Our alumni spotlight features Dr. Ariel Cornett, Class of 2009, from Powell Valley High School.
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.
The Pro-Art Association has requested that we share important information that pertains to WiseJAMS after-school music program for 3rd-12th grade students who are enrolled in Wise County Public Schools.
Applications are open for the Spring 2026 semester of the WiseJAMS after-school music program. WiseJAMS provides traditional mountain music instruction and cultural enrichment opportunities for students in 3rd grade and up. Students can learn to play guitar, fiddle, or banjo. Program cost is $15 per lesson, or $150 for the semester if paid in advance. Full and partial scholarships may be available for those in need. The program also provides instruments for semester-long loan at no cost. To request an instrument, please submit the instrument loan agreement at proartva.org/wisejams.
The WiseJAMS-Wise program will offer lessons on Tuesdays from 3:30-5:30 p.m. beginning February 24th at L.F. Addington Middle School. Arrival times for students will start at 3:15 p.m. To register a student for the WiseJAMS-Wise program, please submit the registration form at proartva.org/wisejams by February 26th.
The WiseJAMS-Big Stone Gap program will offer lessons on Thursdays from 3:45-5:45 p.m. beginning February 26th at the Southwest Virginia Museum and Historical State Park. To register a student for the WiseJAMS-Big Stone Gap program, please call (276) 523-1322 by February 20th.
For more information, please contact:
Diana Burden
Marketing & Communications Director
Pro-Art Association
dburden@uvawise.edu | 276-376-4520
proartva.org
WCPS Releases 2026 High School Graduation Dates:
Eastside High School - Fri., May 15, 2026 @ 7:00pm @ UVA-Wise
Union High School - Sat., May 16, 2026 @ 11:00am @ UVA-Wise
Central High School - Sat., May 16, 2026 @ 4:00pm @ UVA-Wise
National School Resource Officer (SRO) Appreciation Day is observed annually on February 15th; however, we felt that it was appropriate to show our school resource officers appreciation today, Friday, February 13th. Wise County Public Schools sends a huge THANK YOU to the Wise County Sheriff's Office, and to our SRO's for everything they do for our students and staff. Being an SRO is about so much more than safety; it’s about building bridges, mentoring our youth, and being a friendly face in the hallway every single day.
Thank you, to all of our SRO's, for being protectors, teachers, and role models. Our schools are better because you’re in them! 💙
#SROAppreciationDay
The following revisions have been made to the 2025-2026 school calendar:
February 20, 2026 - Mid 9 weeks (3rd Nine Week Grading Period) ***Regular dismissal
March 6, 2026 - Will now be a FULL day of school
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
The month of February is deemed School Board Appreciation Month by the Virginia School Board Association (VSBA). The theme – From Strong Roots, Come Endless Possibilities – highlights the vital role school board members play in planting the seeds for student success—ensuring every student has the resources needed to grow, thrive, and reach their full potential.
The Wise County Public School division would like to extend our deepest appreciation to the following school board members who are serving on the current Wise County Public School Board:
Top (Left to Right): Larry Greear, Vicki Williams, Sandra Adkins, and Justin Bevins
Bottom (Left to Right): Mary Dora Smith, Angela Owens, Martha Jett, and Stephanie Kern
Tonight, Monday, January 9th, Wise County Public Schools recognized these incredible board members for their service to the students and families of Wise County. In anticipation of School Board Clerk Week 2026, WCPS is preparing to honor and recognize Mrs. Heather Fultz. for School Board Clerk Week (Feb 16–20, 2026). Wise County Public Schools would like to thank each of these individuals for their service and commitment to our school division!
