🍎✨ Happy Substitute Educators Day! ✨🍎
Today, Wise County Public Schools proudly celebrates our incredible substitute educators — those who step in with flexibility, care, and commitment whenever they’re needed most. Our substitutes provide stability and guidance, keeping learning moving forward for every student, every day.
Thank you for your dedication, adaptability, and the positive impact you make across all our schools. You truly help light the way for student success in Wise County!
Today, Wise County Public Schools proudly celebrates the incredible individuals who keep our schools shining bright — our Education Support Professionals.
From bus drivers and cafeteria staff to custodians, secretaries, instructional aides, and maintenance teams — you are the steady light that helps guide our schools safely each day. 🌟
Thank you for being an essential part of the Wise County Schools family — your light makes all the difference!
Thanksgiving Break Closure Notice:
Please be advised that all schools will be closed Monday, November 24 through Friday, November 28 in observance of the Thanksgiving Break. Regular classes and school operations will resume on Monday, December 1.
We wish our students, their families, and our faculty and staff a safe and joyful Thanksgiving holiday.
This week, November 17th-21st, Wise County Public Schools proudly celebrates American Education Week — a time to shine a light on the students, educators, staff, families, and community members who make our schools strong. Just like a lighthouse, our schools guide every learner toward success, illuminating the path with knowledge, compassion, and opportunity.
Join us in recognizing the dedication of our teachers, the hard work of our students, and the unwavering support of our community. Together, we’re lighting the way to a brighter future for Wise County! ✨
#AmericanEducationWeek #WiseCountyPublicSchools
EARLY DISMISSAL NOTIFICATION - FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14:
In observance of the mid-point of the second nine-weeks grading period, schools will dismiss early at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, November 14. Teachers are reminded that they are expected to participate in scheduled professional development activities until 3:30pm.
Wise County Public Schools releases 2025-2026 Altered Schedule Codes:
Wise County Public Schools will utilize the following codes when altered schedules are required. While traditional snow days will remain an option, the following codes may be announced.
School Closed - Traditional Snow Day - 12 Month Employees Report at 10:00 am and stay until 4:30 unless otherwise notified (No Virtual Learning)
Code 0 - Schools are closed and no employees report to work (No Virtual Learning)
Code 1 - Virtual Learning Day. Students will not report to school but all contracted employees report at 10:00 am. Virtual Learning will begin at 10:00 am for students. Virtual Learning Day Schedules will be shared by your child(ren)’s teachers. Teachers will be required to work from school.
Code 2 - 2 Hour Delay. All school activities begin 2 hours later than our regular schedule.
Code 3 - Virtual Learning Day. Students, teachers, and counselors will work from home. Instruction will begin at 10:00 am and will follow the Virtual Learning Day Schedule. Twelve month employees, 180 day contracted employees, 185 day contracted employees, and 200 day contracted employees will report to work at 10:00 am and stay until 4:30 unless otherwise notified.
*All altered schedule announcements will be made by 6:00 am.
*If a 2 Hour Delay is called, any change to that schedule will be announced by 8:00 am.
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.
📢 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
🚨 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)
🚌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!
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! 📘🍎
📢 Early Release Reminder!
This is a reminder that all schools will dismiss early at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, October 10, in observance of the end of the first nine weeks grading period.
Teachers are reminded that they are expected to participate in scheduled professional development activities following dismissal, lasting until 3:30 p.m.
Thank you for your attention and cooperation!
📢 Reminder: Fall Break Closure 🍂
Wise County Public Schools will be closed on Monday, October 13th for Fall Break.
We hope all students, staff, and families enjoy a safe and relaxing long weekend! 🧡🍁
🍂🎉 The Wise County Career and Technical Education Center (WCCTC) hosted their annual Fall Festival today! Students enjoyed corn hole, pumpkin carving contests, seed spitting contests, pie eating contests, a cupcake walk, bingo, football toss, ring toss, putt putt, and more! Huge thanks to our administration, sponsors and teachers for grilling up delicious hamburgers for the students! 🍔🎃
Fall fun, friendly competition, and great food—what a perfect way to celebrate the fall season! 🍁👏
This month, we’re giving a huge THANK YOU to the heart of our schools — our PRINCIPALS! 💙
From leading with vision to supporting every student and staff member, your commitment to community makes a difference every single day. 🙌
🧹 Happy National Custodian Day! 🧼
Today, we honor the hardworking custodians who keep our schools clean, safe, and running smoothly. Your dedication, attention to detail, and pride in your work make a world of difference every single day for our students, faculty, and staff. 🌟
To all custodians—thank you for everything you do! We appreciate you. 🙌
#NationalCustodianDay
Today we toured the Precision Machining & Welding Fabrication classes, and WOW—did you know these programs have metal AND wood CNC machines for design fabrication? Students produce metal machinery parts for local residents and businesses at minimal cost, helping fund their program! During the holidays, students fabricate wreath hangers and candy cane decorations which are powder-coated in house for outdoor use as a fundraiser!💡
Exciting news: they’re adding a new lathe to move from 2D to 3D cutting and design which will allow for 3-dimensional wood signs! Plus, fun fact—those iconic signs like the “LOVE” sign in downtown Wise, VA and the WCCTC sign at the Career & Technical Education Center were created by these talented students! They also fabricated and powder-coated hole markers for the Lonesome Pine Country Club❤️⚙️
Their latest project? A fully designed and fabricated grill (with trailer) all fabricated by this class, which will be auctioned soon—with a custom logo option for the winner! 🔥
Next Gen Entrepreneurship: Beyond welding and fabrication skills, these students are learning entrepreneurship—turning their designs and craftsmanship into real business opportunities.
Huge shoutout to instructors Darren Mullins and Derick Robinson for leading the next generation of multi-skilled welders and fabricators! They work with local community colleges, including MECC, to increase the pipeline for apprenticeships, placing students in 2-year vocational tracks, or industry (locally, Tate Manufacturing, NorrisBuilt Fabrication, Welding, and Machinery; and regionally, Eastman Chemical) 💪⚡
#WCCTCProud
Wise/Norton School Flu Clinic Information:
Pre-Registration:
https://redcap.link/lenoflu25
2025-2026 Parent Letter Link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZWw32MlgotvWb3txAsApEy4DRWL-YIR9/view?usp=sharing
Student Registration Link: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bsuCxh5lsz_2a01aFBYyiwmjO6Fy10w6/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=118171730297788648515&rtpof=true&sd=true
Employee Registration Link: https://docs.google.com/document/d/16e2DndZ-hj-IP3jSwaH-SSbvtyYhiVYz/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=118171730297788648515&rtpof=true&sd=true
For more information, please call: (276) 328-8000
📢 SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER RECAP
Link: https://wisecova.edurooms.com/engage/wise-county-public-schools/newsletters/september-2025-newsletter
We’re off to an incredible start! Here’s what’s been happening in our amazing school communities:
🎒 Student Opportunities Expand
Our latest field trip opened doors to real-world learning—proof that opportunity is growing for every Eastside Spartan!
🏆 School Board Highlights
✅ Dominating SOL Rankings in VA
✅ 11 YEARS of Superior Academic Performance
We’re proud to lead the way in the pursuit of excellence!
🧠 Curriculum & Instruction Updates
Our teachers continue to grow through professional development in:
• 🤖 AI Training
• 📚 UFLI Literacy Training
• 🏫 Science of Reading & HMH Implementation Training (SPED Grades 3–8)
🌟 Spotlighting Student Success
• 🎖️ Cole Morgan: WCYB 5-Star Student
• 🏈 Kam Bostic: WCYB News 5 Player of the Week
• 💻 Kenzie Oliver: 2nd Place (High School Division) – SWVA Can Code Pitchfest
• 💻 Gemma Sturgill: 3rd Place (Middle School Division) – SWVA Can Code Pitchfest
🛒 COMMUNITY Power
Thanks to everyone who united for Food City Bucks—your support fuels student success! Union Primary, Middle and High School Bears lead the way!
🎉 Speech Pathology Week
We celebrated our incredible speech-language team—thank you for giving our students a voice!
🚍 Transportation Spotlight
👏 Huge thanks to Robin Yates for keeping our students safe and smiling!
🍎 Educational Spotlight: Teachers for Tomorrow
At WCCTC, this program is building the next generation of passionate educators. The future is bright!
Let’s keep pushing forward, together. 💙
