It is with a heavy heart that we inform you of the passing of a cherished staff member, Keith Payne on Saturday afternoon. Keith was a valuable member of the Swain County Schools family and a beloved coach and community member. We ask that you keep Keith’s family in your thoughts. Coaches and counseling staff have met with current cross country team members and will be on hand for anyone that needs additional support over the next few days.
Swain Middle School and Swain High School staff members are invited to gather prior to the start of school on Monday at 7am, at the Swain Middle Gym and Swain High Media Center for a time to be together and process this loss. Students will be notified of Keith’s passing on Sunday. This news will also be shared in the morning announcements at Swain Middle and Swain High School on Monday morning. The crisis/counseling team will be on hand for staff and students throughout the week.