District highlights Arts in Our Schools Month and launches student innovation teams in all 17 schools

At the March 30 meeting, Lenoir County Public Schools leaders presented district arts programming and a new digital learning initiative designed to expand student leadership in technology.

Dr. Amy Jones reviewed the district’s Arts in Our Schools Month activities, including All County Chorus, All County Art Show and All County Band performances, and credited clinicians, music and arts teachers, students and families for participation. "A strong music and fine arts program is essential to a well-rounded education and can help our students find a safe, meaningful place to belong at school," Dr. Jones said.

Melissa Lynch outlined the launch of student innovation teams in all 17 LCPS schools as part of the district’s 12th year of one-to-one digital learning. "This year, we added something new, a way to bring students directly into this work as leaders," she said, reporting that just over 160 students took part in three days of professional learning with an Apple specialist. Teams developed action plans to lead digital announcements, support teachers with instructional tools, and model digital citizenship.

Lynch described hands-on activities used during the trainings, including collaborative design work, Keynote tutorials and reflection exercises; each team left with a school-level action plan to implement in the coming months. Board members expressed appreciation for the student-led approach and the professional learning support that enabled the rollout.

Both presenters tied their remarks to district priorities for student engagement and college- and career-readiness, and invited board members to future events showcasing student work.