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 High School
📍 Graduation Ceremony Venue: UVA-Wise
📍 Location: Wise, Virginia
📅 Ceremony Date & Time: Friday, May 15 @ 7:00pm


Union High School
📍 Graduation Ceremony Venue: UVA-Wise
📍 Location: Wise, Virginia
📅 Ceremony Date & Time: Saturday, May 16 @ 11:00am


Central High School
📍 Graduation Ceremony Venue: UVA-Wise
📍 Location: Wise, Virginia
📅 Ceremony Date & Time: Saturday, May 16 @ 4:00pm


Congratulations to all of our seniors, families, teachers, staff and administration who helped make this milestone possible!

by WCYB | Marrah Ste. Marie | Mon, May 11, 2026 at 11:13 PM

The Wise County School Board approved their 2027 budget at Monday's meeting.

Director of Business and Finance, Ron Vicars, says the budget is very similar to last year's, the main changes being guided by the state general assembly. Those changes include $1,500 bonuses through what's called the Caboose Bill.

He says although the budget was approved today, it's still subject to change until the state and county finalize theirs.

"The VRS went down, that's our retirement system. Those went down and gave us the capacity to swallow some of those increases," Vicars said. "This year we are at a level budget, we've covered all the necessary needs. The most important thing is that we cover all of those classroom needs."

Source: https://wcyb.com/news/local/wise-county-school-board-approves-fy-2026-27-budget

DISCUSSION

1.) 2025-2026 Budget Amendments

2.) 2026-2027 Fiscal Budget Adoption

ACTION

1.) 2025-2026 Budget Amendments (8-0)

2.) 2026-2027 Fiscal Budget Adoption (8-0)

SCHOOL HIGHLIGHTS

Dr. Heather Sykes, principal of Union Primary School, presented to the Wise County Public School Board on Monday, May 11, highlighting the many accomplishments and celebrations taking place at the school this year.

Union Primary School has been recognized as a Distinguished School and ranks among the Top 5 Elementary Schools in Region 7. The school is also ranked in the Top 5 for Math Growth in Region 7, reflecting the hard work and dedication of both students and staff.

At Union Primary, attendance is celebrated in meaningful ways. Each week, the class with perfect attendance earns a special visit from Benny the Bear, helping make school attendance exciting and rewarding for students.

Throughout the year, Union Primary has hosted several successful literacy and community events, including:

Grandparent Literacy Night, where grandparents joined their grandchildren for an evening filled with reading, learning, games, activities, and special memories.

Halloween Literacy Night, which brought students and families together for a festive evening of hands-on activities, laughter, and meaningful family engagement.

Elf Labs: Stories and Science Literacy Night, combining literacy and science through interactive learning experiences.

Read Across America Week Dress-Up Days, encouraging schoolwide participation and excitement around reading.

A magical family literacy evening themed “Once Upon a Time,” celebrating stories, smiles, and the joy of reading.

Community Reader Day, where community partners visited the school to read and celebrate literacy with students.

A Veterans Day Parade, honoring local veterans and teaching students the importance of service and appreciation.

Union Primary School also expressed gratitude to Powell valley National Bank for sponsoring a copy of Charlotte’s Web for every student and teacher. Mr. Harding, President of PVNB, visited the school to read from the book to students, creating a memorable experience for all.

The school board meeting also featured a special performance by Union Primary School’s 4th Grade Choir. The school thanked the students and their families for attending and recognized Mr. Boyd and Ms. Ashley for their hard work and dedication in preparing the students.

Union Primary School sincerely thanked the Wise County School Board for its continued support of the students, staff, and school community.

Union Primary's 4th grade choir performed at May 11th WCPS school board meeting. Thank you to the students and their families for coming to sing! Also, thank you to Mr. Boyd and Ms. Ashley for their hard work!

DISCUSSION

1.) Due to a limited agenda, holiday/summer travel throughout the month of July, Dr. Goforth made a recommendation to the Board to cancel the July school board meeting. 

2.) Closed Session: Personnel

ACTION

1.) The Wise County Public School Board voted to cancel the July school board meeting (8-0).

2.) The Wise County Public School Board voted in favor of the Superintendent's recommendations (5-3).

🏆 STATE CHAMPION ALERT! 🏆

Huge congratulations to Union High School’s very own Addison Mullins! On March 28th, Addison showcased incredible talent and took home the VHSL Class 2 State Championship in Speech (Storytelling)! 📖✨

The celebration continued today, May 11th, 2026, as the Wise County Public School Board officially honored Addison for this remarkable achievement. We are so proud of her hard work, creativity, and the way she represents the Bears! 🐻💪

Congratulations, Addison!

🏆 A LEGENDARY FINISH! 🏆

Today, the Wise County Public School Board officially honored Union High Senior Canaan Spears for a wrestling career that will be talked about for years to come!

On February 21st, Canaan secured the 2026 VHSL Class 2 150lb Wrestling State Championship, marking his THIRD state title! 🥇🥇🥇

Check out these stats:
✅ 3-Time State Champion
✅ 48-3 Senior Season Record
✅ 175-11 Career Record

Canaan, your dominance on the mat and your dedication to the sport have been an inspiration to the entire Bear Nation. We can’t wait to see what you do next! 🐻💪🔥

Congratulations, Canaan!

🏆 BRINGING THE LAUGHTER & THE GOLD! 🏆

Huge congratulations to Central High School’s very own Aria Taylor Wolford! On March 28th, Aria took the stage and was crowned the VHSL Class 2 State Champion in Humorous Interpretation! 🎭✨

The celebration hit another high note today, May 11th, as the Wise County Public School Board formally honored Aria for this incredible milestone. We are so proud of the talent, wit, and hard work she brings to Central! 💪

Congratulations, Aria!

🤼‍♂️ STATE CHAMPION ON THE MAT! 🏆

A massive shoutout to Central High Junior, Brayden Owsley! Back on February 21st, Brayden left it all on the mat to become the 2026 VHSL Class 2 138lb Wrestling State Champion! 🥇

The hard work didn't go unnoticed—today, May 11th, the Wise County Public School Board officially honored Brayden for his grit, determination, and state title. We are incredibly proud to have this champion representing the Warriors! 💪

Congratulations, Brayden!

🎉 Congratulations to our Spring Retirees of 2026! 🎉

After years of dedication, service, and commitment to our students, staff, and community, we proudly recognize and celebrate the Spring 2026 retirees of Wise County Public Schools.

Your impact reaches far beyond the classroom and school walls. You have inspired students, supported colleagues, and helped shape the future of our division through your hard work and compassion.

Thank you for the countless lives you’ve touched and the legacy you leave behind. We wish you happiness, relaxation, and exciting new adventures in retirement! 💙🍎

Dr. Mike Goforth presents a retirement plaque to Mrs. Redena Barton | 37 Years of Service

Dr. Mike Goforth presents a retirement plaque to Mrs. Judy Carroll | 46 Years of Service

Dr. Mike Goforth presents a retirement plaque to Mrs. Kelly Dickenson | 29 Years of Service

Dr. Mike Goforth presents a retirement plaque to Mrs. Karen Dotson | 43 Years of Service

Dr. Mike Goforth presents a retirement plaque to Mrs. Tina Lytle | 34 Years of Service

Dr. Mike Goforth presents a retirement plaque to Mrs. Imelda Moore | 36 Years of Service

Dr. Mike Goforth presents a retirement plaque to Mrs. Kimberly Parsons | 32 Years of Service

Dr. Mike Goforth presents a retirement plaque to Mrs. Debbie Sturgill | 25 Years of Service

Dr. Mike Goforth presents a retirement plaque to Mrs. Vonda Sturgill | 35 Years of Service

On Sunday, April 19, 2026, Wise County (and Wise County Public Schools) were well-represented at the VHSL Class of 2026 Hall of Fame Inductions.


Mrs. Hannah Light-Cress was inducted as a former VHSL Athlete (Softball, Volleyball, Basketball, and Track & Field), representing Coeburn High School, Coeburn, VA.

Hannah Light-Cress | Athlete
High School: Coeburn High School
Sports: Softball | Volleyball | Basketball | Track

Earned 16 varsity letters from 2006-10 ... 4 in softball, 4 in basketball, 4 in volleyball, 3 in track and field ... VHSL All-State Pitcher of The Year in 2010 ... Two-time 1st team and 2nd- team VHSL All-State ... Three-time All-Region and All-District pitcher of the year ...4x all district first team pitcher 4x all region first team pitcher ... 2010 All-State Female Athlete of the Year ... 2010 Wendy's High School Heisman Finalist ... Ranks top 5 in VHSL history with 1,092 career strikeouts, 15 consecutive shutouts, 8 career perfect games, 25 strikeouts in one game, and consecutive no hitters (3) ... 46 career shutouts. 

Mrs. Natasha (Belcher) Holt was inducted as a former VHSL Athlete (Girls Tennis, Volleyball, and Girls Basketball), representing J.J. Kelly High School, Wise, VA.



Natasha (Belcher) Holt | Athlete
High School: J.J.Kelly High School
Sports: Girls Tennis | Volleyball

The first girls state tennis singles champion across all classifications to win three straight titles (1993-95) ... The Belcher/Kelly Dorsey doubles pair won the school's first-ever state title in 1995 ... Compiled a 4-year singles record (79-0) and doubles record (67-3) ... Never had a singles match go three sets ... Won three straight district and regional singles and doubles championships ...Led team to four consecutive state titles (1992-95) ... District and Region POY three straight years ... Coalfield Progress Athlete of the Year three consecutive years. 

Mrs. Jan Thompson was inducted as a VHSL Coach in Theatre and Speech, representing J.J. Kelly High School and Central High School, Wise, VA.



Jan Thompson | Coach
School Affiliation: Central High School (Wise); J.J. Kelly
Sports: Theatre | Speech

During her 47 years in education and 21- year career Academic Activities Coach at J.J. Kelly and Centrals she has set the bar for other academic programs to reach fo, in Southwest Virginia ... She has won 11 state titles, 10 regional titles, and 15 district titles in both One Act and Speech (formerly Forensics) ... Has coached 22 All State Outstanding Actors and 75 All State Individual or Duo Award winners ... Her speech teams have won four state titles (2015-16, 2016-17, 2018-19, 2020-21 and 5 runners-up (2013-14, 2014-15, 2017-18, 2021-22, 2022-23) ... Her One-Act Theatre troupe has won 7 titles (2007-08, 2012-13, 2015-16, 2016-17, 2019-20, 2021-21, 2023-24) and 4 runners-up (2010-11, 2013-14, 2017-18, 2021-22) ... Virginia Association of Speech, Drama & Debate Virginia Teacher Director of the Year in 2014. 

Coach Robin Dotson (VHSL HOF, Class of 2016) accompanied these individuals on their induction day. Please join us in congratulating these VHSL Hall of Fame inductees on an incredible day! 

Richmond, VA (May 11, 2026) – For the second consecutive year, the Positive Athlete organization is recognizing local athletes from all across Virginia as high-character kids that have been nominated and confirmed by their schools as the most representative of “How Positive Athletes O.P.E.R.A.T.E.:”

Optimistic

Puts Team First

Encouraging

Respectful

Admits Imperfections

True Heart for Others

Embraces Service

This year, Positive Athlete is naming 32 different individuals as the “Most Positive” in their sport categories across the state, including 30 high school student-athletes and two coaches. Hayfield Secondary School has also been named the State’s Positive Athlete Athletic Department of the Year after an impressive number of high-quality nominations throughout the year and engagement.

Over 1,200 nominations from coaches, principals, athletic directors, teachers, and parents were submitted for the Positive Athlete program state-wide, representing over 220 public and private high schools. Founder and CEO Scott Pederson created Positive Athlete in the early 2010’s as a movement for more positivity in youth sports and to create a culture change across high schools. In addition to excellence on the field, each nominated Positive Athlete was required to show the above characteristics in order to be nominated.

Here is a list of the 2025-2026 State Award Winners:

NAME                                                 HIGH SCHOOL                                 CATEGORY

Ava Rassool                                       Frank W. Cox High School                Girls Soccer

Brody Thomas                                    Holston High School                         Boys Golf

Cooper Miskelly                                  Heritage High School                       Baseball

David Dean                                         Virginia High School                         Boys Soccer

E’lisha Harris                                      Hopewell High School                       Girls Wrestling

Gianna Strattman-Lassiter                 Mechanicsville High School              Gymnastics

Helen Sackett                                     EC Glass High School                      Girls Tennis

Jacob McBride                                   Independence High School               Boys Crew/Rowing

Jana Hayajneh                                   Harrisonburg High School                 Girls Basketball

Jeremiah Davis                                   Loudoun County High School           Football

Jordan Rhodes                                   Forest Park High School                   Girls Track & Field

Josephine Sanchez                            Hayfield Secondary School               Girls Golf

Joshua Guerrant                                 Union High School                            Boys Wrestling

Juliana Hoppe                                     Atlee High School                             Girls Lacrosse

Kimani Grady                                      Denbigh High School                        Girls Volleyball

Kimi Lin                                               Chantilly High School                       Flag Football

LaToya Harrison                                  Petersburg High School                   Female Coach

Logan Frole                                         James River High School                 Boys Volleyball

Logan Wright                                      Hermitage High School                     Boys Cross Country

Maddie Royster                                  Richmond Christian School               Girls Cross Country

Madison Mellott                                   Landstown High School                   Field Hockey

Marcus Lewis                                      Varina High School                           Male Coach

Moonerah Lao                                     Alexandria City High School             Rugby

Piper Chamlis                                     Christiansburg High School               Softball

Ravin Singh                                        Chantilly High School                        Fencing

Sophie Pace                                       Fluvanna County High School          Girls Swim & Dive

Thomas Hungarland                           Galileo Magnet High School             Boys Track & Field

Trey Fitch                                            The Fairfax Christian School            Boys Basketball

Trip Crone                                           Christchurch School                         Boys Lacrosse

Tyanna Hodges                                  Oscar Smith High School                  Cheerleading

Vivian Foutz                                        Western Albemarle High School        Girls Crew/Rowing

Weston Fulham                                  Robinson Secondary School              Boys Swim & Dive

Xander Kakosso                                 Mountain View High School               Boys Tennis

All of these sport category award winners will be recognized at the 2026 Virginia Positive Athlete Awards on the evening of Tuesday, June 23, 2026 at the University of Richmond’s Jepson Alumni Center. That night, all state winners and recipients of corporately sponsored scholarships will be recognized.

About Positive Athlete

Positive Athlete, INC. is now a national organization that seeks to promote the benefits of positivity to young athletes around the country through awards, scholarships and special opportunities all around the country. Since 2013, Positive Athlete has awarded thousands of Positive Athlete awards around the country, in which over $700,000 in scholarships have been awarded.

On Friday, April 17, 2026, at the annual Celebration of Children Luncheon held at Mountain Empire Older Citizens (MEOC), Mrs. Rebecca Shell was honored with the Outstanding Youth and Family Services Award from the Lonesome Pine Office On Youth.

This award is based on nominations from peers and is a reflection of service providers who exemplify excellence in their work with the youth and families of Wise County.

Mrs. Rebecca Shell has been employed for over 40 years with Wise County Public Schools. During her tenure, she has served in many capacities from a classroom paraprofessional to her current position of Parent Resource Specialist. Mrs. Shell has a true commitment and heart of service to the children and families in our community. A tireless advocate, she connects families to essential resources and community support to enhance their quality of life.

Please join us in congratulating Mrs. Rebecca Shell on this well-deserved honor!

Town of Wise Mayor, Caynor Smith speaks to seventh and eighth grade students at L.F. Addington Middle School.

L. F. Addington Middle School gave students a unique opportunity to learn about local government and the people who help run the Town of Wise. Students were able to engage with town officials and gain a deeper understanding of how their community operates on a daily basis.

The program was led by Mayor Caynor Smith, along with Vice Mayor Laura Taylor and the town’s department leaders. Together, they demonstrated the importance of teamwork and leadership in making decisions that benefit the community. Students learned that being involved in town government means taking an active role in shaping the future of their town.

Town Manager Laura Roberts, who has worked with the Town of Wise for 25 years and has served as town manager for four years, explained her responsibilities. She is in charge of implementing the policies and procedures that the town council adopts, as well as overseeing the day-to-day operations of the town. Her role is essential in ensuring that decisions made by the council are carried out effectively.

Treasurer and Clerk of Council Serena Collins, who has worked for the town for 23 years and has served in her current role for three and a half years, also shared her experience. She plays a key role in managing the town’s finances and maintaining official records, which helps keep the government organized and transparent.

Students also had the chance to hear from Fire Chief Jack Mullins and Chief of Police Kevin Yates, who has served for 16 years. They discussed their responsibilities in keeping the community safe and responding to emergencies. Their presentations highlighted the importance of public safety and the dedication required to serve the town.

The Mayor for the Day program also recognized student achievement through an essay contest. There were first, second, and third place winners for both seventh and eighth grade students. Those who received first place were awarded a certificate and a Town of Wise medallion coin in recognition of their outstanding work.

Essay Contest Winners are:

7th Grade
3rd: Jude B.
2nd: MyAnna P.
1st: Jaren R.

8th Grade
3rd: Lilyanne B.
2nd: Ethan T.
1st: Kaitlynn A.

Overall, the program provided students with valuable insight into how local government functions and encouraged them to become active, informed citizens. It was a meaningful experience that helped students better understand the roles and responsibilities of those who serve their community.

Congratulations to these special students for their hard work and thank you to Mayor Caynor Smith and to the employees of the Town of Wise for investing in our youth!

Seventh and eighth grade essay contest winners pose for a picture with the Town of Wise Directors and Mayor.

Town Manager, Laura Roberts, defines her role to LFA students.

Council member Laura Taylor outlines her role as one of five council members with the Town of Wise.

Jude B. - 7th Grade (3rd Place)

MyAnna P. - 7th Grade (2nd Place)

Jaren R. - 7th Grade (1st Place Winner)

Lilyanne B. - 8th Grade (3rd Place)

Ethan T. - 8th Grade (2nd Place)

Kaitlynn A. - 8th Grade (1st Place Winner)

The 2026 VSBA Spring Networking Forum was hosted by the Wise County Public School Board on Wednesday, April 29, at the Wise Inn. This annual event brought together Region 7 VSBA school board members and superintendents for an evening of collaboration and celebration.

Region 7 Chairman Jason Hicks of the Dickenson County Public School Board welcomed attendees, conducted an official board meeting, and presented the first annual $5,000 VSBA Scholarship to Lauren Baker of Washington County, Virginia. VSBA Executive Director Gina Patterson and Region 7 VSBA Vice Chair Jack Compton recognized the winners of the student art show, highlighting the VSBA’s commitment to the arts. The keynote address was delivered by VSBA State President Jenny Nichols, a member of the Washington County, Virginia School Board. Mrs. Nichols’ keynote address highlighted the importance of apprenticeships and strengthening regional and state workforce pipelines by increasing partnerships across the region to enhance employability opportunities, aligning with the VSBA theme for 2026–Rooted in Education.

The event showcased the very best of Wise County Public Schools. Students in the Teachers for Tomorrow program assisted with guest registration, demonstrating professionalism and student leadership. Musical performances were provided by students from Central High School and the Union High School band, adding to the evening’s celebratory atmosphere.

Culinary Arts students prepared and served an impressive menu featuring hors d’oeuvres, pecan-crusted chicken, green beans, strawberry spring salad, and strawberry shortcake for dessert. WCCTC building trades constructed wooden serving boards as door prizes. Dickenson County Public Schools horticulture students grew flowers for centerpieces that were also given away as door prizes.

The Wise County Public School Board, along with Superintendent Dr. Mike Goforth, is proud to showcase student talent and remains committed to recognizing excellence in fine arts and career and technical education across the division.

Administrative Professionals Week is the week of April 19-25! We’re celebrating the incredible administrative professionals who help keep our schools and offices running every single day!

From greeting students and families with a smile, to managing schedules, answering phones, and keeping things organized behind the scenes—you are truly the heartbeat of our school division.

When days get busy (and they always do), you’re the calm, the problem-solvers, and the friendly faces everyone depends on.

We see you, we appreciate you, and we are so grateful for all that you do for our students, families, staff, and our community!

Wednesday, April 22 is Administrative Professionals Day—a time to recognize and celebrate the outstanding Central Office administrative professionals who support the work of our entire school division.

Your role is essential to keeping our district operating smoothly. From coordinating division-wide initiatives and managing complex schedules to supporting leadership, handling communications, and keeping everything organized behind the scenes, your impact reaches every school, department, and team.

When the pace is fast and the demands are high, you bring professionalism, precision, and a steady hand. You are trusted problem-solvers, connectors, and the dependable support system that helps move our division forward.

We see you, we value you, and we are deeply grateful for the critical role you play in serving our students, staff, and community.

Thank you for everything you do!

Today, April 28th is School Bus Driver Appreciation Day—a day set aside to recognize and thank school bus drivers for the important role they play in safely transporting students every day.

Wise County Public Schools proudly recognizes and celebrates our incredible bus drivers! 🚌💛

Thank you for safely transporting our students to school and extracurricular activities each day, rain or shine. Your patience, care, and dedication do not go unnoticed.

Behind every safe ride to school is a dedicated bus driver. We appreciate you today and every day! 🚌👏

On May 1st, the Wise County Public School division celebrated School Principals’ Day!

Our principals are the heart of our schools—leaders who inspire excellence, support students and staff, and create environments where learning thrives. Their dedication, compassion, and commitment shape not only our schools, but our entire community.

Thank you to all of our incredible principals for your leadership, your vision, and the countless ways you make a difference every single day. We appreciate you today and always!

On May 1st, the Wise County Public School division celebrated our incredible School Lunch Heroes! 🍎🥪

Behind every meal served is a team that shows up early, works hard, and cares deeply about our students. From preparing nutritious food to greeting every child with a smile, you make a difference every single day.

Thank you for keeping our students fueled, healthy, and ready to learn. We appreciate you more than words can say! 💛

Teacher Appreciation Week is Monday, May 4 - Friday, May 8. This week, the Wise County Public School division celebrates the incredible educators who inspire, support, and shape the future every single day. 🍎✨

Your patience, dedication, and passion don’t go unnoticed. Thank you for going above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of your students.

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week to all the amazing teachers out there — you truly make the world a better place! ❤️📚

Today, May 6, we celebrate the heart of student health and care—our incredible school nurses for School Nurse Day! 💙🩺

Thank you for everything you do to keep our students safe, healthy, and ready to learn. From offering a comforting smile to handling emergencies with skill and compassion, your impact reaches far beyond the nurse’s office.

Happy School Nurse Day! We appreciate you today and every day.

Heather Lane | Transportation Secretary

🚍 For 26 years, Heather Lane has dedicated her career to serving students and supporting public education. Beginning in January 2000 as the bookkeeper at Appalachia High School, she transitioned to a division-level role in 2005 and has faithfully served in that position for the past 21 years.

Heather’s responsibilities include payroll, billing, transportation reporting, discipline secretary duties, and helping manage the daily operations that keep the division running smoothly. While much of her work happens behind the scenes, its impact is felt throughout the entire school community, especially work involving transportation.

When asked what she enjoys most about her job, Heather shared that she loves knowing her work benefits students who are very special to her. Thank you, Heather, for your years of dedication, hard work, and commitment to our schools and students! 🍎

🚨 Big things are happening in the Automotive Technology pathway at WCCTC, thanks to the outstanding leadership of Mr. Chris Hill and Mr. Steven Butler. Both instructors bring a wealth of real-world experience into the classroom.

Wise County Public Schools proudly recognizes Mr. Hill and Mr. Butler for their outstanding leadership within the Automotive Technology programs at Wise County Career and Technical Center (WCCTC). Through their dedication and vision, students in Wise County are offered meaningful educational opportunities that prepare them for lifelong careers in the field of Automotive Tech. Their leadership not only equips students with real-world skills, but also helps ensure students can build successful careers, while remaining employed right here in Wise County. Mr. Hill and Mr. Butler's commitment is making a lasting impact on students, families, and the entire Wise County community.

Mr. Steve Butler, Automotive I Instructor

Mr. Chris Hill, Automotive II & III Instructor

The Automotive Technology I, II & III programs are available to juniors and seniors. While there is no formal application process, a waiting list may apply due to high interest.

Automotive Technology I

Level: Introductory
Length: 1 block (Year 1), option to expand in Year 2
Focus:
Basic vehicle maintenance
Oil changes, brakes, tires
General “driveway” repair skills
Introductory welding (paired work)

Pathway:

After the first year, students decide if they want to continue;
Second year expands to 2 blocks;
Students, in both pathways, have an opportunity to earn certification

Automotive Technology II & III

Level: Advanced
Length: 2-block, 2-year program
Focus:
In-depth automotive training
Designed for students committed to working in the automotive field (especially dealerships)
Hands-on, real-world experience

Outcome:
Prepares students for industry certification
Career-ready upon completion

Students work toward ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification:

8 core areas (A1–A8)
Maintenance & Light Repair (G1)
Master Student Certification

Advanced students prepare for L1 (Advanced Engine Performance Specialist)

Instructors also hold ASE certifications

Articulation Agreement with UNOH (University of Northwestern Ohio)

Strong workforce demand:
Local employers frequently seek trained mechanics
Annual calls from industry (e.g., Mr. Austin receives requests each summer)

Access to modern, up-to-date equipment

Students perform live work on customer vehicles

Emphasis on real-world experience and skill-building

Students have gained experience at:

Adams Tire
Morgan-McClure
Lonesome Pine CDJR
Advance Auto Parts
H&M

Student Perspectives:

“Laid back” learning environment
Strong relationships with instructors and peers
Hands-on, “learn by doing” approach

Instructors described as:

Knowledgeable
Supportive
Engaging and approachable

🐻 🍎❤️Recognizing Our Distinguished Educators | Mrs. Judy Carroll, from Union Primary School🐻 🍎❤️

Her first grade students say it best:
“She helps us when we are going through something.”
“She’s nice.”
“She’s sweet.”
“She’s is the goodest teacher.”
“She is good at working with us.”
“She’s young and beautiful.”
“She helps us when we need it.”
“She helps us grow.”
“She makes us happy.”
“She makes us smart.”
“She has nice handwriting.”
“She is the best teacher.”
“She helps us get to the second grade.”

Throughout her career teaching 1st grade, 2nd grade, and Title I, she has dedicated her life to helping students—especially struggling readers—find their confidence, grow, and achieve. She was inspired by great teachers in her own life and her sister, an educator, but it was her passion for helping children succeed that defined her journey.

Her favorite moments? Watching it all “click.” Seeing the lightbulb come on. Witnessing the growth, confidence, and success of every child she has taught.

She also acknowledges her work family that means the world to her—one that supported, encouraged, and stayed connected throughout the year, even through summer break, year after year.

With gratitude, she shares:
“This is my entire life...I’ve been blessed. This has been such a large part of my life. I am very honored. Wise County has been good to me, and I appreciate everything they have done for me.”

Mrs. Carroll, thank you for 45 years of love, dedication, and impact. Your legacy will live on in every student and colleague you’ve inspired. Wise County Public Schools is tremendously grateful for teachers like Mrs. Carroll, who dedicate their lives to educating our children.