Originally published in The Sylva Herald Oct. 7 edition Southwestern Community College students hosted a public forum for the candidates running for the Board of Education Seat 5 on Oct. 1. The candidates racing for the empty seat are Amanda Woods and Sandy Jennings, who were both invited to the forum. Jennings was not present at the forum. SCC […]
JCPS schools improve in latest state report
Story originally published in The Sylva Herald, Sept. 23 Jackson County Public Schools improved their performance grades at four schools during the 2025-2026 school year. Adam Holt, JCPS director of testing and accountability, presented the district’s state test results during the Jackson County Board of Education meeting Sept. 22. All JCPS schools met or exceeded […]
The Class of 2030: Adjusting to college life in the mountains
Western Carolina University’s freshman class is settling into campus life one month at a time to make Cullowhee feel like home. WCU’s Class of 2030 is the largest freshman class in history. Chancellor Kelli R. Brown reported 2,385 freshmen this fall, contributing to an overall enrollment of 12,308 students. While some students have noticed changes around campus, the first month has also given freshmen opportunities to find their place at WCU. […]
“I Voted” sticker contest recognition
The winners of Jackson County’s 2026 “I Voted” sticker contest were recognized Tuesday, Sept. 1, during the Jackson County Board of Elections meeting. Naomi Pratt, 7, took first place with a design featuring an eagle and red, white and blue lettering that reads “I VOTED.” “I chose the eagle because there is an eagle at East Laporte,” […]









