⨠Today, students in the WCPS Teachers for Tomorrow program had an exciting opportunity to visit Emory & Henry University!
Their day was packed with hands-on experiences that offered a glimpse into college life and the path toward becoming educators:
š Admissions & Career Center orientation
š Rotations through education courses with E&H faculty
š§ Hands-on exploration in the Maker Space
š“ Lunch with professors and future educators from SOFE
š A stop at the campus bookstore, the Merc
š³ A guided tour of the beautiful campus
Weāre so proud of these future teachers as they take their first steps toward inspiring the next generation! Thank you to Emory & Henry University for hosting our students and supporting their journey.
Their day was packed with hands-on experiences that offered a glimpse into college life and the path toward becoming educators:
š Admissions & Career Center orientation
š Rotations through education courses with E&H faculty
š§ Hands-on exploration in the Maker Space
š“ Lunch with professors and future educators from SOFE
š A stop at the campus bookstore, the Merc
š³ A guided tour of the beautiful campus
Weāre so proud of these future teachers as they take their first steps toward inspiring the next generation! Thank you to Emory & Henry University for hosting our students and supporting their journey.

šāØPassing the Torch at Holston High School!
Our Rhea Valley kindergarteners recently had a big day on the field! They joined Holston High seniors on the 50-yard line for the Passing of the Torch ceremony, where the seniors officially shared their school spirit with some of our youngest students.
After the ceremony, RVES kindergarteners got to stick around for a few minutes of the always-exciting powderpuff football game!
We love seeing tradition, school spirit, and community come together across generations of WCPS students.
Our Rhea Valley kindergarteners recently had a big day on the field! They joined Holston High seniors on the 50-yard line for the Passing of the Torch ceremony, where the seniors officially shared their school spirit with some of our youngest students.
After the ceremony, RVES kindergarteners got to stick around for a few minutes of the always-exciting powderpuff football game!
We love seeing tradition, school spirit, and community come together across generations of WCPS students.








Something NEW is cooking in WCPS kitchens!
Say hello to Easy Cheezies ā our new menu addition! When Dr. Perrigan challenged our School Nutrition team to create a fun new breakfast item, Miranda Eck of Wallace Middle School delivered in a big way. Her crispy, cheesy creation was taste-tested and approved by students!
Not only that, Wallace Middle students got to vote on the name ā with Easy Cheezies being dubbed the big winner.
Starting this week for breakfast, Easy Cheezies will roll out to all WCPS schools as part of Tater Tuesday.
Say hello to Easy Cheezies ā our new menu addition! When Dr. Perrigan challenged our School Nutrition team to create a fun new breakfast item, Miranda Eck of Wallace Middle School delivered in a big way. Her crispy, cheesy creation was taste-tested and approved by students!
Not only that, Wallace Middle students got to vote on the name ā with Easy Cheezies being dubbed the big winner.
Starting this week for breakfast, Easy Cheezies will roll out to all WCPS schools as part of Tater Tuesday.






WCPS Alumni Spotlight: Zakk Phillips ~ Holston High School ~ Class of 2007.
We are thrilled to highlight Mr. Zakk Phillips, a proud Holston High School graduate!
Are you a graduate of Washington County Public Schools? If so, we'd love to hear from you! We're excited to learn about your accomplishments and share your story and advice with our current students, families, and community.
Please click here, to fill out a submission form: https://forms.gle/7qzqxJCpCjryVsfW8 OR Do you know a graduate from Washington County Public Schools who has made a positive impact in their community?
Nominate them to be featured in our Alumni Spotlight Series! Click here, to nominate a WCPS graduate: https://forms.gle/LFV1PwdpHnLfYRhn8
We are thrilled to highlight Mr. Zakk Phillips, a proud Holston High School graduate!
Are you a graduate of Washington County Public Schools? If so, we'd love to hear from you! We're excited to learn about your accomplishments and share your story and advice with our current students, families, and community.
Please click here, to fill out a submission form: https://forms.gle/7qzqxJCpCjryVsfW8 OR Do you know a graduate from Washington County Public Schools who has made a positive impact in their community?
Nominate them to be featured in our Alumni Spotlight Series! Click here, to nominate a WCPS graduate: https://forms.gle/LFV1PwdpHnLfYRhn8


š¬āØ Young innovators, get ready!
The Kā5 STEM Academy at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center is the place where curiosity meets creativity. š§Ŗš¤š With engaging curriculum, dedicated teachers, and top-notch facilities, students in grades Kā5 will explore science, technology, engineering, and math in fun, hands-on ways.
š October 21 ā November 18
š SWVA Higher Education Center
ā° Tuesdays, 6:00ā7:30 PM (Kindergarten dismisses at 7:15)
š² $35 registration covers the entire camp!
š Register now: swcenter.edu/k5stemacademy
The Kā5 STEM Academy at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center is the place where curiosity meets creativity. š§Ŗš¤š With engaging curriculum, dedicated teachers, and top-notch facilities, students in grades Kā5 will explore science, technology, engineering, and math in fun, hands-on ways.
š October 21 ā November 18
š SWVA Higher Education Center
ā° Tuesdays, 6:00ā7:30 PM (Kindergarten dismisses at 7:15)
š² $35 registration covers the entire camp!
š Register now: swcenter.edu/k5stemacademy

A Grand Slam for Abingdon High School!
This afternoon, we officially cut the ribbon on the brand-new tennis courts at Abingdon High School!
These courts are extra special because they grew out of student input ā our students shared their vision, and today, it became reality.
A huge thank-you to the Washington County School Board, Washington County Board of Supervisors, Abingdon Town Council, state leaders, Bakers Construction, and Baseline Sports for making this dream a reality.
What an exciting investment in our athletic programs and in the future of our students!
This afternoon, we officially cut the ribbon on the brand-new tennis courts at Abingdon High School!
These courts are extra special because they grew out of student input ā our students shared their vision, and today, it became reality.
A huge thank-you to the Washington County School Board, Washington County Board of Supervisors, Abingdon Town Council, state leaders, Bakers Construction, and Baseline Sports for making this dream a reality.
What an exciting investment in our athletic programs and in the future of our students!





Unplug to connect
Wallace Middle School had the honor of welcoming motivational speaker Jeff McCoy! He shared a powerful message with our students about the impact of social media addiction and encouraged everyone to take time to unplug, recharge, and build real connections with friends and family.
Wallace Middle School had the honor of welcoming motivational speaker Jeff McCoy! He shared a powerful message with our students about the impact of social media addiction and encouraged everyone to take time to unplug, recharge, and build real connections with friends and family.




WCPS is excited to announce the kick off for the Parent Resouce Center. Come out to the EO Building in Abingdon to explore the resources available to families! Also check out the online presence @WashingtonCountySchoolsParentResourceCenter




Spreading sunshine and smiles
Paws for a Cause Club at Watauga Elementary has been busy stuffing Bags of Sunshine to brighten the day for children in our community who are bravely battling cancer.
In honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, students donated items and filled each bag with love, encouragement, and a big dose of Wildcat spirit.
We couldnāt be prouder of these young leaders for showing kindness, compassion, and community pride!
Paws for a Cause Club at Watauga Elementary has been busy stuffing Bags of Sunshine to brighten the day for children in our community who are bravely battling cancer.
In honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, students donated items and filled each bag with love, encouragement, and a big dose of Wildcat spirit.
We couldnāt be prouder of these young leaders for showing kindness, compassion, and community pride!




š Stepping into the future of learning
Dr. Williams and our amazing team of ITRTs recently got a first-hand look at the new Immersion Room at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center.
With limitless options, teachers can design experiences that bring lessons to lifeātailored to exactly what students are learning.
Weāre thrilled to partner with the Higher Education Center to open the door to these incredible opportunities for WCPS students!
Dr. Williams and our amazing team of ITRTs recently got a first-hand look at the new Immersion Room at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center.
With limitless options, teachers can design experiences that bring lessons to lifeātailored to exactly what students are learning.
Weāre thrilled to partner with the Higher Education Center to open the door to these incredible opportunities for WCPS students!





Happening TONIGHT!
Donāt miss the Kickoff to Connection hosted by the WCPS Parent Resource Center!
*When: September 25
*Where: EO Building, Abingdon
*Time: 4:00ā6:00 p.m.
This resource fair is designed to support and empower families of students with disabilities. Youāll have the chance to meet community partners, each hosting a table with valuable information, resources, and support for your family.
Itās a wonderful opportunity to connect with local organizations offering a wide range of servicesācome join us and start building your network!
Be sure to give the Parent Resource Center Facebook page a follow: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577049952532
Donāt miss the Kickoff to Connection hosted by the WCPS Parent Resource Center!
*When: September 25
*Where: EO Building, Abingdon
*Time: 4:00ā6:00 p.m.
This resource fair is designed to support and empower families of students with disabilities. Youāll have the chance to meet community partners, each hosting a table with valuable information, resources, and support for your family.
Itās a wonderful opportunity to connect with local organizations offering a wide range of servicesācome join us and start building your network!
Be sure to give the Parent Resource Center Facebook page a follow: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577049952532

š„The WGES Student News Crew at Greendale Elementary School had an incredible opportunity to go behind the scenes at WCYB! From the newsroom to the lights and cameras, students got a firsthand look at what it takes to bring the news to our community every day.
They asked thoughtful questions, soaked in the fast-paced energy of the studio, and even stepped into the role of professional storytellers.
Weāre so proud of these budding journalistsātheir curiosity and excitement show that the future of storytelling is BRIGHT!
Big thanks to our friends at WCYB for welcoming our students into the newsroom!
They asked thoughtful questions, soaked in the fast-paced energy of the studio, and even stepped into the role of professional storytellers.
Weāre so proud of these budding journalistsātheir curiosity and excitement show that the future of storytelling is BRIGHT!
Big thanks to our friends at WCYB for welcoming our students into the newsroom!

š¹šØThings are blooming in art at Meadowview Elementary School! Fourth graders have been busy painting their clay roses, and the results are just as amazing as their creativity!





Washington County Public Schools is proud to offer families a convenient option for medical care through our School-Based Virtual Health Clinic, in partnership with Niswonger Childrenās Network and Ballad Health Medical Associates Urgent Care.
How it works:
*With parent/guardian permission and signed consent forms, the school nurse can connect your child with a Ballad Health provider through secure live video.
*Providers can check your childās heart and lungs, look at sore throats, ears, or rashes, order basic labs, and even send prescriptions to your pharmacy ā all without your child leaving school.
*Parents/guardians are invited to join the visit in-person or virtually.
*Doctorās notes can be provided to the school if needed.
Conditions treated include:
Fever, sore throat, allergies, ear pain, nausea, rashes, pink eye, cold/flu symptoms, minor injuries, and more.
Cost:
Visits are billed to your insurance. If uninsured, the flat fee is $55 per visit (plus minimal charges for flu, strep, or COVID tests).
How to enroll your child:
*Complete and return the consent and enrollment forms included in your back-to-school packet (English and Spanish versions available).
*Please include a copy of your insurance card, front and back.
*Online consent form link: https://schooltelemed.balladhealth.org/
This service is available at:
Abingdon Elementary, Greendale Elementary, Meadowview Elementary, Rhea Valley Elementary, Valley Institute Elementary, Watauga Elementary, Damascus Middle, E.B. Stanley Middle, Glade Spring Middle, Wallace Middle, Abingdon High School, Holston High School, and Patrick Henry High School.
For questions, please contact your school nurse.
To learn more, click here: https://www.balladhealth.org/telehealth/school-based-virtual-clinic
How it works:
*With parent/guardian permission and signed consent forms, the school nurse can connect your child with a Ballad Health provider through secure live video.
*Providers can check your childās heart and lungs, look at sore throats, ears, or rashes, order basic labs, and even send prescriptions to your pharmacy ā all without your child leaving school.
*Parents/guardians are invited to join the visit in-person or virtually.
*Doctorās notes can be provided to the school if needed.
Conditions treated include:
Fever, sore throat, allergies, ear pain, nausea, rashes, pink eye, cold/flu symptoms, minor injuries, and more.
Cost:
Visits are billed to your insurance. If uninsured, the flat fee is $55 per visit (plus minimal charges for flu, strep, or COVID tests).
How to enroll your child:
*Complete and return the consent and enrollment forms included in your back-to-school packet (English and Spanish versions available).
*Please include a copy of your insurance card, front and back.
*Online consent form link: https://schooltelemed.balladhealth.org/
This service is available at:
Abingdon Elementary, Greendale Elementary, Meadowview Elementary, Rhea Valley Elementary, Valley Institute Elementary, Watauga Elementary, Damascus Middle, E.B. Stanley Middle, Glade Spring Middle, Wallace Middle, Abingdon High School, Holston High School, and Patrick Henry High School.
For questions, please contact your school nurse.
To learn more, click here: https://www.balladhealth.org/telehealth/school-based-virtual-clinic


The 2025 Fall Duke Marine Lab Trip Was a Success!
On September 17th, 54 high school students and 8 chaperones headed to Beaufort, North Carolina, for an unforgettable experience at the Duke University Marine Lab. This hands-on learning adventure gave students a unique opportunity to explore marine science alongside experts in the field.
During their stay on Duke's coastal campus, students participated in a variety of excursions and labs. They teamed up with UNC and Captain Stacyās team to head out to sea, collecting and studying multiple marine species through dissection and observation to better understand coastal ecosystems.
Some students chose to go clamming, while others explored local historical sites, including Fort Macon. The group also compared two unique island environmentsāRachel Carson Estuary and Shackleford Banksāgaining valuable insight into the differences between sound-side and ocean-side erosion.
Another highlight was a visit with Keith Rittmaster, curator at the North Carolina Maritime Museum and director of Bonehenge. Students learned about marine mammal conservation, how beached whales, porpoises, and dolphins are prepared for museum and classroom displays, and how they can become better environmental stewards.
Weāre incredibly proud of our students and grateful to our partners at Duke University Marine Lab for this incredible opportunity. Stay tuned for details on future tripsāand high school students, be sure to inquire about how you can be part of the next Duke Marine Lab adventure!
On September 17th, 54 high school students and 8 chaperones headed to Beaufort, North Carolina, for an unforgettable experience at the Duke University Marine Lab. This hands-on learning adventure gave students a unique opportunity to explore marine science alongside experts in the field.
During their stay on Duke's coastal campus, students participated in a variety of excursions and labs. They teamed up with UNC and Captain Stacyās team to head out to sea, collecting and studying multiple marine species through dissection and observation to better understand coastal ecosystems.
Some students chose to go clamming, while others explored local historical sites, including Fort Macon. The group also compared two unique island environmentsāRachel Carson Estuary and Shackleford Banksāgaining valuable insight into the differences between sound-side and ocean-side erosion.
Another highlight was a visit with Keith Rittmaster, curator at the North Carolina Maritime Museum and director of Bonehenge. Students learned about marine mammal conservation, how beached whales, porpoises, and dolphins are prepared for museum and classroom displays, and how they can become better environmental stewards.
Weāre incredibly proud of our students and grateful to our partners at Duke University Marine Lab for this incredible opportunity. Stay tuned for details on future tripsāand high school students, be sure to inquire about how you can be part of the next Duke Marine Lab adventure!






Damascus Middle School is gearing up for something BIG!
Thanks to our friends from Communities In Schools of Appalachian Highlands and a grant from Outrideās Riding for Focus program, DMS now has 30 brand-new bikes and helmets to launch a school-wide cycling program!
Students, families, and community members came together at the Bike Build Bash to pump tires, grease pedals, and get these bikes ready to roll ā with a little expert help from Sun Dog Outfitters.
This 6-week cycling program will give students the chance to boost their mental and physical health, build confidence, strengthen friendships, and discover the joy of riding.
Thanks to our friends from Communities In Schools of Appalachian Highlands and a grant from Outrideās Riding for Focus program, DMS now has 30 brand-new bikes and helmets to launch a school-wide cycling program!
Students, families, and community members came together at the Bike Build Bash to pump tires, grease pedals, and get these bikes ready to roll ā with a little expert help from Sun Dog Outfitters.
This 6-week cycling program will give students the chance to boost their mental and physical health, build confidence, strengthen friendships, and discover the joy of riding.




WCPS Alumni Spotlight: Linda Austin ~ Abingdon High School ~ Class of 1980.
We are thrilled to highlight Ms. Linda Austin, a proud Abingdon High School graduate!
Are you a graduate of Washington County Public Schools? If so, we'd love to hear from you! We're excited to learn about your accomplishments and share your story and advice with our current students, families, and community.
Please click here, to fill out a submission form: https://forms.gle/7qzqxJCpCjryVsfW8 OR Do you know a graduate from Washington County Public Schools who has made a positive impact in their community?
Nominate them to be featured in our Alumni Spotlight Series! Click here, to nominate a WCPS graduate: https://forms.gle/LFV1PwdpHnLfYRhn8
We are thrilled to highlight Ms. Linda Austin, a proud Abingdon High School graduate!
Are you a graduate of Washington County Public Schools? If so, we'd love to hear from you! We're excited to learn about your accomplishments and share your story and advice with our current students, families, and community.
Please click here, to fill out a submission form: https://forms.gle/7qzqxJCpCjryVsfW8 OR Do you know a graduate from Washington County Public Schools who has made a positive impact in their community?
Nominate them to be featured in our Alumni Spotlight Series! Click here, to nominate a WCPS graduate: https://forms.gle/LFV1PwdpHnLfYRhn8



šš„ At Glade Spring Middle School, Ms. Stevensās 6th grade Exploring Technology students put their engineering skills to the test!
They designed 3D-printed containers and padded them with recycled materials to see if they could protect an egg during a rooftop drop experiment.
Letās just say the eggs didnāt quite make it this round⦠but the students had a cracking good time learning about design, problem-solving, and testing ideas!
They designed 3D-printed containers and padded them with recycled materials to see if they could protect an egg during a rooftop drop experiment.
Letās just say the eggs didnāt quite make it this round⦠but the students had a cracking good time learning about design, problem-solving, and testing ideas!



⨠Our Pre-K students at Abingdon Elementary are learning all about the letter T ā with a tasty twist! They enjoyed a taste test of tater tots, tomatoes, tangerines, and tortilla chips.
Huge shoutout to our amazing School Nutrition team at AES for helping bring learning to life (and making it delicious, too)!
Huge shoutout to our amazing School Nutrition team at AES for helping bring learning to life (and making it delicious, too)!





Nothing says late summer like corn on the cob!
Yesterday, WCPS students and staff enjoyed Whitesides sweet corn at lunch -- a local favorite that brought plenty of smiles to the cafeteria.
We're grateful for the chance to share fresh, local flavors with our school community!
Yesterday, WCPS students and staff enjoyed Whitesides sweet corn at lunch -- a local favorite that brought plenty of smiles to the cafeteria.
We're grateful for the chance to share fresh, local flavors with our school community!



