East Wilkes Middle School first opened in August of 2002. One of four new middle schools built the same year in Wilkes County, we are located among the foothills in the rural community of Ronda, NC. Our school brought together students in grades 6-8 from the C.B. Eller, Ronda-Clingman, and Roaring River Elementary Schools. 

Our principal in the beginning was Dr. Wanda Hutchison. Mr. Eric Barker was the assistant principal. These two phenomenal leaders set the positive tone and standards of excellence which guide us to this very day. From the time of the official ribbon-cutting ceremony on September 21, 2002, it was obvious that “Scorpion Pride” had injected us all.

From the beginning, our school has adhered to the middle school philosophy (as outlined by the National Middle School Association) and the best interest of the students we serve. In addition to strong core academics, we offer exploratory classes including art, music, band, chorus, computers/ technology, as well as health and physical education. Special interest classes are offered to students as well.

Our school has been recognized as a National Middle School Association "Showcase School" as well as a North Carolina School of Excellence and School of Distinction. In addition to an outstanding athletic program, we are extremely proud of our band and chorus programs which have received numerous recognitions and first-place rankings across the state.

Mike Collins, retired EWMS science teacher, says it best:

"Visitors to our school have quickly commented about the pride, energy, and dedication of the EWMS faculty/ staff, as well as the outstanding behavior and hard work of our students.  Come visit us at East Wilkes Middle School and experience the sting!"