Lincoln County heads back to school for 2026-27 year

The halls and classrooms across Lincoln County came alive this month as students, teachers and families welcomed the beginning of the 2026-27 school year.

From Alamo to Panaca, Pioche and Caliente, students returned to classrooms at Pahranagat Valley schools, Caliente Elementary, Panaca Elementary, Pioche Elementary, Meadow Valley Middle School and Lincoln County High School.

The beginning of a new school year brought familiar routines along with plenty of firsts as students entered new classrooms, met teachers and reunited with classmates. For others, the year marked a bigger transition as they moved from elementary to middle school or entered high school for the first time.

Across the county, educators welcomed students back while families settled into new schedules and school routines.

In Pahranagat Valley, Elementary, Middle and High schools each held a Back-to-School Night on Monday, Aug. 17. Families met teachers, visited classrooms, asked questions and prepared for the first day of school Tuesday, Aug. 18.

At Pahranagat Valley Elementary School, Principal Mike Sparrow and his staff welcomed students in preschool through fifth grade back for a year of learning, leadership and new experiences.

“We are so excited to start this new school year and welcome our students back for a fun and adventurous learning experience,” Sparrow said.

Sparrow also thanked the parents, students and families who attended Back-to-School Night and helped make the event a success.

This year’s elementary school theme is “Sail Aweigh to Excellence,” which will be incorporated into activities and lessons through the school’s Leader in Me program.

Pahranagat Valley Middle School Assistant Principal Tory Frehner also shared encouragement for students entering the new year.

“A new school year brings new opportunities, a chance to set goals, make new friendships, discover new interests, overcome challenges and find the very best version of ourselves,” Frehner said.

Frehner encouraged students to arrive each day ready to learn, participate and give their best effort, even when things do not come easily. Quoting Coach Brett Hansen, Frehner reminded students, “Do your best today and a little better tomorrow.”

Brooke Foremaster, principal of Pahranagat Valley Middle and High schools, encouraged students and families to ask questions and emphasized the schools’ goal of making sure every student feels welcome and safe.

“There is always someone to help and make extra time for any individual,” Foremaster said.

Meanwhile, other start-of-year activities included the fourth annual Camp Falcon, where Meadow Valley Middle School students spent a day at the 4-H Camp in Alamo on Aug. 20, and the inaugural “Set the Stage” Performing Arts Open House held at Lincoln County High School on Aug. 19.

The first days back have already brought students across Lincoln County opportunities to reconnect with classmates, settle into new classrooms and begin another year of academics, athletics, activities and school traditions.

For Lincoln County’s students and educators, the 2026-27 school year is officially underway.