❤️🤍💙Meet the Staff Monday | Veterans Day Edition ❤️🤍💙
For CW3 (Ret.) Johnnie Hickson, service didn’t end when he retired from the United States Army after 21 years. It simply took on a new mission: preparing the next generation of leaders.
A proud product of JROTC himself, Hickson now serves as an instructor at Southern Lee High School where he is helping lead a rapidly growing program that equips students with the confidence, resilience, and leadership skills to thrive in life.
“I am a product of JROTC. It changed my life, 180 degree-change, honestly,” Hickson shared.
As we celebrate Veterans Day, we’re proud to spotlight an educator who continues to live out the values of service, leadership, and commitment to others, both inside and outside the classroom.
📖Read his inspiring story: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/3243121
Thank you to CW3 Hickson and all of the veterans in our Lee County Schools family for your service to our country and your continued investment in our students!
#MeetTheStaffMonday #LCSthrive
🔧🔥 Hands-On Today. Career-Ready Tomorrow 🔥🔧
At Lee County Schools, we’re creating hands-on pathways for students to explore the careers that will fuel tomorrow’s workforce! 💪🎓
The CAT Welding Apprenticeship Program is a great example of how we’re connecting classroom learning with real-world opportunities. Last week, a FULL HOUSE of interested students gathered to learn more about the program and the possibilities it offers for their futures.
And last month, current apprenticeship participants put their skills on display at CCCC’s Manufacturing Day, showcasing the welding techniques and technical expertise they’re developing through the program.
From exploring career possibilities to gaining industry experience, we’re helping students find their passions, build skills, and take meaningful steps towards rewarding careers. The future workforce of our community is being built right here in Lee County Schools.
#FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive
At Lee County Schools, we’re creating hands-on pathways for students to explore the careers that will fuel tomorrow’s workforce! 💪🎓
The CAT Welding Apprenticeship Program is a great example of how we’re connecting classroom learning with real-world opportunities. Last week, a FULL HOUSE of interested students gathered to learn more about the program and the possibilities it offers for their futures.
And last month, current apprenticeship participants put their skills on display at CCCC’s Manufacturing Day, showcasing the welding techniques and technical expertise they’re developing through the program.
From exploring career possibilities to gaining industry experience, we’re helping students find their passions, build skills, and take meaningful steps towards rewarding careers. The future workforce of our community is being built right here in Lee County Schools.
#FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive
💜Proud to be a Purple Star District 💜
At Lee County Schools, we know that supporting the whole student means recognizing the unique experiences and sacrifices of our military-connected students and families.
Today, J. Glenn Edwards Elementary brought that commitment to life with a special Veterans Day Parade, celebrating the brave men and women connected to their school and our community who have served our country while reminding our military families just how much they are valued in our school community.
From celebrating our veterans to providing resources, building relationships, and creating a sense of belonging for military-connected students, our schools are committed to making sure every child feels supported, connected, and prepared to thrive.
#WellBeingWednesday #PurpleStarDistrict #LCSthrive
At Lee County Schools, we know that supporting the whole student means recognizing the unique experiences and sacrifices of our military-connected students and families.
Today, J. Glenn Edwards Elementary brought that commitment to life with a special Veterans Day Parade, celebrating the brave men and women connected to their school and our community who have served our country while reminding our military families just how much they are valued in our school community.
From celebrating our veterans to providing resources, building relationships, and creating a sense of belonging for military-connected students, our schools are committed to making sure every child feels supported, connected, and prepared to thrive.
#WellBeingWednesday #PurpleStarDistrict #LCSthrive
Sometimes, it's the little things that make the biggest difference! 💙
For Kelsey Atkins, Deep River Elementary isn't just where she works—it's home. A former Deep River student herself, Kelsey has spent the past six years giving back to the school community that helped shape her.
From serving as a teacher assistant in the Behavior Improvement Class to earning recognition as Deep River's Bus Driver of the Year, Kelsey approaches every role with kindness, compassion, and a heart for helping others.
Her philosophy is simple: Lead by example, build relationships, and never underestimate the impact of small acts of kindness.
🌟 Read how Kelsey is helping the next generation of Deep River students feel supported, connected, and prepared to thrive!
🔗 READ THE FULL STORY: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/3229766
#MeetTheStaffMonday #LCSthrive
For Kelsey Atkins, Deep River Elementary isn't just where she works—it's home. A former Deep River student herself, Kelsey has spent the past six years giving back to the school community that helped shape her.
From serving as a teacher assistant in the Behavior Improvement Class to earning recognition as Deep River's Bus Driver of the Year, Kelsey approaches every role with kindness, compassion, and a heart for helping others.
Her philosophy is simple: Lead by example, build relationships, and never underestimate the impact of small acts of kindness.
🌟 Read how Kelsey is helping the next generation of Deep River students feel supported, connected, and prepared to thrive!
🔗 READ THE FULL STORY: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/3229766
#MeetTheStaffMonday #LCSthrive
In Lee County Schools, CTE courses like Automotive are giving students more than academic knowledge – they’re building the real-world skills and problem-solving mindset needed to succeed in the workforce and life.
Whether it is learning how to safely use tools, think through a challenge, or make precise adjustments to get the job done, our students are gaining hands-on experience that prepares them for the road ahead. In this photo, a student is learning to use the grinder to carefully shave down a wrench head so it can fit in a narrow section of a vehicle for maintenance – a great example of the creativity, technical skill, and persistence that CTE Courses help develop.
These are the kinds of experiences that help students become confident, capable, and prepared to thrive no matter what path they choose next. #LCSthrive #FutureFocusedFriday
Whether it is learning how to safely use tools, think through a challenge, or make precise adjustments to get the job done, our students are gaining hands-on experience that prepares them for the road ahead. In this photo, a student is learning to use the grinder to carefully shave down a wrench head so it can fit in a narrow section of a vehicle for maintenance – a great example of the creativity, technical skill, and persistence that CTE Courses help develop.
These are the kinds of experiences that help students become confident, capable, and prepared to thrive no matter what path they choose next. #LCSthrive #FutureFocusedFriday
❤️Wacky Tacky Day, Hat Day, House Colors Day and plenty of school spirit! Red Ribbon Week is about more than fun dress-up days. It is about building a culture of belonging, kindness, and healthy choices that helps every student thrive!
Across Lee County Schools this week, students are participating in activities that reinforce the importance of standing up against bullying, saying NO to drugs, and making positive choices for themselves and those around them.
At B.T. Bullock Elementary students were showing their school spirit while learning that being part of a supportive school community means looking out for one another, celebrating our differences, and encouraging friends to make good decisions.
❤️When students feel connected, supported, and valued, we create stronger school communities where everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive!
#WellBeingWednesday #RedRibbonWeek #LCSthrive
Across Lee County Schools this week, students are participating in activities that reinforce the importance of standing up against bullying, saying NO to drugs, and making positive choices for themselves and those around them.
At B.T. Bullock Elementary students were showing their school spirit while learning that being part of a supportive school community means looking out for one another, celebrating our differences, and encouraging friends to make good decisions.
❤️When students feel connected, supported, and valued, we create stronger school communities where everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive!
#WellBeingWednesday #RedRibbonWeek #LCSthrive
🎓Taking the Next Step Toward Success! 🎓
All week as we celebrated College Application Week across Lee County Schools, our students are taking important steps toward their futures with the support of our incredible school counseling teams!
At Lee County High School, the counseling staff, led by College Advisor Leanna Talley, connected with an incredible 90% of the senior class this week to help students navigate their next steps after graduation! 🧑🎓
From submitting FREE college applications and exploring financial aid through FAFSA to completing assessments and discussing plans after high schools, our counselors and helping students turn their goals into actionable plans.
👏A HUGE thank you to Ms. Tally and all of our dedicated counselors across the district who are helping students explore their options, overcome barriers, and discover the many pathways available to them. Whether their next step is college, career training, military service, or entering the workforce, Lee County Schools is committed to ensuring every student is prepared to thrive beyond graduation!
#FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive #CollegeApplicationWeek
All week as we celebrated College Application Week across Lee County Schools, our students are taking important steps toward their futures with the support of our incredible school counseling teams!
At Lee County High School, the counseling staff, led by College Advisor Leanna Talley, connected with an incredible 90% of the senior class this week to help students navigate their next steps after graduation! 🧑🎓
From submitting FREE college applications and exploring financial aid through FAFSA to completing assessments and discussing plans after high schools, our counselors and helping students turn their goals into actionable plans.
👏A HUGE thank you to Ms. Tally and all of our dedicated counselors across the district who are helping students explore their options, overcome barriers, and discover the many pathways available to them. Whether their next step is college, career training, military service, or entering the workforce, Lee County Schools is committed to ensuring every student is prepared to thrive beyond graduation!
#FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive #CollegeApplicationWeek
💚Removing Barriers, Building Connections 🚌
Supporting the whole student means supporting the families and communities that help them thrive!
At W.B. Wicker Elementary, the Tiger Den Family Resource Center is partnering with Buzzline Microtransit and COLTS to help break down transportation barriers that can prevent families from participating in school events, engaging in their children’s education, and accessing essential community resources.
Through this partnership, families facing transportation challenges can connect with transit vouchers, helping them get where they need to go – whether it is a school event, a job interview, or an important appointment.
Led by Community Schools Coordinator Brittany Degraffenreaidt, the Tiger Den is showing how meaningful community partnerships can strengthen family engagement, improve access to resources, and create stronger foundations for student success.
Because when we remove barriers for families, we open doors of opportunity for students! 💚
📖Read the full story: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/3206385
#WellBeingWednesday #LCSthrive #CommunityPartnerships
Supporting the whole student means supporting the families and communities that help them thrive!
At W.B. Wicker Elementary, the Tiger Den Family Resource Center is partnering with Buzzline Microtransit and COLTS to help break down transportation barriers that can prevent families from participating in school events, engaging in their children’s education, and accessing essential community resources.
Through this partnership, families facing transportation challenges can connect with transit vouchers, helping them get where they need to go – whether it is a school event, a job interview, or an important appointment.
Led by Community Schools Coordinator Brittany Degraffenreaidt, the Tiger Den is showing how meaningful community partnerships can strengthen family engagement, improve access to resources, and create stronger foundations for student success.
Because when we remove barriers for families, we open doors of opportunity for students! 💚
📖Read the full story: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/3206385
#WellBeingWednesday #LCSthrive #CommunityPartnerships
This week is College Application Week! During this week, many schools waive their application fee and we don't want our students to miss out on the chance to apply to college for free. Get those applications done this week and see your school counselor if you have questions or need help completing any applications you are working on!
#CFNC #NCCollegeApplicationWeek #LCSthrive
#CFNC #NCCollegeApplicationWeek #LCSthrive
🍎 MEET THE STAFF MONDAY | An Unexpected Path. A Lasting Impact!
Teaching wasn’t originally part of Cayla Stamatopoulos’ career plan, but the sixth-grade math teacher at West Lee Middle School has found her passion in helping students learn, mature, and grow!
Now in her third year with Lee County Schools, Cayla has discovered that teaching in the community she calls home makes the work even more meaningful. ❤️
👉 “I want these kids to grow because their future impacts everybody’s future here in Lee County.”
📖 Read Cayla’s story here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/3201365
#MeetTheStaffMonday #LCSthrive
Teaching wasn’t originally part of Cayla Stamatopoulos’ career plan, but the sixth-grade math teacher at West Lee Middle School has found her passion in helping students learn, mature, and grow!
Now in her third year with Lee County Schools, Cayla has discovered that teaching in the community she calls home makes the work even more meaningful. ❤️
👉 “I want these kids to grow because their future impacts everybody’s future here in Lee County.”
📖 Read Cayla’s story here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/3201365
#MeetTheStaffMonday #LCSthrive
💙Helping students thrive means caring for them from head to toe! 💙
Sometimes, the smallest things can make a big difference in a student’s day. Thanks to the initiative of Lee County Schools’ Supervisor of School Nurses, Charlette Bowling, who applied for a generous donation from Bombas, our district has received 1,000 pairs of socks to help keep students warm and comfortable as the cooler winter months approach! ❄️
Whole-student wellness goes beyond the classroom. When students have their basic needs met, they can focus more fully on learning, growing, and thriving. Having something as simple as a clean, warm pair of socks can make a meaningful difference in student’s comfort, confidence, and readiness to learn.
👏A huge THANK YOU to Bombas for investing in the well-being of our students and to Ms. Bowling for going the extra mile to explore every avenue to make sure our students have what they need!
#WellBeingWednesday #LCSthrive
Sometimes, the smallest things can make a big difference in a student’s day. Thanks to the initiative of Lee County Schools’ Supervisor of School Nurses, Charlette Bowling, who applied for a generous donation from Bombas, our district has received 1,000 pairs of socks to help keep students warm and comfortable as the cooler winter months approach! ❄️
Whole-student wellness goes beyond the classroom. When students have their basic needs met, they can focus more fully on learning, growing, and thriving. Having something as simple as a clean, warm pair of socks can make a meaningful difference in student’s comfort, confidence, and readiness to learn.
👏A huge THANK YOU to Bombas for investing in the well-being of our students and to Ms. Bowling for going the extra mile to explore every avenue to make sure our students have what they need!
#WellBeingWednesday #LCSthrive
Local Businesses & Programs : Help Shape the Future Workforce!
Partner with our Career Development Coordinators to connect students with job opportunities, share your business expertise, or share information about programs students can enroll in after graduation!
Connect with our Career Development Coordinators at our local high schools to find out ways to get your opportunities and information in front of our students. For opportunities at Southern Lee High contact Julie McNeill (juliemcneill@lee.k12.nc.us) and for Lee County High contact Jeremy Stack (jeremystack@lee.k12.nc.us).
#LCSthrive
Partner with our Career Development Coordinators to connect students with job opportunities, share your business expertise, or share information about programs students can enroll in after graduation!
Connect with our Career Development Coordinators at our local high schools to find out ways to get your opportunities and information in front of our students. For opportunities at Southern Lee High contact Julie McNeill (juliemcneill@lee.k12.nc.us) and for Lee County High contact Jeremy Stack (jeremystack@lee.k12.nc.us).
#LCSthrive
💙MEET THE STAFF MONDAY | Building Relationships, Creating Belonging 💙
For Ashley Melpolder, an itinerant teacher at Floyd L. Knight Children’s Center, early childhood education is about more than preparing students for kindergarten. It’s about building relationships, celebrating differences, and helping every child discover that they belong.
From partnering with local childcare centers to connecting with families beyond the classroom, Ashley’s impact reaches far beyond the students she teaches each day. Her passion for inclusion and student advocacy helps create a strong foundation for young learners to thrive throughout their educational journeys.
🌟Learn more about Ashley’s passion for preschool education, her commitment to families, and why she believes the smallest gestures can make the biggest difference.
📖READ THE FULL STORY: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/3187521
#MeetTheStaffMonday #LCSthrive
For Ashley Melpolder, an itinerant teacher at Floyd L. Knight Children’s Center, early childhood education is about more than preparing students for kindergarten. It’s about building relationships, celebrating differences, and helping every child discover that they belong.
From partnering with local childcare centers to connecting with families beyond the classroom, Ashley’s impact reaches far beyond the students she teaches each day. Her passion for inclusion and student advocacy helps create a strong foundation for young learners to thrive throughout their educational journeys.
🌟Learn more about Ashley’s passion for preschool education, her commitment to families, and why she believes the smallest gestures can make the biggest difference.
📖READ THE FULL STORY: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/3187521
#MeetTheStaffMonday #LCSthrive
🚀Building Tomorrow’s Workforce Today! 🏭
The future of manufacturing is bright, and Lee County Schools students are poised to capitalize on future opportunities because they get up-close previews of growing industries and hands-on training throughout our Career & Technical Education courses.
Last week, LCS students participated in Manufacturing Day at Central Carolina Community College (CCCC), connecting with local industry representatives and post-secondary educational institutions to explore exciting career opportunities in manufacturing and the training pathways available here locally to get there.
Events like Manufacturing Day help students connect what they’re learning in the classroom to real-world careers, discover opportunities right here in our community, and better understand the skills needed to succeed in the evolving workforce.
👏Thank you to CCCC and our local industry and education partners for investing in the next generation of skilled professionals and helping our students see the opportunities waiting for them!
The workforce of tomorrow is sitting in LCS classrooms today, and together we’re preparing them to THRIVE!
#FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive #ManufacturingDay
The future of manufacturing is bright, and Lee County Schools students are poised to capitalize on future opportunities because they get up-close previews of growing industries and hands-on training throughout our Career & Technical Education courses.
Last week, LCS students participated in Manufacturing Day at Central Carolina Community College (CCCC), connecting with local industry representatives and post-secondary educational institutions to explore exciting career opportunities in manufacturing and the training pathways available here locally to get there.
Events like Manufacturing Day help students connect what they’re learning in the classroom to real-world careers, discover opportunities right here in our community, and better understand the skills needed to succeed in the evolving workforce.
👏Thank you to CCCC and our local industry and education partners for investing in the next generation of skilled professionals and helping our students see the opportunities waiting for them!
The workforce of tomorrow is sitting in LCS classrooms today, and together we’re preparing them to THRIVE!
#FutureFocusedFriday #LCSthrive #ManufacturingDay
🏈MORE THAN A GAME 🏈
Last night, student-athletes from SanLee and West Lee Middle Schools came together for their annual rivalry game under the lights at Southern Lee High School. These cross-county matchups are always special community events, but last night’s game carried a deeper meaning as we honored a beloved member of our coaching community, the late Coach Anthony Lewis Williams Cox, affectionately known to generations as Coach Whomp.
Coach Whomp passed away peacefully at home last Thursday, leaving behind a legacy of more than four decades of service to young people throughout our community’s recreation and interscholastic athletic programs. His impact stretches far beyond the football field, touching countless lives and shaping generations of young people.
A member of SanLee’s football coaching staff since the school opened, Coach Whomp was a constant source of encouragement, positivity, and wisdom. Last night marked the team’s first game without his familiar smile and uplifting presence in their midst.
Between the first and second quarters, both teams gathered at midfield alongside Coach Whomp’s family, former players, and friends to celebrate a life devoted to others. Together, we remembered his infectious smile, unwavering encouragement, and the love and support of the family who helped make his years of service possible.
For Coach Whomp, football was never just about wins and losses. It was about building character, teaching responsibility, developing resilience, and inspiring young people to make the most of every opportunity. Those lessons will continue to shape lives long after the final whistle.
As balloons floated skyward in his honor, our community came together not simply to mourn a loss, but to celebrate a life well lived and a legacy that will endure for generations.
Fly high, Coach Whomp. 💛💜🏈
Thank you for the love, energy, wisdom, and countless hours you invested in our young people. Lee County is a better place to live, work, and thrive because of you.
#LCSthrive #MoreThanAGame #CoachWhomp
Last night, student-athletes from SanLee and West Lee Middle Schools came together for their annual rivalry game under the lights at Southern Lee High School. These cross-county matchups are always special community events, but last night’s game carried a deeper meaning as we honored a beloved member of our coaching community, the late Coach Anthony Lewis Williams Cox, affectionately known to generations as Coach Whomp.
Coach Whomp passed away peacefully at home last Thursday, leaving behind a legacy of more than four decades of service to young people throughout our community’s recreation and interscholastic athletic programs. His impact stretches far beyond the football field, touching countless lives and shaping generations of young people.
A member of SanLee’s football coaching staff since the school opened, Coach Whomp was a constant source of encouragement, positivity, and wisdom. Last night marked the team’s first game without his familiar smile and uplifting presence in their midst.
Between the first and second quarters, both teams gathered at midfield alongside Coach Whomp’s family, former players, and friends to celebrate a life devoted to others. Together, we remembered his infectious smile, unwavering encouragement, and the love and support of the family who helped make his years of service possible.
For Coach Whomp, football was never just about wins and losses. It was about building character, teaching responsibility, developing resilience, and inspiring young people to make the most of every opportunity. Those lessons will continue to shape lives long after the final whistle.
As balloons floated skyward in his honor, our community came together not simply to mourn a loss, but to celebrate a life well lived and a legacy that will endure for generations.
Fly high, Coach Whomp. 💛💜🏈
Thank you for the love, energy, wisdom, and countless hours you invested in our young people. Lee County is a better place to live, work, and thrive because of you.
#LCSthrive #MoreThanAGame #CoachWhomp
At Lee County Schools, our Exceptional Children (EC) programs are designed to help every student maximize their educational journey by fostering belonging, building relationships, and providing individualized support for success.
🌟 Today, we're celebrating Mary Catherine Patterson, from J. Glenn Edwards Elementary, our LCS EC Educator of Excellence!
Recognized for her outstanding dedication to students with disabilities, Mary Catherine goes above and beyond to advocate for students, partner with families, and support fellow educators. Her colleagues praise her compassion, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to helping every student succeed.
👏 Congratulations, Ms. Patterson! Thank you for making a difference in the lives of students and demonstrating what it means to help EVERY student thrive!
#WellBeingWednesday #LCSthrive #EducatorOfExcellence
🌟 Today, we're celebrating Mary Catherine Patterson, from J. Glenn Edwards Elementary, our LCS EC Educator of Excellence!
Recognized for her outstanding dedication to students with disabilities, Mary Catherine goes above and beyond to advocate for students, partner with families, and support fellow educators. Her colleagues praise her compassion, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to helping every student succeed.
👏 Congratulations, Ms. Patterson! Thank you for making a difference in the lives of students and demonstrating what it means to help EVERY student thrive!
#WellBeingWednesday #LCSthrive #EducatorOfExcellence
🎉Congratulations to our October Beginning Teacher of the Month, Lindsey Collins! 🎉
Ms. Collins is a sixth grade science teacher at West Lee Middle School and is in her second year teaching at WLMS. A Lee County High School graduate, she says she is happy to be back home serving students in Lee County Schools.
Known for her positive attitude and engaging classroom, Ms. Collins works hard to make science active and memorable. Dara Butler, Beginning Teacher Coach in the district, shared that Collins “seeks to engage all students in her classroom” and highlighted how she incorporates movement into lessons to help students better understand concepts and stay involved.
Her students agree, saying she explains concepts well, uses songs to help them learn and always keeps the moving. One student summed it up simply: “She is a great teacher!”
Outside the classroom, Ms. Collins enjoys farm life with her 6-year-old son and brings her love of animals to school too - including four classroom hermit crabs, one representing each of her core classes!
Ms. Collins holds a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and is currently pursuing her teacher licensure.
👏Join us in congratulating Lindsey Collins on being named Lee County Schools’ October Beginning Teacher of the Month!
#LCSthrive
Ms. Collins is a sixth grade science teacher at West Lee Middle School and is in her second year teaching at WLMS. A Lee County High School graduate, she says she is happy to be back home serving students in Lee County Schools.
Known for her positive attitude and engaging classroom, Ms. Collins works hard to make science active and memorable. Dara Butler, Beginning Teacher Coach in the district, shared that Collins “seeks to engage all students in her classroom” and highlighted how she incorporates movement into lessons to help students better understand concepts and stay involved.
Her students agree, saying she explains concepts well, uses songs to help them learn and always keeps the moving. One student summed it up simply: “She is a great teacher!”
Outside the classroom, Ms. Collins enjoys farm life with her 6-year-old son and brings her love of animals to school too - including four classroom hermit crabs, one representing each of her core classes!
Ms. Collins holds a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and is currently pursuing her teacher licensure.
👏Join us in congratulating Lindsey Collins on being named Lee County Schools’ October Beginning Teacher of the Month!
#LCSthrive
🎤MEET THE STAFF MONDAY | Shani Whilby helps students find their voice at B.T. Bullock
For 17 years, Shani Whilby has helped students at B.T. Bullock Elementary find their voices – and the confidence to use them.
As a speech therapist and teacher, Whilby believes communication is much more than a skill. It can open doors, build independence and help students recognize that they are capable of doing hard things.
“When I see a kid that is confident enough to speak to whoever they want to speak to, to answer questions, to get up on stage and make a speech, that’s what makes me proud,” Whilby said.
For her, the work comes down to giving every student an opportunity to be heard.
“Communication is just one of those [important] things. It is just a basic human right that often gets overlooked.”
💙 Read the full story and learn more about Mrs. Whilby’s journey and her passion for helping students thrive: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/3172730
#MeetTheStaffMonday #LCSthrive
For 17 years, Shani Whilby has helped students at B.T. Bullock Elementary find their voices – and the confidence to use them.
As a speech therapist and teacher, Whilby believes communication is much more than a skill. It can open doors, build independence and help students recognize that they are capable of doing hard things.
“When I see a kid that is confident enough to speak to whoever they want to speak to, to answer questions, to get up on stage and make a speech, that’s what makes me proud,” Whilby said.
For her, the work comes down to giving every student an opportunity to be heard.
“Communication is just one of those [important] things. It is just a basic human right that often gets overlooked.”
💙 Read the full story and learn more about Mrs. Whilby’s journey and her passion for helping students thrive: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/3172730
#MeetTheStaffMonday #LCSthrive
🎶A Program of Distinction 🎶
The Southern Lee High School Band has earned statewide recognition from the North Carolina Bandmasters Association as a 2025-2026 Program of Distinction!
For Band Director Angela Matthews, the honor reflects years of hard work, resilience and growth. But perhaps most importantly, it reflects students discovering just how much they are capable of achieving.
“They know that they can stand toe-to-toe with bands from anywhere,” Matthews said. “That is really exciting and makes me proud.”
From performing at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction to earning All-District honors and students qualifying for All-State auditions, it was an exceptional year for the Cavaliers, but they are not done yet!
👏Congratulations to the students and staff of the Southern Lee Band on this outstanding recognition!
🔗Read the full story: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/3168713
#LCSthrive
The Southern Lee High School Band has earned statewide recognition from the North Carolina Bandmasters Association as a 2025-2026 Program of Distinction!
For Band Director Angela Matthews, the honor reflects years of hard work, resilience and growth. But perhaps most importantly, it reflects students discovering just how much they are capable of achieving.
“They know that they can stand toe-to-toe with bands from anywhere,” Matthews said. “That is really exciting and makes me proud.”
From performing at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction to earning All-District honors and students qualifying for All-State auditions, it was an exceptional year for the Cavaliers, but they are not done yet!
👏Congratulations to the students and staff of the Southern Lee Band on this outstanding recognition!
🔗Read the full story: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/3168713
#LCSthrive
💙Happy School Custodian Appreciation Day! 💙
Today, we celebrate the dedicated custodians who work each day to make our schools clean, welcoming and ready for students to thrive.
Southern Lee High School’s Ms. Vivian is one of the many incredible people across Lee County Schools whose work goes far beyond keeping a building tidy. Our custodians are trusted members of their school communities – greeting our students with a smile, taking pride in their campuses, responding when help is needed and quietly doing countless things each day that make our schools a better place to work and learn.
While much of what they do happens before the first bell rings, after students have gone home, and in moments most people never see, their impact is felt throughout every hallway, classroom and across our community.
To Ms. Vivian and all of her hardworking coworkers that serve as custodians in our schools, THANK YOU for your dedication, your care, and the pride you take in serving students and staff each day. We appreciate all you do for our schools and everyone in them! 💙
#LCSthrive
Today, we celebrate the dedicated custodians who work each day to make our schools clean, welcoming and ready for students to thrive.
Southern Lee High School’s Ms. Vivian is one of the many incredible people across Lee County Schools whose work goes far beyond keeping a building tidy. Our custodians are trusted members of their school communities – greeting our students with a smile, taking pride in their campuses, responding when help is needed and quietly doing countless things each day that make our schools a better place to work and learn.
While much of what they do happens before the first bell rings, after students have gone home, and in moments most people never see, their impact is felt throughout every hallway, classroom and across our community.
To Ms. Vivian and all of her hardworking coworkers that serve as custodians in our schools, THANK YOU for your dedication, your care, and the pride you take in serving students and staff each day. We appreciate all you do for our schools and everyone in them! 💙
#LCSthrive