Lee County Schools -

🎓 PREPARED TO THRIVE | Brandon Curry headed from Southern Lee to NC A&T with a full scholarship through leadership, service, and a big smile 🎓

From serving as senior class president to earning a full-ride scholarship to North Carolina A&T State University, Brandon Curry’s journey is a powerful example of leadership, resilience, and service. As the first member of his immediate family to attend college, he is proving that hard work, heart, and determination can open doors to amazing opportunities.

“I only want to help and serve others,” Brandon shared. That spirit has made a lasting impact on his classmates, teachers, and community.

We are proud of Brandon and the incredible Class of 2026 at Southern Lee High School as they step off into their next chapter and graduate tonight. The future is bright for the #ClassOf2026 💙🧡

👉 Read Brandon’s full story here: https://www.lee.k12.nc.us/article/2941818
#LCSthrive

Last night, Lee Early College saw 73 students graduate with the Class of 2026.

While small in number, this group of seniors has a powerful legacy and has demonstrated they are full of potential to truly impact their communities and families for generations to com.

This year’s 73 Cobra graduates earned 77 associates degrees from Central Carolina Community College while attending LEC. They were accepted to more than 50 different colleges and universities and were offered more than $5 million in scholarship awards.

Whether they are QuestBridge National Match Scholars heading to Princeton, a Park Scholar attending NC State, a Sloan Scholar preparing for East Carolina and a return to LCS to teach, or chasing a mathematics degree at Duke, this year’s class at LEC gives us hope for a bright future with intelligent and compassionate young people that will lead the way.

Enjoy a few of our favorites from last night’s ceremony and check out the full album on our Facebook page!

Congratulations Cobra Class of 2026! We are proud of you!

#LCSthrive

SOUTHERN LEE BASEBALL HEADED TO 6A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
SOUTHERN LEE CAVALIERS VS. SOUTH CALDWELL SPARTANS
WHAT TO KNOW

Site: Burlington Athletic Stadium, 1450 Graham Street, Burlington, NC

Series Schedule

Game 1 | Friday, May 29, 2026 | 8:00 PM | Burlington Athletic Stadium
Game 2 | Saturday, May 30, 2026 | 2:00 PM | Burlington Athletic Stadium
*Game 3 | Saturday, May 30, 2026 | 5:00 OR 8:00 PM | Burlington Athletic Stadium

*Game 3 is only played if necessary. If it is needed and the 7A Series between Holly Springs and Marvin Ridge is completed in two games, first pitch for the game would be at 5:00 PM. If the 7A Series continues to its Game 3, the 6A Game 3 would be scheduled for an 8:00 PM first pitch.

Cavalier Walk Of Champions | Local Send-Off for the team on Friday

We encourage all supporters, friends and family to join us at Southern Lee High School near the main school entrance at 4:15 on Friday, May 29th as we send the team off to compete for a State Championship. The team will walk through all gathered supporters from the baseball locker room to get on the bus as they head to Burlington. The bus leaves promptly at 4:30 p.m.

Don’t miss this opportunity to support our Diamond Cavs as they battle for the school’s first NCHSAA Team State Championship.

Ticket Prices

All tickets are available through GoFan.co - (6A Series Ticket Purchase Link)

All Session Tickets are available for $25.00.
Includes all games at the facility on those days.
Will receive an NCHSAA wristband that will allow spectators to leave and re-enter.

Friday only tickets are $12.00
Includes both games at the facility on Friday (7A & 6A Game 1s)

Saturday only tickets are $15.00
Guaranteed entry to 2 games, potentially 4 games.
Will also get an NCHSAA wristband that will allow spectators to leave and re-enter.

Spectator Notes

Outside food and spectator coolers will not be allowed.
Concessions are available at each site.
Body paint is not allowed. This includes face paint.
Tobacco Products and Alcohol are not allowed.

🌞 Exciting News from Lee County Child Nutrition! 🌞

Check out our new summer community feeding opportunity, “Lunch in the Park!” 🍎🥪☀️

This summer, Lee County Child Nutrition will be providing FREE lunches to all children 18 years of age and younger at select community parks throughout June. Children must be present to receive a meal.

We are excited to help keep our students and community nourished all summer long while making meals more accessible in our neighborhoods. Stay tuned for locations, times, and additional details!

#LeeCountySchools #LeeCountySchoolsNutrition #LunchInThePark#NourishNCKids#NCSummerMeals

🎓 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

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.

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! ❤️

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!

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

🎉 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

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!

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!

🎉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

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

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

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

🍎 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

🍎📚💙 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

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

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!