2025 - 2026 SCHOOL CALENDAR

To view upcoming dismissals, closures, and holidays that Wise County Public Schools will observe, please click here:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zkdCVcKzl2t_GIa-O5QLPtGHSg3fLV0-/view?usp=sharing

GRADUATION DATES & LOCATION

2026 High School Graduation Dates:

Eastside - Fri., May 15 @ 7:00pm @ UVA-Wise
Union - Sat., May 16 @ 11:00am @ UVA-Wise
Central - Sat., May 16 @ 4:00pm @ UVA-Wise

SCHOOL HIGHLIGHTS

Coeburn Primary School | Principal Mrs. Amanda Woody

Coeburn Primary School was highlighted at the Wise County Public School Board meeting on Monday, March 9.

Principal Amanda Woody and Assistant Principal Matt Dysart attended the meeting to represent the school. Mrs. Woody thanked the Wise County Public School Board for the recent improvements at Coeburn Primary, including the installation of a new awning and a new gym floor.

Mrs. Woody also congratulated the students and staff for their outstanding achievement on the School Quality Profile and VDOE Accreditation rating. Coeburn Primary earned a “Distinguished” score of 91.7.

Following the presentation, third and fourth grade students performed a musical selection for those in attendance, showcasing the talents and hard work of Coeburn Primary students.

Thank you to the students and families of Coeburn Primary School, Principal Woody, and Assistant Principal Dysart for celebrating Coeburn Primary School's successes with our school division!

Third and fourth grade students from Coeburn Primary School are pictured following a musical performance at the Wise County Public School Board meeting on Monday, March 9th.

Third and fourth grade students from Coeburn Primary School are pictured with Superintendent, Dr. Mike Goforth, principal Mrs. Amanda Woody, and assistant principal Mr. Matt Dysart at the Wise County Public School Board meeting on Monday, March 9th.

Coeburn Primary students present, "A Day in the Life of a Student at Coeburn Primary School"

SCHOOL HIGHLIGHTS

L.F. Addington Middle School | Principal Mrs. Deidre Church

L.F. Addington Middle School was highlighted at the Wise County Public School Board meeting on Monday, March 9.

Principal Deidre Church and Assistant Principal Hannah Perrigan attended the meeting to represent the school.

Mrs. Church congratulated the students and staff for their outstanding achievement on the School Quality Profile and VDOE Accreditation rating. L.F. Addington Middle School earned a “Distinguished” score of 90.6.

L.F. Addington Middle School recently celebrated the Communities in Schools “100 Schools Celebration.” From after-school engagement activities to substance abuse awareness initiatives and attendance motivation efforts, L.F. Addington Middle proudly demonstrated “100 Reasons We Show Up.”

An eighth grade student, Micah V., was recognized and pictured with Superintendent Dr. Mike Goforth for outstanding student leadership and advocacy.

During the meeting, Micah also delivered a presentation titled “Self-Accommodation with Audiobooks,” sharing how technology can support student learning and accessibility.

In addition to this recognition, Micah V. has represented L.F. Addington Middle School through several educational technology opportunities, including presenting at TechSplash 2025, the VSTE 2025 Tech Conference, and a VSTE Throwdown Webinar. He also was featured in the Activated Learning Podcast with the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE).

Wise County Public Schools celebrates Micah V. for demonstrating leadership, innovation, and a commitment to helping others learn through technology.

Thank you to the students and families of L.F. Addington Middle School, Principal Church, and Assistant Principal Perrigan for celebrating L.F. Addington Middle School's successes with our school division!

Micah V. is pictured with Superintendent, Dr. Mike Goforth at the Wise County Public School Board meeting on Monday, March 9th.

On Monday, March 9th, Micah presented on "Self Accommodation with Audiobooks." In addition to this recognition, Micah V. has represented L.F. Addington Middle School through several educational technology opportunities, including presenting at TechSplash 2025, the VSTE 2025 Tech Conference, and a VSTE Throwdown Webinar. He also was featured in the Activated Learning Podcast with the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE).

DISCUSSION

-Mr. Scott Mullins, Wise County Public School Board Attorney presentation: "Law, Policy, and Decision Making"

-Dr. Mike Goforth, Superintendent of Wise County Public Schools: Division Scale, Resources, and System-Wide Overview

-Mr. Ron Vicars, Wise County Public School Director of Finance: Budget Update (slides are attached below)

ACTION

Employment (following Closed Session)

Union High School - State Champion: Canaan Spears | Wrestling

On Saturday, February 21, Union High Senior, Canaan Spears, was named the 2026 VHSL Class 2 150 Wrestling State Champion. He finished his senior campaign with his third state title, a 48-3 season record, and a career record of 175-11. Congratulations, Canaan!

Central High School - State Champion: Brayden Owsley | Wrestling

On Saturday, February 21, Central High Junior, Brayden Owsley, was named the 2026 VHSL Class 2 138 Wrestling State Champion. Congratulations, Brayden!

Central High School - Region 2D Champions - Boys Basketball

On Saturday, February 28, Central High School defeated Graham High School for its first regional hoops title in school history.

Image Copyright: Belcher Images

Union High School - Region 2D Champions - Girls Basketball

On Saturday, February 28, Union High School defeated Ridgeview High School for the Region 2D title.

Image Copyright: Belcher Images

Eastside High School - Region 1D Champions | Speech

On Saturday, February 21, 2026 the Eastside Spartan Speech Team captured the Region 1D Speech Title! Congratulations to these talented students, and to the Speech sponsor(s)!

Eastside High School - 1C/1D Super Regional Champions | Speech

The Spartans are Super Regional Champs! Congratulations to the Spartan Speech performers as they captured the Super Region 1C/1D Championship at J.I. Burton, on Saturday, March 7, 2026!

Union High School - 2C/2D Speech

The Bears are headed to Salem on March 28th to participate in the VHSL State Competition! 

Original Oratory Super Region Runner-Up - Lacey Hill
Storytelling Super Region Runner-Up - Aiden Bowman
Storytelling Super Region 3rd Place - Addison Mullins
Prose Super Region 3rd Place - Caysen Hill

Keith Chandler | Union High School - 2025 Bristol Herald Courier Offensive Player of the Year

Chandler accumulated 1,833 yards rushing on 272 carries with 32 touchdowns. Chandler also had 12 catches for 140 yards, and a score.

Article Link: https://heraldcourier.com/sports/high-school/football/article_ba655867-c9b4-4e30-86c2-9c1a475104a0.html

Image Copyright: Bristol Herald Courier | http://www.heraldcourier.com

On Friday, March 6th, our Special Education team came together for grade-level planning, SPED collaboration meetings, and professional development to ensure every student receives the support they need to succeed.

By sharing ideas, reviewing student progress, and learning new strategies, we continue to strengthen instruction and build a supportive learning environment for all learners.

Congratulations to Arabella 'Bella' Clendenon on her thrid place Principles of Business Management and Administration. She is eligible to compete at the DECA International Competition in Atlanta, GA in April.

Bella Clendenon was named a state finalist in the category of Principles of Business Management and Administration at the Virginia DECA Competition in Virginia Beach on February 28, 2026. 

National School Resource Officer (SRO) Appreciation Day is observed annually on February 15th. 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 VSBA Board of Directors has designated the third week of February (February 16-20, 2026) as VSBA School Board Clerk Appreciation Week – a time dedicated to highlighting the essential work our school board clerks do every day. Clerks are the behind-the-scenes organizers, communicators, and problem solvers who keep our school division running smoothly.

Through the week of Feb. 16-20, Wise County Public Schools recognizes Mrs. Heather Fultz (School Board Clerk) and Mr. Ron Vicars (Deputy School Board Clerk) for their tireless work in keeping the Wise County Public School division transparent and organized.

From managing complex agendas to ensuring our district stays compliant with state laws, policies and procedures, Mrs. Fultz and Mr. Vicars' attention to detail is what allows the WCPS School Board to focus on what matters most: our students.

Thank you, Mrs. Fultz and Mr. Vicars, for being the steady hand behind the scenes!

WCPS celebrates National School Social Work Week March 1-7! This week, WCPS recognizes the incredible impact of school social workers who support students’ academic success, emotional well-being, and social development every single day. Mrs. Jennifer Fox and Mrs. Lora Smith help students overcome challenges, build resilience, strengthen family connections, and create safe, supportive learning environments. Their compassion, advocacy, and dedication make a lasting difference in our schools and communities.

Thank you to these amazing school social workers for being champions of hope, equity, and opportunity for every student!!!

Across the division, schools recently transformed into hubs of imagination to celebrate Read Across America Week, a nationwide initiative dedicated to fostering a lifelong love of literacy in students of all ages.

At J. W. Adams Combined School, Mrs. Blevins’ class brought a Dr. Seuss classic to life, bravely tasting green eggs and ham after reading the beloved book. It turns out, Sam-I-Am was onto something! 🍳🟢

Students at Wise Primary School were also honored by a visit from Izzy Horn, Miss Virginia Association of Fairs 2026. She inspired our students by reading her original book, The Power of You, sharing a powerful message of self-confidence and community.

Students at Union Primary School dressed up for "Favorite Color Day," while students at Coeburn Primary School enjoyed reading, "Oh, The Places We'll Go!" Students at St. Paul Elementary School celebrated "Hats Off To Reading Family Literacy Night," enjoying games, crafts, and lots of fun!

Students at all schools were able to attend book fairs, participate in creative dress-up days, and enjoy local guest speakers who shared their favorite stories! A huge thank you to our staff and guests for making reading an adventure!

Friday, March 6, was National School Maintenance Worker Appreciation Day! 🛠️🏫

Our school maintenance team works behind the scenes every single day to keep our buildings clean, safe, and running smoothly for students, staff, and families. From fixing leaks and clearing sidewalks to setting up classrooms and responding to emergencies, their dedication helps make our schools great places to learn and grow.

Please join us in saying THANK YOU to the incredible maintenance professionals who take such great care of our schools and community. Your hard work does not go unnoticed, and we appreciate everything you do!

Wise County Public Schools is extremely grateful for Mr. Gary Lawson, Director of Facilities and Maintenance, and the department he leads!

Libby Taylor | Central High Community
Bus Driver 

Libby Taylor began driving a school bus in October 1988. She served as a substitute driver for two years before earning her contract in 1990. Since then, she has proudly driven for the Wise Central community.

Over the years, Libby has supported students in many ways. She has worked with cheerleaders and volleyball teams and continues to drive field trips, always making sure students get where they need to go safely. “I love the kids and want to take care of them,” she says. At the beginning of this year, she had eight Pre-K students on her route. Now she is down to four students, but she emphasizes how important it is to understand the responsibility that comes with transporting young children. “Taking care of those children is my main concern. I have a genuine care for my kids.”

After briefly leaving and then returning to driving, Libby was met with a heartwarming welcome back! As she came back, students jumped with their fists in the air cheering, “Miss Libby! She is back!”

Her dedication, consistency, and love for her students continue to make a lasting impact on the Wise Central community. Wise County Public Schools would like to show their deepest appreciation to "Miss Libby" for her valuable contributions to our school division!

🚨 Big things are happening in the Criminal Justice pathway at WCCTC — all thanks to the incredible leadership of Mr. Kelly Fleming.  Mr. Kelly Fleming brings nearly a decade of frontline experience to the classroom, specializing in the intersection of legal procedure, tactical response, and community care.  Mr. Fleming has served 8 years full-time Law Enforcement.  Additionally, he has served as a Criminal Justice Instructor at WCCTC for 8 years.  For 17 years, and currently sworn in with the Wise County Sherriff's Office (Reserve Deputy), Mr. Fleming has been a certified and sworn Law Enforcement Officer.

Wise County Public Schools proudly recognizes Mr. Kelly Fleming for his outstanding leadership within the Criminal Justice program at Wise County Career and Technical Center (WCCTC). Through his dedication and vision, students in Wise County are offered meaningful educational opportunities that prepare them for lifelong careers in the field of criminal justice. His leadership not only equips students with real-world skills, but also helps ensure they can build successful careers while remaining employed right here in Wise County. Mr. Fleming’s commitment is making a lasting impact on students, families, and the entire community.

Mr. Kelly Fleming
Criminal Justice Instructor
Contact: krfleming@wisek12.org

Legal & Procedural: Mastery of Search and Seizure laws and the fundamental Rights of Citizens.

Tactical & Physical: Certified instructor in Handcuffing, Defensive Tactics (Self-Defense), and the proper use of Basic Corrections Equipment.

Investigation: Hands-on training in Crime Scene Investigation (CSI), Fingerprinting, and Drug Identification/Basic Trafficking patterns.

Emergency Medicine: Life-saving proficiency in CPR and Tourniquet application.

Criminal Justice I & II: Foundational laws, ethics, and intro to field work.

DE - MECC: Dual Enrollment courses via Mountain Empire Community College.

Academy Prep: Rigorous physical and mental preparation for the Police Academy.

Mr. Fleming secured a $35,000 grant to purchase the Milo Use of Force Simulator.  Mr. Fleming’s classes utilize this state-of-the-art simulation technology to provide students with high-stakes, "split-second" decision-making training.

Interactive Response: Students must issue verbal commands to on-screen subjects who react in real-time.

De-escalation: Focuses on the transition from verbal communication to the justified use of force.

Beyond standard tactics, Mr. Fleming emphasizes the human element of policing, teaching students how to navigate interactions with vulnerable populations:

Alzheimer’s Patients: Techniques for managing memory-related agitation and wandering.

Mental Health Crisis: De-escalation strategies for individuals in psychological distress.

In Southwest Virginia, an entry-level law enforcement officer can typically expect a starting salary between $47,000 and $60,000 per year, depending on the specific agency and whether they are already certified.

While major metropolitan areas in Virginia (like Arlington or Fairfax) offer much higher starting pay, Southwest Virginia agencies are increasingly raising their rates to stay competitive for new recruits.

Virginia State Trooper - $60,000 - Paid during academy; rises to $65,403 after one year.

County Sheriff's Deputy - $47,231 – $50,107 - Based on current listings for Wise County and Norton

Town/City Police - $51,000 – $54,000

Campus Police (e.g., MECC) - $55,000 – $70,000 - Specialized roles or community college security often have unique scales.

Sophomore students from Union, Eastside and Central High Schools tour WCCTC programming. During the Criminal Justice tour, students are able to view a crime scene and participate as agents working that scene. This is an excellent educational outreach tool for those students who may not be enrolled in Criminal Justice that may desire to be in the near future.

Mrs. Debra Laney began teaching in Wise County in 1980 after moving from Connecticut. She spent 25 wonderful years at Coeburn Middle School, including teaching experiences at St. Paul, and now Eastside High School. Throughout the years, she worked alongside tremendous teachers and administrators, and made a lasting impact on countless students.

One of the greatest rewards of her career has been watching students grow—seeing those who struggled persevere, graduate, earn their diplomas, and go on to college, the trades, or the workforce–”When students attend college, or enter trades, those are my success stories.” Mrs. Laney hopes that she encouraged students to be accountable, self-sufficient, and productive. As she reflects, she “hopes she has helped students realize they have all the skills, talents and abilities to pursue their hopes and dreams.”

In the classroom, Mrs. Laney especially loves watching students discover a passion for reading and the excitement that comes with learning something new. “Mrs. Clay and I recently introduced a book to our class, and they instantly became hooked. It is so rewarding to see them excited to read–they’re glued to reading!”

Outside of the classroom, when asked about her reach and overall impact, she smiled–”When students see you, they smile and connect. That’s the true value of impact.”

In her personal time, Mrs. Laney enjoys spending time with her daughter, working on home improvement projects, reading, traveling, and volunteering at the St. Paul Food Bank on Thursdays.

Mrs. Laney has dedicated 46 years of dedication, encouragement, and impact on generations of students in the Wise County Public School division. We are so deeply grateful for Mrs. Laney, and her commitment to the students and families of Wise County.