This week, we are proud to celebrate Bus Driver Appreciation Week. Our transportation team navigates more than just roads; they navigate the responsibility of student safety and well-being with incredible grace.
Please join us in thanking these essential members of our educational workforce for their commitment and hard work. 🏫🚛
Swain County Schools is looking for substitute teachers! Whether you're a retiree, a stay-at-home parent, or looking for a career change, subbing offers:
Ultimate Flexibility: Set your own schedule; work as much or as little as you want.
Career Exploration: Test different grade levels and subjects to find your fit.
Skill-Building: Sharpen skills in leadership, public speaking, and adaptability.
No "Home Work": Your day ends when the bell rings—no grading or lesson planning.
Community Impact: Be the reason our students keep learning.
Join us!
Kelly Education Hiring Event
February 26th
10:00 to 2:00 PM
Front Lobby
Board of Education
Here is the updated calendar for Swain County Schools.
Pictured (L-R): Lindsay Altizer (Swain East Elementary), Anna Roland (Swain High School), Neil Holden (Swain West Elementary), Katie Aldridge (Swain Middle), Ian Roper (Swain High School), and Ciera Wiggins (Swain Middle).
The safety of our students, families, and staff is our top priority. We apologize for the late notice and any inconvenience this change may cause. Please stay safe and off the roads if possible.
Swain Academy Students Gain Lifesaving Skills in CPR Training
Bryson City, NC- Students at Swain Academy participated in a hands-on CPR training class on Friday, January 23, 2026, gaining essential lifesaving skills required for high school graduation in North Carolina.
The class was led by CTE teacher, Mr. Richard Stephenson, who used a creative and memorable approach to teach the importance of proper chest compressions. To help students understand the correct rhythm and consistency needed during CPR, he incorporated well-known songs such as “Staying Alive” and “Another One Bites the Dust.” The steady beats of the songs helped students grasp how maintaining a consistent tempo keeps blood flowing, supports heart function, and ensures oxygen continues to reach the brain.
Students practiced CPR techniques using hands-on demonstrations, allowing them to apply what they learned in real time. Many expressed enjoyment in the interactive nature of the class and appreciated learning skills that could one day help save a life.
“This is knowledge that truly matters,” said one student. “It made it easier to remember when the music was involved.”
The CPR class not only fulfilled a graduation requirement but also reinforced Swain Academy’s commitment to preparing students with practical, real-world skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
Article & Photos submitted by Jacqueline S. McWhorter
English Teacher, Swain Academy
February Webinar: Helping Kids Build Healthy Relationships with Food
Conversations about food and body image can come up in many ways at school and at home. From student stress to peer dynamics, these topics can feel hard to navigate without the right tools.
Join Cartwheel and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and Consultant, Dana Sedlak, LCSW, CEDS-C, for a free, live webinar on helping kids build healthy relationships with food and their bodies on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 12–1 pm ET.
Parents and caregivers will leave with tools they can use right away at home and as kids head back to school.
Stay tuned to our Facebook pages, school website, and automated alert system for the latest updates.
Stay Safe and Warm!
However, because temperatures are forecasted to drop Sunday night, we may need to re-evaluate based on conditions Monday morning.
In the unlikely event of a significant weather emergency resulting in widespread power outages, we will utilize every available resource to keep you informed.
Please stay tuned to our Facebook pages, school website, and automated alert system for the latest updates.
Thank you for your patience, and stay safe.
King, Jr. Day.
