory from this year! 🍎✏️
#LCSthrive #BackToSchool

Opening Doors to New Beginnings 🚪✨
This morning, Dr. Dossenbach, district staff, and school teams from every department joined together to greet students—literally—by opening car doors as they arrived for the first day of the 2025-2026 School Year.
While it may seem like a small act, it reflects something much bigger: our belief in opening doors to possibilities, growth, and a future where every student can thrive.
Welcome back, LCS students—let’s make this year one for the books! 📚💛
📸 Stay tuned for more first day moments coming on our Facebook page soon!
#LCSthrive #BackToSchool
This morning, Dr. Dossenbach, district staff, and school teams from every department joined together to greet students—literally—by opening car doors as they arrived for the first day of the 2025-2026 School Year.
While it may seem like a small act, it reflects something much bigger: our belief in opening doors to possibilities, growth, and a future where every student can thrive.
Welcome back, LCS students—let’s make this year one for the books! 📚💛
📸 Stay tuned for more first day moments coming on our Facebook page soon!
#LCSthrive #BackToSchool

🍎 REMINDER! No-Cost Breakfast & Lunch — All Year, All Students in LCS! 🥪
As we head back to the classroom tomorrow, remember, no need to pack that lunch box because every student can enjoy breakfast and lunch at no cost again for the 2025–2026 school year! This is made possible through the Community Eligibility Provision and the support of our Board of Education.
New menu options allow students to start strong each morning with protein-powered breakfast options — your brain will thank you! You’ll still see student favorites on the menu every day, plus new highlights to keep mornings delicious.
Lunchtime is getting an upgrade too — think Philly steak sandwiches, build-a-bowl creations, and more. We’re also going farm-to-table this year, partnering with R&H Produce at the NC State Farmers Market to bring the freshest seasonal produce right to our cafeterias.
Let’s fuel learning and fun all year long — because great days start with great meals! 💛
#EatWithUs #LCSthrive #FarmToTable
As we head back to the classroom tomorrow, remember, no need to pack that lunch box because every student can enjoy breakfast and lunch at no cost again for the 2025–2026 school year! This is made possible through the Community Eligibility Provision and the support of our Board of Education.
New menu options allow students to start strong each morning with protein-powered breakfast options — your brain will thank you! You’ll still see student favorites on the menu every day, plus new highlights to keep mornings delicious.
Lunchtime is getting an upgrade too — think Philly steak sandwiches, build-a-bowl creations, and more. We’re also going farm-to-table this year, partnering with R&H Produce at the NC State Farmers Market to bring the freshest seasonal produce right to our cafeterias.
Let’s fuel learning and fun all year long — because great days start with great meals! 💛
#EatWithUs #LCSthrive #FarmToTable

📅 Mark Your Calendars – Open House is Coming!
Our teachers and staff can’t wait to welcome you on Monday, August 11th for Open House! 🎉
Traditional Calendar Schools – Staggered Schedule
🏫 Elementary (1st–5th Grades): 5:00–6:30 PM
🏫 Middle (6th–8th Grades): 5:30–7:00 PM
🏫 High Schools & Bragg Street: 6:00–7:30 PM
🏫 Floyd L. Knight: 9:00–11:00 AM or 1:00–4:00 PM
📌 Special Dates
🍎 Kindergarten Open Houses: Monday, August 18th • 4:30–6:00 PM
🧸 Warren Williams Pre-K: Monday, August 18th • 10:30 AM–5:30 PM
✨ Come meet your teachers, tour your school, and get ready for an amazing year!
Our teachers and staff can’t wait to welcome you on Monday, August 11th for Open House! 🎉
Traditional Calendar Schools – Staggered Schedule
🏫 Elementary (1st–5th Grades): 5:00–6:30 PM
🏫 Middle (6th–8th Grades): 5:30–7:00 PM
🏫 High Schools & Bragg Street: 6:00–7:30 PM
🏫 Floyd L. Knight: 9:00–11:00 AM or 1:00–4:00 PM
📌 Special Dates
🍎 Kindergarten Open Houses: Monday, August 18th • 4:30–6:00 PM
🧸 Warren Williams Pre-K: Monday, August 18th • 10:30 AM–5:30 PM
✨ Come meet your teachers, tour your school, and get ready for an amazing year!


Today marked the opening staff meeting at most schools and departments across the district. They are a mix of reunion and reminder of purpose. While some principals choose to keep things simple, others dress it up a bit.
No matter the wrapping, they serve as the first big team huddle of the year, a time to look forward, a time to focus, and a time to be challenged to grow. We are committed to making the effort to move the obstacles and to push through the challenges so that we lay the foundation for every student in our community to Thrive in Lee.
#LCSthrive
No matter the wrapping, they serve as the first big team huddle of the year, a time to look forward, a time to focus, and a time to be challenged to grow. We are committed to making the effort to move the obstacles and to push through the challenges so that we lay the foundation for every student in our community to Thrive in Lee.
#LCSthrive





🚨 Big News from Lee County Schools! 🚨
Congratulations to Sammie Jo Godfrey of J. Glenn Edwards Elementary, our 2025-2026 LCS Teacher of the Year! 🎉
An EC teacher with a heart of gold, Sammie is known for her unwavering compassion, creativity, and commitment to every student’s success. She’s not just teaching—she’s transforming lives. 💛✨
We’re so proud to have her represent Lee County at the regional and state levels!
👏 Read more about her incredible story here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2342583
#TeacherOfTheYear #LCSthrive #ECStrong
Congratulations to Sammie Jo Godfrey of J. Glenn Edwards Elementary, our 2025-2026 LCS Teacher of the Year! 🎉
An EC teacher with a heart of gold, Sammie is known for her unwavering compassion, creativity, and commitment to every student’s success. She’s not just teaching—she’s transforming lives. 💛✨
We’re so proud to have her represent Lee County at the regional and state levels!
👏 Read more about her incredible story here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2342583
#TeacherOfTheYear #LCSthrive #ECStrong



