To the students and families of Wise County,
We are sharing the following information on behalf of Wise County officials to ensure our community remains informed and prepared:
WISE COUNTY, VA - Wise County residents are encouraged to register for the new Wise County Resident Alert System, powered by Everbridge, which is replacing the CodeRED notification system, as a Winter Storm Watch has been issued for our area this weekend, January 24–25, 2026.
The new alert system provides timely and important notifications related to severe winter weather, road conditions, public safety incidents, and other critical information affecting the community. By enrolling, residents may receive alerts through multiple methods, including phone calls, text messages, and emails, based on their personal preferences.
With a Winter Storm Watch in effect, officials stress the importance of having multiple ways to receive emergency notifications. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and receiving alerts through more than one method helps ensure residents do not miss critical updates needed to prepare homes, plan travel, and take appropriate safety precautions.
Residents are also encouraged to closely monitor local weather forecasts and make plans accordingly. Preparedness guidance, including information on creating an emergency plan for winter weather, is available at www.ready.gov/plan.
Residents who were previously registered with CodeRED are reminded that they must sign up for the new Wise County Resident Alert System to continue receiving notifications.
Participation in the Wise County Resident Alert System is free, and all personal contact information will be used solely for emergency notification purposes.
Residents are urged to take a few minutes to register now to stay informed and prepared as winter weather approaches this weekend.
For more information or to sign up, residents should visit the Wise County Member Portal at:
https://member.everbridge.net/index/76589467435188
To view the full release, please use the link below:
https://myemail.constantcontact.com/WISE-COUNTY-RESIDENTS-ENCOURAGED-TO-SIGN-UP-FOR-NEW-RESIDENT-ALERT-SYSTEM.html?soid=1134871297537&aid=o7JvzRHjsPU
Today, Monday, January 19, 2026, Wise County Public Schools celebrates Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Dr. King’s legacy reminds us that leadership and service are inseparable. As he famously said, "Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?'"
On this #MLKDay, let us take time to reflect on how leadership and service are inseparable in the world of education. We don't just teach subjects; we mentor future citizens. Dr. King’s persistent question—"What are you doing for others?"—serves as the ultimate rubric for educational success.
“Be The Peace You Wish To See In The World!”― Martin Luther King Jr.
🛠️ Staff Spotlight: Mr. William Sanders
Role: Maintenance Specialist, Wise County Public Schools
Years of Service: 44 Years (With WCPS since 1981)
1. A Lifelong Commitment to Excellence
Q: Tell us about your journey with Wise County Public Schools. "I’ve been in the maintenance field for 44 years in total. I joined the central office team at Wise County Public Schools back in 1981."
2. Behind the Scenes: Keeping the Lights On
Q: What does a typical day look like for you? "My job is to keep the 'heart' of the building beating. That means managing the electrical services, maintaining the heating and cooling systems, and overseeing all fire alarm panels and safety systems. Essentially, I do whatever it takes to keep our buildings fully operational so that the focus can remain on education."
3. The Impact: Safety and Comfort
Q: What gives you the most pride in your work? "The greatest reward is knowing that the systems are running smoothly. When the students are comfortable and—most importantly—safe, I know I’ve done my job well. Providing a stable environment for learning is why I show up every day."
4. A Partnership Built on Decades
Q: Any closing thoughts on your time here? "I’ve had a great experience working with Wise County Public Schools; the district has truly been good to me. I also want to express my deep appreciation for my supervisor, Mr. Gary Lawson. We actually started together in 1981, and his mentorship over the years has meant a lot to me. It’s been a privilege to work alongside such a dedicated team."
Wise County Public Schools thanks Mr. Sanders for his continued service to our students and division!
The WCPS January 2026 Newsletter is now available for viewing.
You may access the newsletter by clicking the following link:
https://wisecova.edurooms.com/engage/wise-county-public-schools/newsletters/january-2026-newsletter
A message from our Food Services Department:
In anticipation of virtual learning days due to inclement weather, the Food Services Program will be sending home with students two days of meals, including 2 breakfasts and 2 lunches on Wednesday, January 14.
***This does not mean virtual learning is scheduled.
SCHOOL CALENDAR UPDATE: We’ve released an updated school calendar for the 2025-2026 school year. To view the updated calendar, click here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QSxFf9yV71tht4WoMmc7SZf8bL4LHTKv/view?usp=drive_link
