Christie Burke

This strategic plan outlines the direction for Lincoln County Schools, aiming to provide a quality, innovative education in a safe environment that fosters responsible, contributing citizens and lifelong learners. The plan focuses on three key goals: eliminating opportunity gaps, improving school and district performance, and enhancing educator preparedness and workforce quality.

The primary focus of this meeting is the Reorganization of the Board, including the election and qualification of the Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson for the year 2026, followed by the signing of the 2026 Board Members Code of Ethics. Key discussion items include Superintendent Updates/Information Items and Special Presentations recognizing winners of the Superintendent's Christmas Card Contest and recipients of the #WeAreLINCOLN recognition. Action items slated for consideration involve the High School Registration/Curriculum Guide for the 2026-2027 School Year, proposed Legislative Priorities for 2026, a recommendation to transition the E-Rate Wide Area Network (WAN) vendor from AT&T to Spectrum based on cost and performance improvements, a resolution concerning property at East Lincoln High School, personnel recommendations, the 2026-2027 School Calendar, and the review and approval of various policy updates including Policy 4342 (Student Searches) and several other policies stemming from legislative changes.

The meeting included the reorganization of the board, during which the chair and vice chair were elected and sworn in. The board members signed the code of ethics. The superintendent provided updates, including information on high school exam week, winter break, and the strategic plan for 2026-2031. The board recognized winners of the superintendent Christmas card contest, the 'We Are Lincoln' recognition, and celebrated the achievements of East Lincoln's athletic programs.

The meeting includes the Pledge of Allegiance led by students, and a reading of the Lincoln County Schools Mission Statement. The agenda covers the reorganization of the Board, including the election of the Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson, and the signing of the Board Members Code of Ethics for 2026. Superintendent Updates and Special Presentations, including recognition of the Superintendent's Christmas Card Contest Winners and #WeAreLINCOLN recipients, will be presented. Action items include the High School Registration/Curriculum Guide for the 2026-2027 school year and Legislative Priorities for 2026. The E-Rate Wide Area Network transition from AT&T to Spectrum will be discussed. The consent agenda includes approval of minutes, budget amendments, extended field trips, personnel recommendations, the 2026-2027 school calendar, and Policy 4342 Student Searches.

The Lincoln County Board of Education convened to discuss various topics, including student recognitions, updates on school events, and policy revisions. The board recognized students from Union Elementary School and Catawba Springs Elementary Schools, as well as the North Carolina Music Educators Elementary Honors Chorus. There were discussions on the sale of land at East Lincoln High School, proposed parking lot plans, and support plans for low-performing schools. The board also reviewed and considered amendments to the budget, the board meeting calendar, personnel recommendations, extended field trips, and several policies related to parental involvement, school trips, religious exemptions, extracurricular activities, student organizations, domicile requirements, use of wireless communication devices, transportation services, and personnel files.