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Harris County School District

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Media Releases 2022-2023

HCSD Parents Invited to Virtual Meeting to Gain an Understanding of Georgia Milestone Scores

HAMILTON, GA (MAY 31, 2023) - The Harris County School District (HCSD) is pleased to announce that its Curriculum and Instruction Department will be hosting the second installment of “County Curriculum Conversations,” focusing on the topic of Georgia Milestone score reports. This virtual meeting will take place at 6 p.m., Wed., June 7, via Zoom and aims to provide parents and guardians with valuable insights on interpreting their child's score report. To learn more, click the title above.

HCSD PARENTS INVITED TO VIRTUAL MEETING TO GAIN AN UNDERSTANDING OF GEORGIA MILESTONE SCORES

HAMILTON, GA (MAY 31, 2023) - The Harris County School District (HCSD) is pleased to announce that its Curriculum and Instruction Department will be hosting the second installment of “County Curriculum Conversations,” focusing on the topic of Georgia Milestone score reports. This virtual meeting will take place at 6 p.m., Wed., June 7, via Zoom and aims to provide parents and guardians with valuable insights on interpreting their child's score report.

 

The County Curriculum Conversations initiative is part of the district's commitment to fostering a collaborative environment between parents, educators, and community members. Through these conversations, the school district seeks to empower parents by equipping them with the necessary tools and information to better understand and support their child's academic progress.

 

During the upcoming meeting, participants will have the opportunity to engage with experts from the Curriculum and Instruction Department, who will provide an in-depth analysis of Georgia Milestone score reports. Parents and guardians will learn how to interpret the scores, gain insights into their child's academic strengths and areas for improvement and understand the significance of these reports in guiding their child's educational journey.

 

To register for the event, interested participants can visit the HCSD website at www.harris.k12.ga.us/ccc and complete the registration form. Upon registration, participants will receive an email with the Zoom meeting details and any necessary instructions to ensure a smooth virtual experience. For those unable to attend, a link of the recorded event will be made available for viewing.

 

"We are excited to continue our County Curriculum Conversations with a focus on Georgia Milestone score reports," said Dr. Dave Dennie, HCSD elementary director of curriculum. "We believe that by working together and providing parents with the knowledge they need, we can make a significant positive impact on our students' education. We encourage all parents and guardians to join us for this informative session."

 

For more information about the County Curriculum Conversations or any other inquiries related to curriculum and instruction in the Harris County School District, please contact Dennie for grades K-5 at dennie-d@harris.k12.ga.us or Dr. Donna Patterson, HCSD secondary director of curriculum, for grades 6-12 at patterson-d@harris.k12.ga.us.

 

The Harris County School District is in Hamilton, GA. For additional information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or call (706) 628-4206.

 

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Note to Editor: Interviews are available upon request.

 

About the Harris County School District

The Harris County School District in Georgia is an accredited K-12 school system based in Hamilton, the county seat. It serves approximately 5,500 students and includes four elementary schools, one intermediate school, one middle school, one high school, and one performance learning center. With a vision of "one community committed to educational excellence for every child," the Harris County School District strives to provide students with the necessary tools to become the future workforce and society. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow the district on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

School District Operations Close June 14 Due to Weather

HAMILTON, GA (JUNE 14, 2023) – Due to severe weather, the Harris County School District (HCSD) has cancelled all district operations for Wednesday, June 14. This is to include Extended School Year (ESY), or summer school, the Summer Feeding Program, and all student activities.

SCHOOL DISTRICT OPERATIONS CLOSE JUNE 14 DUE TO WEATHER

HAMILTON, GA (JUNE 14, 2023) – Due to severe weather, the Harris County School District (HCSD) has cancelled all district operations for Wednesday, June 14. This is to include Extended School Year (ESY), or summer school, the Summer Feeding Program, and all student activities.

Staff are not to report due to possible severe weather and a flood watch in Harris County.
Thank you for your understanding and support as the safety and well-being of the HCSD students and staff are the district’s highest priorities. 

 

This announcement is being shared through:

  • HCSD Communication program (Infinite Campus)
  • HCSD Facebook Page (Harris County School District – GA)
  • HCSD website (www.harris.k12.ga.us)
  • Release to local daily media outlets

 

The Harris County School District is in Hamilton, Ga.  For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or call (706) 628-4206.

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About the Harris County School District
Georgia’s Harris County School District (HCSD) is an accredited K-12 school system based in the county seat of Hamilton, Ga. It serves 5,500+ students with four elementary schools, one intermediate school, one middle school, one high school, and one performance learning center. With a vision of “one community committed to the well-being and preparation of every student for life-long success in a global society,” the HCSD strives to ensure an excellent education for every student in Harris County. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

 Harris County School District Mourns the Loss of Retired Principal Garnett Ray Jr.

HAMILTON, GA (JUNE 15, 2023) – The Harris County School District (HCSD) is grieving the loss of Garnett Ray Jr., a retired educator for 39 years who made a positive impact on the district and the community. To read the complete release, click the title above.

HARRIS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT MOURNS THE LOSS OF RETIRED PRINCIPAL GARNETT RAY JR.

HAMILTON, GA (JUNE 15, 2023) – The Harris County School District (HCSD) is grieving the loss of Garnett Ray Jr., a retired educator for 39 years who made a positive impact on the district and the community.

 

Ray, 78, unexpectedly passed away at his home in Whitesville, Georgia, on Monday, June 12, 2023.

 

Ray was born on February 19, 1945, in Detroit, Mich., to the late Garnett Emory Ray Sr. and Virginia Cole Ray. He graduated from Columbus High School in 1963 and pursued higher education, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Social Science Education in 1969 from Georgia Southern College. He furthered his studies, earning a Master of Education in 1977 from Columbus College and a Specialist in Education from West Georgia College in 1991. Additionally, Ray served honorably in the Navy for four years.

 

During his time in the Navy, Ray was stationed in Thurso, Scotland, where he met his wife, Maureen. After returning to the United States, they settled in the Fortson community of Harris County, Ga. In 1972, Ray commenced his career as a history teacher at New Mountain Hill Elementary (NMHE) School and later became its principal in 1980. He dedicated himself to this role until his retirement in 2011. Throughout his tenure, Ray actively participated in the community, coaching baseball and football, as well as serving as a boy scout leader. He positively influenced the lives of numerous individuals, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him.

 

In honor of Ray's legacy, NMHE recently established the Garnett E. Ray Jr. Distinguished Wildcat Award, which will be bestowed annually upon two students. Principal Jessica Burnett shared, "This award recognizes two students who embody the qualities Mr. Garnett Ray Jr. displayed and expected here at NMHE: leadership, encouragement, trustworthiness, dedication, steadfastness, and kindness." Teachers nominate candidates, and the school's leadership team votes to select the recipients. The first awardees, who attended NMHE throughout their elementary school years, exemplified servant leadership and served as positive role models for their peers. They consistently displayed outstanding work ethics and kindness toward all.

 

Garnett Ray III, Ray's son and current Chair of the Harris County School District's Board of Education, expressed, "We will remember him as a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and educator."

 

Ray is preceded in death by his father, Garnett Emory Ray Sr., his mother Virginia Cole Ray, and his nephew Wesley Ray. He is survived by his wife Maureen Findlay Ray, son Garnett Emory Ray III (Jennifer), daughter Anne Ray Prater (Anthony), grandchildren Justin, Emily, Austin, and Findlay, sisters Kitty Stringfellow and Harriett Turpin, and brother Ernie Ray (Tammy). He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and other family members in the United States and abroad, as well as his Mountain Hill Elementary family.

 

Friends and well-wishers are invited to visit the family at 3 p.m. on Friday, June 16, 2023, at McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory located at 3874 Gentian Boulevard, Columbus, Ga., 31907. A memorial service will follow at 4 p.m. in the McMullen Chapel, officiated by Reverend Gene Boyd.

 

While flowers are welcome, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to New Mountain Hill Elementary School through the Harris County Board of Education Office at 132 Barnes Mill Road, Hamilton, Georgia, 31811, in lieu of flowers.

 

"Garnett Ray Jr. had a tremendous impact on the people of our county as a teacher, principal, and mentor. His legacy will continue to inspire for years to come," shared Superintendent Roger D. Couch.

 

The Harris County School District is in Hamilton, Georgia.  For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or call (706) 628-4206.

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About the Harris County School District
Georgia’s Harris County School District (HCSD) is an accredited K-12 school system based in the county seat of Hamilton, Ga. It serves 5,500+ students with four elementary schools, one intermediate school, one middle school, one high school, and one performance learning center. With a vision of “one community committed to the well-being and preparation of every student for life-long success in a global society,” the HCSD strives to ensure an excellent education for every student in Harris County. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

"Pastries with Parapro" Events in June Look to Answer Questions for Anyone Interested in Working in the Classroom

HAMILTON, GA (JUNE 13, 2023) – Interested in becoming a paraprofessional but have questions? Plan to attend a "Pastries with Parapros” event to ask about what’s involved with being a paraprofessional for the Harris County School District (HCSD). To read the complete release, click the title above.

"PASTRIES WITH PARAPRO" EVENTS IN JUNE LOOK TO ANSWER QUESTIONS FOR ANYONE INTERESTED IN WORKING IN THE CLASSROOM

HAMILTON, GA (JUNE 13, 2023) – Interested in becoming a paraprofessional but have questions? Plan to attend a "Pastries with Parapros” event to ask about what’s involved with being a paraprofessional for the Harris County School District (HCSD).

 

“To provide the best educational settings for our students, we are actively looking for people interested in being in the classroom to support students and teachers,” shared Stacey Carlisle, HCSD assistant superintendent of human resources. "We had a great turnout for the first one. We hope to meet more potential candidates."

 

The HCSD’s department of human resources is hosting these recruiting events from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on two upcoming Tuesdays, June 20 and 27. The events will be at the HCSD Central Office (132 Barnes Mill Road, Hamilton, Ga.). There is no registration required to attend.

 

Such a position offers:

 

  • Family-friendly hours that include weekends, holidays, summers off
  • Affordable health/dental/vision insurance
  • Paid sick leave and personal leave
  • Teachers Retirement System and 3% 403(b) employer match
  • Salary range: $18,744 - $26,461


All applications must be submitted online. To apply, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us/employment, and click on “HCSD Current Job Openings.” Find “Student Support Services,” choose one of the paraprofessionals-related positions, which are listed by school, and click “apply.” For additional information, call the HCSD Transportation Dept. at (706) 628-4220 ext. 1301.


The Harris County School District is in Hamilton, Georgia.  For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or call (706) 628-4206.


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About the Harris County School District
Georgia’s Harris County School District (HCSD) is an accredited K-12 school system based in the county seat of Hamilton, Ga. It serves 5,500+ students with four elementary schools, one intermediate school, one middle school, one high school, and one performance learning center. With a vision of “one community committed to the well-being and preparation of every student for life-long success in a global society,” the HCSD strives to ensure an excellent education for every student in Harris County. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

 District Teacher of the Year Recognized at Georgia Teacher of the Year Gala; Top 10 Finisher

HAMILTON, GA (JUNE 16, 2023) – Jennifer Lean, the recipient of this year's Harris County School District (HCSD) Teacher of the Year award, was honored at the prestigious 2022-2023 Georgia Teacher of the Year Gala at the Jekyll Island Convention Center on June 10, 2023. To read the complete release, click the title above.

DISTRICT TEACHER OF THE YEAR RECOGNIZED AT GEORGIA TEACHER OF THE YEAR GALA; TOP 10 FINISHER

HAMILTON, GA (JUNE 16, 2023) – Jennifer Lean, the recipient of this year's Harris County School District (HCSD) Teacher of the Year award, was honored at the prestigious 2022-2023 Georgia Teacher of the Year Gala at the Jekyll Island Convention Center on June 10, 2023.

As one of the Top 10 finalists, Jennifer Lean attended the event accompanied by her husband, George Lean, her son, Will Bostelman, and her parents, Larry and Linda Freeland. Showing their support, HCSD Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Stacey Carlisle and Park Principal Allyson Douthit were also in attendance. The keynote address was delivered by Michael Kibito, the esteemed 2023 Georgia Teacher of the Year, who spoke about the importance of teacher leadership.

 

Jennifer Lean, currently in her fifth year of teaching at Park Elementary as a third-grade teacher, shared her enthusiasm for joining the Harris County School District. "My teaching career has taken me to different regions of Georgia. In 2015, my family moved to Harris County, and my son transferred to HCHS. The experience of being a parent in this school system was extremely positive. The teachers at the high school truly invested in my son. I knew there was something special in the Harris County School District, and I wanted to be a part of it," Lean expressed gratefully. "Being a part of the faculty at Park has been a blessing in my life. I truly love my colleagues, and I believe in our students. I am honored and humbled to represent the amazing, talented, and dedicated teachers at Park Elementary as the Teacher of the Year. Since moving to Harris County, I have met teachers at all of the schools and am always impressed with the commitment they have for their students and to our profession. It is an honor to represent Harris County as District Teacher of the Year."

 

Throughout her career, Jennifer Lean has taught grades 1st through 4th, served as a learning support specialist, a Kindergarten EIP teacher, and an instructional specialist. Prior to her current position at Park Elementary, she worked at various schools, including Callaway Elementary School, Rocky Branch Elementary, Oglethorpe County Primary School, Ben Hill Primary School, and Bill Hill Elementary School.

 

In addition to her classroom teaching, Lean has made significant contributions to the success of Park Elementary in various capacities, including serving as a member of the School Climate Committee, STEAM Committee, Ecology/North Atlantic Right Whale Club coordinator, Mentor Teacher, and STEAM Application Committee Member. She has also fulfilled roles as an RTI interventionist, Grant Writer, Assessment Team Member, System Media Committee Chair, and has held numerous positions promoting literacy within the school.

 

Lean holds an associate of arts in elementary education from Young Harris College, a Bachelor of Science in elementary education from Berry College, a master's degree in elementary education from Valdosta State University and has completed all the coursework for a reading specialist doctoral program from Auburn University. Additionally, she possesses certifications in T6 elementary education, T6 reading specialist, and a gifted endorsement. She is an active member of Delta Kappa Gamma, the International Literacy Association, and the Professional Association of Educators.

 

Over the years, Lean has received several accolades, including the Phi Delta Kappa Award as Outstanding Contributor to the Field of Education and multiple Flint Energies Bright Ideas Grants, such as "Georgia Here We Grow" and "Can You Dig It?"

 

Beyond her commitment to education, Lean has engaged with her community in various ways. She completed the Georgia Chamber of Commerce's Leadership Georgia program, held the position of secretary of the Harris County Friends of the Library, and served as a Mission Friends Lead Teacher and Vacation Bible School director for First Baptist Church of Fitzgerald, GA. Presently, she serves as the president of the Harris County Friends of the Library.

 

The District Teacher of the Year from Harris County represents the district in the selection process for the Georgia Teacher of the Year. The chosen teacher then participates in the selection process for the National Teacher of the Year.

 

 

Allyson Douthit, Principal of Park Elementary, expressed her pride in Lean's accomplishments and representation of Park Elementary and the Harris County School District. Douthit stated, "We are so proud of Mrs. Lean and the way she has represented both Park Elementary and the Harris County School District. And, while we know she would have been a fabulous state-wide teacher of the year, we are so happy we get to keep her at Park, the place to be."

 

Lean added," I am proud of the commitment and professionalism of Harris County teachers, and it has been a highlight of my career to represent all of us at the district and state level.”

 

The Harris County School District is in Hamilton, Ga. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or call (706) 628-4206.

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Pictured (left to right):  Georgia School Superintendent Richard Woods and Harris County School District's Teacher of the Year Jennifer Lean

About the Harris County School District
Georgia’s Harris County School District (HCSD) is an accredited K-12 school system based in the county seat of Hamilton, Ga. It serves 5,500+ students with four elementary schools, one intermediate school, one middle school, one high school, and one performance learning center. With a vision of “one community committed to the well-being and preparation of every student for life-long success in a global society,” the HCSD strives to ensure an excellent education for every student in Harris County. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).