On Monday, State School Superintendent Richard Woods visited the district to recognize outstanding academic achievement, presenting banners to Park Elementary, Pine Ridge Elementary, and Harris County Carver Middle School.
The Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) recognizes schools across the state that demonstrate exceptional achievement or growth in reading and mathematics, naming them Literacy Leaders and Math Leaders. These honors are based on student progress and proficiency on end-of-grade and end-of-course assessments, with a focus on key milestone grades and increased growth expectations for schools working to close achievement gaps.
Park Elementary and Pine Ridge Elementary were both honored as Georgia Literacy Leaders, reflecting strong student growth and achievement in early literacy. Park Elementary recorded a 5.9-point increase in third-grade literacy, while Pine Ridge Elementary achieved an even higher gain of 7.6 points—helping build a strong foundation for continued academic success.
Harris County Carver Middle School was recognized as a Math Leader for its exceptional performance in mathematics. The school posted a 6.8-point increase in eighth-grade math, and students taking the high school-level assessment earned a 100% pass rate—demonstrating both rigor and readiness.
During the ceremony, Superintendent Woods emphasized that these accomplishments reflect a true team effort. From teachers and administrators to support staff—including bus drivers, cafeteria teams, counselors, and office personnel—each plays a vital role in student success. He also underscored that achievement in tested grades begins years earlier, highlighting the importance of strong instruction and support from the earliest grades.
The visit served as both a celebration and a call to continue the work, with a focus on sustaining momentum and ensuring continued growth for all students.