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Our mission is to create a school system that empowers students from all backgrounds to excel academically and personally. We are committed to providing a wide range of educational opportunities that nurture individual talents and inspire a lifelong love for learning. Through our unwavering dedication, we aim to make a significant difference in the lives of our students, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an ever-changing world and contribute positively to society.

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News

Students and adminstrators stand with ribbon behind playground before the principal cuts the ribbon.

W. M. Jenkins celebrated the opening of its new playground on October 6 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring students, district leaders, and special guests.

Principal Jamey Carter welcomed attendees and thanked the people who made the project possible. The Catawba County Board of Commissioners provided funding, and Hickory City Schools Director of Operations & Maintenance Tony Cox initiated the project and advocated for the new playground.

Read More about W. M. Jenkins Celebrates New Playground with Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
The image shows a smiling woman with long blonde hair, wearing a blue top, standing in front of a bookshelf filled with various items.

Hickory City Schools Community,

Yesterday, the Hickory City Schools Board of Education submitted its formal brief to the North Carolina State Board of Education in opposition to the proposed merger of Hickory City Schools, Newton-Conover City Schools, and Catawba County Schools.

Throughout this process, we have remained committed to transparency and to ensuring that decisions affecting our schools are grounded in facts and, most importantly, in what is best for students. Our brief outlines several significant concerns that we believe the State Board should carefully consider before making its decision.

Read More about Message from Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Griffin: Hickory City Schools Submits Formal Response to Proposed Merger Plan
October Branching Out Community Partner Spotlight Patrick Beaver Learning Resource Center

Branching Out Through Literacy

At Hickory City Schools, we know that strong readers become confident learners. Literacy is the foundation that enables our students to access every subject, discover new interests, and prepare for the opportunities ahead.

This month, I am proud to recognize the Patrick Beaver Learning Resource Center as our October Branching Out: Community Partner Spotlight and celebrate a partnership that brings additional people, expertise, and resources into our schools to support our students and educators.

Read More about October Branching Out: Community Partner Spotlight
The image shows a smiling woman with long blonde hair, wearing a blue top, standing in front of a bookshelf filled with various items.

Below is the Superintendent’s Report from the Monday, September 28, 2026 Board of Education meeting, presented by Dr. Jennifer Griffin.

Across North Carolina, school districts are experiencing declines in Average Daily Membership (ADM), and Hickory City Schools is experiencing this trend as well. We have seen a decrease of approximately 100 students in our district. While this is part of a broader statewide trend, we recognize that declining enrollment has real implications for staffing, resources, and future budget planning.

Read More about Superintendent’s Report: Board of Education Meeting – September 28, 2026