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.
Due to predicted overnight weather, Swain County Schools will operate on a two-hour delay tomorrow, Thursday, January 15th. Buses will not run on icy roads.
However, we will continue to monitor weather conditions overnight and notify you of any changes as soon as possible.
This special hourlong event celebrates the future of public education in North Carolina with inspiring remarks from Superintendent Green, performances by Swain County Schools students, and stories that highlight the incredible work happening across our schools.
Everyone’s invited including families, students, educators, and community partners to join together and help shape the next chapter of education in our state.
🕕 When: Thursday, Oct. 23 from 6:00p.m.
📍 Where: Swain Arts Center, Swain County High School
✅ RSVP: Free registration encouraged - go.ncdpi.gov/western
The Swain County Schools Afterschool Program application will open on Friday, August 8, at 9:00 a.m. Families interested in enrolling their child are encouraged to complete the application promptly, as spaces are limited.
Click the link below to access the application on Friday, August 8th at 9am:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSevQr__Bml292h2GII53RsHcNiv8pPVKT3fnHlaH5-73Zx1rQ/viewform?usp=header
Click the link below to access the application on Friday, August 8th at 9am:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSevQr__Bml292h2GII53RsHcNiv8pPVKT3fnHlaH5-73Zx1rQ/viewform?usp=header
