For 42 years, Randy Carter has been behind the wheel, serving Wise County Public Schools and generations of students with dedication, dependability and, most importantly, a heart to serve others. Throughout his career, Randy has driven both a daytime vocational route and a regular school bus route. He has transported students to countless athletic events and extracurricular activities and has served as a CDL bus trainer, helping prepare other drivers to safely serve our students. His commitment continues even during the summer, when he helps clean and prepare buses for the upcoming school year. For Randy, being a school bus driver has always meant more than simply getting students to and from school. Like many drivers, he has returned lost belongings to students and looked for opportunities to help whenever he could. After 42 years, Randy continues to show that serving students is about more than the route—it is about the relationships, the responsibility and the people along the way. Wise County Public Schools is grateful for Randy Carter and the countless miles he has traveled, the students he has served and the difference he continues to make in our school community.
Constitution Day | Thursday, September 17
Today, Thursday, September 17, Wise County Public Schools joins communities across our nation in recognizing Constitution Day, a time to reflect on the document that established the foundation of our government and continues to shape our republic. In our classrooms, Wise County students have the opportunity to learn about the Constitution, the rights and responsibilities of citizenship, and the principles that have guided our nation for more than two centuries. We are grateful to our teachers for helping students understand the importance of civic knowledge, thoughtful participation, and the freedoms and responsibilities that come with being an American. School Board Member, Stephanie Kern states, "It is an honor to be a part of this school district, and part of our nation on this 250th anniversary of our founding." Today, we honor the Constitution and the ideals of our nation while inspiring the next generation to learn, participate, and most importantly, lead.
Wise County Public Schools — educating tomorrow’s leaders.
Student Spotlight: The Musical Mind and Resilience of Eli
At just twelve years old, Eli’s musical talents and academic enthusiasm make him a standout student at Union Middle School. Long before he was taking the stage in 7th grade, Eli showed an early gift for retention and listening. At four years old, he had already memorized the complete order of U.S. Presidents. But it was the following year that his life changed course musically.
When Eli was five, his grandmother bought him a keyboard for Christmas. Shortly after, he discovered he possessed perfect pitch—an extraordinary ability estimated to affect only 1 in 10,000 people, typically developed during a brief window in early childhood. Eli quickly learned to play by ear, identifying any individual note given to him on demand.
Eli’s dedication is especially poignant given the hardship he has overcome. In 2021, at age seven, Eli lost his father, a beloved Special Education teacher at Union Primary School. Navigating such a profound loss at a young age required Eli to process grief in his own unique way. The following year, he transitioned from homeschooling to public school at Union Middle for the very first time, adapting seamlessly with the steadfast support of his family. Eli’s educators echo his positive spirit. "Eli has been a delight to have in class," says Trevor Meade, Eli’s 7th-grade reading teacher. "It is always so refreshing to have a student who is positive and energetic. Eli is a wonderfully talented kid who is going to go far!" Union Middle School Principal, Paul Clendenon echoes Mr. Meade’s sentiments–”Eli is such a great kid! He brings a very positive energy to our school and we are glad he is a student here!” In his student spotlight interview, Eli emphatically answered, “I love my teachers, and my school!”
For Eli, music is far more than a skill; it is a vital emotional outlet. Playing the piano brings him a deep sense of peace, whether he is providing music before and after service at his church or working through challenging emotions at home. "When I am frustrated, or upset, a good way to express it is to play piano pieces that are aggressive," Eli explains. He advocates for a broader view of the art form, noting, "Most people think of classical music as very slow and traditional; however, aggressive music can be considered classical in its own form, and it's a genre more people really should look into."
Eli’s talents have drawn the attention of prominent figures in the music world. Through his former instructor, Carol Stone, Eli connected with Alexander Peskanov, a renowned Ukrainian-American concert pianist, Juilliard graduate, and author of The Russian Technical Regimen for the Piano. Eli has since benefited from virtual mentorship sessions with the New York-based composer.
Beyond the piano keys, Eli is an active member of the UMS music program. He plays trumpet in the Union Middle Marching Band, handles Percussion 4 for the Competition Band, and is currently preparing to audition on French horn for the Middle School All-District band. He also excels in chorus and finds strong support among his classmates. "They often congratulate me, and I’m so grateful for that," Eli says.
Looking ahead toward his five-year goal of performing professionally, Eli remains deeply grounded and proud of his roots and is eager to represent his local community well. Eli loves Union Middle School, and loves the marching band. His passion for music grows each day. Union High Band Director, Mrs. Kimberly Sturgill is impressed with his artistic abilities— “Eli is one of our most outstanding up-and-coming Union Band members. He has such heart, spirit, and a natural aptitude for music well beyond his years. The sky is the limit for this fabulous young man, and we are honored to be on this journey with him! “
Today, Eli lives with his mother Ariel—whom he considers his biggest fan—his step-dad, Wes, and his 7-year-old step-sister. "I am so glad they are my family," Eli shares with a smile. Wise County Public Schools and Union Middle School extend their warm congratulations to Eli on his achievements, and look forward to supporting him each step of the way. Eli, your COMMUNITY is behind you. We are so proud of all you have accomplished!
If you are an experienced, skilled piano instructor or professional musician interested in offering guidance or mentorship to Eli, please contact shelton@wisek12.org to be connected with Eli's guardian.
To view Eli playing piano, click the links to view:
Google link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GgOLqK-ZNdcZh4NzMA16wuOeviKHqSgP/view?usp=sharing
YouTube link: https://youtu.be/jnOpV-uDOho
The WCPS September 2026 Newsletter is now available for viewing.
You may access the newsletter by clicking the following link:
https://wisecova.edurooms.com/newsletters/wise-county-public-schools/newsletters/september-2026-newsletter
The Wise County School Board was honored to welcome special guests from Union Primary School at the regularly scheduled school board meeting last night, Monday, September 14, 2026.
Principal Dr. Heather Sykes shared a glimpse into a special learning experience at Union Primary, where a group of kindergarten students explored local history and discovered the stories, places, and people that help shape our community.
What a wonderful reminder that learning extends far beyond the classroom. By connecting our youngest learners with the history of their own community, students are building a deeper appreciation for where they come from and the people who came before them.
Thank you, Dr. Sykes, and the Union Primary kindergarteners for sharing your learning journey with us!
🌟 From One-Room Schools to Coal Mines: UPS Kindergarten Takes a Deep Dive into Local History! 🌟
Our UPS kindergarteners put down their textbooks and stepped right into the storybooks during an immersive tour of Big Stone Gap and Appalachia! Designed to bring state Social Science standards to life, this trip gave our youngest learners a hands-on look at the geography, history, and vibrant culture that make our mountain home so special.
Exploring How People Lived The students stepped back in time to compare past and present. At the Duff Academy and Kelly View School, they marveled at historical wooden desks, potbelly stoves, and the lack of indoor plumbing. At Kelly View, former student Mrs. Gladys shared her memories of attending school there as a first-grader, helping the children spot the differences between historical classrooms and their own. The kids also investigated why every room had a fireplace at the June Tolliver House and visited the home of author John Fox Jr.
Uncovering Local Industry & Heritage Coal and rail built our region, and our students got a front-row seat to that legacy:
Hands-on History: At the Southwest Virginia Museum and the Harry W. Meador Jr. Coal Museum, two retired coal miners guided the children as they touched coal fossils, handled real artifacts, and climbed aboard a continuous mining machine outside.
Railroads & Local Governance: The group toured the historic 101 Car sleeper train overlooking Bullitt Park, saw a real courtroom inside the C. Bascom Slemp Federal Building, and marveled at the working layouts at the Appalachia Model Railroad Club.
Culture, Community & Local Hospitality The day was filled with rich cultural experiences, from taking the stage at the June Tolliver Playhouse (home of The Trail of the Lonesome Pine) to singing songs and listening to the church bell chime with retired teacher Joan Short at the local Episcopal Church.
To top off an unforgettable day, the students enjoyed a formal luncheon at the John Fox Jr. House—complete with what the kids officially declared the "best dessert ever"—before wrapping up their trip with a special performance of their own!
Thank You to Our Community! A giant thank-you to all the local historians, retired educators, volunteers, and hosts who opened their doors and rolled out the red carpet for our students. You helped make local history unforgettable!
Kingergarten performance link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mlGhpceC_6o
Today, September 15, we recognize and celebrate the dedicated technology professionals who keep Wise County Public Schools connected, secure, and moving forward.
From supporting classrooms and staff to troubleshooting technology challenges, maintaining critical systems, protecting our digital environment, and helping our schools make the most of today’s technology, our IT technicians and instructional coaches play an essential role in the success of our students and staff.
We are also blessed with Technology Director, Dr. Scott Kiser, whose leadership is evident in every facet of our school day.
Thank you to our WCPS IT professionals for all you do to keep us connected and helping our schools thrive!
🎭 National Arts in Education Week - 9/13-9/19🎨
Throughout this week, Wise County Public Schools celebrates the incredible impact the arts have on our students, our schools, and our community.
From theatre and music to visual arts and creative expression, the arts provide students with opportunities to discover their talents, build confidence, collaborate with others, and express themselves in meaningful ways.
We are especially proud of the accomplishments happening across our schools:
🎭 Eastside High School One-Act Theatre, under the direction of Mr. Shane Burke, has demonstrated excellence on the state stage, earning One-Act State Championship honors.
🎶 Wise Central High School’s 9 O’Clock Club, sponsored by VHSL Hall of Fame member Mrs. Jan Thompson, provides students with opportunities to develop their musical talents and experience the joy of performing.
🎺With over 120 band members, Union High School Band, under the direction of Mrs. Kimberly Sturgill, continues to achieve success while inspiring students through music, dedication, and teamwork.
We are thankful for our art instructors at the elementary, middle and secondary levels who encourage creativity, nurture talent, and provide a creative outlet for our students. Their dedication helps students discover their voices, explore their passions, and develop skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
During National Arts in Education Week, we celebrate the creativity, passion, and talent of our students and the educators who make the arts an essential part of the educational experience.
The arts inspire. The arts empower. The arts help our students shine.
Since 1979, Betty Robinette has been a familiar and caring presence in the Union community. With the exception of a five-year break, Betty has dedicated 42 years to serving Wise County Public Schools as a school bus driver, safely transporting generations of students throughout the Union community.
Serving students at Union Primary, Union Middle, and Union High School, Betty embodies the spirit of community and school pride that makes Union special. Her commitment extends far beyond driving a bus. She has purchased Christmas gifts for students, returned backpacks and hoodies, and always looked for ways to support students and their well-being.
That spirit of school pride was on full display when the buses rolled into Union High School playing music to pump up students and staff. It was a celebration of the energy, pride, and sense of community that bus drivers in the Union community have helped foster throughout their years of service.
Her impact is evident when a current student walks up to Betty and simply says, “Good morning.” It is a small moment that reflects the meaningful relationships she has built with students throughout her years of service.
Thank you, Betty, for 42 years of service, compassion, community, and school spirit. Wise County is appreciative of your 42 years of dedication and committment to student success.
At Wise County Public Schools, we are proud of the students who walk through our doors—and even prouder of the people they become.
Our Alumni Spotlight series celebrates former students who are making a difference in their careers, families, schools, communities, and beyond. These stories highlight the many paths our graduates take and the accomplishments they achieve along the way.
From successful careers and community leadership to personal milestones and service to others, our alumni continue to represent the values and traditions of excellence they developed during their time in Wise County Public Schools.
We invite you to follow along as we share the stories of some of our outstanding graduates and celebrate the many ways they continue to make us proud.
If you are a graduate of Wise County Public Schools and would like for us to spotlight your journey, click the link below:
https://forms.gle/AtnHnFwmr9Li6y3z8
Wise County Public Schools is proud to share an exciting opportunity for Wise County students and residents to participate in the Semiquincentennial Essay Contest, celebrating the 250th Birthday of the United States of America!
SEMIQUINCENTENNIAL ESSAY CONTEST INFORMATION
To celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States of America, the Wise Business Association and Wise County Historical Society are sponsoring an Essay Contest for Wise County residents—both youth and adults!
📖 Theme: “Remember the Past, Imagine the Future”
Let your imagination be your guide! Choose any event from our nation’s long history that interests you and explore something you would like to learn more about.
✍️ Two Categories:
Youth: 18 years of age and younger
Adult: 19 years of age and older
🏆 Prizes in Each Category:
🥇 1st Place — $150
🥈 2nd Place — $100
📅 Deadline: September 26, 2026
📝 Entries must be typed and limited to 500 words.
📄 Cover Sheet Requirements:
Please include:
Adult or Youth
School (if Youth)
Name
Address
Email
Phone Number
📬 Mail Entries To:
Bonnie Aker
Box 595
Wise, VA 24293
ATT: ESSAY
📍 Entries may also be dropped off during business hours at:
The Clapboard House
207 West Main Street
Wise, VA
🎉 Award Ceremony
📅 Friday, October 9, 2026
⏰ 6:00 PM
📍 The Inn at Wise
Light refreshments and music will be provided. Everyone is welcome!
We encourage our Wise County students, families, and community members to participate in this special opportunity to celebrate our nation’s history while imagining its future!
Thank you for participating in this historical event!
We hope our students, families, faculty, staff, and community members enjoy a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable long weekend.
Thank you to the hardworking individuals who help make our schools and our community strong each and every day. We appreciate all you do!
We look forward to welcoming everyone back on Tuesday, September 8.
Have a wonderful Labor Day weekend, Wise County!
📢 Upcoming Schedule Changes
Wise County Public Schools would like to remind families and staff of the following schedule changes:
🕧 Early Dismissal – Friday, September 4, 2026
Schools will dismiss at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, September 4, in observance of the midpoint of the first nine-week grading period.
📚 Teacher Reminder: Teachers are expected to participate in scheduled professional development activities until 3:30 p.m.
🏫 Schools Closed – Labor Day, Monday, September 7, 2026
Wise County Public Schools will be closed on Monday, September 7, in observance of Labor Day.
Students and staff will return to school on Tuesday, September 8.
We hope everyone enjoys a safe, relaxing, and enjoyable Labor Day weekend!
WCPS will be offering FREE developmental and speech screenings Friday, September 25th. These screenings are open to preschool children ages 2.5 - 5 years of age, who live in Wise County, and are not yet attending kindergarten. For more information, contact Kristen Day at kpday@wisek12.org, or at (276) 328-8017 ext. 12043.
Today, a small group of reading interventionists and special education teachers came together for professional development and collaboration.
This was a wonderful opportunity to share ideas, strengthen instructional practices, and learn from one another as we continue working together to support the unique needs of every student.
We appreciate the dedication and teamwork of these educators who are committed to making a difference in the lives of our students every day!
Together, we grow. Together, we succeed.
