Superintendent Dr. Allen told the Lincoln County Schools Board of Education at its Dec. 9 meeting that the district is progressing on a 2026–2031 strategic plan after six work sessions and community input from more than 150 respondents. He said the next strategic work session will be Jan. 12.

Dr. Allen announced a new effort to include student voice in governance: beginning in January the district will add one student representative from each high school — including Asbury — to attend work sessions to provide feedback on issues that affect students across feeder zones. "We will have student representatives joining our board of education," Dr. Allen said, describing the change as an opportunity to "listen to student voice on things that impact each of our students."

The superintendent highlighted district pride and community engagement: the system collected more than 50,000 cans for local Christian ministries before Thanksgiving and the Lincoln County Education Foundation hosted a successful 50/50 fundraiser. He also announced Kelly Withrow, principal of Battleground Elementary, was named North Carolina’s nominee for a national elementary principal award and will compete in the national pool.

The meeting included a series of recognitions and awards across schools and activities: winners of the superintendent’s Christmas card contest (K–12), 'We Are Lincoln' staff recognitions at Love Memorial and Iron Station, and individual and team athletic honors from East Lincoln, North Lincoln and other schools (conference and region champions, all‑state honorees, and coach of the year awards). Dozens of student athletes and staff were called forward to receive framed certificates and photographs.

What happens next: Student representatives are scheduled to begin attending work sessions in January and the superintendent said district staff will continue strategic‑plan work at the Jan. 12 meeting. The board also received reminders about the academic calendar (winter break Dec. 22–Jan. 6; second semester begins Jan. 7).