WCPS will be offering FREE developmental and speech screenings on Friday, October 30th. 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, Wise County Public Schools recognizes and celebrates our incredible custodians who work behind the scenes each day to keep our schools clean, safe, and welcoming.
From early mornings to late afternoons, our custodians do so much more than maintain our buildings—they help create positive environments where students and staff can learn, work, and thrive.
Thank you to each of these individuals for their hard work, dedication, and the pride they take in caring for our schools. We appreciate you today and every day!
Amazing Students, Amazing Accomplishments | Student Spotlight: Orion | 1st Grade (JWAC)
At just six years old, Orion Branham is already leaving a big impression on the halls of James Woodrow Adams Combined (JWAC) School in Pound, Virginia. A first grader with a towering intellect and an infectious curiosity, Orion represents the bright future of a family deeply rooted in education—his mother, Mrs. Khirsten Branham, teaches 8th grade English at JWAC, while his father, Mike, is completing his teaching degree at UVA-Wise with plans to teach history.
A Mind Built for Discovery
Orion’s exceptional abilities surfaced early. By the age of three, he was already reading and comprehending text. During his Pre-K years, his remarkable aptitude for mathematics prompted educators and his physician to recommend IQ testing, revealing a score of 136. Orion’s mother, Khirsten, states, “Orion’s pre-K teacher [Mrs. Samantha Bevins] first suggested that he be evaluated through a child study. The testing revealed that he presented with many of the traits of an autistic child, but also that he had an IQ of 136. The diagnosis was later confirmed by his pediatrician. Receiving his diagnosis helped us better understand the way Orion experiences the world and gave us greater insight into both his strengths and the areas where he may need additional support. Autism is an important part of who Orion is. He thrives on routine and predictability and feels most comfortable when he knows what to expect. He also has a remarkably strong sense of justice and morality. Fairness is very important to him, and he has deeply held ideas about rules, right and wrong, and how people should treat one another. These qualities are a meaningful part of his personality and help make Orion the thoughtful, caring, and wonderfully unique child that he is. We wouldn't have him any other way!”
Now in first grade, Orion is able to compute algebraic expressions and now reads complex chapter books at a 5th-to-6th-grade reading level with total ease. His passion for numbers continues to soar.
Beyond math, Orion is fascinated by history, world geography, national flags, and the complex relationships between countries and historic empires. When asked about his future, Orion doesn't hesitate: he wants to become an archaeologist. Inspired by a visit to a fossil museum, he dreams of unearthing ancient bones, studying intricate fossil formations, and exploring prehistoric coral structures.
Classroom Connections & Family
Orion’s favorite part of the school day revolves around learning with his favorite teacher, Mrs. Butler. When asked about her, his eyes light up instantly—a testament to the impact she has made on him. His reason for holding her in such high regard is simple and direct: "She talks about math." Leadership and academic talent seem to run in the family. Orion’s two-year-old younger brother, affectionately nicknamed "Jack Jack," is already showing early signs of the same bright aptitude and will eventually follow in his big brother’s footsteps at JWAC.
Life Beyond the Classroom
When he isn't diving into advanced reading or studying world maps, Orion is a quintessential kid with a deep love for Pokémon. He earns an allowance and carefully saves his money to expand his growing Pokémon card collection. He also enjoys heading to the lanes for a game of bowling. When it comes to comfort food, nothing tops a plate of his Nan’s homemade spaghetti—a detail Orion insisted had to be part of his story.
High Praise from JWAC Educators
"I truly think Orion is smarter than me! He is amazingly brilliant! I love talking and interacting with him."— Mrs. Emily Bush, Guidance Counselor
"He has a brilliant mind and a heart full of curiosity. He loves learning new things. I learn new and interesting facts from him daily!"— Mrs. Butler, 1st Grade Teacher
“Orion is an exceptionally bright student who demonstrates intelligence and understanding well beyond his years. His curiosity, quick thinking, and eagerness to learn set him apart and show tremendous potential for future success. He is a fun guy to have around the school.” — Mr. Chris Wilson, Principal
“I have had the pleasure of watching Orion grow from a toddler baby to the bright boy he is. His love of math has amazed me. I can't wait to see how far his intelligence takes him.” — Mrs. Salyers, Assistant Principal
While in pre-K, Orion was awarded a "Most Likely To Ask What 49+52 Is" certificate from Mrs. Samantha Bevins!
Wise County Public Schools and J.W. Adams Combined School extend their warm congratulations to Orion on his achievements, and look forward to supporting him each step of the way. Orion, we are so proud of all you have accomplished!
Click the links to watch a video of Orion (4 years old) in Pre-K working on multiplication:
Google Link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wwPFzoUVKcSXDDai-6VuMLrU4v0P6Or0/view?usp=sharing
YouTube Link:https://youtube.com/shorts/E0J1EtcvCZ4
October is Bullying Prevention Month!
At Wise County Public Schools, we believe every student deserves to feel safe, respected, valued, and included. Throughout the month of October, we will share activities that our schools and students are participating in to spread kindness.
This month, let’s all remember to:
• Celebrate our differences.
• Include those who may feel left out.
• Know that our actions matter.
• Respect one another.
• Listen with patience.
• And most importantly, be kind to one another.
Small acts of kindness can make a lasting difference. Together, we can help create school communities where everyone feels like they belong.
Watch the Virginia School Boards Association’s Bullying Prevention Month video here:
https://youtu.be/edl64xcmvb8?si=osVBO_U8hCLRCwtr
#BullyingPreventionMonth #BeKind #ChooseKindness #WiseCountyPublicSchools
Hands-On Learning. Real-World Skills. Endless Opportunities.
There’s always something happening at the Wise County Career and Technical Education Center (WCCTC)!
The Teachers for Tomorrow class welcomed elementary visitors for a fun and engaging experience. Elementary students interacted with the class, even jumping along to a video and enjoying an exciting glimpse into career and technical education.
Throughout WCCTC, students were putting their skills to work—constructing an outdoor building, welding a trash container, and applying their knowledge through hands-on projects.
This is what career and technical education is all about: learning, creating, building, and preparing students for their futures.
We’re thankful for the leadership of Principal Mr. Austin and Assistant Principal Jodie Bowen, whose hard work and dedication continue to help WCCTC grow, expand, and remain on the cutting edge of career and technical education.
The Pulse – Season 3, Episode 1 features two outstanding students from L.F. Addington Middle School! Tune in to hear their voices, perspectives, and experiences as they share their stories.
https://youtu.be/yNUAz2s_yVE?si=H5vMpdofDBItxl2T
Alumni Spotlight | Katelynn Elliot, Eastside High, Class of 2019
Since graduating from Wise County Public Schools, Katelynn “Katie” Elliott has built a meaningful career in pediatric nursing, spending the past five years caring for children and supporting their families. Through her work in healthcare, Katie discovered a passion for birth work and is now pursuing additional training to become a doula, allowing her to support women and families throughout pregnancy and childbirth.
Katie credits WCPS with helping instill a strong work ethic and a heart for serving others. The encouragement and support she received from her teachers gave her the confidence to pursue a career in healthcare and continue growing professionally. She especially remembers Hope Cloud (Lyons) as someone from WCPS who made a positive impact on her journey.
When asked about her favorite high school memory, Katie had a difficult choice: winning the state championship with One-Act or traveling to Washington, D.C., with National Honor Society.
Her advice to current students is simple and meaningful:
“Work hard, stay open to new opportunities, and don’t be afraid if your path changes along the way. Some of the most meaningful passions and opportunities in life are discovered through experiences you never expected.”
Katie’s journey is a wonderful reminder that the path forward may not always be predictable—but the lessons, relationships and experiences gained along the way can help shape a life of purpose and service.
Wise County Public Schools is eager to learn about and share alumni highlights from its graduates! Please click here to complete a submission form.
The Lenowisko Health Department has shared dates and times for upcoming school-based flu clinics for students.
Parents/guardians may register online by using the REDCap link provided on the flyer or by clicking the link below:
https://redcap.link/lenoschoolflu26
The Lenowisko Health Department is requesting that consent forms be completed by October 4, 2026. Health Department staff will begin collecting completed forms after this date. Please note that additional consent forms received after October 4 will still be accepted.
Parents/guardians are encouraged to review the attached flyer for clinic dates, times, and additional information.
10/13/2026 - JW Adams Combined - 9:00am
10/13/2026 - Wise Primary School - 10:30am
10/13/2026 - LF Addington Middle - 1:00pm
10/14/2026 - Wise Alt Ed/ School Board - 9:00am
10/14/2026 - Central High School - 10:30am
10/14/2026 - St Paul Elementary - 1:00pm
10/15/2026 - Coeburn Primary School - 9:00am
10/15/2026 - Coeburn Middle School - 10:30am
10/15/2026 - Eastside High School - 1:00pm
10/19/2026 - Union Primary School - 9:00am
10/19/2026 - Union Middle School - 10:30am
10/19/2026 - Union High School - 1:00pm
Student Vaccination Form: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1s2cBgYctQBgbet7hge4ilUV7VhpRjP5n/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=118171730297788648515&rtpof=true&sd=true
Employee/Staff Vaccination Form: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1eNmbxu1wG5KMFi0prJsuIqLCfhZwYlsP/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=118171730297788648515&rtpof=true&sd=true
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.
