Dear Parents, Guardians, Students, and Staff,
Please be advised that Wise County Public Schools will be closed on Monday, November 3rd, and Tuesday, November 4th, in observance of Election Day. Please also remember to set your clocks back one hour on Sunday, November 2nd as Daylight Saving Time ends. School will resume as normal on Wednesday, November 5, 2025.
🎶🐻 Friday Morning Kickoff with the Union Bears! 🐻🎶
The Union High School Bear Band and Cheer teams were up bright and early this morning for WJHL’s Friday Morning Kickoff! During the 6:00 a.m. news show, the Union High School Band performed selections from their fall show, while the cheer squad brought the energy with spirited cheers. Sophomore drum major, Blake Green and junior drum major Hannah Hampton were also featured in interviews throughout the morning broadcast.
With the Union Bear football team at 8-0, these talented band and cheer members play a huge role in keeping the team and fans fired up every game night! 🧡💙 #FridayMorningKickoff
***Due to copyright restrictions, WJHL is unable to post this morning’s musical performances on their website.
Announcement: School Closure Notice - Election Day:
Dear Parents, Guardians, Students, and Staff,
Please be advised that Wise County Public Schools will be closed on Monday, November 3rd, and Tuesday, November 4th, in observance of Election Day. Please also remember to set your clocks back one hour on Sunday, November 2nd as Daylight Saving Time ends. School will resume as normal on Wednesday, November 5, 2025.
Honoring Our Lifetime Educators 🍎 Pam Roberts | Duds & Dough | 46 years and counting!
For the past 18 years, Pam Roberts, who has more than 46 years in education, has been a dedicated instructor at Duds & Dough, a unique postsecondary educational program in Wise County Public Schools that supports students aged 18 to 22 as they transition from school to work. Pam’s commitment to her students and community continues to grow stronger each year.
Her 46-year journey in education began at Appalachia High, and during school consolidation, she moved into the Alternative Education program. Since then, Pam has found her calling working with students who need practical, real-world experience — and a champion in their corner.
At Duds and Dough, students gain essential life and job skills in a supportive, hands-on environment. They learn everything from cooking and laundry to professional workplace behaviors like clocking in, calling in for absences, and interacting with the public.
Pam works directly with students to identify career interests and even goes out on job visits with them. One student, for example, is set to start working at Goodwill in Wise, VA, after Christmas — just one of many local placements the program helps coordinate.
Funded by $2,500 in one-year start-up grants 18 years ago, and now supplemented through self-funding efforts, Duds & Dough also offers students incentive pay for stocking shelves and maintaining the shop. The store mimics a thrift store, or re-sell shop, and is open to the public from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM every school day. Duds & Dough is a community-focused resale store that offers a wide variety of donated/consigned goods — including clothing, furniture, antiques, children’s toys, home décor, and more — all thoughtfully priced for resale. Community members are encouraged to donate items at any time. Community members may also consign goods by appointment.
Pam takes pride in the program’s growing reputation and its contributions to local schools.
“Last year alone, we gave back $5,000 to schools,” she notes. One of the shop’s signature initiatives allows patrons to "Shop for the Students," where proceeds from specific days go directly to a chosen teacher, coach, or classroom.
Duds & Dough isn’t just about clothes and donations — it’s about dignity, preparation, and purpose. And with leaders like Pam Roberts, students don’t just leave with skills — they leave knowing someone believed in them.
Though, after 46 years, Pam doesn’t intend on retiring–at least any time soon. "I love it. These kids are great," Pam says with a smile. Her passion is obvious in everything she does, especially when she spots former students working in the community. "That’s the ultimate purpose — to see them succeed after they leave here."
The Duds & Dough class has been working tirelessly putting out their Christmas goods in preparation for the upcoming holiday season! If you have gently used goods or items you’re ready to give away, consider donating them to Duds & Dough — your contributions go toward a great cause and help support those students in this class!
Donation Contact Information:
Name: Pam Roberts
Email: proberts@wisek12.org
Shopping Hours: 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM every school day. Donations are accepted during open hours (consignment by appointment only).
Location: Duds & Dough is located behind the Education Center where monthly school board meetings are held, marked by an orange “Duds & Dough” awning
📢 We’re Hiring – Come Work With Us!
✨ Open Position: Wise County Career & Technical Center - Admin Assistant/Secretary Position
📍 Location: Wise County Career & Technical Center
🕒 Hours/Type: Full-Time
👉 Apply today and become part of something great!
📩https://wiseva.schoolspring.com/?jobid=5418331
Contact Information:
Jodie Bowen, Assistant Principal
Wise County Career & Technical Center
Phone: (276) 328-6113
Email: jbowen@wisek12.org
Wise County Public Schools is eager to learn about and share alumni highlights from its graduates! Please click here (https://forms.gle/ADQAbVxjGmieZA6R9) to complete a submission form.
***please note that submissions will be featured in the order they are received.
As an extension of National Bullying Prevention Month (October), this morning on Thursday, October 23rd, Angel Mefford, Community Education and Advocacy Coordinator with Family Crisis Support Services, presented an informative session on anti-bullying to J.W. Adams 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th grade students. During the presentation, Angel Mefford defined bullying and explained the different types—verbal, social, and physical. She encouraged students to become self-advocates, discussed the roles involved in bullying situations (the victim, the bully, and the bystander, or witness), and shared information on how and where students can seek help or assistance. Her engaging presentation helped empower students to recognize, prevent, and respond to bullying in positive and proactive ways.
Students in grades lower than 5th-8th have been discussing kindness, empathy, & being a good friend. The book titled, "How Full Is Your Bucket (for kids)" has been a perfect introduction to the topics of kindness, empathy and being a good friend!
J.W. Adams joins all of Wise County Public Schools in our effort to raise awareness and promote bullying prevention strategies during National Bullying Prevention Month this October. 💪💬🧡
Together, we stand for kindness and respect — because every student deserves to feel safe and supported. 🌟
🚍By day, Mr. Brian Dotson teaches Environmental Science at Central High School. By early morning and late afternoon, he’s behind the wheel of a school bus—something he’s done full-time for over 21 years, after 7 years of subbing.
For Mr. Dotson, the role of a bus driver goes far beyond transportation. “When I’m on the bus, I get a chance to check in, talk 1:1 with students.
One of his favorite memories? A late-night Cincinnati field trip where the students began softly singing together. “I turned off the radio and just listened for almost an hour before they drifted off to sleep. It was one of those simple, but powerful moments.”
Driving isn’t without its challenges, especially from increased traffic flow--Mr. Dotson stays vigilant. “You’ve got to be aware at all times,” he says. His message to the community is clear: “Please understand we’re hauling the most precious cargo. Give us more time, more space. Understand the responsibility we carry every day.”
When asked how it feels to be recognized, Mr. Dotson reflects: “It’s always great to know we matter. Being appreciated is gratifying and rewarding.”
Here’s to Mr. Brian Dotson—a committed educator, a trusted driver, and someone who reminds us that real impact often happens in the quiet, in-between moments!
🚌 #HeroBehindTheWheel
Wise County Public Schools is eager to learn about and share alumni highlights from its graduates! Please click here (https://forms.gle/ADQAbVxjGmieZA6R9) to complete a submission form.
***please note that submissions will be featured in the order they are received.
Link: https://forms.gle/ADQAbVxjGmieZA6R9
🚨 Monthly WCCTC Spotlight–Healthcare Career Pathway Preview! 🩺💡(...more to come in the November newsletter!)
🚨 Big things are happening in the Health Sciences Pathway at WCCTC — all thanks to the incredible leadership of Mrs. Becca Slone and Mrs. Kara Fleming! 🩺❤️Their kindness, care, and compassion as healthcare professionals and educators continue to drive this program forward — inspiring the next generation of medical heroes.👏 We are so proud of the work they're doing and the lives they’re changing every day!
🎓 Industry-focused instruction from REAL field professionals
💬 Strong student relationships, real-world skills, & EMPATHY at the core
The Claude Moore Scholars Program has provided:
✅ $500K for expansion, curriculum upgrades, renovations
✅ New Middle School Healthcare Career Exploration position @ Union Middle
✅ All Wise County Schools now have exploratory healthcare programs!
Thanks to the Rapha Grant, students receive:
👟 Scrubs, shoes, stethoscopes
📄 CNA certification support
📚 Certifications & Dual Enrollment Courses Offered:
• CNA, EKG Tech, CPR & First Aid
• 13 college credits available through DE Health Programs
• Save 💸 over $2,000 vs taking these courses after high school!
• 🤝 Job placement partnerships with Ballad Health, and nursing homes including Heritage Hall, & The Laurels, earning over $20.00/hour💸
💬 Student Voices:
What is the most important thing you’ve learned in this program?
“Empathy. Patients always come first.”
What do you love about working with your instructors?
“They care deeply. They're nurturing. They’re like moms — they bring heart into the profession.”
What would you say to a student considering pursuing this program?
“Do it. It will change your life. You’ll learn things about yourself you never thought you would.”
Want to learn more?!
🎉📅 Tonight, Tuesday, October 21st| Grades 5-12 | 4:00pm-6:00pm | 🏫 WCCTC (Wise County Career-Technical Center)
✅Join us for our annual Exploring Health Care Careers and Open House event, a collaborative effort between: WCCTC, UVA-Wise, Mountain Empire Community College (MECC), Claude Moore Scholars Program, and Ballad Health
✅This event is designed to give students, families, and community members a hands-on look at the many exciting opportunities in the healthcare field — from dual enrollment courses and certifications to real-world clinical experiences.
✅ Meet instructors, tour classrooms, talk to current students, and connect with local healthcare professionals and college partners.
Whether you're a middle or high school student interested in a healthcare career or a parent looking to learn more about student opportunities, this event is for you!
Contact Info.:
Rebecca Slone, BSN - rslone@wisek12.org (Dual enrollment/CNA instructor)
Kara Fleming, RN - kmfleming@wisek12.org (CNA instructor)
Jodie Bowen - jbowen@wisek12.org (Assistant Principal/Guidance at WCCTC)
October is National Bullying Prevention Month and Wise Primary students are committing to making school a kinder, safer place for all!!
Wise Primary students participated in classroom guidance lessons focused on being a good friend and recognizing bullying behavior. During their resource time, Mrs. Flanary and Mrs. Lindsay met with each grade level to lead thoughtful discussions and activities around kindness, empathy, and standing up against bullying.
As part of the lesson, every student signed a pledge to be drug-free and to not be a bully. They also brainstormed meaningful ways to show kindness to others — emphasizing the importance of treating everyone with respect.
Throughout the month of October, we will be highlighting bullying prevention activities and assemblies taking place in all of our schools in Wise County. Together, we can make a difference by promoting kindness and respect in every classroom and hallway. Let’s continue working together as a community to create safe and supportive environments for all students!
Emma McReynolds, Eastside High School--Class of 2024, is representing Virginia as Miss Virginia Teen USA and is competing at Miss Teen USA this week in Reno, Nevada! 👑✨
Let’s show our support from home — voting is FREE and just takes a minute! 🗳️
📲 Vote here: https://missusa.choicely.link/teenvote
📅 The pageant is THIS THURSDAY, October 23 — let’s cheer Emma on all the way to the crown! 💫
#MissTeenUSA #MissVirginiaTeenUSA
🚌National School Bus Safety Week 2025 🚌
October 20–24, 2025
This year’s message is also a reminder: safety doesn’t begin or end with the bus ride. It’s about Safety at Every Stop 🛑—from the moment a child leaves their front door to the time they return home.
Stay alert. Slow down in school zones and neighborhoods.
Stop for the bus. Obey the stop-arm law every time—no exceptions.
Support accountability. Technology and enforcement work hand in tandem to change driver behavior.
Raise awareness. Share facts, resources, and personal stories that open eyes and change hearts.
Wise County Public Schools would like to express our sincere appreciation for our dedicated bus drivers and transportation team.
Each day, these individuals go above and beyond to ensure the safety, well-being, and comfort of our students. Their commitment, patience, and care play a vital role in our students’ success — both on the road and in the classroom.
Thank you for all you do to keep our children safe!
🌟 Community Spotlight! 🌟
Big thanks to Lowe’s Home Improvement for giving Wise Primary School a beautiful makeover on Wednesday, October 15th! 🎨✨
They painted curbs yellow & blue (including handicap spaces), refreshed all the handrails with black paint, mulched the landscape beds with rubber mulch and added colorful flowers 🌸, and even touched up signs with bright red paint for extra pop! 🚧🌼
Our school grounds have never looked better — and it’s all thanks to this amazing community effort!
In his deepest apprecation, Principal Hood states, "Lowe's really went above and beyond in transforming the outside of Wise Primary School today. The pressure washing, painting, and landscaping improvements will significantly enhance the school's appearance and create a welcoming environment for both students and staff. It's great to see businesses like Lowe's giving back to their community. We are so appreciative of all the materials and labor that Lowe's has provided for this needed project at Wise Primary School. Thanks again Lowe's of Wise County!! You guys and gals rocked it out!!"
Stay informed and inspired—check out all the updates and stories in this month’s edition of the WCPS October 2025 Newsletter by clicking here: https://wisecova.edurooms.com/engage/wise-county-public-schools/newsletters/wcps-october-2025-newsletter
✅ Board meeting visits from our awesome 4-H partners & Coeburn Middle School admin team
🎥 Canaan Spears | Union High featured on The Pulse S2E1 for the 2025-2026 school year
🌟 Darren Williams | Eastside High – WCYB Five Star Student
🏈 Rocky Bond | Eastside High – WCYB Player of the Week
⚡ Keldan Hamilton | Eastside High – Gatorlyte Quick Play Winner (Week 6)
🎓 Shelby Stanley | Eastside High – WCYB Scholar Athlete of the Week
🚁 AirVac landed at Union Middle for a special learning experience
💻💪 Celebrated IT Professionals Day, Coaches Day & Custodian Day
🏆 St. Paul Elementary recognized as one of America’s Best Schools by NCUST!
🎉 Lunchbox276 held a ribbon-cutting for their new food distribution warehouse
🔩 WCCTC Spotlight: Precision Welding & Fabrication – shaping future careers!
🎊 The WCCTC Annual Fall Festival was a huge hit with students!
🍁 Our 1st Annual Pre-K Fall Festival at WCCTC brought smiles and fun for our youngest learners
👒 Wise Primary School’s "Old Fashion Day" brought history to life in the most charming way!
👩🏫 Celebrated 47 years of dedication with the incredible Ms. Judy Abbott at Eastside High 💚
We’re proud of our students, staff, and community for making Wise County Public Schools a place of excellence, tradition, and growth! 📘🍎
Our Newsletter for October is available!
Community Outreach Golf Match at Lonesome Pine Country Club
On Tuesday, October 14th, L.F. Addington Middle/J.W. Adams Combined middle school athletes hosted a fun and memorable Adults vs. Middle School Team Match as part of our community outreach efforts at Lonesome Pine Country Club. It was a fantastic day of friendly competition, mentorship, and connection between generations through the game of golf. Athletes showcased impressive skill, sportsmanship, and enthusiasm throughout the event.
Coach Vanover would like to extend a special thank you to our adult golfers who generously gave their time and support to help inspire the next generation of players: Brad Easterling, Kaye Shortt, Robert England, Jerry Domby, Chris Christian, Leigh Clark, Katie Vanover, Robin Dotson, Jo Jo Martin, and Robbie Carter.
Your involvement made a lasting impact on these young golfers, and your support helps grow the game in our community. Thank you for being outstanding role models both on and off the course!
