🎓 PREPARED TO THRIVE | From Lee Early College to the Ivy League 🎓

Addison Tunnard is headed to Princeton University on a full four-year scholarship through the QuestBridge National College Match program.

The Lee Early College Senior plans to study public policy and pursue a future in law, inspired by her experiences in public education and her desire to advocate for students and schools.

“If you told me last year that I would be attending a big school like Princeton, I would have laughed in your face,” Addison smiled. “Life is short – take risks.”

Addison said “Why not?” After asking herself that question … Tunnard wound up with a full academic scholarship to an Ivy League school.

👉 Read Addison’s full story here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2935562

#PreparedToThrive #LCSthrive #ClassOf2026
29 days ago, Lee County Schools
Graduate Spotlight - Addison Tunnard
Today, we honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

Memorial Day is a time to reflect on the courage, dedication, and selflessness of those who gave their lives to protect the freedoms we cherish every day.

As we spend time with family and community, we encourage everyone to take a moment to remember and honor our fallen heroes.

From all of us at Lee County Schools, we thank our military families and honor those who served with courage and sacrifice.
about 1 month ago, Lee County Schools
Memorial Day from Lee County Schools
That’s a wrap on another amazing school year! 🎉📚

Thank you to all of our students for your hard work, growth, laughter, and memories this year. We are so proud of everything you accomplished!

Have a fun, relaxing, and SAFE summer ☀️🌴 Take time to recharge, make memories, and enjoy every moment. We can’t wait to see you again next school year!

Happy Summer! ❤️
about 1 month ago, Lee County Schools
Recap Photos from 2026
Recap Photos from 2026
Recap Photos from 2026
Recap Photos from 2026
Recap Photos from 2026
Recap Photos from 2026
Recap Photos from 2026
Recap Photos from 2026
REMINDER: Friday, May 22nd is the final day of classes before Summer Break. Students will be released early, so please plan accordingly for transportation and afternoon arrangements.

12:00 Noon Release
• Elementary Schools
• Floyd L. Knight School
• SanLee Middle School
• Lee Early College

12:15 PM Release
• Bragg Street Academy
• East Lee Middle School
• West Lee Middle School

12:30 PM Release
• Lee County High School
• Southern Lee High School
• Warren Williams Pre-K

We wish our students, staff, and families a safe, restful, and joyful summer break!
about 1 month ago, Lee County Schools
Early Release Scheduled for Last Day of 2026
Lee County Schools is proud to celebrate the completion of the first-ever Leaders in Lee cohort! 🎉

Over the past two years, 14 exceptional educators from across the district participated in this leadership development program designed to grow teacher-leaders, strengthen leadership skills and build a pipeline of future school and district leaders.

Through monthly professional development, authentic conversations with district leadership, and collaborative learning experiences, these educators deepened their commitment to serving students, supporting colleagues, and making a lasting impact in our schools.

Congratulations to our inaugural Leaders in Lee cohort! We are grateful for your dedication to the students and families of Lee County.

Read more about the program and hear from participants here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2920312

#LCSthrive #LeadersInLee
about 1 month ago, Lee County Schools
Leaders in Lee Cohort recognized at School Board Meeting in may 2026
🎉 Meet the Staff Monday: Honoring Our 2026 Retirees 🎉

Today, we are proud to recognize 36 outstanding employees from across Lee County Schools who are retiring after dedicating a combined hundreds of years of service to our students, staff, and community.

Each of these individuals has made a lasting impact through their commitment, compassion, and excellence. Their work has touched countless lives, and we are deeply grateful that they chose to spend their careers as part of the Lee County Schools family.

Please take a moment to view photos from our Retirement Banquet on the official Lee County Schools Facebook page and join us in congratulating this remarkable group of retirees.

2026 Lee County Schools Retirees
Melissa Douglas (B.T. Bullock)
Ann McAlister-Wallace (Broadway)
Hollis Andersen (Deep River)
Jill Britt (Deep River)
Wanda Coggins (Deep River)
Debra Groce (Deep River)
Electra Johnson (Deep River)
Margie Reives (Deep River)
Lori Tillett (Deep River)
Carla Bailey (East Lee)
Margaret Flowers (East Lee)
Malissa Anderson-Cooper (Floyd L. Knight)
Mary Foushee (Floyd L. Knight)
Tina Lewis (Floyd L. Knight)
Sarah Dunn (Greenwood)
Melanie Altman (Tramway)
Julie Bowlin (Tramway)
Judy Coffer (Tramway)
Robin Gatten (W.B. Wicker)
Mara Schuster (SanLee)
Sondra Shover (West Lee)
Jeffrey Coggins (Lee County High)
Ronnie Coley (Lee County High)
Scott Gunnett (Lee County High)
William Mulligan (Lee County High)
Martin Bryant (Southern Lee)
Paola Gensollen (Southern Lee)
LTC. Ernest McIntyre (Southern Lee)
Kenneth Page (Southern Lee)
Ernest Purnsley (Southern Lee)
Valerie Davenport (J. Glenn Edwards)
Beverly Coleman (Child Nutrition)
Marcus Williams (Technology)
Glenn Badders (Maintenance)
Ruth Ellis (Central Office)
Rebecca Maddox (Central Office)

To all of our retirees: Thank you for your years of service, your dedication to excellence, and the difference you have made in the lives of Lee County students and families. Your legacy will continue to inspire us for years to come.

💙💛 Congratulations, and best wishes in your retirement!

#LCSthrive #ThankYouRetirees #MeetTheStaffMonday
about 1 month ago, Lee County Schools
2026 Retirement Banquet Photos
2026 Retirement Banquet Photos
2026 Retirement Banquet Photos
2026 Retirement Banquet Photos
2026 Retirement Banquet Photos
2026 Retirement Banquet Photos
2026 Retirement Banquet Photos
2026 Retirement Banquet Photos
2026 Retirement Banquet Photos
2026 Retirement Banquet Photos
This morning at Floyd L. Knight Center, four Falcon graduates from the Class of 2026 took center stage as we kicked off graduation exercises for Lee County Schools.

Graduation at Floyd L. Knight is always a joyful celebration and an inspiring reminder of what is possible when we meet each student where they are and provide the support they need to thrive.

From the smiles of the graduates to the proud tears of families, teachers, and student aides, this ceremony was a powerful testament to the strength of inclusion and the dedication of a school community that celebrates the unique abilities and talents of every student.

Congratulations to the Floyd L. Knight Class of 2026! We are so proud of all you have accomplished, your determination to persevere, and the joy you bring to everyone you meet.

#LCSthrive #ClassOf2026

See more photos from today's ceremony on our Facebook Page Album!
about 1 month ago, Lee County Schools
Floyd L Knight Class of 2026 Graduation Photos
Floyd L Knight Class of 2026 Graduation Photos
Floyd L Knight Class of 2026 Graduation Photos
Floyd L Knight Class of 2026 Graduation Photos
Floyd L Knight Class of 2026 Graduation Photos
Floyd L Knight Class of 2026 Graduation Photos
Floyd L Knight Class of 2026 Graduation Photos
Floyd L Knight Class of 2026 Graduation Photos
Floyd L Knight Class of 2026 Graduation Photos
Floyd L Knight Class of 2026 Graduation Photos
One of our favorite annual traditions across the district is Senior Walks - an opportunity for our graduating class to don their caps and gowns and take a "victory lap" through the halls of the elementary schools where their journeys began.

While the walk through each school may be brief, every step offers a chance for reflection, gratitude, and a flood of memories that illuminate just how far these students have come.

These moments also inspire our younger elementary students - many of whom are siblings or relatives of our graduates - as well as the teachers who helped guide, encourage, and support them along the way toward this milestone.

In a tight-knit community like ours, public schools are much more than places where children spend five days a week while parents work. They are part of the village that helps raise each child - providing knowledge, confidence, and a strong network of adults who are always in their corner, cheering them on to reach their highest potential and pursue their dreams.

We are so proud of our graduates, especially the Class of 2026! We are confident you are prepared to thrive in whatever path you choose next.

Just as these teachers and young learners have already done during your Senior Walks, we cannot wait to celebrate you as you cross the finish line of this chapter of your life in the coming weeks!

#LCSthrive #SeniorWalks #ClassOf2026

See more Senior Walk highlights in our Facebook album!
about 1 month ago, Lee County Schools
Senior Walks 2026
Senior Walks 2026
Senior Walks 2026
Senior Walks 2026
Senior Walks 2026
Senior Walks 2026
Senior Walks 2026
Senior Walks 2026
Senior Walks 2026
Senior Walks 2026
🎉Lee County Schools is proud to welcome back Jolanda Jordan as our next Chief Finance Officer!

A familiar face to many in our district, Mrs. Jordan began her career in Lee County Schools and served in a variety of roles, including teacher assistant, assistant principal and principal. Since 2018, she has served as the Chief Finance Officer for Washington County Schools.

Mrs. Jordan brings extensive experience in school finance, leadership and budgeting, along with a deep understanding of the impact financial decisions have on our schools and students.

“Returning to Lee County Schools as Chief Finance Officer is deeply personal for me,” Jordan said. “My goal is to ensure that every dollar we manage supports safe, supportive and engaging learning environments.”

Mrs. Jordan will begin her new role on July 6.

Please join us in welcoming Jolanda Jordan back home to Lee County Schools! ♥️

#LCSthrive
about 1 month ago, Lee County Schools
Lee County Schools welcomes Jolanda Jordan as next Chief Finance Officer
Celebrate a well-deserved national honor for one of our own! 🎉

Kaitlyn Adams, family and consumer sciences teacher at Lee County High School, has been named one of just five winners of the Rack Room Shoes Teacher of the Year Award. Known for creating an inclusive classroom and showing up for students at games, performances and even their workplaces, Ms. Adams goes above and beyond to make every student feel seen, supported, and valued.

Congratulations, Ms. Adams, on this outstanding recognition and thank your or the difference you make every day for our students and school community! ♥️💙

Read the full story: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2892716

#LCSthrive
about 1 month ago, Lee County Schools
Rack Room Shoes Teacher of the Year Presentation
Rack Room Shoes Teacher of the Year Presentation
Rack Room Shoes Teacher of the Year Presentation
As we close out Teacher Appreciation Week across the district, we want to say thank you to the teachers and staff members who make the daily effort and sacrifices required to provide a top-quality educational experience for all students in our local public schools. Your hard work, commitment, and determination to make a difference in the lives of your students are what make this district a place where students can thrive.

We also want to take a moment to thank the many individuals, local businesses, and organizations that donated food, thoughtful gifts, and other acts of kindness that made our teachers feel so special this week. We are grateful to live in a community that recognizes the value teachers and school staff bring to our students and to the lives of families across Lee County. Thank you for helping us honor the educators who work every day to lay the foundation for success for the next generation.

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week!

#LCSthrive #TeacherAppreciation2026
about 2 months ago, Lee County Schools
Teacher Appreciation Week
Teacher Appreciation Week
Teacher Appreciation Week
Teacher Appreciation Week
Teacher Appreciation Week
Teacher Appreciation Week
On this #WellBeingWednesday, we highlight one of the staples of our whole-student wellness and safety plan as we take a moment to thank our school nurses!

Today is National School Nurse Day and Nurses Week! We proudly celebrate the incredible school nurses across our district who show up every single day with compassion, skill, and dedication. From caring for our students' health needs to supporting staff and promoting safe learning environments, your impact reaches far beyond the clinic. Your commitment to the well-being of every child and staff member does not go unnoticed. Thank you for all that you do - today and every day. We are grateful for you!

#SchoolNursesWeek #LCSthrive
about 2 months ago, Lee County Schools
School Nurses Day
School Nurses Day
🍎 Meet the Staff Monday: Abbie Milford 🍎

From summer camp counselor to the classroom, first-year teacher Abbie Milford is following her passion for working with kids at B.T. Bullock Elementary School. After returning home to Sanford, she took a leap of faith and quickly found herself leading a fourth grade classroom where she is making a difference every day.

Abbie says teaching has always brought her joy, even on the toughest days, and she’s grateful for the strong support system and community that make Bullock and Lee County Schools feel like home.

👉 Read her full story here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2866649

#LCSthrive #MeetTheStaffMonday
about 2 months ago, Lee County Schools
Abbie Milford recognized for Meet The Staff Monday
🍎📚💙 Happy Principal Appreciation Day! 🍎📚💙

In Lee County Schools, every school year is a new chapter filled with growth, challenges, and unforgettable moments. At the center of it all are our incredible principals.

Today, we honor the leaders who inspire, guide, and create the kind of environments where students and staff can thrive. Your commitment, compassion, and leadership make a lasting difference in our schools and community! We are grateful for all that you do each day.

#LCSthrive #PrincipalAppreciationDay2026
about 2 months ago, Lee County Schools
Principal Appreciation Day photos
Principal Appreciation Day photos
Principal Appreciation Day photos
Principal Appreciation Day photos
Principal Appreciation Day photos
Principal Appreciation Day photos
Principal Appreciation Day photos
Principal Appreciation Day photos
Today across the district we celebrate School Lunch Hero Day!

Did you know that in the first 150 days of school this year, the 76 members of our child nutrition staff have served more than 1.2 MILLION meals to students in Lee County Schools?

Our child nutrition staff works tirelessly to ensure that our students are fueled up, cared for and supplied with the nutrition they need to thrive each day in and out of school. We are so grateful for their service and dedication to supporting the students in our community!

#LCSthrive
about 2 months ago, Lee County Schools
cafeteria workers at BT Bullock
Cafe staff at Southern Lee HS
School Lunch Hero Graphic 2026
Cafe staff at Southern Lee HS
On behalf of the Lee County Association of Educators, we invite you to the 2025-2026 Lee County Scholars Night Awards Ceremony.

The Awards Night will be held at Southern Lee High School on Monday, May 4 at 6:00 PM. We are excited to celebrate our outstanding scholars for the 32nd annual Awards Night!
about 2 months ago, Lee County Schools
Lee County Scholoars Awards Night. You are warmly invited to join us for the Lee County Scholars Awards Ceremony on May 4, at 6:00 PM at Southern Lee High School
💜 Lee County Schools is leveling up our already high level of support for military students and families! 💜

For the first time since the program began in 2019, every school campus in the district has earned the Purple Star Award from NCDPI, recognizing and certifying our strong support for military-connected students and families.

This milestone places Lee County among just 20 districts statewide to carry the Purple Star District Award! 🎉

From dedicated staff liaisons to programs that ease transitions, our local public schools are committed to helping military families feel welcomed, supported, and at home so their children have what they need to thrive.

Read more about our commitment and this honor here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2852453

#MonthOfTheMilitaryChild #LCSthrive #PurpleStarDistrict
about 2 months ago, Lee County Schools
LCS recognized by DPI as Purple Star Award District for outstanding support services for military-connected students and families.
♟️🏆 CHECKMATE COBRAS, Again! ♟️🏆

Lee Early College claimed their THIRD straight LCS Secondary Chess Championship racking up an impressive 19 match points out of a possible 24! 💪

Special recognition goes to a pair of seniors who were given the Kim Ashby Knight’s Honor Award - Omar Sanchez Sayas from LCHS and Mack Moore III from LEC. The award was given in recognition of their leadership, sportsmanship and love of the game. ♥️

Read more about the tournament here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2850554

#LCSthrive
about 2 months ago, Lee County Schools
LEC Cobras pose with 2026 LCS Secondary Chess Championship Trophies
2026 LCS Secondary Chess Championship
2026 LCS Secondary Chess Championship
2026 LCS Secondary Chess Championship
2026 LCS Secondary Chess Championship
2026 LCS Secondary Chess Championship
2026 LCS Secondary Chess Championship
2026 LCS Secondary Chess Championship
2026 LCS Secondary Chess Championship
On a special edition of Meet the Staff Monday: Ron Coley's Final Bow

After 31 years in education and 19 years at Lee County High School, longtime theatre teacher Ron Coley is taking his final curtain call - and he is going out the same way he began.

This weekend's production of M.A.S.H, isn't just a show, it is a full-circle moment, a tribute to generations to students, and a celebration of a program he helped build from the ground up.

He said, "If you can go to work every day and laugh and be silly, and still make an impact - that's a win."

Come be part of this special sendoff and help us celebrate Mr. Coley's incredible legacy on stage.

📅 Showtimes for M.A.S.H.
- Friday, May 1 at 7:00 PM
- Saturday, May 2 at 7:00 PM
- Sunday, May 3 at 2:30 PM

🎟️ Invite a former castmate, bring a friend, and don't miss your chance to see the final production of a teacher who has inspired nearly two decades of performers at Lee County High.

👉 Read the full Meet the Staff Monday story and learn more about Mr. Coley's journey and impact: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2846426

#LCSthrive #MeetTheStaffMonday

about 2 months ago, Lee County Schools
Coley poses on the stage of MASH = the set of his final production at LCHS
Last week, many of our fifth grade students got their first taste of interscholastic athletics as our elementary schools came together for Fifth Grade Track Day at Southern Lee. Students practiced events like the 100- and 200-meter dash, softball throw, and jump rope leading up to the competition which provided them an opportunity to challenge themselves against peers from across the district.

As these students gave their all, it served as a powerful reminder of the pathways we are working to create for them - pathways that lead to future educational and career opportunities. Every student has a unique journey and distinct gifts. That is why offering a wide range of academic, career, and technical programs remains a cornerstone of our strategic plan.

From one of the top Early College programs in the state to four nationally accredited NAF academies at each of our traditional high schools in addition to dozens of career and technical education pathways, Lee County Schools is equipping students with real-world skills and a strong foundation whether they plan to continue their education or enter the workforce.

When we meet students where they are and help them discover the lane they want to run in, we open the door to a future filled with opportunity. We open the door to the next generation of thriving community leaders.

#LCSthrive #FutureFocusedFriday
2 months ago, Lee County Schools
Students race in the Fifth Grade Track Day event at Southern Lee High School