We are excited about the new opportunities that the 2022-2023 school year brings. We look forward to building new relationships and renewing old acquaintances. We are mindful to pay our respects to those still living through the Covid-19 experience. We also give honor and acknowledge those that have experienced loss. We anticipate starting the new school year with no restrictions. However, we have proven that we can quickly shift to different instructional delivery methods and Covid -19 protocols.

I look forward to a rich and rewarding school year ahead and wish to take this opportunity to share with you some updates on what has been happening in our system: System leadership, school administrative teams, teachers, and support personnel have worked diligently to improve in the areas of achievement and growth. On the Georgia Milestones, every grade level and subject area experienced gains, with double-digit gains at the developing level and above across seven different grade levels in math and science.

The newly created Southwest Georgia (SOWEGA) College & Career Academy (CCA) will begin academic operation this school year, with project construction anticipated in fall of 2023 using the Georgia College & Career Academy grant funds. Beginning in 2022-2023, the Academy will offer pathways in 10 different career cluster areas. The SOWEGA CCA currently has 54 students participating in the Work-Based Learning program, which includes nine student internships through 5 local industry partners.

School safety will continue to be a priority every day. We are working closely with local law enforcement to ensure fast and clear communication. The safety plan also includes plans of execution and drills to refine our processes so we can be proactive and quickly react to threats. We have hardened our main points of entry into our schools. We have detection devices as part of our layers of security for our schools. We have installed software to monitor social media platforms. We promote a see something, hear something, say something mindset as a form of communication. We lock our classroom doors. We are constantly looking for ways to enhance school safety and security.

I want to highlight some initiatives started or completed during the past school year. Our new grade configuration will consist of: Primary School: PK,K, grades 1 and 2: Elementary School: grades 3, 4, 5; Middle School: grades 6, 7, 8: High School: grades 9, 10, 11, 12. Mitchell County School System completed its five-year facility plan review approved by the state. We completed the ten-year voting reapportionment process. We have building projects scheduled to start at the Primary and Middle Schools in the fall. Additionally, we are in the planning stages of a significant modernization project at the High School.

 Lastly, we have initiated a strategic planning process. The Georgia School Boards Association will facilitate the process involving school and community stakeholders. This process, when completed, will guide the teaching and learning in our schools for the next five years.

In closing, please join me in praying for the safety of our children and staff. As we enter a new teaching and learning season, let’s work together to create learning opportunities to carry our children into their future.

Thank you for allowing me to serve as your Superintendent.

It’s Great to be an EAGLE!