Central High Senior Hits High Note: Nolan Hylton Ranks 3rd in State
WISE, VA – Nolan Hylton, a senior at Central High School, has achieved a rare and prestigious honor by earning third chair in the All-Virginia Band and Orchestra. This placement officially recognizes Hylton as the third-best high school trumpet player in the entire state of Virginia, a distinction that transcends school size and geographic region. Nolan has been involved in band since the 5th grade, when he first began playing the trumpet. What started as an introduction to music quickly grew into a deep passion and a clear professional aspiration. His dedication and talent earned him a full scholarship to the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA), a top-25 school for music performance, where he hopes to become a professional orchestral musician.
With the goal of becoming a professional orchestra musician, Nolan has already gained valuable experience, including auditioning for and performing with the Symphony of the Mountains in Kingsport. These opportunities have strengthened both his performance ability and commitment to his craft.
The journey to the All-Virginia ensemble is a rigorous, multi-stage process:
District Level: Hylton first had to secure a spot in the top four of the All-District Band. He surpassed this requirement by earning second chair.
State Auditions: Moving on to James Madison University, Hylton competed against more than 70 of the elite trumpet players from across Virginia.
The Result: His performance earned him the third overall seat, a feat rarely seen in Wise County or the City of Norton.
A Rare Achievement for Southwest Virginia
Local educators note that only two or three students from the Wise County and Norton areas have earned seats in this ensemble over the past fifteen years. Upon looking at archives, Noah believes he is one of few students to have earned a seat in the “Orchestra” category. Noah’s lifelong trumpet instructor, Donald Sorah states:
"I’ve had the privilege of teaching Nolan for the past two years, and his growth has been the result of an incredible work ethic and determination. Earning third chair in the All-Virginia Band means he is one of the very best trumpet players in the entire state of Virginia, regardless of school size or division. That is an extraordinary accomplishment, and it’s especially meaningful to see a student from Wise County achieve this level of success. Nolan has worked tirelessly for this moment, and I couldn’t be more proud of him.”
His musical journey was inspired by his aunt, Janie Short, who passed down the instrument he still plays today. Her influence, along with her own educational path at UVA Wise, helped shape his early interest in music. Additionally, the support of his grandparents, who provided access to lessons, played a significant role in his development. Through those lessons, he built strong habits of discipline, accountability, and perseverance that continue to guide his success. Hylton’s achievement is a testament to his discipline and the high caliber of musical talent present in Southwest Virginia.
Wise County Public Schools proudly congratulates Nolan Hylton, from Central High, on this prestigious fine arts honor!
Today, Friday, March 20th, Wise County Public Schools celebrates the amazing educators who inspire, nurture, and guide our little ones every day. Your patience, creativity, and dedication lay the foundation for a lifetime of learning, curiosity, and growth.
Thank you for making a difference in the lives of children and for shaping the future—one story, one song, and one lesson at a time!
Wise County Public Schools thanks each of our Pre-K educators for their committment and dedication to our Pre-K students and families!
School Calendar Reminder:
The third nine weeks grading period will conclude on Friday, March 20. Please be advised that Friday, March 20 will be observed as a regular school day. Please take note of the following dates corresponding to the grading periods for the 3rd and 4th nine-week terms:
March 20, 2026 - End of 3rd Nine Week Grading Period ***Regular dismissal
April 24, 2026 - Mid 9 weeks (4th Nine Week Grading Period) ***Regular dismissal
May 29, 2026 - End of 4th Nine Week Grading Period ***12:30pm Early dismissal
Thank you for your continued cooperation and support.
Honoring our Lifelong Distinguished Educators | Mrs. Nora Slemp, Eastside High School, 42 years and counting!
With 42 years of dedicated service to Wise County Public Schools, beginning in 1983, Mrs. Nora Slemp has been fortunate to spend her career doing what she truly loves. “I started at Coeburn High School and, through consolidation, continued my journey at Eastside High School—where I remain today. Eastside is more than just a workplace; it is my family. My husband, James Slemp, serves as Head Custodian at EHS, making it even more special to be part of this community together.”
Over the years, Mrs. Slemp has had the opportunity to grow and adapt, transitioning into her current role as a school receptionist. “One of the greatest joys of my job has always been the students. I have also been blessed to work alongside an incredible faculty and staff, past and present, who have made each day meaningful. Many of the student-assistants have returned to serve at Coeburn High School/Eastside High School and several have become really good friends of mine.”
When asked about what she loves about her job, Mrs. Slemp said without hesitation, “I believe in always being kind and approachable because you never truly know what a student may be facing outside of school. Taking the time to get to know them, to listen, and to offer guidance and encouragement can make a lasting difference. Mentoring and supporting students has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career.”
Now at 42 years and counting, “I have no plans to retire anytime soon. This work continues to bring me purpose, and I am grateful every day to be a part of the Eastside family.” Eastside High School Principal, Matthew Hamilton states, "Nora has been the glue holding this school together for many years. Her knowledge of the students and the families is truly unmatched. She wears many hats in the this office everyday. Nora's value to both me and this school is to the infinite degree for sure!!" Eastside's Assistant Principal and Athletic Director, J.W. Salyers, echoes Hamilton's remarks, stating, "Mrs. Nora is the glue that holds EHS together. She always has a welcoming smile and is dedicated to her job."
Wise County Public Schools is grateful for Mrs. Slemp and her lifelong service to the families of Coeburn, St. Paul, and the entire Eastside school community.
With 8 years of experience—and additional time spent as a substitute driver—Mike brings commitment, care, and consistency to his route every day.
What does he enjoy most? Taking care of students and making sure they get where they need to go, safely. It’s the little moments that mean the most—“The kids hug you—that makes a day!”
Mike’s passion for helping others shines through in everything he does. He simply enjoys being there for his students and supporting them however he can.
Thank you, Mike, for keeping our children safe and making a difference each day! 💛
Our alumni spotlight features Emma Chandler Mullins, Class of 2020, from Central High School.
Wise County Public Schools is eager to learn about and share alumni highlights from its graduates! Please click here to complete a submission form: https://forms.gle/ADQAbVxjGmieZA6R9.
Registration is currently open for the WCPS Summer Arts Academy! We are already beginning to fill spots, so families may want to act soon if they would like their students to participate.
• This summer’s production will be The Wizard of Oz
• Transportation will be provided from school communities to CMS daily
• Breakfast and lunch will be available
• The program begins June 1, the same day as summer school, but runs one week longer
• Performances will be held June 26 and June 27 at CMS
Additional details are available on the Google registration form through the QR code on the flyer.
For more information, please contact:
Shane Burke
Theatre Instructor
Coeburn Middle School | Eastside High School
✉️ dsburke@wisek12.org
📞 (276) 395 2135
Spring Vaccination Clinic Information:
Information concerning spring vaccination clinics is attached. These clinics will target rising 7th and 12th grade students.
One dose of Tdap and one dose of Meningococcal (MenACWY) are required before entering the 7th grade. A complete series of 2 doses of HPV vaccines is also required, with the first dose administered before entering the 7th grade. Parents or guardians may choose NOT to have their child receive the HPV vaccine. A second dose of MenACWY is required before entering the 12th grade.
Parents may either complete a paper consent form, or register online by using the link at the bottom of the flyer. We ask parents to please specify the vaccines that they wish for their child to receive on the consent form. If parents have questions, they may reach out to the local health department, or contact:
Sheryl Bentley, BSN, RN
Supervisor of School Health Services
sbentley@wisek12.org
Phone: 276-321-0046 ext:12050
2026 Adolescent Vaccination Consent Form:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aB-KFlETRoYyQ_hhTHxcGxejBTqWl7c8/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=118171730297788648515&rtpof=true&sd=true
Online registration link: http://redcap.link/lenospring26
Position: 26 - 27 School Year- PreK-6 Teacher(s)- Various Locations
Employment Link: https://wiseva.schoolspring.com/?jobid=5583154
Starting Date:
August 3, 2026
Desired Qualification:
Must have a current PreK-6 teaching license issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.
The Wise County School Board is an equal opportunity employer, committed to nondiscrimination in recruitment, selection, hiring, pay, promotion, retention or other personnel actions affecting employees or candidates for employment. Therefore, discrimination in employment against any person on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, political affiliation, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, marital status, status as a veteran, genetic information or disability is prohibited. Personnel decisions are based on merit and the ability to perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Terms of Employment:
Full Time
Contact Information:
David Stanley
Human Resources Director
CENTRAL OFFICE
Phone: 276-328-8017
Email: dstanley@wisek12.org
Position: 26 - 27 6-8 Middle School Teacher(s) Various locations (All Endorsements)
Employment Link: https://wiseva.schoolspring.com/?jobid=5583409
Starting Date:
August 3, 2026
Desired Qualification:
Must have a current 6-8 Middle School endorsement teaching license issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia. (Middle school 6-8 Science, History, English and Math Endorsement)
The Wise County School Board is an equal opportunity employer, committed to nondiscrimination in recruitment, selection, hiring, pay, promotion, retention or other personnel actions affecting employees or candidates for employment. Therefore, discrimination in employment against any person on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, political affiliation, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, marital status, status as a veteran, genetic information or disability is prohibited. Personnel decisions are based on merit and the ability to perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Terms of Employment:
Full Time
Contact Information:
David Stanley
Human Resources Director
CENTRAL OFFICE
Phone: 276-328-8017
Email: dstanley@wisek12.org
Position: 26 - 27 School Year- Collaborative Special Education Teacher(s)- Various Locations
Employment Link: https://wiseva.schoolspring.com/?jobid=5583423
Starting Date:
August 3, 2026
Desired Qualification:
Must have a current Special Education teaching license issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.
The Wise County School Board is an equal opportunity employer, committed to nondiscrimination in recruitment, selection, hiring, pay, promotion, retention or other personnel actions affecting employees or candidates for employment. Therefore, discrimination in employment against any person on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, political affiliation, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, marital status, status as a veteran, genetic information or disability is prohibited. Personnel decisions are based on merit and the ability to perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Terms of Employment:
Full Time
Contact Information:
Cari Braddock
Director of Student Services
CENTRAL OFFICE
Phone: 276-328-8017
Email: cbraddock@wisek12.org
Position: 26 - 27 School Year- High School Self - Contained Special Education Teacher(s)- Various Locations
Employment Link: https://wiseva.schoolspring.com/?jobid=5583444
Starting Date:
August 3, 2026
Desired Qualification:
Must have a current Special Education teaching license issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.
The Wise County School Board is an equal opportunity employer, committed to nondiscrimination in recruitment, selection, hiring, pay, promotion, retention or other personnel actions affecting employees or candidates for employment. Therefore, discrimination in employment against any person on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, political affiliation, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, age, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, marital status, status as a veteran, genetic information or disability is prohibited. Personnel decisions are based on merit and the ability to perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Terms of Employment:
Full Time
Contact Information:
Cari Braddock
Director of Student Services
CENTRAL OFFICE
Phone: 276-328-8017
Email: cbraddock@wisek12.org
Position: 26-27 Speech Language Pathologist
Employment Link: https://wiseva.schoolspring.com/?jobid=5583454
Job Description:
Effective July 1, 2015, in order to practice speech-language pathology in Virginia public schools, an individual Must hold a valid speech-language pathologist license issued by the Virginia Board of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (BASLP). A valid license issued by the BASLP is required.
Terms of Employment:
Full Time
Contact Information:
Cari Braddock
Director of Student Services
CENTRAL OFFICE
Phone: 276-328-8017
Email: cbraddock@wisek12.org
