McDowell County Schools

McDowell County Schools is located in the foothills of beautiful Western North Carolina, about 30 miles east of Asheville. McDowell County Schools consists of 11 schools (one high school, two middle/junior high schools, eight elementary schools) and two pre-school sites. The school system has approximately 6,500 students, nearly 1,000 employees, and a $40 million budget. McDowell County Schools focus on the North Carolina Standard Course of Study.

The mission of McDowell County Schools is to provide quality education in a safe and supportive environment where we respect students' individual and cultural differences, develop their talents in partnership with family and community, and ensure that they possess the life skills necessary for personal successes and civic responsibility. Statements of Beliefs 1. We believe all children can learn and it is our responsibility to teach them well. 2. We believe a safe, supportive, and inviting school climate is essential for student learning. 3. We believe students learn best when expectations are high and they are held accountable for their academic performance and personal behavior. 4. We believe students learn best when the family, school, and community are partners sharing in the responsibilities of the learning process. 5. We believe students become good citizens when they have daily interaction with caring, competent, and positive models.

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