Macon County Schools

Macon County Schools Pre-K Update: The Macon County School System has an opening for a 4-year old at South Macon Elementary School. Private pay as well as subsidy pay will be accepted. For more information or to apply, please contact Valerie Norton at 828-524-3314 ext. 1041 or valerie.norton@macon.k12.nc.us

3 months ago, Macon County Schools

On Wednesday, September 18, Macon County students attended Noon Rotary. During this time, students were able to share about their experiences with Southwestern Community College Public Safety pathway and the new Firefighter Academy. In addition, Hunter Jamison, a former Franklin High School graduate and current employee of the Macon County Sheriff's Office, was able to share his experience as he is a product of the Public Safety pathway. A very special shout out to Larry Pickens for his dedication to this program and these students! Students pictured: Leighton Benedict-FHS, Tiana Gregory-FHS, David Rogers-FHS, Maveric Waldroop-FHS, Gavin Small-Highlands School and Hunter Jamison-Macon County Sheriff's Offfice.

3 months ago, Macon County Schools

The Macon County Sheriff’s Office has just released the following statement: MACON COUNTY- NC SHERIFF’S OFFICE On Monday September 9, Nantahala School administration received information that a student made a threat of violence against the school. The student in question was interviewed and charged with the following: ⁃ 1 felony count of Communicating A Threat of Mass Violence on Educational Property No further information will be released on the student as they are a juvenile. Nantahala School is NOT considered to be under any type of threat at this time. We want to urge parents to speak with their children about how their words matter. In this day and age, we have zero tolerance for any comments made that put any Macon County school’s safety into question. Macon County Sheriff’s Office and Macon County Schools’ top priority is the safety of our children and we will continue to thoroughly investigate any potential threats to school safety. Those who are found to have communicated threats regarding school safety will be charged accordingly. The Macon County School System would like to add the following: MACON COUNTY SCHOOLS We are thankful for the partnership between our schools, the Macon County Sheriff's Office, and our students and staff who were involved in reporting this incident. Let this serve as a reminder that any and all threats are taken very seriously! If you see or hear something, report it!

3 months ago, Macon County Schools

A message from Macon County Schools Superintendent Josh Lynch: Macon County School Family, The act of violence against Apalachee High School in Winder, GA, has shaken all of us. As a former teacher and principal, as well as a parent of students in our school system, a tragedy such as this reminds me that our children and our educators are precious gifts. As superintendent of schools, I am reminded of the importance of keeping our schools safe. We will use this tragedy as an opportunity to work with our school administrative teams to revisit processes and procedures surrounding vigilance and access to our school buildings and grounds. We will also communicate with the Macon County Sheriff’s Office, Highlands Police Department, Franklin Police Department and the NC Highway Patrol who regularly visit our schools and campuses. All of us play a part in taking care of our children and helping them feel safe. Remind yourself, your students, and your family that if and when something doesn't “feel right” or something seems suspicious, to report it immediately to a school official or to a member of law enforcement. Parents, please revisit the severity and consequences of pranks against school safety with your children. Throughout the week, our focus will be to support students and staff. Our school counselors, social workers, and psychologists are available to assist those who may need support or have questions following such an event. Please monitor your child’s mood and behavior and reach out to a professional if you need help. Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation. We must continue working together so that our students feel the care and concern we have for them, and they recognize the importance placed on their health, well-being, and safety. Please join me in keeping the Winder community in your thoughts and prayers. Josh Lynch Superintendent

3 months ago, Macon County Schools

The Macon County Sheriff’s Office has just released the following statement: MACON COUNTY- NC SHERIFF’S OFFICE On Friday afternoon, Franklin High School administration received information that a student made a threat of violence against the school today. The student in question was interviewed and charged with the following that evening: ⁃ 1 felony count of Communicating A Threat of Mass Violence on Educational Property No further information will be released on the student as they are a juvenile. Franklin High School is NOT considered to be under any type of threat at this time. This threat has no relation to the screenshots that were circulating on social media that we addressed on Friday morning. We want to urge parents to speak with their children about how their words matter. In this day and age, we have zero tolerance for any comments made that put any Macon County school’s safety into question. The Macon County School System would like to add the following: MACON COUNTY SCHOOLS We are thankful for the partnership between our schools, the Macon County Sheriff's Office, and our students and staff who were involved in reporting this incident. Let this serve as a reminder that any and all threats are taken very seriously! If you see or hear something, report it!

3 months ago, Macon County Schools

The recent tragedy in Winder, GA, has created a sense of insecurity among our school family and our community. This tragedy has resulted in numerous social media posts. Therefore, the Macon County Sheriff’s Office has released the following statement: Yesterday evening, Macon County Sheriff’s Office was made aware of several screenshots circulating on various social media platforms. Our detectives, and school resource officers thoroughly investigated these screenshots. After speaking with law enforcement officials in both Rabun County Georgia and Gwinnett County Georgia, it was determined that threats made on social media were targeted towards Franklin County Georgia, and to our knowledge, not towards Franklin, North Carolina. However, we have taken extra precautions by providing extra security at Franklin area schools today. Thank you to Macon County Schools for your collaboration and support on investigating these claims. We will always do everything in our power to protect the children of Macon County, as they are our top priority. In addition, the Macon County School System has released the following statement: We want to address recent concerns regarding threats circulating on social media. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities, and we want to assure you that our schools are safe. We are closely monitoring the situation and working with local law enforcement to ensure that all necessary precautions are in place. Our dedicated team has reviewed and reinforced our safety protocols to protect every member of our school community. Here’s what we’re doing to keep our schools safe: • Increased Security: Enhanced security measures are in effect, including additional staff and surveillance. • Regular Updates: We will continue to provide timely updates as needed to keep you informed. • Open Communication: If you have any concerns or see something suspicious, please report it immediately. Our commitment is to provide a secure and supportive environment for everyone. Thank you for your trust and cooperation. Together, we will navigate through these challenges with strength and unity.