HAMILTON, GA (JUNE 19, 2024) –The Harris County School District (HCSD) has presented the results of the stakeholder input to the Board of Education and the 2025-2026 calendar has been approved.

“Over the last few years, we’ve developed a formula for setting the academic calendar that works. With this process, we’ve been setting the calendars for two years at a time and are working to continue providing calendars two years out” shared HCSD K-4 Curriculum Director David Dennie. “With additional stakeholder input, the board has approved the Version D calendar option for the 2025-2026 calendar.”

The specifics of the selected calendar are:

2025-2026 Calendar Option Version D – Selected and Board Approved

·             Students begin school on Thursday, August 7

·             Students return to school after winter break on January 6

·             Last day of school year for students will be May 22

·             89 days/91 days balance between 1st and 2nd semester

The Spring Break dates for the calendar are set for the end of March and the beginning of April, which coincides with Muscogee County School District’s Spring Break in hopes that it is least impactful to families and parent’s work schedules.

To develop a calendar, there are certain criteria that must be met. These include:

·             Start teacher in-service days on the second working day of August

·             180 student days

·             10 professional learning days

·             Spring Break aligned with Muscogee County (in consideration of parents who work in Columbus and special childcare opportunities for that week)

·             Student days divided as evenly as possible by 9 weeks/semester

·             Attempted observation of federal holidays

·             Stakeholder (parent, teacher, and community) input

Dennie closed with, “We take setting the calendars very seriously and while we work to ensure that we have input from stakeholders, we realize that no single calendar will satisfy all stakeholders. We appreciate everyone who took the time to share their insight so we could make them the best possible calendars.”

The 2024-2025 academic calendar is available at https://www.harris.k12.ga.us/calendar1. The first day of school for students will be Thursday, Aug. 8, 2024.

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

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).

HAMILTON, GA (JUNE 7, 2024) – The public is invited to a free “One Stop Shop” Community Resources Fair in Harris County in a structured, fun environment for families to take advantage of having a variety of resources from the school district and other partners in one setting, especially students in the Harris County School District (HCSD).

“We invite all Harris County families to take advantage of this ‘One Stop Shop’ event,” shared Shelia Baker, HCSD assistant superintendent of support services. “We will issue free school supplies, physicals and screenings will be conducted, and parents will have opportunities to ask questions and sign up for various programs with the school district and others. It is our hope that students will be fully prepared to start school, and parents and guardians will be ahead of the game before the first day of school, which is August 8. Our Mobile Learning Lab will be available, there will also be a bouncy house for children to enjoy, and the Kona Ice food truck will be onsite; therefore, we invite everyone to come out and join us on July 13.”

Families will have the opportunity to:

·         Receive free school supplies

·         Enroll into the HCSD School-based Telehealth Program in partnership with Mercer Medicine Harris County

·         Have a Sports Physical conducted (could be a minimum cost, students should bring required school forms/paperwork for physicals)

·         Have Hearing, Vision and Dental screenings conducted by Harris County Department of Public Health

·         Complete School Meal Applications

·         Chat with representatives from the HCSD and community partners/agencies

·         Chat with health professionals about the variety of services and options for medical coverage

The Mobile Learning Lab and a bouncy house will be available, and the Kona Ice food truck will be onsite for purchases.

The health fair will be from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., Saturday, July 13, at the Harris County Community Center, 7509 Hwy. 116, Hamilton, Ga. 31811.
 

The first day of school for the 2024-2025 school year is Thursday, Aug. 8.

This event is made possible by the Harris County School District and the Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center.

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 Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center
The Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center partners with rural counties to improve health outcomes in their communities. Informed by the data and community stakeholders, their diverse team develops targeted improvement projects, evaluates rural health care delivery systems and their fiscal stability, conducts Rapid Action Assessments based on the health risk status of the County, and maintains their rural physician and health care access point locator.

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 5,600+ 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).

HAMILTON, GA (June 4, 2024) – Harris County High School (HCHS) proudly announces that golfers Leigh Allen and Gates Glanton, both juniors, have been named to the 2024 All-State teams for the AAAAA region by the Georgia High School Golf Coaches Association (GHSGCA).

Nominees for the All-State teams were submitted by coaches statewide, with final selections made by an All-State panel of GHSGCA coaches from each classification.

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

Note to Editors: Interviews are available upon request.

Photos: Attached and labeled

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).

HAMILTON, GA (JUNE 3, 2024) – A Harris County High School (HCHS) rising junior has been selected to join the prestigious 2024 Youth Advisory Council (YAC) of the Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA).

Adyson Baker has earned this significant honor through her impressive application and video submission.

"This is a great honor, and I feel blessed and grateful that the Georgia School Boards Association selected me to represent Harris County High School on the Youth Advisory Council,” Adyson said of her selection. “I will do my best to be an active voice for other students in Georgia by working with my fellow Youth Advisory Council members on topics that affect our education and future."

The mission of the GSBA YAC is to serve and enhance communication among students, teachers, and board members within the state of Georgia. The council advises the board members on student interests and provides recommendations on topics ranging from academic programs to school climate.

"We are thrilled to have Adyson represent our district and Harris County High School in the GSBA Youth Advisory Council Class of 2024," said Lindie Snyder, HCHS principal. " Her selection is a testament to her hard work and dedication. I am confident she will represent us well.”

She will join other selected students from across the state in various activities and meetings throughout the year, starting with a retreat in Lawrenceville, Ga. She is the only student selected from Harris County.

Adyson is an active member of the HCHS Varsity sideline cheerleaders, Varsity competition cheerleaders, JROTC (Cadet 2nd Lieutenant), and HOSA-Future Health Professionals. She is the daughter of Shelia Baker, Harris County School District assistant superintendent of support services, and sister of Harris County High School Teacher Avian Baker.

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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Note to Editor: Images and interviews are available upon request.

Photo: Rising Harris County High School Junior Adyson Baker has been selected to serve on the Georgia School Boards Association’s Youth Advisory Council for the 2024-2025 school year.

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).

HAMILTON, GA (MAY 30, 2024) – Those interested in becoming paraprofessionals but have questions are invited to attend a "Pastries for Parapros” event to learn more about the role within the Harris County School District (HCSD).

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

The HCSD Department of Human Resources is hosting these recruiting events from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on three upcoming Tuesdays: June 11, 18, and 25. The events will take place at the HCSD Central Office, 132 Barnes Mill Road, Hamilton, Ga. No registration is required to attend.

The paraprofessional position offers:

·         Family friendly hours that include weekends, holidays, summers off
·         Affordable health, dental, and vision insurance
·         Paid sick leave and personal leave
·         Teachers Retirement System and 3% 403(b) employer match
·         Salary range: $19,306 - $28,775

All applications must be submitted online. To apply, candidates should visit www.harris.k12.ga.us/employment, click on “HCSD Current Job Openings,” find “Student Support Services,” select one of the paraprofessional positions listed by school, and click “apply.” For additional information, interested parties can call HCSD Human Resources at (706) 628-4206 ext. 1226.

The 2024-2025 academic year will begin on Thursday, Aug. 8, with teacher in-service days Aug. 2-7.

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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Note to Editor: Images and interviews are available upon request.

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).

HAMILTON, GA (MAY 29, 2024) –The Harris County School District’s (HCSD) award-winning Mobile Learning Lab calendar has been set for summer.

“The Mobile Learning Lab is available for Harris County citizens of all ages who need tutoring or to simply access the internet for career-related opportunities. For elementary students, there is a mobile library in the rear of the bus,” said Shelia Baker, HCSD assistant superintendent of support services. “We want to remind parents that reading with your child every day is the best way to prepare students and keep them prepared for school. The Mobile Learning Lab is one of many opportunities to encourage reading.”

The Mobile Learning Lab is open from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the following locations:

Summer 2024
Pine Mountain: Pine Lane Apartments
Tuesdays and Thursdays - June 4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25, 27

Hamilton: Harris County Community Center
Mondays: June 3, 10, 17, 24

Shiloh: City Hall
Wednesdays: June 5, 12, 26 (not occurring on June 19 due to federal holiday)

The purpose of the Mobile Learning Lab is to provide technology access and literacy activities for students and adults in the district. It is equipped with Wi-Fi Internet access, laptops, and books for students in the district. To enrich their learning experiences, students can access applications they are already using within their classrooms as well as resources to continually promote college and career readiness. In addition, the Mobile Learning Lab is available to assist adults who may be pursuing educational and work-related career opportunities. The Mobile Learning Lab earned the Harris County School District’s (HCSD) Board of Education (BOE) the Leading Edge Award for the innovative “Teaching and Learning Resources” initiatives from the Georgia School Boards Association.

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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Note to Editor: Images and interviews are available upon request.

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).

HAMILTON, GA (MAY 29, 2024) - Free meals will be available this summer for children in Harris County. For many children, school meals are their only complete and nutritious meals, and during the summer, they may go without them. Additionally, increased activity during the summer months means that bodies need increased nutrition. The Harris County School District (HCSD) Seamless Summer Food Program (SSFP) aims to bridge the summer meal gap for children.

For the summer of 2024, the free meal options are:

Monday-Thursday Meals* (Excluding June 19 holiday)

*All meals received by students at the high school must be consumed on-site in the cafeteria.
Dates: June 3 to 27, 2024 (No pick-ups on Fridays, June 19, or the week of July 1-5)
Breakfast: 7:30 a.m. to 8:15 a.m.
Lunch: 10 a.m. to Noon
Location: Harris County High School (8281 GA-116, Hamilton, GA 31811)

Weekly Pick-Up of Breakfasts and Lunches for Seven-Days** (Mondays only)
**Parent or Guardian required to pick up seven-day of meals
Dates: June 3, 10, 17, and 24; July 8 and 15 (No pick-ups on July 1)
Time: 10 a.m. to Noon
Location: Park Elementary (13185 US Highway 27 N, Hamilton, GA 31811)

"We only require that each child provide a legal first and last name. Please help spread the word and ensure that all our children are fed this summer," shared Brad Johnson, HCSD school nutrition director.  "Our goal is to ensure that children are fed during the summer when they are out of school."

SSFP is a federally funded program that offers free meals to children ages 18 and younger during the summer when National School Lunch and School Breakfast Program meals are not available. The Harris County SSFP program is administered by the Harris County School District Nutrition Program. Programs across the country may be found at Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder (https://www.fns.usda.gov/summer/sitefinder).

For more information or to ask questions, please contact Johnson at (706) 628-4172 or johnson-brad@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
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).

HAMILTON, GA (MAY 6, 2024) – It is time to register children for the eSTARS24 Science Camp scheduled for this summer, which is sponsored by Harris County High School (HCHS). The one-week camp is designed to engage students in real world lessons through STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics)-based activities.

This year’s theme will be focused on the “Magic Of Science.” HCHS Science Teacher Tim Jones shared, “We will be paving the way for our future scientists by providing them STEAM experiences right here at home in Harris County. In addition to innovative STEAM activities, we have planned local field trips. We also have invited experts from the around the county to share their experiences in their fields and to encourage our students to pursue those passions as well.”

Jennifer Rolison, a parent of past participants, shared, “The eSTARS summer camp is the highlight of my children’s summer – and we go to the beach every year. That says a lot. They look forward to doing fun science activities with their friends each year.”

The camp will be offered from 9 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. June 10-14, 2024, in the HCHS science labs and is led by HCHS teachers, Tim Jones and Brittany Moss. It is open to students who have completed kindergarten through fifth grade.

The cost is $200.00 per participant, which includes eSTARS bag, supplies, one snack each day, entrance fee for field trips as applicable, and bringing in special guests/activities.

Registration must be completed online at https://sites.google.com/site/estars11/estars-home. For payment, credit cards are accepted online at the time of registration. Checks may be mailed to the address shown on the registration page or sent via your child’s school office. All final payments are due by May 15, 2024. For those with multiple children in their family who would like to participate, there is a multiple-child family discount.

The mission and acronym of eSTARS is to provide “Engaging Science and Technology Activities in Real Situations.” For more information about the program, visit https://sites.google.com/site/estars11/estars-home, or click below.

For information, contact Tim Jones at (706) 457-6670 or jones-t@harris.k12.ga.us.

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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Note to editors: Interviews and images are available upon request. A logo is attached.

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).

HAMILTON, GA (APRIL 22, 2024) – The Harris County School District’s (HCSD) award-winning Mobile Learning Lab calendar* has been set for May 2024.
 

“The Mobile Learning Lab is available for Harris County citizens of all ages who need tutoring or to simply access the internet for career-related opportunities. There is a multitude of enrichment and remedial resources available for students in elementary through high school. We have a mobile library with a diverse collection of books in the rear of the bus, a variety of interactive, learning games, necessary supplies such as pencils, paper, pens, calculators, etc. to help complete school assignments, and most importantly, a dedicated, knowledgeable staff to assist those who visit” said Shelia Baker, HCSD assistant superintendent of support services. “We want to remind parents that reading with your children every day is one of the best home strategies to prepare students and keep them prepared for school. The Mobile Learning Lab is one of many opportunities to encourage reading and other academic skills beyond the classroom.”

The Mobile Learning Lab is open from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the following locations:

May 2024

Pine Mountain: Pine Lane Apartments
Most Tuesdays and Thursdays (May 2, 7, 9, 14, 16)

Hamilton: Harris County Community Center
Monday, May 13

Pine Mountain Valley Dollar General or Fire Station
Monday, May 6

Shiloh: City Hall
Most Wednesdays (May 1, 8, 15)

Cataula/Old Cataula Elementary School
No May dates

The purpose of the Mobile Learning Lab is to provide technology access and literacy activities for students and adults in the district. It is equipped with Wi-Fi Internet access, laptops, and books for students in the district. To enrich their learning experiences, students can access applications they are already using within their classrooms as well as resources to continually promote college and career readiness. In addition, the Mobile Learning Lab is available to assist adults who may be pursuing educational and work-related career opportunities. The Mobile Learning Lab earned the Harris County School District’s (HCSD) Board of Education (BOE) the Leading Edge Award for the innovative “Teaching and Learning Resources” initiatives from the Georgia School Boards Association.

A calendar for the operation of the Mobile Learning Lab for the 2023-2024 school year is posted at www.harris.k12.ga.us (on the main page, scroll down to News & Information).

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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*Subject to change

Note to Editor: Images and interviews are available upon request.

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).

Media Coverage:
WTVM - Harris County School District’s Mobile Learning Lab prepares students for 2024-25 school year

HAMILTON, GA (APRIL 22, 2024) – Each year, the Capitol Art Exhibition (CAE) serves as a beacon for Georgia's artistic talent. Organized by the Georgia Art Education Association (GAEA), this event has been a cornerstone of creativity for more than 50 years, celebrating National Youth Art Month and spotlighting the ingenuity of young artists from PreK through college. What began modestly under the gold dome has flourished into the largest statewide student art exhibition, finding its home in the Twin Towers building adjacent to the Capitol, as noted on the GAEA website.

Art teachers from the Harris County School District proudly participated, with two students from each school showcasing their artwork in the exhibit. This annual event is eagerly anticipated by teachers, offering students a platform to exhibit their talents and engage with the community and influential figures. During the exhibition's reception on March 13, 2024, students and teachers were able to connect with legislators, fostering meaningful interactions.

Notably, students from Harris County had the privilege of meeting with State Representative Vance Smith during the exhibition. Representative Smith not only admired the artworks but also provided an exclusive tour of the Capitol building, offering valuable insights into the state's legislative processes and history. The presence of governmental representatives like State Senator Randy Robertson and State School Superintendent Richard Woods underscored the importance of art education in Georgia.

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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Note to editors: Interviews are available upon request. 

Photos: Attached and labeled in the title.

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).

HAMILTON, GA (APRIL 16, 2024) –Four Harris County High School (HCHS) students, aspiring future educators, clinched significant recognition at the Future GA Educators Knowledge Bowl competition recently at Macon, Ga.’s Mercer University, securing third place in the state.

Sponsored by PAGE (Professional Association of Georgia Educators), the event brought together aspiring educators from various schools to test their knowledge of educational theory, code of ethics, educational law and history, instructional and assessment strategies, as well as general trivia questions.

Led by HCHS Teacher Jennifer Robinson, the HCHS team consisted of Macie Waldron, Emily Steele, and Kirsten Nowling. Nowling also secured a well-deserved third place in “essay competition.” Gretchen Stephenson competed in the “prepared speech” category and finished fifth in the state.

The outstanding performance at the November competition at Columbus State University earned them the opportunity to compete at this state competition. This achievement is a testament to the dedication and knowledge exhibited by these young minds in the field of education.

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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Note to Editors: Interviews are available upon request.

Photo 1 (left to right): The HCHS team secures third place in the state Future Educators Knowledge Bowl. Pictured: Macie Waldron, Emily Steele, and Kirsten Nowling.
Photo 2: Kirsten Nowling achieves 3rd place in the state Essay Competition at the Future Educators Knowledge Bowl.

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).

HAMILTON, GA (APRIL 15, 2024) – Harris County High School (HCHS) became a vibrant hub of creativity on Thursday, March 21st, as the community came together to celebrate the 41st Annual Youth Art Month Show. This event, a testament to the artistic prowess of students from kindergarten to 12th grade across Harris County Schools, transformed the school's Commons Area into a gallery from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., showcasing an impressive array of artworks.

Accompanying the exhibition was an Awards ceremony held in the High School Auditorium, where distinguished guests and school representatives gathered to honor the remarkable achievements of these young talents. Justin Finney, who currently serves as the Harris County School District (HCSD) assistant superintendent of business services and technology and assumes the position of superintendent June 1, delivered an inspiring address underscoring the importance of arts education among our youth. Joining him were HCSD Art Educators Florence Barnett from Creekside Intermediate School, Gina Hunt from Harris County Carver Middle School (HCCMS), and Kate Barnett from Harris County High School.

The principals of each participating school played an integral role in the event, offering their unwavering support and congratulations to the young artists. Jennifer Sappington from Creekside Intermediate, Jennifer Taylor from HCCMS, and Lindie Snyder from HCHS exemplified the dedication of school administrators towards their students. A total of 45 awards were presented in categories such as Purchase Awards, Invitation Design, Program Design, Best of Show, and Awards of Excellence.

The collaboration of all seven schools in Harris County added to the diversity and richness of the exhibition, showcasing a wide spectrum of artistic abilities and creativity. Approximately 400 attendees, including students, parents, teachers, and members of the community, turned out to support the young artists, celebrating their achievements and pride within the community.

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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Note to editors: Interviews are available upon request. 

Photos: Attached and labeled in the title.

1) HCSD Youth Art Month Award Presentations March 2024

2) HCSD Finney at Youth Art Month March 2024

3) HCSD Youth Art Month Art Teachers Gina Hunt, Kate Barnett, Leslie McNeal, Florence Barnett, Gretchen McGregor, Susan Banks and Kathy Wright March 2024

4) HCSD Gretchen McGregor from Pine Ridge Elementary and her student Anna Allison 4th grade Youth Art Month March 2024

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).

HAMILTON, GA. (APRIL 15, 2024) -- A senior at Harris County High School (HCHS), has been recognized as the winner of the Kings Gap chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Good Citizens Award and Scholarship Contest.

Seth Coker represented HCHS as the student representative for this honor, competing against students from Greenville High, Manchester High, and Flint River Academy. The award ceremony, organized by the DAR, took place on March 5, 2024.

Seth's outstanding qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism, both in his school and community, led to his selection for this award. His contributions to various facets of school life and his commitment to excellence set him apart.

In addition to his academic achievements, Seth is involved in extracurricular activities. He has been a part of the varsity soccer team throughout his high school career and has also showcased his talent on a semi-professional team in the UPSL Premier division. His membership in the National Honor Society and the Science National Honor Society reflects his commitment to academic excellence.

"Seth is a quiet leader in the class of 2024," said Tammy Bailey, HCHS guidance counselor. "He not only excels academically but is involved in the whole school program. Like all leaders, he is incredibly busy."

Moreover, Seth's dedication to community service is commendable. He actively participates in the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) Club and has served as a camp counselor at the school's summer science camp. His initiative to raise funds for historical markers along the Man O’ War trail, a rails-to-trails path, in Harris County demonstrates his passion for preserving local heritage.

"Seth's exceptional qualities truly embody the spirit of the DAR Good Citizens Award," added Julia Keating, DAR Representative. "His commitment to his studies, extracurricular activities, and community service exemplifies the values this award seeks to honor."

As the top winner, Seth was awarded a check for $750. His parents, Seth and Joy Coker, expressed immense pride in their son's accomplishments.

Other students honored received $300, $250, and $200, based on how they finished in the competition, for a total of $1,500 in DAR scholarships awarded. They recipients were:

Seth Coker – Harris County -$750

Dayton Stephens - Flint River - $300

Madelyn Worsley - Manchester - $250

Shykeria Mack - Greenville - $200
 

The DAR Good Citizens Award and Scholarship Contest, established in 1934, aims to encourage and reward the qualities of good citizenship among high school seniors. The program recognizes students who demonstrate outstanding dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism in their homes, schools, and communities.

For more information about the DAR Good Citizens Award and Scholarship Contest, please visit the official DAR website. 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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Note to Editors: Interviews are available upon request.

Photo (left to right): Parents Seth and Joy Coker stand by their son, Seth, to pose for a photo after being named the winner of the Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen Scholarship Contest at their March 2024 meeting.

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).

HAMILTON, GA (APRIL 12, 2024) – Grace McMillen, a senior at Harris County High School (HCHS), has been recognized as the "Student of the Month" for March 2024 by the Rotary Club of Harris County.

Grace is a senior at Harris County High School and a member of the National Honor Society, Beta Club, and is captain of the dance team. She is active in the community volunteering at the Harris County Library. After graduation, she plans to attend Columbus State University majoring in Business with a minor in Dance.

Tammy Bailey, HCHS guidance counselor, expressed gratitude for the Rotary Club's dedication to recognizing students, stating, "We appreciate our local Rotary's commitment to the 'Student of the Month' program. This recognition is highly valued by our students and serves as a notable addition to their college applications."

Each honoree receives a certificate and the opportunity to attend a Rotary meeting, where they introduce themselves and share their backgrounds. These students are also eligible candidates for Rotary's annual post-secondary scholarship program, aiding them in their educational journey towards graduation.

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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Photo (left to right): Grace McMillen receives a certificate for the Rotary Club of Harris County for the March 2024 Student of the Month from Gary Byrd, the Rotary Club Youth Services co-chair.

 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).

HAMILTON, GA (APRIL 12, 2024) –The Rotary Club of Harris County continues its tradition of honoring exceptional educators, spotlighting those who ignite the flame of learning within the Harris County School District.

Clara Wilson, a distinguished 4th-grade science teacher at Park Elementary School, was bestowed with the Teacher of The Month certificate by the Rotary Club of Harris County. With an illustrious career spanning 37 years, including 24 years dedicated to Harris County schools, Wilson exemplifies unwavering commitment to the education and well-being of her students.

Principal Allyson Douthit lauds Wilson as a cornerstone of Park Elementary, describing her as a valued asset known for her leadership, mentorship, and dedication to fostering a nurturing learning environment. Wilson's multifaceted contributions extend beyond academics, encompassing her roles in school safety and student well-being initiatives, including coordinating the student flag patrol.

In recognition of her outstanding service, Wilson was invited to share her insights at a Rotary breakfast meeting, where she received a certificate of appreciation and a $25 gift card.

"We are privileged to have Mrs. Wilson as an integral part of Park Elementary, embodying our ethos of excellence and compassion," remarked Principal Douthit. "Her tireless dedication and selfless approach to education make her truly deserving of this accolade."

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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Photo (left to right): March Rotary Club of Harris County Teacher of the Month, Clara Wilson of Park Elementary, receives a certificate from Gary Byrd, Rotary's co-director of youth services.

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).

HAMILTON, GA (APRIL 12, 2024) – The Harris County Carver Middle School (HCCMS) announces its representation at the state level during the inaugural meeting of the Georgia Department of Education’s (GaDOE) Fine Arts Advisory Council.

Kenneth Boykin, HCCMS chorus director, was selected as one of three music educators to serve on the committee, which comprises 30 representatives from various disciplines including art, dance, music, theatre, fine arts administration, and related industry careers.

The GaDOE Fine Arts Council plays a crucial role in advancing and promoting fine arts education statewide. It serves as a guiding force in shaping policies, programs, and initiatives aimed at fostering excellence in fine arts education for students of all ages. Central to its mission is ensuring that every student in Georgia has access to high-quality fine arts instruction, recognizing the transformative power of arts education in nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and cultural appreciation.

Boykin is in his sixth year of teaching. Currently at HCCMS he serves as the team lead for the CTAE and Fine Arts Teachers as well as the Tri-M Music Honor Society advisor. He teaches adaptive music class for students with exceptionalities. He also serves on the School Improvement Team and Monthly Motivators Committee. In addition, he is on the Trustee Advisory Council for Young Harris College. On the state level, he is in his fourth and final year serving as the Georgia Music Educators Association (GMEA) District 3 Chair representing all the music teachers (K-12) in Harris, Muscogee, Troup, Meriwether, Talbot, Marion, Chattahoochee, Stewart, Webster, and Quitman counties. He has also served as the choral chair for GMEA's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Access (DEIA) committee. 

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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Note to editors: Interviews available upon request. 

Photo: The attached photo shows Kenneth Boykin with his chorus after a Large Group Performance Evaluation. 

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).

HAMILTON, GA (APRIL 11, 2024) – The Harris County School District's H.O.P.E Center is delighted to announce its “5-Year Anniversary Celebration,” marking half a decade of serving students, families, and the community. The event, scheduled from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, April 20, 2024, promises a day filled with fun activities, resources, and camaraderie for all attendees.

To offer additional support to students, families, and the community, the Harris County School District established the H.O.P.E Center, which stands for ‘Helping Our People Excel.” Launched in February 2019, the center has since become a vital hub of resources for students and parents coupled with community engagement and empowerment. The Center grew from a similar concept at Harris County High School (HCHS) called the H.O.P.E. Closest. Today, the Center provides office space for the departments of social services and academic support, a food pantry, clothing bank, meeting space, and more. Its location provides a more private location for sensitive personal matters to be addressed.

During the five years of operation, the Center has provided invaluable and meaningful assistance to students and their families including clothes, food, school supplies, personal hygiene items, free prom attire, counseling support, and resources for parents, grandparents, and caregivers about online safety, financial literacy, and more via the Parent University program.

"We are overjoyed to commemorate five years of service to the Harris County community," said HCSD's Coordinator of Social Services, Vicki Williams-Curry. "In the spirit of our mission, the 5-Year Anniversary Celebration will be a free event open to the public, offering a day of fun activities, resources, food, and connections for everyone."

Families can look forward to a variety of engaging activities, including face painting, raffles, carnival games, and Yo-Man Inflatables. Moreover, organizations such as New Horizons, Mercer Med, the Pastoral Institute, Family Connections, and The Lighthouse for Families will be on hand to provide valuable resources and support. There will also be an opportunity for families to enroll into the HCSD’s School-based Telehealth program, which is available for all students and employees.

“The H.O.P.E. Center is the first in the Chattahoochee region to provide multi-disciplinary assistance and services to students and families,” stated Shelia Baker, HCSD assistant superintendent of support services. “Our mission is to offer wraparound services for students, their families, and the community. Since its opening, we have implemented several other resource-driven programs and projects to support Harris County families beyond the brick-and-mortar school district buildings. We are thrilled to be celebrating five years of successful partnerships and relationships with our schools and the community.”

The celebration is made possible through partnerships with Creekside Jr. Beta Club, HCHS Beta Club, New Mountain Hill Elementary’s Hilltop Harvest Community Garden, Amerigroup, and the Youman Family, all of whom share a commitment to supporting the Harris County community.

The public is invited to join in the festivities at the HCSD H.O.P.E Center, located at 106 Mountain Creek Drive in Hamilton, Ga. The event is free of charge and open to all members of the community.

For more information about the “5-Year Anniversary Celebration” at HCSD’s H.O.P.E Center, please contact the Department of Social Services at (706) 628-4206, extension 2301.

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).

HAMILTON, GA (APRIL 10, 2024) – Bad weather is expected overnight and in the morning. The Harris County School District (HCSD) will delay school opening and all district operations by two hours on Thursday, April 11, 2024.

“Due to forecasted overnight heavy rains and an area flood watch until 8 a.m. Thursday morning, the start of school operations will be delayed by two hours,” shared Justin Finney, HCSD assistant superintendent of business services and technology. Students and staff will report two hours later than normal start times. Buses will run two hours later than normal pickup times.

Finney added, “Road flooding, road washouts, and downed trees are possible, and these hazards pose serious risk to school buses and student drivers. This two-hour delay allows district transportation personnel to assess weather and road conditions beginning at daylight. Thank you for your patience as the safety of our students and staff is our highest priority.”

Specifics include:

• All Harris County staff members and students should arrive at assigned duty, school, or bus stop locations two hours after the regularly scheduled time.
• Buses will arrive at scheduled bus stops two hours after the regularly scheduled time.
• At this time, the instructional day for students and duty day for staff will end at normal times.
• At this time, afternoon buses are expected to run at normal times on their regular routes. 

"In addition to the challenges posed by the forecasted weather, the Harris County School District has students and staff that reside in areas served by more than 100 miles of rural roads. These roads, often prone to flooding and other weather-related hazards, require careful assessment before our buses can safely operate. The two-hour delay allows travelers, including our students and staff, the benefit of daylight to observe and navigate any dangerous conditions that may arise. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this time."

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).

HAMILTON, GA (APRIL 9, 2024) – For the 2024-25 school year, the Harris County School District’s (HCSD) required Online Registration (OLR)/Residency Verification for grades 1-12 begins Wednesday, April 10, 2024.

“This process is to ensure that those sitting in the seats of our schools and benefiting from our taxpayers’ dollars are residents of Harris County,” said Justin Finney, assistant superintendent of business services and technology. “Through this online process, parents can easily and conveniently update the information of existing students, register new students, and verify residency.”

Finney added, “All students must be verified through this process before they can be placed in a class or teacher assignments can be made for next school year. Information has been distributed to parents that details what documentation is needed when they complete the process as well as the contacts at each school who may be of assistance.”

Documents Needed to Complete OLR/Residency Verification

Please have the following documents ready to upload:

1. Two proofs of Harris County residency valid within the last 60 days (Accepted proofs: power bill, water bill, gas bill, landline phone bill, Harris County car registration, Harris County voter registration, mortgage/rental agreement at Harris County address). Note: Cable and cell phone bills are not accepted.

2. Parent photo ID

3. New students only: Student birth certificate

4. New students only: Student social security card

5. New students and 7th and 11th graders only: Georgia Student Immunization Form 3231

6. New students only: Georgia Student Dental, Hearing, Vision Form 3300

Instructions for Online Registration (OLR)/Residency Verification

Through this online process, parents can easily and conveniently update the information of existing students, register new students, and verify residency.

Current HCSD families will access the online registration/verification through their existing Parent Portal account by entering the traditional way or by visiting www.harris.k12.ga.us/OLR and clicking the menu to the left titled, "Existing Student Registration." Please read all instructions on the web page. Be sure to select "Next School Year 2024-25."

Families new to the HCSD will access the online registration at www.harris.k12.ga.us/OLR and click the menu to the left titled, "New Student Registration." Please read all instructions on the web page. Be sure to select "Next School Year 2024-25."

Deadlines for OLR/Residency Verification

Pre-K (only those with confirmed assignments): Tuesday, April 30, 2024. (Though incoming Pre-K parents [with a confirmed Pre-K assignment] have already completed initial Pre-K registration, they are also REQUIRED to complete the OLR/Residency Verification. Pre-K parents, please refer to your acceptance letter for OLR instructions.)

Upcoming Kindergarten students: Tuesday, April 30, 2024

Upcoming grades 1 through 12: Friday, May 31, 2024

For questions or assistance with creating a parent portal account, please contact one of our student information coordinators:

Deb Slayton, slayton-d@harris.k12.ga.us, (706) 628-4206 ext. 1413
Jeanie Ponder, ponder-j@harris.k12.ga.us, (706) 628-4206 ext. 1412

“During this process, we appreciate everyone’s time and attention,” Finney said. “It is our job to be good stewards of the resources entrusted to us by the residents for the benefit of the students who live here in Harris County.”

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 is an accredited K-12 school system based in the county seat of Hamilton, Georgia. 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 educational excellence for every child,” Harris County School District continually strives to provide students with what they need to become the future workforce and society. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or the Facebook or Twitter pages (@HCSDga).

HAMILTON, GA (APRIL 10, 2024) – To set the 2025-26 academic calendar, the Harris County School District (HCSD) is seeking further input from stakeholders, extending the process initiated in February 2024.

“Thank you to all who provided feedback on the four calendars originally proposed. The results indicated a strong desire among parents, faculty, and staff to retain the Thanksgiving Break and to conclude the school year before Memorial Day,” shared Dave Dennie, HCSD elementary director of curriculum and instruction. Options B and D align with these preferences.

To provide some understanding, calendars are developed by first meeting specific criteria including:

• Start teacher in-service days on the second working day of August
• 180 student days
• 10 professional learning days
• Align Spring Break with Muscogee County (in consideration of parents who work in Columbus and special childcare opportunities for that week)
• Student days divided as evenly as possible by 9 weeks per semester
• Attempted observation of federal holidays
• Stakeholder (parent, teacher, and community) input

For the 2025-2026 school year, there are two remaining calendar options.

Version B – www.harris.k12.ga.us/2526b

• August 7 – Students begin school
• October 13 – Columbus Day no longer off
• January 7 – Students return from winter holiday break
• 90 days/90 days balance between 1st and 2nd semester

Version D – www.harris.k12.ga.us/2526d

• August 7 – Students begin school
• October 13 – Columbus Day teacher in-service
• January 2 – Teacher in-service day
• January 6 – Students return from winter holiday break
• 89 days/91 days balance between 1st and 2nd semester

Both calendars –

• Teachers report August 4, 2025; students report August 7, 2025
• Have 180 student days
• Students end on Friday, May 22, 2026
• Include 10 professional learning days
• Align Spring Break with Muscogee County, which typically falls at the end of March or beginning of April.

Parents will receive communication via email or text (based on preferences set in Infinite Campus), providing instructions to access the draft calendars and complete the survey through their parent portal.

For parents/guardians, or members of the community, a paper version of the information is available at the HCSD Central Office (132 Barnes Mill Road, Hamilton, Georgia 31811) from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. The paper forms will be accepted until 3 p.m. on Friday, April 26.

Stakeholder input will be accepted online until midnight on Sunday, April 28.

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).

HAMILTON, GA (APRIL 9, 2024) – To best prepare students in third through twelfth grades for the annual Georgia Milestones testing, the Harris County School District (HCSD) is sharing several tips for students and parents. The testing will assess students’ mastery of essential skills and knowledge in English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies.

“Our goal is to support students in best preparing for these tests,” said David Dennie, HCSD director of elementary curriculum, “We encourage all parents and guardians to visit our website. It provides both information about upcoming testing, useful resources, and tips to help parents prepare their children for testing.”

Donna Patterson, HCSD director of secondary curriculum, shared that for all students taking the End of Course assessments in American Literature, Biology, Algebra Concepts & Connections, and US History at Harris County High School, PLC (Performance Learning Center), EOC (Equal Opportunity Center, and LEAP (Learning Essential Applications Proficiently Program), the Georgia Milestones assessments will count as 20 percent of students’ semester grades. Additionally, they will not receive credit for these courses unless they take the Georgia Milestones assessment.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, students who did not achieve an at or above grade level reading status on the Georgia Milestones ELA assessment were subject to retesting. However, this practice was suspended during the pandemic. With the upcoming Milestones assessments, the requirement for retesting will be reinstated.

Testing Dates
For this school year, Georgia Milestones testing will take place from April 22 to May 11 (see below for schedule).

Attendance
Students should be in attendance on these dates. “It is imperative that students are present for all their testing dates,” said Dennie. “Students perform better when standardized tests are taken as scheduled versus on a makeup day. Please check your calendars and reschedule any appointments as needed to ensure your child’s presence.”

Tips
A few tips for test-taking include:

• Practice test-taking in advance to become familiar with how online testing works. Prior to testing dates, students should visit www.harris.k12.ga.us and click on “Community Resources” for details on how to become accustomed with the Georgia Milestones testing program.
• Be well-rested with a good night’s sleep.
• Eat a well-balanced breakfast.
• On test days, arrive on time, or a little early.
• On test days, bring Chromebooks to school, fully charged.
• Read the instructions and questions/answers thoroughly and review your work.

"We are committed to providing our students with the best possible education, and the Georgia Milestones testing is an essential component of our well-balanced assessment system," said Dennie. "We encourage parents to be actively involved in their child's education and to take advantage of the resources and support available to them.”

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).

The End of Grade (EOG) and End of Course (EOC) schedule for students is as follows:

Third Grade EOG:
English Language Arts (ELA): April 22-24
Math: April 25-26
ELA Retest: May 9, pending return of ELA scores

Fourth Grade EOG:
English Language Arts (ELA): April 30-May 2
Math: May 6-7

Fifth Grade EOG:
English Language Arts (ELA): April 22-24
Math April 29-30
Science: April 25
ELA Retest: May 9, pending return of ELA scores

Sixth Grade EOG:
English Language Arts (ELA): April 22-24
Math April 29-30

Seventh Grade EOG:
Math: April 23
English Language Arts (ELA): April 24-25

Eighth Grade (EOG):
English Language Arts (ELA): April 22-23
Math: April 25
Science: April 24
Social Studies: April 26
ELA Retest TBD in May, pending return of ELA scores

Eighth Grade (EOC):
Physical Science: April 24
Algebra I: May 7

Harris County High School/Performance Learning Center (PLC)/Learning Essential Applications Proficiently Program (LEAP)/Educational Opportunity Center (EOC)
American Literature: May 1-2
Biology: May 3
US History: May 6
Algebra Concepts & Connections: May 7

HAMILTON, GA (APRIL 9, 2024) – The Harris County School District (HCSD) collaborated with the Harris County Public Library to present an exhibition titled "Visual Storytellers," spotlighting the diverse talents of students spanning from kindergarten to high school seniors. Displayed at the Harris County Public Library earlier this year, the exhibition provided a window into the creative narratives and artistic expressions of these young talents, inviting families and friends to see their creations.

On the evening of Jan. 11, HCSD art teachers hosted a reception in honor of the featured artists for their creativity. Each artist was presented with a personalized certificate, symbolizing a significant milestone in their artistic journey.

The "Visual Storytellers" Art Show was met with an enthusiastic reception and attendance, underscoring the value of art education and creative expression within the community. The collaboration between the Harris County Art Teachers and the Harris County Public Library exemplifies the power of partnership in fostering cultural enrichment and community engagement. By bringing together artists, educators, and members of the community, this exhibition created a shared space for dialogue, inspiration, and celebration of artistic excellence.

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

###

Note to editors: Interviews are available upon request. 

Photos: Attached and labeled in the title.

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).

HAMILTON, GA (APRIL 9, 2024) – Jamyra Hayes, a 2020 graduate of Harris County High School (HCHS), has been recognized as a White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Scholar for 2023. A student at Fort Valley State University in Fort Valley, Ga., Hayes' selection for this honor is a testament to her academic achievements, leadership skills, and dedication to civic engagement.
 

As part of the program, she had the opportunity to visit Washington DC, where she explored iconic sites and attended a dinner at the residence of Vice President Kamala Harris in celebration of Black History Month on February 29, 2024.

Hayes joins a cohort of 102 scholars from 29 states and countries, representing a record number of institutions, with more than 70 percent of participants hailing from Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

“To be an HBCU White House Scholar has a significant meaning to me,” Hayes said. “With the changes in legislation regarding affirmative action and the increasing need for resources at our institution, this position gives me a chance to express our concerns with federal officials and explore solutions to address the circumstances.”

Hayes, a senior Business Administration and Management major, is the daughter of Melissa Gates and James Hayes, both distinguished graduates of HCHS.

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: Jamyra Hayes at various sites in Washington DC.

About the Harris County School District
Georgia’s Harris County School District is an accredited K-12 school system based in the county seat of Hamilton, Georgia. It serves nearly 5,400 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 educational excellence for every child,” Harris County School District continually strives to provide students what they need to become the future workforce and society. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or the Facebook or Twitter pages (@HCSDga).

HAMILTON, GA (MARCH 28, 2024) – Harris County School District (HCSD) proudly announces a significant milestone as Mulberry Creek Elementary (MCE), located in Cataula, Ga., has been officially certified as a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) school by the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE). After years of dedicated planning, strategizing, and hard work, this achievement solidifies Mulberry Creek Elementary's commitment to providing an integrated curriculum driven by exploratory project-based learning and student-centered development of ideas and solutions.

Principal Amy Allen expressed her pride, stating, "Obtaining STEAM Certification is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire school community – from our talented educators to our enthusiastic students. This achievement underscores our ongoing commitment to providing a dynamic learning environment where innovation thrives, and students are empowered to reach their full potential."

The rigorous certification process involved an extensive evaluation of Mulberry Creek's curriculum, instructional practices, and extracurricular activities to ensure alignment with STEAM principles. Through innovative teaching methods, hands-on projects, and collaborative initiatives, STEAM education has been seamlessly integrated into every aspect of the curriculum, enriching the learning experience for all students.

Administrators and educators involved in the STEAM process are encouraged to visit GaDOE certified STEM/STEAM schools and participate in ongoing professional learning. STEAM certification is a journey that requires a shift in pedagogy, school culture, and instruction.

According to Erin Miley, HCSD instructional technology coordinator and STEAM coordinator, Mulberry Creek Elementary has demonstrated a profound understanding of STEAM principles and pedagogy. "Over time, they have honed their processes, resiliently adapting through shifts in administration, alterations in vision, changes in personnel, and evolving standards. Throughout this journey, they have consistently applied best practices of interdisciplinary and problem-based learning, ensuring meaningful content delivery for students," Miley affirmed.

The decision to pursue STEAM certification was initiated several years ago, reflecting the district's dedication to integrating all core content areas with STEAM principles. "We want students to be comfortable learning, being creative, and realize that failing is part of the learning process. The talents, strengths, and gifts that emerge from this curriculum model further enhance student learning," explained Erin Miley.

Mulberry Creek Elementary's STEAM focus settled on "How can we impact our community and prepare for our future through agriculture?" over the past few years, culminating on Thursday, March 28, 2024, when a GaDOE certification team conducted the official STEAM visit. The team comprised representatives specializing in math, ESOL, computer science, STEAM, and field experts in fine arts and K-12 education. The visit included classroom observations followed by interviews with a panel of parents and business partners, culminating in a determination of certification status.

Principal Amy Allen expressed her excitement about achieving this milestone, "Our students have truly embraced the STEAM mindset, demonstrating remarkable creativity, curiosity, and resilience. Their passion for learning and exploration has been instrumental in achieving this milestone, and we are incredibly proud of their accomplishments."

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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 Note to Editors:  Interviews and images available upon request.

 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).

HAMILTON, GA (MARCH 26, 2024) – The Harris County School District’s (HCSD) award-winning Mobile Learning Lab calendar* has been set for April 2024.

“The Mobile Learning Lab is available for Harris County citizens of all ages who need tutoring or to simply access the internet for career-related opportunities. There is a multitude of enrichment and remedial resources available for students in elementary through high school. We have a mobile library with a diverse collection of books in the rear of the bus, a variety of interactive, learning games, necessary supplies such as pencils, paper, pens, calculators, etc. to help complete school assignments, and most importantly, a dedicated, knowledgeable staff to assist those who visit” said Shelia Baker, HCSD assistant superintendent of support services. “We want to remind parents that reading with your children every day is one of the best home strategies to prepare students and keep them prepared for school. The Mobile Learning Lab is one of many opportunities to encourage reading and other academic skills beyond the classroom.”

The Mobile Learning Lab is open from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the following locations:

April 2024

Pine Mountain: Pine Lane Apartments

Most Tuesdays and Thursdays (April 16, 18, 23, 25, 30)

Hamilton: Harris County Community Center

Monday, April 15

Pine Mountain Valley Dollar General or Fire Station

Monday, April 22

Shiloh: City Hall

Most Wednesdays (April 17, 24)

Cataula/Old Cataula Elementary School

Monday, April 29

The purpose of the Mobile Learning Lab is to provide technology access and literacy activities for students and adults in the district. It is equipped with Wi-Fi Internet access, laptops, and books for students in the district. To enrich their learning experiences, students can access applications they are already using within their classrooms as well as resources to continually promote college and career readiness. In addition, the Mobile Learning Lab is available to assist adults who may be pursuing educational and work-related career opportunities. The Mobile Learning Lab earned the Harris County School District’s (HCSD) Board of Education (BOE) the Leading Edge Award for the innovative “Teaching and Learning Resources” initiatives from the Georgia School Boards Association.

A calendar for the operation of the Mobile Learning Lab for the 2023-2024 school year is posted at www.harris.k12.ga.us (on the main page, scroll down to News & Information).

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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*Subject to change

Note to Editor: Images and interviews are available upon request.

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).

HAMILTON, GA (MARCH 26, 2024) –The Harris County School District (HCSD) proudly announces that Superintendent Roger D. Couch has been awarded the esteemed Legacy Award by the Harris County Chamber of Commerce. This prestigious accolade recognizes individuals who have demonstrated outstanding dedication and contributions towards enhancing the quality of life in Harris County.

Each year, the Legacy Award is bestowed upon a citizen whose tireless efforts, unwavering commitment, and generous contributions have significantly impacted the community. This year's recipient, Roger D. Couch, embodies the spirit of this award through his exemplary leadership and profound influence on the educational landscape of Harris County.

Couch's journey with the HCSD has been one of dedication and service, spanning multiple decades. Beginning as a principal at Harris County High School, he displayed exceptional leadership skills and a deep-seated commitment to the success and well-being of students. Even in retirement, Couch continued to serve the district, stepping into the role of interim superintendent during times of transition and uncertainty.

Throughout his tenure, Couch navigated the district through periods of change, growth, and challenges with grace and resilience. His visionary leadership and steadfast dedication have left an indelible mark on Harris County schools and the entire community.

"We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Superintendent Roger D. Couch on receiving the prestigious Legacy Award," said Eric Seldon, Harris County Chamber of Commerce board chair and presenter at their annual gala. "His unwavering commitment to educational excellence and community enrichment has truly transformed lives and shaped the future of Harris County. We are grateful for his remarkable leadership and commend him for his exceptional service."

The Harris County School District commends Superintendent Roger D. Couch for his exemplary achievements and extends its sincerest appreciation for his dedication to the students, staff, and community of Harris County.

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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Note to Editors: Interviews are available upon request.

Photo (left to right): Harris County Chamber of Commerce President Eric Seldon presents Roger Couch, superintendent of the Harris County School District, with the 2024 Harris County Chamber of Commerce Legacy Award at the Chamber’s Annual Gala on March 9.

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).

HAMILTON, GA (MARCH 19, 2024) – Harris County High School (HCHS) Senior Ashley Fields has secured the second position in Columbus State University’s Go2Teach program competition.

Demonstrating her talent and dedication, Ashley presented an innovative lesson plan on ecosystems and pollution's impact during a February competition. Her exemplary teaching skills were honed during her Dual-Enrollment Practicum at Mulberry Creek Elementary School. Ashley reprised her lesson for a group of randomly selected fourth graders as one of top three finalists on March 12 at Columbus State University, solidifying her position as a top contender.

As part of her achievement, Ashley has been awarded a $200 scholarship to Columbus State University, furthering her aspirations in elementary education. Following her graduation, Ashley intends to contribute to the Harris County School District (HCSD) as a paraprofessional while pursuing her degree at CSU.

Ashley shared her motivation, stating, "One of the most important things a child can have is a teacher who can help them through their early stages of life. One that can be a positive role model for students who provides a safe space for them to not only learn the curriculum, but how to be themselves. I strive to become the teacher that made an impact on their life."

Jennifer Robinson, instructor of the HCHS Teacher Cadet program, praised Ashley's enthusiasm and commitment, emphasizing her natural aptitude for teaching. Robinson remarked, "Students like Ashley make my job easy. She is motivated, bright, excited about her future and most of all, loves children."

The Go2Teach program, outlined on the CSU website, aims to nurture aspiring educators, fostering excellence in teaching within CSU's vicinity. High school students interested in pursuing a career in education receive mentorship and guidance from CSU Education representatives through various activities.

HCHS's Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) program offers teaching as a professional pathway. Students engage in courses such as "Examining the Teaching Profession" and "Practicum in Education," culminating in internships where they actively participate in classroom activities.

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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Note to Editors:  Image attached.

Photo Caption: Harris County High School’s Teacher Cadet Instructor, Jennifer Robinson, and Senior Ashley Fields proudly display Ashley's Columbus State University Go2Teach Second Place Certificate and scholarship.

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).

HAMILTON, GA (MARCH 20, 2024) – The Harris County Carver Middle School (HCCMS) presented an outstanding group effort in the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) state competition on Feb. 26, 2024, at the Columbus Convention and Trade Center, and earned four spots at nationals in Orlando, Fla., this summer.

HCCMS FBLA Advisor Ashley Daniel shared, “Our team members have worked hard on their presentations, projects, and individual tests since November 2023. They competed against hundreds of other middle school chapters in Georgia and brought home many major victories. I am so proud of each one of them.”

The following four teams are advancing to nationals:

First Place

Critical Thinking: Team of Donnie Bush, Braidyn Cole, and Natalie Shirley

Video Game Design: Ryland Armentrout  

Third Place

Annual Chapter Presentation: Team of Ally Motycka and Madelyn Stewart

Fourth Place

Career Research: Taylor Harris

The following finished in the top 10 of the state:

Fourth Place

Public Speaking: Caroline Hartung

Video Public Service Announcement: Neely Carol and Tyler Norman

Mobile App Design: Team of Nolan Cummings, Sean Nimke, Miles Robinson

Social Media Concepts: Charlie Sawtelle

Fifth Place
Exploring Business Issues: Team of Katy Kozee and Jayla Turner

Business Concepts: Sean Nimke

Sixth Place

Website Design: Ally Motycka, Marisol Perez, and Madelyn Stewart

Career Research: Adriana Bush

Seventh Place

Exploring Business Issues: Team of Audrey Motycka, Madison Perry, and Presley Profitt 

Ninth Place

Business Ethics: Spencer Franklin

Video Game Design: Khloe Cole

Tenth Place

Marketing Mix: Turner Durham and Easton Smith

Additionally, the team received the prestigious Level Gold designation for Chapter of the Year, ranking fifth among the most active chapters in the state.

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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Note to editors: Upon request, interviews may be arranged.

Photo 1 (Left to Right): Ryan Armentrout
Photo 2 (Left to Right): Donnie Bush, Braidyn Cole, Natalie Shirley
Photo 3 (Left to Right):  Madelyn Stewart, Ally Motycka
Photo 4 (Left to Right): Taylor Harris

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).

HAMILTON, GA (MARCH 19, 2024) – A Harris County Carver Middle School (HCCMS) eighth-grade student has won the local 2024 Middle School Design a Bookmark Contest, sponsored by Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB).

For her district-wide accomplishment, Autumn Montroy was presented with a check by Harris County GFB’s Linda Luttrell, program manager, who shared that her artwork is now in the consideration set for the state’s top award. If selected, GFB will use her design as the next bookmark of which thousands will be printed and distributed for the year.

The contest, aimed at highlighting the significance of agriculture in Georgia, called for students in grades 6-8 to create original bookmark designs reflecting the agricultural landscape of the state. Autumn's submission captivated the judges with its creativity and representation of Georgia's rich agricultural heritage.

The contest rules stipulated that entries must be original and reflect Georgia agriculture. Autumn's design encapsulated this theme, earning her the district-wide recognition.

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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Note to editor: Interviews available upon request.

Photo (left to right): The winner of the Harris County Georgia Farm Bureau “2024 Middle School Design a Bookmark Contest” is Eighth-grade Student Autumn Montroy. She was recently presented the winning prize. Bette Mobley, Harris County Carver Middle School (HCCMS) assistant principal, Gina Hunt, HCCMS art teacher; Linda Luttrell, Harris County Georgia Farm Bureau; Autumn Montroy, gathered for a photo.

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).

The Harris County School District (HCSD) joins in the statewide recognition of Georgia School Board Appreciation Week, taking place from March 11-15, 2024. This dedicated week serves to honor the contributions and dedication of local school board members across the state.

“Citizens elect board members to represent the community’s voice on educational matters and to set the vision for the school district,” said HCSD Superintendent Roger Couch.

The members serving on the Harris County School Board include:

Steve Goodnoe, Vice Chair and District 6 Super District Board Member, 23 years of service
Scott Greene, District 4 Board Member, 7 years of service
Shane Lipp, Board Chair and District 1 Board Member, 7 years of service
Harry Proctor, District 5 Board Member, 3 years of service
Bridgett Oliver, District 2 Board Member, 5 years of service
Garnett Ray, Chair and District 3 Board Member, 7 years of service
Monica Sparks, District 7 Super District Board Member, 8 years of service

"As elected representatives, our school board members uphold the principles of local citizen control and decision-making in education," added Couch. "Their leadership has led to remarkable enhancements in our educational infrastructure during the last few years, providing our students with unparalleled opportunities for growth and development, ensuring they become well-rounded individuals poised to positively impact our community and beyond."

School board members in Georgia, as constitutional officers, play a pivotal role in setting educational policies, employing school personnel, and managing crucial resources for the betterment of students. They serve as advocates for the children in local public schools, consistently prioritizing their well-being and academic success.

The Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA) spearheads this celebratory week. GSBA is committed to fostering excellence in the governance of local school systems by providing leadership, advocacy, and services, while representing the collective resolve of Georgia’s elected boards of education.

Couch stated, “Our board spends countless hours fulfilling its responsibilities and working together to continually improve our education system. We appreciate their dedication to our students.”

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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Note to Editors: Interviews are available upon request.

Photo (left to right): The Harris County School District's Board of Education includes: Scott Greene, Garnett Ray,  Monica Sparks, Shane Lipp, Bridgett Oliver, Steve Goodnoe, and Harry Proctor. This file photo shows them posing with the Georgia School Boards Association Leading Edge award.

About the Harris County School District
Georgia’s Harris County School District is an accredited K-12 school district based in the county seat of Hamilton. 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 educational excellence for every child,” the Harris County School District continually strives to provide students with what they need to become the future workforce and society. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or the Facebook or Twitter pages (@HCSDga).

HAMILTON, GA (MARCH 12, 2024) – New Mountain Hill Elementary (NMHE) hosted its Spring STEAM Open House, showcasing collaborative community partnerships and innovative STEAM education initiatives.

Principal Jessica Burnett expressed her excitement, "Our Spring STEAM Open House is a testament to our commitment to providing engaging and interdisciplinary learning experiences for our students. Through partnerships like the one with Columbus State University, we're able to empower future educators with the tools and knowledge to excel in STEAM education."

NMHE's collaboration with Columbus State University (CSU) has been instrumental in fostering best practices in STEM/STEAM education. Mary Thompson, media specialist and STEAM chair, highlighted the significance of this partnership, "Our ongoing collaboration with CSU exemplifies the importance of hands-on training and real-world application in teacher education. Together, we're equipping educators with the skills to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers."

The PAIR (Professional Arts Integration Resources) program, developed through the Springer Opera House, is another key partner in NMHE's commitment to arts integration within STEAM education. Anita Wadley, assistant principal and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics) coordinator at NMHE, emphasized the impact of this collaboration, "The PAIR Program has been instrumental in enriching our curriculum with arts integration, fostering creativity, and enhancing student engagement. By incorporating arts content into core subjects, we're providing students with diverse avenues for expression and exploration."

Beyond academic initiatives, NMHE's Hilltop Harvest Community Garden is fostering empathy and addressing food insecurity in Harris County through collaborative efforts with many of Harris County School District’s entities, including Creekside Intermediate School’s Jr. Beta, the Harris County LEAP Program, and The H.O.P.E. (Helping Our People Excel) Center. Wadley shared her enthusiasm for this community-driven initiative: "Our partnership with local organizations underscores our commitment to holistic student development and community engagement. Through projects like the spring planting initiative, we're not only cultivating crops but also nurturing compassion and social responsibility among our students."

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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Photo 1: Creekside’s Junior Beta Club has been working with New Mountain Hill Elementary students to plant vegetables to be harvested to help the hungry in the Harris County community. For this special STEAM Open House, the Creekside students were able to visit during the school – rather than after school – to assist with planting potatoes and kale while teachers from around Georgia visited to observe STEAM initiatives in action. Part of the responsibility of a STEAM school is to provide learning opportunities for schools striving to become STEAM certified. Left to right: Avery Daniel, Branden Powell, Hayden Smith, Rebekah Figel, Vegetable Garden Expert David Chambers, Creekside Teacher and Jr. Beta Club Advisor Latina Maddox, Sydney Vannata 

Photo 2: Columbus State Student Kennedy Larkin is with New Mountain Hill Elementary Students Summit Wilson, Ella Clapham, Breeleigh Haskell, Bryson Pease. The group are all learning with STEAM principles and are learning to teach STEAM principles.

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).

HAMILTON, GA (MARCH 5, 2024) – The HCHS JROTC Drill Team showcased their remarkable skills at the National Infantry Museum on Saturday, March 2, at the Area 5 Drill Competition.

The competition featured 10 events, divided equally between male and female categories, including color guard, unarmed squad, armed squad, unarmed platoon, and armed platoon. HCHS demonstrated exceptional skill, securing placements in seven of the ten events.

First Place:
Male Color Guard
Male Armed Platoon
Male Unarmed Platoon

Second Place:
Female Unarmed Platoon
Female Armed Squad

Third Place:
Female Color Guard
Female Armed Platoon

The male team Color Guard members, Adam Aut, Zachary Williams, Richard Courterier, and Kevin Porter, displayed outstanding discipline and precision in their performances. Meanwhile, the female Color Guard team, consisting of Sophia Cantu, Summer Knight, Dana Gartrell, and Kaydi Hamilton, showcased their exceptional teamwork and skill.

Cadet Lay'Lani Knighton also achieved remarkable success, securing second place in the Cadet Knock-out challenge, surpassing more than 180 participants with her exemplary performance. In this competition, commands are given and those who do not properly execute them are eliminated.

Commending the exemplary performance, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Michael Feret, HCHS JROTC Senior Army Instructor, attributed the success to the dedication and hard work of the students, under the guidance of 1SG (RET) Willie Sutton, who served as the head coach for the drill team. He remarked, “All the students put in a tremendous amount of time and effort to perform at the level they did. As a result, they will be moving on to compete in the Georgia State Drill Competition on March 23, at Griffin High School.”

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

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Note to Editor: Images and interviews are available upon request.

Pictured (left to right):

IMG 3483 The Harris County High School JROTC Drill Team

IMG 4172 Members of the Harris County High School Male Color Guard are Adam Aut, Zachary Williams, Richard Courterier, and Kevin Porter.

IMG 3485 The Harris County High School Female Color Guard included Sophia Cantu, Summer Knight, Dana Gartrell, and Kaydi Hamilton.

About the Harris County School District
The Harris County School District (HCSD) is an accredited K-12 school system in Hamilton, Ga., serving more than 5,500 students. HCSD encompasses four elementary schools, one intermediate school, one middle school, one high school, and one performance learning center. Guided by the vision of "one community committed to the well-being and preparation of every student for life-long success in a global society," HCSD is dedicated to providing an outstanding education for every student in Harris County. For further information, please visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

HAMILTON, GA (MARCH 5, 2024) – Harris County High School's (HCHS) varsity academic bowl team triumphed in the state tournament at Northgate High School in Newnan, Ga., on Saturday, March 2, 2024.

The National Academic Quiz Tournaments site describes Academic Bowl as an intellectually stimulating game where two teams compete head-to-head across various subject areas, including history, math, literature, science, fine arts, pop culture, and sports. The game's distinctive feature lies in its buzzer system, allowing players to interrupt the reading of a question upon confident recognition of the answer, thereby infusing the competition with elements of quick thinking and rapid recall.

Comprising high school students in grades 9-12 distinguished for their academic prowess, the Academic Bowl team engages in regional competitions throughout the academic year.

Erin Ward, math teacher at HCHS and academic bowl team advisor, elaborated on the team's journey, highlighting their prior victory on February 12, which positioned them at the top of the regional standings. Subsequently, they represented West Georgia RESA at Northgate High School, where they clinched the state championship.

“The morning rounds consisted of matches that determined seed placement for the afternoon single elimination rounds,” Ward shared. “After five matches, we went into the afternoon play with a 2-3 record and in the 10th spot. Our team came back after lunch, re-energized, and didn’t lose at all, taking home first place. I couldn’t be prouder.” Details about how they move forward to the national level of competition are unknown currently.

Principal Lindie Snyder said of the team, "I am very proud of this team of young people. This is quite an accomplishment, and I look forward to them representing us at the next level and beyond. Go Tigers!"

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

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Note to Editor: Images and interviews are available upon request.

Pictured (left to right):
Back row: Blair Childers, Om Patel, Tate Williams, Conner Archilla and Michael Lucas
Front row: Addie White and Isabelle Campeau
Not pictured: Parker Hicks and Oliver Guerrero

About the Harris County School District
The Harris County School District (HCSD) is an accredited K-12 school system in Hamilton, Georgia, serving over 5,500 students. HCSD encompasses four elementary schools, one intermediate school, one middle school, one high school, and one performance learning center. Guided by the vision of "one community committed to the well-being and preparation of every student for life-long success in a global society," HCSD is dedicated to providing an outstanding education for every student in Harris County. For further information, please visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

Following a comprehensive search process that commenced in October 2023, at a called meeting on Feb. 27, the Harris County Board of Education announced Dr. Justin Finney as the next superintendent of the Harris County School District (HCSD). Dr. Finney's appointment comes after a mandatory 14-day waiting period following the announcement of his selection as the finalist by the Board.

“I’m humbled and honored to have been named the superintendent of the Harris County School District,” Finney stated when asked about his appointment. “We have some challenges, but we also have great opportunities. I’m looking forward to working with our faculty, staff, and parents on how we can take this district from great to one of the premier districts in Georgia as it takes all of us to help students to succeed.”

Bringing with him 24 years of extensive experience in public education, Finney has been a pivotal member of the HCSD community, serving most recently as the assistant superintendent of business services and technology for the district during the past six years. His journey in education spans various roles, including teacher, coach, assistant principal, and principal.

After the board announced his appointment, Finney thanked the Board of Education for the opportunity and thanked Superintendent Roger D. Couch for his leadership and mentorship over the last six years. “It has been my privilege to learn and grow at the central-office level under Mr. Couch’s leadership. He has stabilized this school district and led us through a pandemic while providing new facilities, such as the new Harris County Carver Middle School, the Science and Technology Center, the new indoor athletic complex, and the new tennis complex, and so many other improvements. I’m thankful that he will continue to be just a call away.” Couch will continue to serve as superintendent through May 31, 2024. Finney will assume the responsibility as of June 1, 2024.

The search for a new superintendent commenced promptly after the announcement of Couch's impending retirement, initiating a six-month process overseen by the Harris County Board of Education. Employing the expertise of search consultants King-Cooper and Associates, the Board meticulously reviewed 18 applications, conducted thorough candidate screenings, and engaged in comprehensive interviews before naming Dr. Finney as the finalist for the role.

A graduate of Columbus State University (CSU), Finney holds a B.S. Ed. Degree in Social Studies Education, alongside master's, specialist, and Ed.D. degrees from the same institution, specializing in curriculum and leadership. Prior to his career in education, Finney served 12 years in the military in U. S. Army Special Operations.

Finney's educational journey commenced in 2001 as a coach and teacher at Rothschild Middle School in Muscogee County, followed by a tenure at CSU from 2004-2007. He assumed administrative roles, serving as assistant principal at Harris County Carver Middle School in 2007 and later as principal of Mulberry Creek Elementary from 2010-2018, before ascending to the position of HCSD assistant superintendent in 2018.

In his pursuit of superintendency, Finney has diligently pursued professional development opportunities, including specialized training programs offered by the Georgia School Superintendents Association, as well as completing the rigorous Superintendent Professional Development Program.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Finney has been married to his wife, Terri, for 29 years, and together they have two grown children, Michael, and Madison, as well as two grandchildren.

Garnett Ray, chair of the Board of Education, expressed enthusiasm regarding Finney's appointment, stating, “We are delighted to have someone of Dr. Finney’s experience and ability to be our next superintendent. He has been a committed and loyal employee of Harris County schools. We have had a very deliberate and thorough search process, and I appreciate how well the Board has worked together through the search process.”

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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 Note to editors: Interviews are available upon request. 

Photo: Upon being formally announced as the next superintendent for the Harris County School District, Dr. Justin Finney stands with the members of the Harris County Board of Education in the historic building on Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2024. The structure has been used for the purpose of education in Harris County since its construction in 1930. Left to right: Scott Greene, Harry Proctor, Shane Lipp, Bridgett Oliver, Dr. Justin Finney, Dr. Monica Sparks, Garnett Ray (chair), and Steve Goodnoe (vice chair)

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).

HAMILTON, GA (FEBRUARY 27, 2024) – Harris County High School (HCHS) proudly announces that Senior Ashley Fields has been selected as one of the top three finalists in the Columbus State University (CSU) Go2Teach "Excellence in Teaching Competition" program.

"Ashley Fields showcased exceptional talent and dedication throughout the competition, securing her place among the top three finalists from across our region," stated Jennifer Robinson, Instructor of the HCHS Teacher Cadet program. "Ashley developed an innovative lesson plan focusing on ecosystems and the impact of pollution, which she implemented and recorded with her students during her Dual-Enrollment Practicum at Mulberry Creek Elementary School." Ashley will have the opportunity to present her lesson once again to a group of randomly selected fourth graders on March 12, at Columbus State University.

The Go2Teach program, as outlined on the CSU website, aims to nurture, and mentor aspiring educators, ensuring that school districts in CSU's vicinity benefit from the expertise of exceptional young teachers. High school students interested in pursuing a career in education are paired with CSU Education representatives who provide guidance and support through various activities, including Senior Night and campus visits.

As part of HCHS's Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) program, teaching is offered as a professional pathway. Students completing this pathway engage in courses such as "Examining the Teaching Profession," "Contemporary Issues in Education," and "Practicum in Education," culminating in an internship. During the internship phase, students are matched with a mentor teacher at Mulberry Creek Elementary School or Creekside Intermediate School, where they actively participate in classroom activities for three hours per week.

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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Note to Editors:  Image attached.

Photo Caption: Harris County High School’s Teacher Cadet Instructor, Jennifer Robinson, and Senior Ashley Fields proudly display Ashley's Columbus State University Go2Teach Finalist Certificate.

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).

HAMILTON, GA (FEBRUARY 27, 2024) – Harris County High School (HCHS) proudly recognizes the outstanding achievements of two exceptional students and a dedicated teacher from the Class of 2024. In a remarkable twist, this year's honors of STAR Student and Salutatorian are bestowed upon one remarkable individual.

Valedictorian: Om Patel
Om Patel has been named the valedictorian for the class of 2024. According to Senior Guidance Counselor Tammy Bailey, “Om's insatiable thirst for knowledge and contributions to mathematics, computer science, and extracurricular activities reflect his exceptional dedication and intellectual curiosity.” Om's proactive approach to learning extends beyond the classroom, as he engages in research, experimentation, and problem-solving endeavors. He excels particularly in mathematics and computer science, showcasing his talent through various projects and contributions to electric vehicle design. Despite facing adversity, Om exhibits remarkable strength and maturity, earning him recognition as the valedictorian. His achievements, including being named an AP Scholar with Distinction and a Georgia Certificate of Merit winner, underscore his commitment to academic excellence and community service. Om plans to continue his studies at the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Salutatorian and STAR Student: Jaxsen Scott
Jaxsen Scott has been recognized as both the Star Student and Salutatorian for the Class of 2024. Described as an exemplary student with a passion for learning, Jaxsen's dedication to academic excellence and service sets him apart. His leadership roles within various clubs and organizations demonstrate his commitment to fostering teamwork and inspiring his peers. Jaxsen's exceptional academic prowess and involvement in extracurricular activities highlight his well-roundedness and dedication to excellence. He will be attending college at Duke University.

STAR Teacher: Brittany Moss
The STAR student has selected Brittany Moss, an HCHS science teacher and advisor for the STEAM Club, as the STAR Teacher. As Jaxsen progresses in the process of regional and state levels of recognition, Moss will move up with him.

The valedictorian and salutatorian are determined after the fall semester based on the highest cumulative grade point average (GPA). Additionally, the Student Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) program recognizes Georgia’s top-performing high school seniors and the educators who have played a pivotal role in their academic journey. To qualify as a STAR nominee, Georgia high school students must meet specific criteria, including achieving the highest SAT score at their school on any single test date up to November of their senior year and ranking within the top 10 percent or top 10 students of their graduating class based on grade point average.

Reflecting on the achievements of these exceptional individuals, Bailey expressed her gratitude to all who have supported and contributed to their success. From faculty members to community supporters, their collective efforts have helped nurture an environment where students can thrive and excel.

HCHS Principal Lindie Snyder commented, “It is with great pleasure we recognize these two young men for achieving the highest level of academics within their graduating class. They are both well-rounded young men with a bright future. I look forward to the many wonderful things they will accomplish in life.”

For more information, please visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or contact the Harris County School District at (706) 628-4206.

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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Note to Editors: Link for downloadable images - https://share.icloud.com/photos/02cYuTkYe0HegpSnECw0D239g

Photo (left to right): Harris County High School (HCHS) Principal Lindie Snyder; HCHS Teacher and 2024 STAR Teacher Brittany Moss; HCHS Class of 2024 Salutatorian and STAR Student Jaxsen Scott, HCHS Class of 2024 Valedictorian Om Patel, HCHS Guidance Counselor Tammy Bailey, Harris County School District Superintendent Roger D. Couch

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).

The Harris County School District (HCSD) strives to develop the school calendar for two years in advance. It is now time for HCSD to prepare the 2025-2026 school calendar.

“Over the last few years, we’ve developed a formula for setting the academic calendar that works. With this process, we’ve done so with a goal of planning two years ahead of time, so that educators and parents can plan accordingly,” shared HCSD K-4 Curriculum Director David Dennie. “The process includes asking for input from stakeholders such as parents and teachers, which is the stage we are at now.”

To develop the calendar, there are certain criteria that must be met. These include:

Start teacher in-service days on the second working day of August

• 180 student days
• Ten (10) professional learning days
• Spring Break aligned with Muscogee County
• Student days divided as evenly as possible by nine weeks per semester
• Attempted observation of federal holidays
• Stakeholder (parent, teacher, and community) input

When creating the calendar using the above criteria, students would return to school for two days after Memorial Day. This is a situation that we have not had in the past six years; therefore, we do not have feedback on how faculty/staff, parents, students, and community members would respond to this type of calendar. In an effort to show multiple options, we are providing four sample calendars for feedback.  Please note, this is NOT a VOTE or a SELECTION of the final calendar – this is a time to gather feedback and make adjustments.

The differences for each version are:

2025-2026 Calendar Options

All calendars –

·         Begin on Monday, August 4, 2025, with teacher in-service
·         Have 180 student days
·         Have 10 professional learning days
·         Have Spring Break aligned with Muscogee County

·  Version A –  www.harris.k12.ga.us/2526a
 

• • August 8 – Students begin school
  • January 7 – Students return from winter holiday break
  • May 27 – Last day for students
  • 88 days/92 days balance between 1st and 2nd semester

·  Version B – www.harris.k12.ga.us/2526b

• • August 7 – Students begin school
  • October 13 – Columbus Day no longer off
  • January 7 – Students return from winter holiday break
  • May 22 – Last day for students
  • 4th teacher in-service day moved to the end of the year
  • 90 days/90 days balance between 1st and 2nd semester

·  Version C – www.harris.k12.ga.us/2526c

• • August 8 – Students begin school
  • Thanksgiving holiday shortened to 3 days
  • January 7 – Students return from winter holiday break
  • May 22 – Last day for students
  • 90 days/90 days balance between 1st and 2nd semester

·  Version D – www.harris.k12.ga.us/2526d

• • August 7 – Students begin school
  • October 13 – Columbus Day teacher in-service
  • January 2 – Teacher in-service day
  • January 6 – Students return from winter holiday break
  • May 22 – Last day for students
  • 89 days/91 days balance between 1st and 2nd semester

Spring Break for all calendars will be the same and will align with the Muscogee County School District.

Stakeholder input is being collected through midnight on Friday, March 1. Parents will receive an email, text, and/or phone call (depending on their preferences set in Infinite Campus) from Infinite Campus Messenger with instructions on how to view the draft calendars and complete the survey using a Google Form. For a paper version of the information, the community may visit the HCSD Central Office (132 Barnes Mill Road Hamilton Georgia 31811) between the hours of 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday.

“The survey includes an additional feedback area so that those completing the survey can add their logic in the comments,” stated Dennie. “Once feedback has been received, we will narrow the calendar options down to two and send them out to the community again for input.”

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).

MEDIA ADVISORY/INVITATION

WHO: The media and the public are cordially invited to a meeting of the Harris County Board of Education.

WHAT: The purpose of this meeting is to formally announce the appointment of Dr. Justin Finney as the new superintendent of the Harris County School District effective June 1, 2024. Following the meeting, a reception will be hosted in his honor.

WHEN: 6 p.m., Tuesday, February 27, 2024

WHY: This meeting serves as an important milestone in the educational leadership of the Harris County School District and provides an opportunity for the community to meet and welcome Dr. Finney.

WHERE: Harris County Board of Education, 132 Barnes Mill Rd., Hamilton, GA 31811. For those unable to attend in person, the event will be live streamed at www.harris.k12.ga.us/suptinduction.

R.S.V.P: Kindly coordinate your media outlet’s attendance by contacting Rachel Crumbley via email at rmcrumbley@gmail.com.

Your coverage and presence are greatly appreciated. We look forward to your participation in this significant event.

“The Mobile Learning Lab is available for Harris County citizens of all ages who need tutoring or to simply access the internet for career-related opportunities. There is a multitude of enrichment and remedial resources available for students in elementary through high school. We have a mobile library with a diverse collection of books in the rear of the bus, a variety of interactive, learning games, necessary supplies such as pencils, paper, pens, calculators, etc. to help complete school assignments, and most importantly, a dedicated, knowledgeable staff to assist those who visit” said Shelia Baker, HCSD assistant superintendent of support services. “We want to remind parents that reading with your children every day is one of the best home strategies to prepare students and keep them prepared for school. The Mobile Learning Lab is one of many opportunities to encourage reading and other academic skills beyond the classroom.”

The Mobile Learning Lab is open from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the following locations:

March 2024

Pine Mountain: Pine Lane Apartments
Every Tuesday and Thursday (March 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28)

Hamilton: Harris County Community Center
Monday, March 18

Pine Mountain Valley Dollar General or Fire Station
Monday, March 4
Monday, March 25

Shiloh: City Hall
Every Wednesday (March 6, 13, 20, 27)

Cataula/Old Cataula Elementary School
Monday, March 8
Monday, March 29

The purpose of the Mobile Learning Lab is to provide technology access and literacy activities for students and adults in the district. It is equipped with Wi-Fi Internet access, laptops, and books for students in the district. To enrich their learning experiences, students can access applications they are already using within their classrooms as well as resources to continually promote college and career readiness. In addition, the Mobile Learning Lab is available to assist adults who may be pursuing educational and work-related career opportunities. The Mobile Learning Lab earned the Harris County School District’s (HCSD) Board of Education (BOE) the Leading Edge Award for the innovative “Teaching and Learning Resources” initiatives from the Georgia School Boards Association.

A calendar for the operation of the Mobile Learning Lab for the 2023-2024 school year is posted at www.harris.k12.ga.us (on the main page, scroll down to News & Information).

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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*Subject to change

Note to Editor: Images and interviews are available upon request.

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).

The water service disruption, which occurred early this morning, prompted the temporary closure of both campuses to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff.

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 is an accredited K-12 school system based in the county seat of Hamilton, Georgia. 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 educational excellence for every child,” Harris County School District continually strives to provide students with what they need to become the future workforce and society. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or the Facebook or Twitter pages (@HCSDga).

HAMILTON, GA (JANUARY 29, 2024) – The Harris County Carver Middle School (HCCMS) competed in the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) regional competition on Jan. 18.

“We had 13 members compete and all members received at least a first place or second placed medal, and most received multiple top five medals,” said HCCMS FBLA Advisor Ashley Daniel. In addition to the strong competition, HCCMS FBLA was also awarded "Largest FBLA Chapter" for District 7 with 56 members strong.

The results included the following:

Performance Based Competitions
First Place

Critical Thinking (moving on to state): Natalie Shirley, Braidyn Cole, Donnie Bush
Marketing Mix (moving on to state): Turner Durham and Easton Smith
FBLA Mission and Pledge (moving on to state)- Atticus Taylor
Public Speaking (moving on to state)- Caroline Hartung

Second Place
Business Ethics (moving on to state)- Spencer Franklin
Elevator Speech- Adriana Bush
Marketing Mix- Emma Hinton, Lena Riley, Jayla Stanley

Online Exam Based Competitions
First Place
Business Concepts- Turner Durham
FBLA Concepts- Taylor Harris

Second Place
Business Concepts- Jayla Stanley
Business Etiquette - Adriana Bush
Career Exploration -Easton Smith
FBLA Concepts-Caroline Hartung
Intro to Business Communications - Donnie Bush

Third Place
Interpersonal Communications- Natalie Shirley
Intro to Business Communications -Atticus Taylor

Fourth Place
Interpersonal Communications- Emma Hinton
Social Media Concepts- Taylor Harris
Leadership- Spencer Franklin

Seventh Place
Business Etiquette - Lena Riley
Interpersonal Communications- Braidyn Cole

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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Note to editors: Upon request, interviews may be arranged.

HCSD HCCMS FBLA (Left to Right): Braidyn Cole, Jayla Stanley, Spencer Franklin, Atticus Taylor, Turner Durham, Easton Smith, Natalie Shirley, Taylor Harris, Lena Riley, Emma Hinton

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).

HAMILTON, GA (NOVEMBER 13, 2023) – To best prepare students in grades 9-12 for the fall Georgia Milestones testing, the Harris County School District (HCSD) is sharing several tips for students and parents. The testing will assess students’ mastery of essential skills and knowledge in American Literature, Algebraic Concepts & Connections, Biology, and U.S. History.

“Our goal is to support students in best preparing for these tests,” said Donna Patterson, HCSD director of secondary curriculum, “We encourage all parents and guardians to visit our website. It provides both information about upcoming testing, useful resources, and tips to help parents prepare their children for testing. Also, we are offering a Zoom session to share information and to answer questions for parents ahead of the testing period.”

“County Curriculum Conversations” Zoom
To prepare for fall semester testing, the Curriculum and Instruction Department will host virtual “County Curriculum Conversations” (CCC). These Zoom sessions will focus on various curriculum and instruction topics relevant throughout the year. The first session will focus on Georgia Milestones testing from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 16. There will be a discussion about Georgia Milestones testing, preparation, purpose, and results for approximately 20 minutes, followed by a Q&A session. While the session will be recorded and be available to the public, participants who wish to attend live must register in advance at www.harris.k12.ga.us/ccc. 

Testing Dates

For fall 2023 semester, Georgia Milestones testing will take place from Dec. 6 to 12 (see below for schedule).

Attendance
Students should be in attendance on these dates. “It is imperative that students are present for all their testing dates,” said Patterson. “Students perform better when standardized tests are taken as scheduled versus on a makeup day. Please check your calendars and reschedule any appointments as needed to ensure your child’s presence.”

Tips

A few tips for test-taking include:

·         Practice in advance for familiarity prior to testing dates to become familiar with how it works. Students can visit www.harris.k12.ga.us and click on “Community Resources” for details on how to become accustomed with the Georgia Milestones testing program.

·         Be well-rested with a good night’s sleep.

·         Eat a well-balanced breakfast.

·         On test days, arrive on time, or a little early.

·         Read the instructions and questions/answers thoroughly and review your work.

"We are committed to providing our students with the best possible education, and the Georgia Milestones testing is an essential component of our well-balanced assessment system," said Patterson. "We encourage parents to be actively involved in their child's education and to take advantage of the resources and support available to them.”

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

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).

The End of Grade (EOG) and End of Course (EOC) schedule for students is as follows:

Harris County High School/Performance Learning Center (PLC)/Educational Opportunity Center (EOC)
American Literature: Dec. 6-7
Biology: Dec. 8
US History: Dec. 11
Algebraic Concepts & Connections: Dec. 12 

HAMILTON, GA (NOVEMBER 13, 2023) -- On Friday, November 3, 2023, students from Harris County School District’s (HCSD) Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) and S.T.E.P.S, which stands for Success Transitional Educational Program for Students, participated in a first-ever career day. The event aimed to expose students to various career paths, providing them with valuable insights and hands-on experiences.

Throughout the day, students navigated through the school, visiting 14 different stations where they engaged with professionals from diverse fields. These professionals generously shared their experiences and knowledge, creating an interactive environment where students could ask questions and explore potential career choices. Activities at each station ranged from checking their pulse and using a tourniquet to physical challenges like doing push-ups with an Army Ranger, trying on firefighter helmets and masks, and practicing essential skills such as rolling a fire hose and tying knots. In addition, students had the opportunity for personal conversations with professionals, including business owners, pastors, a lawyer, and a mental health counselor. Notably, many of these professionals were Harris County High School graduates, emphasizing the local connection.
 

Megan Wright, HCSD EOC/STEPS Counselor and event organizer, expressed her gratitude, stating, “The students, faculty, and staff of the EOC and S.T.E.P.S extend our heartfelt thanks to each professional who dedicated their time to inspire and guide our students. Despite being in an alternative setting, we are committed to ensuring that our students receive the same opportunities and experiences as every child deserves.”

Ariane Stecher, the facility’s administrator, praised Wright for her exceptional planning and execution of the event, stating, “Mrs. Wright did an excellent job planning and executing this event for our students. She is a first-year counselor at our school, and she has taken the initiative to formulate meaningful relationships with our students, support our staff, and provide relevant and meaningful activities for our students.”

Reflecting on the event's impact, Stecher added, “To see our students interact and engage with a variety of professionals was a fulfilling experience not only for them but for us as a staff as well. Our entire staff is grateful to Mrs. Wright for providing our students with this opportunity.”

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

Note to Editors: Interviews available upon request.

Photo (left to right):

Top: Lorenzo Dowdell (personal trainer); Travis Contreras (painter); Chandra Wilson (lawyer); Tanner Childs (youth pastor); Desmond Thornton (entrepreneur); Sam Coley (physical therapist and associate pastor); Dylan Jordan (Army Ranger); Michael Stecher (manager); and Davis Wright (firefighter)

Bottom: Courtney Arsenault (registered nurse); Caitlyn Barfield (occupational therapist); Anna Owenby (occupational therapist); Cierra West (CNA); Kelly Crawford (counselor); Joyce Redmond (human resources); Not pictured: Maya Shakoor (Army Reserves)

About the Harris County School District

Georgia’s Harris County School District is an accredited K-12 school system based in the county seat of Hamilton, Georgia. 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 educational excellence for every child,” Harris County School District continually strives to provide students with what they need to become the future workforce and society. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

HAMILTON, GA (NOVEMBER 2, 2023) - The Harris County School District (HCSD) is actively searching for its next superintendent. To ensure a comprehensive selection process, the King-Cooper Associates, the firm leading the search, has launched a survey to gather input from faculty, staff, parents, and stakeholders.

The survey can be accessed at: www.harris.k12.ga.us/suptsearch and will be open for responses until Friday, Nov. 17, 2023.

The Board of Education, in partnership with King-Cooper and Associates, has outlined a provisional timeline, with applications being accepted until December 8, 2023. The Board is committed to engaging the community and employees while preserving applicant confidentiality until finalists are chosen. The survey is being developed to gather input on desired superintendent qualities.

In the upcoming weeks, the Board will create a leadership profile outlining the necessary skills and competencies for the role. This profile will guide candidate selection and interviews.

The anticipated timeline for the search is four to five months, with interviews scheduled for late January.

The search for a new Superintendent follows the announcement of Roger D. Couch's retirement at the end of the current school year.

For more information about position requirements, the survey, survey results, and other details, please visit: www.harris.k12.ga.us/suptsearch.

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

About the Harris County School District
The Harris County School District (HCSD) is an accredited K-12 school system in Hamilton, Ga., serving approximately 5,700 students. HCSD encompasses four elementary schools, one intermediate school, one middle school, one high school, and one performance learning center. Guided by the vision of "one community committed to the well-being and preparation of every student for life-long success in a global society," HCSD is dedicated to providing an outstanding education for every student in Harris County. For further information, please visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

PARENTS ENCOURAGED TO SUPPORT SCHOOL WITH PUBLIX PARTNERS PROGRAM

HAMILTON, GA (NOVEMBER 1, 2023) – The Harris County School District (HCSD) is excited to invite our community to continue supporting the education of our students through the Publix Partners program this school year.

"Everyone buys groceries, and if there is a Publix store nearby, whether you're a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, neighbor, or friend, you can participate and choose to support one of the participating schools in the Publix Partners program," said Shelia Baker, HCSD Assistant Superintendent of Student Services. "We hope everyone will take a little time to set up their account, select a Harris County School, and simply enter their phone number each time they check out or use the Publix app. It's that simple."

To sign up and support our schools, follow these three easy steps:

1. After creating or logging in to your "Club Publix" account, click on your Account Profile, scroll to the right, and select "My Publix Partner." Search for and choose a Harris County School and click save.

2. During each Publix transaction, enter the phone number associated with your "Club Publix" account at checkout. If you need assistance, don't hesitate to ask the cashier for help. Alternatively, pay with the Publix app, and your purchase will be automatically credited.

3. Publix will generously donate a portion of qualifying purchases to the school of your choice. To date, Publix Partners has contributed more than $24 million to Georgia schools, and $40 million to more than 5,000 schools across the Southeast. One of the top 10 in Georgia is just across the county line in Columbus, Ga.

To learn more, please visit www.publix.com/partners.

"For those who have previously selected a school, we extend our heartfelt thanks. However, please be aware that each July, the accounts are reset, so we kindly request everyone to choose their school of preference again," Baker added. "While we are grateful for funding from various sources, it is often earmarked for specific expenses. Donations through programs like Publix Partners help our school principals provide essential resources for teachers and students. Your support goes a long way in helping our students succeed."

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

Note to editors: Upon request, interviews may be arranged. 

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).

ROTARY OF HARRIS COUNTY HONORS HCHS OCTOBER STUDENT OF THE MONTH

HAMILTON, GA (OCTOBER 31, 2023) – The Rotary Club of Harris County, in its ongoing commitment to acknowledge and support education in the Harris County School District, designated Harris County High School Senior Om Patel as the "Student of the Month" for October 2023.

Om is a member of the Science National Honor Society. He plans to attend Georgia Tech in the Fall and become a software engineer.

Tammy Bailey, HCHS guidance counselor, expressed gratitude for the Rotary Club's dedication to recognizing students, stating, "We appreciate our local Rotary's commitment to the 'Student of the Month' program. This recognition is highly valued by our students and serves as a notable addition to their college applications."

Each honoree receives a certificate and the opportunity to attend a Rotary meeting, where they introduce themselves and share their backgrounds. These students are also eligible candidates for Rotary's annual post-secondary scholarship program, aiding them in their educational journey towards graduation.

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

Photo: (left to right): Rotarian Emily Byrd, club director of education & youth services; Honoree Om Patel, a senior at Harris County High School.

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).

CREEKSIDE INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL CELEBRATES SUCCESS AT BETA LEADERSHIP SUMMIT; QUALIFIES FOR NATIONALS

CATAULA, GA (OCTOBER 30, 2023) – Creekside Intermediate School recently participated in a regional Beta Leadership Summit, hosted by the National Beta Club on October 23-24, and emerged as award-winning champions. The National Beta Club, a prominent non-profit youth organization with a legacy spanning over 80 years, is dedicated to grooming the leaders of tomorrow. The Beta Leadership Summit is a dynamic event that incorporates group activities, guest speakers, and team-building competitions, all designed to nurture well-rounded student leaders.

Creekside Intermediate School displayed exceptional leadership skills and brought home a total of four awards. The school has also secured a spot in three categories to compete in the National Beta Club Summit. Their accomplishments include:

National Beta Outstanding Leadership School: Creekside Jr. Beta received this prestigious award in recognition of their remarkable leadership skills and commitment to making a positive impact.

National Qualifier Awards for Project Proposal: Rebekah Figel, Avery Daniels, Brandon Powell, Hayden Smith, and Sydney Vannatta clinched a National Qualifier Award for their outstanding Project Proposal challenge. Their project, "Helping Hands," involves collaborating with the New Mountain Elementary School’s Hill Hilltop Harvest Community Garden to grow and harvest vegetables for the community.

National Qualifier Award for Collaboration Connection: Boone O'dell, Ava Mcadon, Caleb Schuster, Issac Cooper, and Blake Hood received a National Qualifier Award for their exceptional performance in the "Collaboration Connection" challenge. This challenge pushed teams of five students to engage in quick, creative, and critical thinking challenges.

National Qualifier Award for Lead Outside the Box: Nila Copeland, Kylee Bland, Mack Wilson, Kira Hallissey earned a National Qualifier Award for their outstanding performance in the "Lead Outside the Box" challenge. In this challenge, teams of four students tackled a real-world problem and presented their solutions effectively.

These students have dedicated their time to volunteering at the Harris County School District’s H.O.P.E Center in Hamilton, Ga., which greatly contributed to their success in the "Lead Outside the Box" challenge.

Latina Maddox, sponsor of Creekside Intermediate, expressed her excitement for the awards while highlighting the students' demonstration of collaboration, responsibility, commitment, and leadership throughout the event. She added, "I am even more proud of them for the collaboration, responsibility, commitment, and leadership they demonstrated at this event."

The students' dedication to community service is a testament to their commitment to leading by serving others.

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

Photo 1 (left to right): Creekside Jr. Beta Leadership Summit

Bottom Row: Sydney Vannatta, Kylee Bland, Kira Halissey, Kaien Simmons, Calebe Schuster, Dylan

Maxfield, Evan Koller Rebekah Figel, Aspen Street

Top Row: Logan Stump, Khole Bussey, Rob Jones, Blake Hood, Tyson Bohler, Ava McEldoon, Avery

Daniel, Hayden Smith, Issac Cooper, Colt Ponder, Mack Wilson, Nila Copeland, Madelyn

Woosley, Sammie Mathis, Branden Powell, Izzy Lawson, Mason Weddle, Lawson Fuller, Latina

Maddox, Sponsor

Photo 2 (left to right): Project Proposal Team of Sydney Vannatta, Hayden Smith, Rebekah Figel, Branden Powell, and Avery Daniel.

Photo 3 (left to right): Collaboration Connection Team of Blake Hood, Issac Cooper, Boone O’Dell, Caleb Schuster, and Ava Mceldoon.

Photo 4 (left to right): Lead Outside the Box Team of Kylee Bland, Nila Copeland, Kira Hallissey, and Mack Wilson.

About National Junior Beta

With more than 500,000 active members and 8,750 clubs nationally and internationally, National Beta has become the nation’s largest independent, non-profit, educational youth organization. National Beta promotes the ideals of academic achievement, character, service, and leadership among elementary and secondary school students. National Junior Beta includes grades 4-8 and National Senior Beta includes grades 9-12. Visit betaclub.org for more information.

About the Harris County School District
The Harris County School District (HCSD) is an accredited K-12 school system in Hamilton, Ga., serving approximately 5,700 students. HCSD encompasses four elementary schools, one intermediate school, one middle school, one high school, and one performance learning center. Guided by the vision of "one community committed to the well-being and preparation of every student for life-long success in a global society," HCSD is dedicated to providing an outstanding education for every student in Harris County. For further information, please visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

MOBILE LEARNING LAB SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED FOR NOVEMBER 2023

HAMILTON, GA (OCTOBER 28, 2023) – The Harris County School District’s (HCSD) award-winning Mobile Learning Lab calendar* has been set for November 2023.

“The Mobile Learning Lab is available for Harris County citizens of all ages who need tutoring or to simply access the internet for career-related opportunities. For elementary students, there is a mobile library in the rear of the bus,” said Shelia Baker, HCSD assistant superintendent of support services. “We want to remind parents that reading with your child every day is the best way to prepare students and keep them prepared for school. The Mobile Learning Lab is one of many opportunities to encourage reading.”

The Mobile Learning Lab is open from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the following locations:

November 2023

Pine Mountain: Pine Lane Apartments

Most Tuesdays and Thursdays (November 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 28, 30)

Hamilton: Harris County Community Center

Monday, November 27

Waverly Hall: Bobby Lowman Recreation Center

Monday, November 6

Shiloh: City Hall/Fire Station

Most Wednesdays (November 1, 8, 15, 29)

Whitesville: Dollar General

Monday, November 13

The purpose of the Mobile Learning Lab is to provide technology access and literacy activities for students and adults in the district. It is equipped with Wi-Fi Internet access, laptops, and books for students in the district. To enrich their learning experiences, students can access applications they are already using within their classrooms as well as resources to continually promote college and career readiness. In addition, the Mobile Learning Lab is available to assist adults who may be pursuing educational and work-related career opportunities. The MLL earned the Harris County School District’s (HCSD) Board of Education (BOE) the Leading Edge Award for the innovative “Teaching and Learning Resources” initiatives from the Georgia School Boards Association.

A calendar for the operation of the Mobile Learning Lab for the 2023-2024 school year is posted at www.harris.k12.ga.us (on the main page, scroll down to News & Information).

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

*Subject to change
 

Note to Editor: Images and interviews are available upon request.

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).

LOCAL BUSINESS EMPLOYEES SUPPORT HCHS WITH UNIQUE CHARITY INITIATIVE

HAMILTON, GA (OCTOBER 26, 2023) – Kimble’s of LaGrange has launched an innovative employee program that not only benefits its staff but also contributes to the well-being of the local community. Under this program, employees have the option to exchange one percent of their salary for a paid day off. The accumulated proceeds are then allocated to select local charities, with the company matching the employee contributions.

In the month of October, the Harris County High School (HCHS) Criminal Justice program was chosen as the recipient of these generous funds. Harris County Sheriff Mike Jolley joined William Pendergraph, Kimble’s President - Correctional Division, and Kimble’s dedicated employee, Harris County resident, and HCHS alumnus Daniel Davis to present a $2,500 check to HCHS Criminal Justice Teacher Linda Brockwell.

"This marks the inaugural year of our employee program, and we are delighted to have so many participants and funds donated so far to worthy causes," Pendergraph announced. "When I invited Daniel to accompany me in presenting the check, his response was an enthusiastic 'absolutely.'"

Kimble’s has a history of supporting the HCHS CTAE Criminal Justice pathway. For several years, the company, which is the contracted provider managing the commissary services for the Harris County Jail, has consistently donated two percent of proceeds to the program.

For information on how to make financial or monetary contributions to any program within the Harris County School District, please contact info@harris.k12.ga.us.

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

Editor’s Note:  Interviews are available upon request.

Photo (left to right): Harris County Sheriff Mike Jolley; Linda Brockwell, HCHS Criminal Justice Teacher; Daniel Davis, Kimble’s; William Pendergraph, Kimble’s President

About Kimble’s
Famous for their Ole School Corn Flake Chewy bars, Kimble’s offers catering throughout Georgia. They also manage vending and distribution in detention centers and prisons throughout the southeast. The main consumers of Kimble’s vending products are those individuals inside the prisons and correctional institutions.

About Harris County Work-Based Learning Program

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).

PARK ELEMENTARY SELECTED TO PRESENT AT GADOE STATE STEAM FORUM

HAMILTON, GA (OCTOBER 26, 2023) -- Five Park Elementary teachers were chosen to present at the 2023 State STEAM Forum for the Georgia Department of Education in Athens, Ga., on Oct. 23-24.

Adaptive STEAM Classrooms

Park sent Special Education Teachers Meghan Hagan, Lacey Rabon, and Brandy Thomas to share their knowledge of what STEAM looks like in special education adaptive and resource classrooms. Their presentation, “Making STEAM Adaptive for All,” addressed how they believe, as advocates for inclusive education and personalized learning, that tailoring STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education to meet the diverse needs of all learners is essential for promoting equity, engagement, and success in the classroom.

In their presentation, they explored the importance of making STEAM education adaptive and accessible to all learners, regardless of their abilities, backgrounds, or learning styles. By implementing adaptive strategies and leveraging technology, educators can create an inclusive learning environment that empowers every student to thrive and unleash their potential. Through practical examples of implementing the Engineering Design Process, they demonstrated how adaptive STEAM approaches can address the individual needs of learners and lead to meaningful learning outcomes.

Integrating Art in STEAM

Teachers Courtney Boggus and Heather Westad in their presentation, “What kind of art is this?,” shared how art integration in content area subjects is a powerful educational strategy that engages students' creativity and critical thinking skills while deepening their understanding of academic concepts. Their presentation aimed to introduce theater and visual arts into various content area subjects, such as Science, Mathematics, History, and Literature. By incorporating these artistic elements, they believe students will have a more immersive and enjoyable learning experience, fostering a deeper connection with the subject matter and enhancing their overall academic performance.

Westad, a first-grade teacher, shared about the conference, “We certainly enjoyed this experience and appreciate the opportunity we were afforded to share our STEAM teaching methods and ideas with fellow educators from across the state. We hope others will be able to use what we shared in their own classrooms, and it is helpful in their path to STEAM certification.” 

The forum is a two-day workshop that focuses on improving STEM/STEAM education for youth through learning new ways to teach STEM/STEAM in the classroom, raising awareness of job opportunities in STEM/STEAM fields for students, and providing grants to local STEM/STEAM teachers.

Of the four elementary schools in the Harris County School District, Park Elementary is the third and most recent school to earn STEAM certification.

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

Note to Editor: Images and interviews are available upon request.

Photo 1832 (left to right): Park Elementary School teachers that were selected to present at the 2023 Georgia Department of Education’s STEAM Forum included Brandy Thomas, Lacey Rabon, Meghan Hagan, Heather Westad, and Courtney Boggus.
 

Photo 3606 (left to right): Park Elementary School teachers pose at 2023 Georgia Department of Education’s STEAM Forum with Georgia School Superintendent Richard Woods including Courtney Boggus, Meghan Hagan, Brandy Thomas, Lacey Rabon, and Heather Westad.
 

Photo 1831 (left to right): Park Elementary teachers Brandy Thomas, Lacey Rabon, and Meghan Hagan present “STEAM Adaptive for All” at 2023 Georgia Department of Education’s STEAM Forum.

Photo 8533 (left to right): Park Elementary teachers Heather Westad and Courtney Boggus present “What Kind of Art is This” at 2023 Georgia Department of Education’s STEAM Forum.

About the Harris County School District
The Harris County School District (HCSD) is an accredited K-12 school system in Hamilton, Georgia, serving over 5,500 students. HCSD encompasses four elementary schools, one intermediate school, one middle school, one high school, and one performance learning center. Guided by the vision of "one community committed to the well-being and preparation of every student for life-long success in a global society," HCSD is dedicated to providing an outstanding education for every student in Harris County. For further information, please visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

GEORGIA STATE SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT APPOINTS HCHS SENIOR TO STUDENT ADVISORY COUNCIL

HAMILTON, GA (OCTOBER 26, 2023) – A Harris County High School (HCHS) student has been appointed to the State School Superintendent Richard Woods' 2023-2024 Student Advisory Council. Over the course of the year, these 69 high school students from Georgia will convene with Superintendent Woods to discuss the impact of state policies within the classroom.

Madeline White was handpicked by State Superintendent Richard Woods to serve on the council.

"Harris County High School is honored that Superintendent Woods has selected one of our students to serve on his State Advisory Council. Madeline is an exceptional choice, as she embodies a well-rounded student and will splendidly represent our school and community," remarked HCHS Principal Lindie Snyder.

"Georgia's public schools are dedicated to serving students, and it is crucial that we receive direct feedback from those most directly affected by statewide policies," Superintendent Woods emphasized. "My Student Advisory Council is a valuable resource each year, providing insights as we make decisions that directly impact the classroom. This year's Council comprises an esteemed group representing schools across the state, and I eagerly anticipate our collaboration to enhance educational opportunities for all of Georgia's children."

Every year, any student in grades 10-12 attending a Georgia public school, including charter schools, may apply for consideration on the Student Advisory Council. The application includes short essay prompts that invite students to share their perspectives on public education.

This year, the selected students addressed a broad spectrum of educational issues in their essays, including curriculum and graduation requirements, the influence of federal- and state-mandated assessments in the classroom, the significance of teacher recruitment and retention efforts, and access to opportunities and resources for students in rural areas.

The council's composition ensures representation from each of Georgia's Regional Educational Service Agency (RESA) regions, reflecting the diversity of students in rural, suburban, and urban schools. To represent all regions of the state, GaDOE selects students based on the strength of their essay responses, resulting in multiple students from a single district in some cases.

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

Note to Editor: Images and interviews are available upon request.

Photo: Harris County High School Senior Madeline White was selected to serve on the Georgia State School Superintendent's Student Advisory Council for the 2023-2024 school year.

About the Harris County School District
The Harris County School District (HCSD) is an accredited K-12 school system in Hamilton, Georgia, serving over 5,500 students. HCSD encompasses four elementary schools, one intermediate school, one middle school, one high school, and one performance learning center. Guided by the vision of "one community committed to the well-being and preparation of every student for life-long success in a global society," HCSD is dedicated to providing an outstanding education for every student in Harris County. For further information, please visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

HCSD LAUNCHES SUPERINTENDENT SEARCH

HAMILTON, GA (OCTOBER 25, 2023) – The search for the next superintendent of the Harris County School District is underway.

On Tuesday, October 24, the Harris County Board of Education, in collaboration with King-Cooper and Associates, a Georgia-based firm supporting the search process, outlined a provisional timeline that specifies applications will be accepted until December 8, 2023.

The Board is committed to conducting a comprehensive search that engages the community and employees while safeguarding applicant confidentiality until finalists are identified. King-Cooper and Associates will distribute vacancy announcements, and the search details will be accessible on various websites. A survey is in development to gather input on desired qualities for the next superintendent from District employees and community members.

In the coming weeks, the Board will formulate a leadership profile detailing the requisite skills and competencies. This profile will guide the Board in selecting and interviewing potential candidates for the position.

The search for a new Superintendent became necessary upon Roger D. Couch's announcement of retirement at the end of the current school year.

The anticipated timeline for the search is four to five months, with interviews scheduled to commence in late January.

For information regarding position requirements, the survey, survey results, and more, please visit www.harris.k12.ga.us/suptsearch, accessible through the website's main navigation.

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

About the Harris County School District
The Harris County School District (HCSD) is an accredited K-12 school system in Hamilton, Ga., serving approximately 5,700 students. HCSD encompasses four elementary schools, one intermediate school, one middle school, one high school, and one performance learning center. Guided by the vision of "one community committed to the well-being and preparation of every student for life-long success in a global society," HCSD is dedicated to providing an outstanding education for every student in Harris County. For further information, please visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

PARK ELEMENTARY HONORED AS A TITLE I REWARD SCHOOL BY THE GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

HAMILTON, GA (OCTOBER 24, 2023) – The Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) has recognized Park Elementary School in the Harris County School District (HCSD) as one of the Reward Schools for the 2022-2023 academic year.

The Reward Schools designation recognizes Title I schools making the greatest improvements. This year, 157 schools in 77 school districts were identified as Reward Schools.

State School Superintendent Richard Woods emphasized the significance of this recognition, stating, "It is essential that we recognize and celebrate schools making great strides as we maintain our focus on continuous improvement for all Georgia schools. The schools on these lists have made significant efforts in overcoming barriers, meeting challenges, and producing great gains for their students. I applaud the 2022-23 Distinguished and Reward Schools leaders, teachers, parents, and communities for creating opportunities for student success."

To earn the Reward School designation, institutions must rank among the top 5% of Title I Schoolwide and Title I Targeted Assistance schools in terms of content mastery scores from the two most recent years of statewide assessments. They must also be Title I schools, not currently identified as Comprehensive Support and Improvement (CSI) or Targeted Support and Improvement (TSI) schools. Detailed criteria can be found here.

Park Elementary's Principal, Allyson Douthit, shared her pride, saying, “Park students, faculty, and staff are to be commended for yet another prestigious designation. Through the consistent use and vigilant implementation of district programs, Park Elementary has outperformed other Title I schools in Georgia. This achievement is due to the unmatched dedication of all within our Park Family. It’s a true testament of why Park is the Place to Be."

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

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 HIGH SCHOOL JROTC INVITES VETERANS AND THE COMMUNITY TO COMMEMORATE VETERANS DAY

HAMILTON, GA (OCTOBER 23, 2023) -- Harris County High School (HCHS) is proud to host a special Veterans Day ceremony to honor the dedication and sacrifices of our Veterans. The event, organized by the HCHS Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC), will take place on Thursday, Nov. 9, 2023, at the HCHS Auditorium, located at 8281 GA-116, Hamilton, GA 31811.

To ensure that as many Veterans as possible can join in the commemoration, two ceremony times will be offered, at 8:30 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. Veterans are welcome to attend either session. Lt. Col. (RET) Michael Feret, who heads the JROTC Department at HCHS, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, saying, "We are deeply honored to host this Veterans Day ceremony, and we extend a heartfelt invitation to all Veterans to participate. Your service to our country deserves recognition and gratitude."

Veterans attending the event are invited to share their stories, enhancing the day's significance. In preparation for the ceremonies, Veterans are encouraged to submit a photograph along with their name, branch of service, years served, and details of any significant deployments or conflicts in which they were involved. Submissions can be sent to 24pixlerd@harriscountyschools.org or 25auta@harriscountyschools.org. The submission deadline Nov. 6, 2023.

On the day of the event, parking will be available at the rear of the school, near the gymnasium in the bus ramp area. This ceremony is open to the public, allowing the entire community to join in paying tribute to our esteemed Veterans. "We believe this is a great opportunity for our community to come together and express our gratitude to those who have served our country," stated Lt. Col. (RET) Michael Feret.

For more information about the Veterans Day ceremony, please contact Lt. Col. (RET) Michael Feret at feret-m@harris.k12.ga.us or call (706) 628-4278, ext. 2031.

This ceremony is free to attend, and no advanced reservations are required. HCHS eagerly anticipates this special day as an opportunity to express deep gratitude for the service and sacrifice of our Veterans.

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

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 CARVER MIDDLE SCHOOL FBLA HONORED WITH GOLD SEAL CHAPTER AWARD OF MERIT

HAMILTON, GA (OCTOBER 23, 2023) – Harris County Carver Middle School's Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter is proud to announce its recognition with the prestigious FBLA Gold Seal Chapter Award of Merit for the 2022-2023 academic year.

This remarkable achievement positions HCCMS FBLA among the top 15% of chapters nationwide, encompassing high school and collegiate levels.

The Gold Seal Chapter Award of Merit is a testament to the chapter's outstanding performance in competitive events, dedicated involvement in community service initiatives, exemplary leadership development among its members, and a commitment to activities that promote American enterprise.

Ashley Daniel, FBLA Advisor at HCCMS, commented on the achievement, saying, "The HCCMS FBLA leadership team designed and executed an exceptional program of work last year. This award not only reflects the impact that the HCCMS FBLA chapter is making within the Harris County community but also within the broader FBLA community. I am tremendously proud of their accomplishments and eagerly anticipate their future success."

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

Note to editors: Upon request, interviews may be arranged. 

Photo (left to right): Lena Riley, Baylee Garver, Jayla Turner, Katy Kozee, Caroline Hartung, Abbie McMurtry, Taylor Harris, Madison Perry, Madelyn Stewart, Adriana Bush, Ally Motycka, Natalie Shirley, Braidyn Cole, Easton Smith, Nolan Cummings, Sean Nimke, Charlie Sawtelle, and Turner Durham

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 HIGH SCHOOL JROTC SHINES AT AREA 5 RAIDERS MATCH

HAMILTON, GA (OCTOBER 23, 2023) – In the fierce competition at the Area 5 Raiders Match on Oct. 7, 2023, at Chattahoochee High School, 16 exceptional students from Harris County High School (HCHS), showcased their prowess and determination, securing an impressive third place overall out of 10 formidable teams hailing from the Chattahoochee Valley.

Testing their limits in both physical and mental domains, the team engaged in a range of demanding events, including the Team Run, Tire Flip, Letter Rescue, Obstacle Course, and Rope Bridge. The team's dedication and intensive training, starting at the onset of the school year, propelled them to secure the second position in the Team Run and an impressive third in the Tire Flip event.

Lt. Col. (Ret.) Michael Feret, HCHS JROTC Senior Army Instructor, commended his students' exceptional performance at the event, stating, "Their determination and teamwork were evident in their outstanding placements. We're immensely proud of their achievements and the hard work they've put in, demonstrating the true spirit of JROTC. First Sergeant Retired Sutton did an outstanding job in preparing the Cadets with rigorous training that paid off. We anticipate great things as we progress through the season."

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

Note to Editor: Images and interviews are available upon request.

Pictured (left to right):

First row: Kevin Porter, Omar Castillo, Grace Waddell, Adam Aut

Second row: Luke Ussery, 1SG Sutton (Coach), Carolina Luis-Rodriquez, Sophia Cantu, Adyson Baker

Third row: Levi Cosmah, Kaydi Hamilton, Heath Koppel, Zachary Williams, Owen Couturier, Jaymez Whitaker 

About the Harris County School District
The Harris County School District (HCSD) is an accredited K-12 school system in Hamilton, Georgia, serving over 5,500 students. HCSD encompasses four elementary schools, one intermediate school, one middle school, one high school, and one performance learning center. Guided by the vision of "one community committed to the well-being and preparation of every student for life-long success in a global society," HCSD is dedicated to providing an outstanding education for every student in Harris County. For further information, please visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

ONE OF FIVE CLASSES WORLDWIDE, CREEKSIDE STUDENTS LEARN FROM NASA ASTRONAUT AND ARTIST

CATAULA, GA (OCTOBER 23, 2023) – A Creekside Intermediate School sixth-grade class had a unique opportunity, actually only one of five classes in the world, to learn from NASA Astronaut and Artist Nicole Stott during their Earth Science class.

Teacher Jeannie Bulloch and her class engaged in a live chat with Stott, a veteran NASA astronaut known for her two spaceflights and 104 days in space, including a spacewalk and various historic missions, such as capturing a free-flying HTV cargo vehicle and being part of the final Space Shuttle Discovery flight. Stott also made history by creating the first watercolor painting in space.

Additionally, Stott's experience as a NASA Aquanaut was highlighted, having lived and worked during an 18-day undersea mission on the Aquarius habitat in preparation for spaceflight.

Following her retirement from NASA, Stott founded the Space for Art Foundation, leveraging her spaceflight experience and artistic skills to inspire creative problem-solving for planetary challenges and promote the synergy between science and art.

The live chat featured science communicator and founder of Exploring by the Seat of Your Pants, Joe Grabowski, who joined the conversation, enriching the students' learning experience.

Bulloch summarized the experience by saying, “students were able to gain insight from someone who has ventured into space and are able to spark inspiration and curiosity.”

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

Photo 1 (yellow hoodie): Blake Hood inquired on the possibilities and opportunities of students to be able to participate and train in the field of space science.

Photo 2 (blue shirt): Ashton Epolite asked Astronaut/Artist Nicole Stott to explain how it feels to exit and enter the atmosphere. 

Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jly-H-U944w&t=2s
Video Link: https://video.link/w/jly-H-U944w

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 CARVER MIDDLE SCHOOL NAMED NATIONAL BETA SCHOOL OF DISTINCTION

HAMILTON, GA (OCTOBER 20, 2023) – The Harris County School District proudly announces that Harris County Carver Middle School (HCCMS) achieved the status of a 2022-2023 National Beta School of Distinction. This recognition is a result of the school's impressive increase in club membership, exceeding 10% compared to the previous year.

The National Beta School of Distinction Award is a prestigious honor acknowledging Beta clubs dedicated to academic excellence, exemplary character, leadership, and service. This accolade is specifically designed to recognize schools that have shown growth in their membership compared to the previous year. In the current year, only 2,643 Beta Clubs across the country have received this distinction.

In a congratulatory letter to the school, Bobby Hart, CEO said “This national award speaks highly of your commitment to academic excellence and illustrates your dedication to preparing students for their future.”

Award recipients will receive a National Beta School of Distinction banner to proudly display as a symbol of their accomplishment.

Jalin Murphy, HCCMS faculty member and Jr. Beta club sponsor, shared, "Achieving this status in our first year of active participation in National Beta events reflects the caliber of our students and our commitment to academic achievement and community leadership. With the increased diversity in our membership this year, we look forward to personal, academic, and community development both as a club and as a school community."

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

Photo (left to right): The 2023-2024 Jr. Beta Officers, left to right: Paige Ponder (chairperson), Adriana Bush (regional leadership representative), Ashlyn Ogletree (secretary), Nicholas Reed (vice president), Quinton Smith (historian), Kaylee Wilbanks (president), Rachel Figel (reporter), Jalin Murphy (club sponsor).

About National Beta  

With more than 500,000 active members and 9,000 chapters nationally and internationally, National

Beta has become the nation’s largest independent, non-profit, educational youth organization. National

Beta recognizes outstanding achievement, promotes character and social responsibility, encourages service involvement to school and community, and fosters leadership skills. National Junior Beta

includes grades 4-8 and National Senior Beta includes grades 9-12. The National Beta program offers more than $300,000 annually to its Senior Beta Members. Visit betaclub.org for more information.

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 HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR NAMED SEPTEMBER 2023 "STUDENT OF THE MONTH" BY ROTARY CLUB OF HARRIS COUNTY

HAMILTON, GA (OCTOBER 18, 2023) – The Rotary Club of Harris County, in its ongoing commitment to acknowledge and support education in the Harris County School District, designated HCHS Senior Victoria "Tori" Hyder as the "Student of the Month" for September 2023.

Tori is an active member of Church in the County, where she teaches children's Sunday school, and the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls, a Masonic youth organization focusing on leadership and community service. She has been involved in numerous community service projects through this organization.

A Georgia Merit Scholar and an AP Scholar with honor, Tori is deeply engaged with the HCHS theater department, both on and off the stage. She is the daughter of Janet and Joe Hyder and resides in Fortson.

Tammy Bailey, HCHS guidance counselor, expressed gratitude for the Rotary Club's dedication to recognizing students, stating, "We appreciate our local Rotary's commitment to the 'Student of the Month' program. This recognition is highly valued by our students and serves as a notable addition to their college applications."

Each honoree receives a certificate and the opportunity to attend a Rotary meeting, where they introduce themselves and share their backgrounds. These students are also eligible candidates for Rotary's annual post-secondary scholarship program, aiding them in their educational journey towards graduation.

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

Photo: (left to right): Rotarian Emily Byrd, club director of education & youth services; Honoree Victoria Hyder with her parents looking on.

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 DISTRICT RECEIVES SCHOOL SUPPLY DONATION FROM WRBL AND KIA AUTOSPORT OF COLUMBUS

HAMILTON, GA (OCTOBER 17, 2023) – Kia AutoSport of Columbus, in partnership with WRBL-TV News 3, successfully gathered generous donations of school supplies for students in the Columbus-area, including those within the Harris County School District (HCSD).

The local Kia AutoSport dealership collaborated with WRBL-TV News 3 to initiate a campaign for collecting school supplies. Under the guidance of Kia General Manager Melanie Lee, the team collected a substantial number of school items. At the conclusion of the campaign, WRBL personnel delivered the supplies to the school districts in Muscogee, Harris, and Russell counties via a brand-new Kia.

Shelia Baker, HCSD assistant superintendent of support services, expressed the district's excitement and gratitude for being included once again in this vital school supply distribution. The donated supplies, ranging from essential items like pencils and erasers to backpacks, personal hygiene products, and cleaning supplies, were evenly distributed among the schools. They were presented to a counselor from each school within the District to ensure a smooth delivery and dispersal process.

One way the supplies are distributed is through a new program called, “Help Yourself Shelf.” Each school counselor has one outside of their office. Those students who need items have been introduced to the shelves and know that they are welcome to get what they need without asking, thus maintaining a sense of dignity.

"We are immensely honored and grateful on behalf of our students who sometimes lack the supplies they need. This type of giving brings relief to some of our parents and smiles to the faces of many kids. These materials will definitely be used to equip our students, and our schools deeply appreciate this support," said Baker. “Our community partners like Kia AutoSport of Columbus and WRBL continue to show us time and time again how generous they are and we couldn’t be more thankful for them.” 

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

Note to Editor:  Interviews available upon request.

Pictured (left to right):  Kristin Roberts, Mulberry Creek Elementary Counselor; Shelia Baker, HCSD Assistant Superintendent); Jessica Burnett, New Mountain Hill Elementary Principal; Emily Henderson, Park Elementary Counselor: Sean Myers, Pine Ridge Elementary Counselor; Ashley Chapman, Creekside Intermediate School Counselor; Steve Hammonds, Harris County Carver Middle School Counselor; Coartney Hugley, Harris County High School Counselor; Megan Wright, EOC/STEPS Counselor; Roger Couch, HCSD Superintendent

About the Harris County School District
Georgia’s Harris County School District is an accredited K-12 school system based in the county seat of Hamilton, Georgia. 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 educational excellence for every child,” Harris County School District continually strives to provide students what they need to become the future workforce and society. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or the Facebook or Twitter pages (@HCSDga).

HCHS "SOUND OF THE COUNTY" MARCHING BAND INVITATIONAL SET FOR SATURDAY, OCT. 21

HAMILTON, GA (OCTOBER 17, 2023) – The public is invited to the seventh annual Harris County High School (HCHS) Sound of the County Invitational on Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023, at HCHS’s Tiger Stadium on Durham Field.

High school bands currently expected to compete include Crawford County, Howard, Northside, Columbus, Manchester, Bowdon, Southland Academy, Houston County (Ala.), Calvary Christian, and Troup County.

This event, a festival and contest, is educationally driven. The adjudicators are experienced music educators specially selected to evaluate each performance group. They were chosen based on their observation of ensembles, clinics, and previous positive, beneficial, and educational commentary.

“The goal of this event for the participating bands is to provide meaningful feedback and experiences for each student, contributing to the growth of each program and fulfilling the programs’ missions and philosophies. Bands of all sizes and styles will participate,” explained HCHS Band Director Dr. Christopher Libby. “For the spectators, this event features great concessions, excellent judges, outstanding hospitality, and excellent facilities.”

Libby added, “The exhibition band to be featured is our very own Harris County High School’s 'Sound of the County' Tiger Band. They will be performing their show ‘Lion King.’”

The gates will open at 11 a.m. on Oct. 21, and Southland Academy will commence at 12 p.m. There will be a dinner break from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. The HCHS band will perform at 6 p.m. 

Spectator admission is $10 per adult, $5 per child ages 6 to 12, and free for children ages 5 and younger. Proceeds will go to the Harris County Band program for the purchase of new instruments.

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

Note to Editor: Images and interviews are available upon request.

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).

BOARD OF EDUCATION RECOGNIZES NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH WEEK

To recognize National School Lunch Week, the Harris County Board of Education recently recognized representatives of the school nutrition program with a proclamation honoring their commitment to nourishing young minds. After a three-year hiatus, the Georgia School Nutrition Program has returned the annual celebration of National School Lunch Week.

Left to Right: Jessica Hickok, Park SNP Manager; Brad Johnson, Director of School Nutrition; Amy Synoground, HCCMS SNP Manager; Jessie Hudson, School Nutrition Bookkeeper and Supervisor; Stephanie Robinson, NMHE SNP Manager; Shirley Karm, MCE SNP Manager; and Krystal Baggett, Creekside SNP Manager.

HCSD SUPERINTENDENT ANNOUNCES PLANS TO RETIRE AT THE END OF THE SCHOOL YEAR

HAMILTON, GA (OCTOBER 6, 2023) – The Harris County School District (HCSD) Superintendent has announced plans to retire at the end of the current school year.

“With his guiding hand, Roger Couch navigated the district through substantial change, growth, and challenges, including the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,” shared Garnett Ray III, chair of the Harris County Board of Education. He expressed gratitude, stating, “We were fortunate and blessed to have Mr. Couch come out of retirement to serve as superintendent in a time of need. His leadership during challenging times has been invaluable. We wish him an enjoyable retirement, and he will always be welcome to be a part of the Harris County School District.”

Couch's journey with the district began years ago, serving as the principal of Harris County High School. He emerged from retirement to step into the role of interim superintendent, showcasing exceptional leadership and dedication.

“This group of people, and many who have served here during the last 20 years, have worked really hard to make the Harris County School District better,” Couch shared as he reflected on his tenure. “I’m pleased and excited to have had the opportunity to work with those people to advance the district. I’m immensely grateful for the chance to have worked with this incredible team, ensuring our students have every opportunity to succeed academically and beyond.”

The announcement of his retirement at this time allows the Harris County School District to commence a thorough and thoughtful search for the next superintendent, ensuring a strong and capable leader for the district's future. Couch will continue to serve through the end of this school year, allowing for a seamless transition.

As Couch embarks on this new chapter, the Harris County School District acknowledges his significant contributions and wishes him a retirement filled with happiness and endless adventures.

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

Note to Editor:  Interviews available upon request.

About the Harris County School District
Georgia’s Harris County School District is an accredited K-12 school system based in the county seat of Hamilton, Georgia. 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 educational excellence for every child,” Harris County School District continually strives to provide students what they need to become the future workforce and society. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or the Facebook or Twitter pages (@HCSDga).

OCTOBER 2023 MOBILE LEARNING LAB SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED

HAMILTON, GA (SEPTEMBER 27, 2023) – The Harris County School District’s (HCSD) award-winning Mobile Learning Lab calendar* has been set for October 2023.

“The Mobile Learning Lab is available for Harris County citizens of all ages who need tutoring or to simply access the internet for career-related opportunities. For elementary students, there is a mobile library in the rear of the bus,” said Shelia Baker, HCSD assistant superintendent of support services. “We want to remind parents that reading with your child every day is the best way to prepare students and keep them prepared for school. The Mobile Learning Lab is one of many opportunities to encourage reading.”

The Mobile Learning Lab is open from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the following locations:

October 2023

Pine Mountain: Pine Lane Apartments

Every Tuesday and Thursday (October 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 31)

Hamilton: Harris County Community Center

Monday, October 2

Waverly Hall: Bobby Lowman Recreation Center

Monday, October 16

Shiloh: City Hall/Fire Station

Every Wednesday (October 4, 11, 18, 25)

Whitesville: Dollar General

Monday, October 23

Mike Tracey Arena on Hwy. 116 

Thursday, October 26 Harris County Public Library ‘s “Trunk or Treat"

The purpose of the Mobile Learning Lab is to provide technology access and literacy activities for students and adults in the district. It is equipped with Wi-Fi Internet access, laptops, and books for students in the district. To enrich their learning experiences, students can access applications they are already using within their classrooms as well as resources to continually promote college and career readiness. In addition, the Mobile Learning Lab is available to assist adults who may be pursuing educational and work-related career opportunities. The MLL earned the Harris County School District’s (HCSD) Board of Education (BOE) the Leading Edge Award for the innovative “Teaching and Learning Resources” initiatives from the Georgia School Boards Association.

A calendar for the operation of the Mobile Learning Lab for the 2023-2024 school year is posted at www.harris.k12.ga.us (on the main page, scroll down to News & Information).

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

*Subject to change

Note to Editor: Images and interviews are available upon request.

About the Harris County School District

Georgia’s Harris County School District is an accredited K-12 school system based in the county seat of Hamilton, Georgia. It serves 5,500+/- students with four elementary schools, one intermediate school, one middle school, one high school, and one educational opportunities center. With a vision of “one community committed to educational excellence for every child,” Harris County School District continually strives to provide students with what they need to become the future workforce and society. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or the Facebook or Twitter pages (@HCSDga).

DRIVE LED BY ELEMENTARY STUDENTS BEGINS TO "TEAM UP AGAINST PET FOOD INSECURITY"

HAMILTON, GA (SEPTEMBER 26, 2023) – New Mountain Elementary School (NMHE) students in Fortson, GA, are launching the "Team Up Against Pet Food Insecurity" campaign, running from Sept. 25 to Oct. 9. Partnering with the Harris County Humane Society, this community service-learning initiative integrates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics) to support shelter animals and instill empathy in students.

Alison Valero, a fourth-grade teacher at NMHE, highlighted the significant increase in demand for pet food, especially among those struggling financially. This drive, led by the fourth-grade teachers, aims to help both shelter animals and pets in local households, especially for the elderly who often rely on their pets for companionship.

The Harris County Humane Society, a 501(c)3 organization operating since 1991, focuses on rescuing homeless animals, promoting responsible pet ownership, and educating the community about animal welfare.

Anita Wadley, NMHE assistant principal and STEAM coordinator, announced a collaboration with Pine Ridge Elementary to collect pet food and supplies for the Harris County Animal Shelter. They have identified specific items needed for two critical Humane Society programs:

1. Outreach Food Bank (including Meals on Wheels, FOCUS, and Senior Centers)
2. "A Needs to Care Program" (serving animals in Harris County)

The campaign outlines the items to be collected by grade level, encouraging community participation:

Items the students will be collecting the following items by grade level:

Pre-K: Paper towels and trash bags

Kindergarten: Soft cat treats

First Grade: Dog treats

Second Grade: Kitten food (Dry or Wet)

Third Grade: Dry cat food

Fourth Grade: Dry dog food

Empty paper towel and toilet paper rolls are also welcome.

For additional details or to make a donation, contact Alison Valero at valero-a@harris.k12.ga.us.

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

Note to Editor: Images and interviews are available upon request.

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 TO HOST PUBLIC FORUM REGARDING UPCOMING BOND AND ESPLOST REFERENDUMS SEPT. 28

HAMILTON, GA (SEPTEMBER 25, 2023) – The Harris County School District (HCSD) is hosting a public information meeting on Thursday, Sept. 28. The objectives of the meeting are to provide citizens with information regarding:

• The Board of Education’s plans for facilities, construction, and funding processes to meet the challenges of community growth and rising student populations.
• A special election on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, which encompasses bond and ESPLOST (Education Special Local Option Sales Tax) referendums. These initiatives aim to secure funding for essential construction and capital projects within the Harris County School District. The ESPLOST continuation, which has been active since 1997, has significantly contributed to the development and upkeep of school facilities. Notably, it facilitated a significant upgrade of the school bus fleet, ensuring 100% air conditioning, along with various other improvements. Funding for these initiatives primarily comes from sales tax paid by visitors to our community.

The meeting is set for 6 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 28, in the boardroom of the HCSD Central Office (132 Barnes Mill Road, Hamilton, GA 31811).

Questions regarding this public meeting can be submitted to Justin Finney, assistant superintendent of business services and technology, via email at finney-j@harris.k12.ga.us.

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

Editors: Images and interviews are available upon request

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).

SIX HCHS CHEERLEADERS SECURE VICTORY WITH TRAVEL TEAM; RECEIVE PROCLAMATION IN COLUMBUS

HAMILTON, GA (SEPTEMBER 14, 2023) – Six varsity cheerleaders from Harris County High School (HCHS) played a significant role in the triumph of the Columbus-based United Cheerleading's Nova Pythons competitive all-star cheerleading squad. The team emerged victorious in the Summit Championship for the L3 Senior Coed medium division earlier in the year. In recognition of their achievement, the Columbus City Council honored the team over the summer break.

Mayor B.H. "Skip" Henderson III of Columbus commemorated the occasion by issuing a proclamation designating Sunday, April 30, 2023, as Nova Python Day.

Melody Lindsey, a cheerleader parent who also serves as a HCHS cheer coach, expressed immense pride in the students’ representation of the HCHS program on the travel team and their ability to showcase its core values.

Lindsey explained that teams work tirelessly throughout the season to earn an invitation, or bid, to compete at the annual Summit Championship, organized by Varsity All Star. The event, described on its website as an innovative, prestigious, competitive, and unforgettable end-of-year experience for teams from various levels, attracts participants from the United States, Canada, Norway, Japan, Australia, and the United Kingdom. Out of all the all-star cheerleading teams, comprising 2,337 teams and 37,000 athletes, only 15 percent receive an invitation to compete at the Summit National Championship. The chances of becoming a Summit Champion are approximately 0.03 percent.

Through their talent, hard work, dedication, and determination, along with the support of their exceptional coaches and a remarkable routine, the Nova Pythons defied the odds and earned the title of Summit Champions. This spirited and committed Nova Pythons team proudly brought the Championship title and the renowned championship ring back home to Columbus and Harris County.

On an international stage, the Nova Pythons team for the 2022-2023 season represented both the city of Columbus and Harris County. Six members of our Harris County High School's Varsity Cheerleading team for the 2023-2024 season—namely Ivy Story, Lily Webster, Hanna Wills, Avery Bulloch, Kaylor Johannes, and Delani Swan—contributed significantly to this achievement.

Lindsey stated, “They represented Harris County and Harris County High School exceptionally well, utilizing their talents to secure the victory and make us proud.”

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

Photo Proclamation: In a special ceremony at the Columbus, Ga., City Council meeting on June 27, 2023, the Nova Pythons, including the HCHS Cheerleaders, were recognized. Mayor B.H. "Skip" Henderson III issued a proclamation declaring Sunday, April 30, 2023, as Nova Python Day. Pictured from left to right: Ivy Story, Avery Bulloch, Delani Swan, Hanna Wills, and Lily Webster. Kaylor Johannes is not pictured.

Photo ESPN: The Nova Pythons from Columbus, Ga., a competitive all-star cheerleading team in the Senior Level 3 COED category representing United Cheerleading, took the stage at the prestigious Summit National Championship at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex in Disney World on April 29, 2023. After advancing to the finals, the team competed on April 30, 2023. The Nova Pythons for the 2022-2023 season included six members from the HCHS Varsity Cheerleading team. Pictured from left to right: Hanna Wills, Lily Webster, Avery Bulloch, Kaylor Johannes, Delani Swan, and Ivy Story.

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).

HCHS WELDING STUDENTS EARN CERTIFICATIONS; GAIN ACCESS TO CAREER-RELATED DATABASE TO IMPROVE EMPLOYABILITY

HAMILTON, GA (SEPTEMBER 13, 2023) – Students at Harris County High School (HCHS) are taking proactive steps to enhance their employability by earning valuable certifications. Through the Welding and the Industry Fundamentals and Occupational Safety classes led by instructor Mark Howington, students achieved remarkable success during the 2023 spring semester.

A total of 469 industry credentials were earned, accompanied by the completion of 34 projects and 16 students securing part-time jobs. Howington expressed his satisfaction, stating, "Most of the students had no resumes before starting the class, but now all of them have a resume and an OSHA-10 Hour safety card. We achieved a 100 percent completion rate on the OSHA-10 credential."

To further strengthen their career prospects, students have registered themselves on the Construction Ready Profile platform, which was launched in January 2023. This system enables students to create a comprehensive resume that showcases their acquired credentials, experiences, education, jobs, and projects within the Metals pathway. Upon turning 18 and graduating, students' profiles will become publicly accessible, allowing companies to connect with them for potential future employment opportunities.

Additionally, the students have enrolled with the National Center for Construction Education Research (NCCER), where they underwent assessments in employability, communication, basic safety, hand and power tools, and welding. The NCCER maintains a record of their accomplishments, further contributing to their professional growth.

“I started the Harris County High School metals program with no welding experience. My father has a career in the metalworking industry as well as my grandfather. They both weld often in their careers, so I have always been inclined to learn the welding trade,” shared HCHS Class of 2022 Graduate Ryan Gilbert, “Throughout my time in the program, I not only learned to weld but achieved professional certifications in shielded metal arc welding. I contribute this success in the program to the fundamentals of metalworking and safety that are taught in the classroom, and all the tools and resources that were made available to me. I learned countless skills and work ethics that will carry with me for the rest of my life, and I will always remember the time I spent with Mr. Howington.” Gilbert is now attending the Diver Institute of Technology in Seattle, Wash., where he is scheduled to graduate on September 28. He added, “The HCHS Metals program helped guide me in my career choice by allowing me to discover my talents in the welding and metal working trades. I am planning on working in the offshore oil and gas industry.”

To view video of Ryan Gilbert at work doing underwater welding, click here.

"The students' achievements highlight their commitment to personal and professional development," said Tyler Dunn, Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE)/Science & Technology Center Director at Harris County High School. "By earning industry certifications and leveraging the Construction Ready Profile and NCCER registration, these students have gained a competitive edge in the job market and increased their employability."

“Harris County High School's CTAE program is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for their post-high school endeavors,” HCHS Principal Lindie Snyder shared. “Our goal is to prepare our students for the workforce by whatever path they choose to get there.” In 2020, the placement rate for CTAE Career Pathway completers was an impressive 96.4%, with graduates pursuing postsecondary education, advanced training, military service, or employment within six months of graduation.

Across Georgia, CTAE programs offer students a well-rounded high-school experience that prepares them for their future. With over 100 Career Pathways available, ranging from financial technology to flight operations, students can acquire practical skills, earn industry-recognized credentials, and engage in work-based learning and apprenticeship opportunities. At HCHS, the CTAE program provides pathways in Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources; Architecture & Construction; Arts, Audio/Video Technology and Communication; Business Management and Administration; Computer Science/Information Technology (IT); Education and Training; Government and Public Administration; Health Science; Law, Public Safety, Corrections, and Security; Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics; and Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics.

Regardless of their chosen path, Career Pathway completers are well-prepared for higher education, military service, apprenticeships, or immediate entry into the workforce. Notably, HCHS's Construction and Metals programs recently received industry certification, ensuring that completers of the construction pathway can obtain nationally recognized certifications for relevant positions.

Furthermore, Harris County Carver Middle School, within the district, offers programs that allow students to explore various career areas in support of the high school's pathways, including Agriculture, Business Education, Computer Science, and Engineering & Technology.

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

Note to editors: Interviews may be requested.

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).

TO FIGHT FOOD INSECURITY, NEW MOUNTAIN HILL ELEMENTARY LAUNCHES "ADOPT A GARDEN BED" CAMPAIGN FOR HILLTOP HARVEST COMMUNITY GARDEN

HAMILTON, GA (SEPTEMBER 5, 2023) – New Mountain Hill Elementary is taking a proactive stance against food insecurity through their innovative "Adopt a Garden Bed" campaign. This initiative is designed to support the community while providing purpose-driven, hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) education to its students.

Through their STEAM program, students at New Mountain Hill Elementary are engaged in empathy-driven projects, including the cultivation of fresh vegetables in their Hilltop Harvest Community Garden. The harvested produce is then donated to individuals and families facing food insecurity within the local community.

In their ongoing efforts to combat this issue, New Mountain Hill Elementary has already contributed over 400 bags of fresh vegetables to the FOCUS Food Pantry and donated muscadine jelly to the Harris County School District’s H.O.P.E. Center’s Food Pantry.

This year's "Adopt a Garden Bed" campaign invites community members to make a tangible difference. By adopting a garden bed in the Hilltop Harvest Community Garden, individuals or businesses provide essential supplies such as soil, plants, and nutrients. Various sponsorship levels are available to accommodate diverse contributions:

Seed Level: $20 or more - Acknowledgment in the yearbook.

Sprout Level: $50 or more - Recognition in the yearbook and a shared garden plaque.

Garden Level: $100 or more - Mention in the yearbook and an individual plaque.

Harvester Level: $250 or more - Yearbook recognition, individual plaque, garden entrance banner display, and social media coverage.

Contributions can be made in-kind or financially, and official donation receipts will be provided to all contributors.

"We are excited to launch the 'Adopt a Garden Bed' campaign, which not only supports our garden but also recognizes the invaluable partnership of our community members," said Anita Wadley, assistant principal and NMHE STEAM coordinator. "By joining forces, we can make a substantial impact in the fight against food insecurity in our community."

To participate in the campaign or learn more about the initiative, please contact Anita Wadley at (706) 323-1144 or via email at wadley-a@harris.k12.ga.us.

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

Note to editors: Interviews and photos may be requested.

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).

HCHS ATHLETE NAMED WENDY'S "GIANT OF THE WEEK" BY WTVM AFTER TIE-BREAKING, GAME-WINNING FIELD GOAL

HAMILTON, GA (SEPTEMBER 5, 2023) – Logan Shelnutt, the starting kicker for Harris County High School (HCHS), received the prestigious Wendy's "Giant of the Game" player of the week award from WTVM after his game-winning field goal broke a 27-27 tie for the first week of the season.

Shelnutt was taken by surprise during the 4th Block JROTC Battalion by HCHS Head Football Coach Tommy Watson and a WTVM representative. He was presented with a certificate and received a backpack, Beats headphones, and a Wendy's gift card.

Coach Watson recalled, "Logan knocked through the winning JV game against Troup last year…I just knew I had to get the ball to the 25-yard line" when discussing the critical field goal.

Reflecting on the play in the game against Russell County, Shelnutt said, "I didn't want to celebrate too early, so I waited until it went through the uprights, but as soon as I felt Matt, the holder, pick me up from behind, I knew it was good."

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

About the Harris County School District
Georgia’s Harris County School District is an accredited K-12 school system based in the county seat of Hamilton, Georgia. 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 educational excellence for every child,” Harris County School District continually strives to provide students with what they need to become the future workforce and society. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

HCHS STUDENT HONORED WITH ROTARY OF HARRIS COUNTY YOUTH LEADERSHIP AWARD

HAMILTON, GA (AUGUST 28, 2023) – Lily Snyder, a student at Harris County High School, was selected to participate in the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) camp, which took place in July.

This enriching experience was made possible by the sponsorship of the Rotary Club of Harris County. RYLA is a dynamic leadership program that cultivates leadership skills, fosters new friendships, and offers an enjoyable experience. The Rotary Club of Harris County annually selects a student to attend this program.

Photo: Rotarian Emily Byrd (right) presents HCHS's Lily Snyder (left) with the esteemed leadership award.

MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS EXCEL AT NATIONAL TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE

HAMILTON, GA (AUGUST 18, 2023) – Exceptional achievements were celebrated as students from Harris County Carver Middle School (HCCMS) showcased their prowess at the National Technology Student Association (TSA) Conference. The event, which took place in Louisville, Ky., from June 28 to July 2, saw HCCMS students bring home two national trophies and a collection of finalist pins.

Having demonstrated their excellence at the state level competition in March, the students of the Harris County School District (HCSD) represented Georgia with distinction at the National TSA Conference. The Kentucky International Convention Center hosted an assembly of nearly 7,000 attendees, including students, parents, and advisors.

Comprised of 10 dedicated students, the HCCMS contingent participated in 16 diverse events, engaging in competitive scenarios, attending leadership sessions, and establishing connections with fellow TSA members from across the nation. The conference featured international representatives from countries such as Germany, Turkey, and American Samoa.

The impressive list of national awardees and their respective categories includes:

Third Place

·         System Control Technology (MS): Shubham Rao, Nicholas McAllister, Addison White

·         Promotional Marketing (MS): Addison White

Fourth Place

·         Forensic Technology (MS): Elizabeth Ricker, Paige Timmons

Fifth Place

·         Community Service Video (MS): Landon Layfield, Spencer Bowden, Parker Cummings, Addison White

Ninth Place

·         Chapter Team (MS): Spencer Bowden, Parker Cummings, Elizabeth Ricker, Brandon Smith, Paige Timmons, Addison White

Tenth Place

·         Mass Production (MS): Landon Layfield, Spencer Bowden, Brandon Smith

The team also actively participated in additional events, encompassing areas like Biotechnology, Children’s Stories, Dragster Design, Electrical Applications, Flight, Inventions and Innovations, Junior Solar Sprint, Mechanical Engineering, Microcontroller Design, and Prepared Speech.

HCCMS's triumphant journey was made possible with the dedicated involvement of HCSD teachers and the guidance of TSA Advisors, Paul Markert and Sabra Bowden. Additionally, the invaluable contributions of parent volunteers, who offered transportation, chaperoned, mentored, and coached the students, were instrumental in their remarkable success.

Great Job Everyone! Here's to next years conference!

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

Note to editors: Upon request, interviews may be arranged.

Photo (left to right):

Front Row: Nicholas McAllister, Shubham Rao, Brandon Smith, Addison White, Paige Timmons

Back row: Spencer Bowden, Nolan Markert, Landon Layfield, Parker Cummings, Elizabeth Ricker, and Parent TSA Advisor Paul Markert

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).

STUDENTS PLACE EIGHTH IN NATION AT FBLA NATIONAL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

HAMILTON, GA (AUGUST 18, 2023) – Students from Harris County High School’s (HCHS) traveled to Atlanta to find success at the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) National Leadership Conference, June 27-30, 2023.

Railey Spurlock from Harris County High School (HCHS) and the team of Gracelyn Wilkinson and Cameron Atkins from Harris County Carver Middle School (HCCMS) had outstanding performances. These exceptional individuals showcased their remarkable talents, dedication, and business acumen as they competed against the brightest young minds from across the nation.

Gracelyn Wilkinson and Cameron Atkins participated in the Critical Thinking performance category, where they secured an impressive eighth place in the nation. Representing Georgia, they faced off against 26 teams from across the country. In this category, participants analyze complex business case studies, evaluate different alternatives, and present innovative solutions in a dynamic and time-sensitive setting. They then present their findings live to a panel of judges. 

Railey Spurlock showcased her exceptional business leadership skills in the Public Speaking category. Competing with poise and confidence, Railey delivered a well-organized, compelling, and substantial speech that she developed herself. Her remarkable talent and outstanding presentation earned her a spot in the semifinals and garnered great reviews from the judges.

As part of their visit to Atlanta for competition, the students had the privilege of exploring some of Atlanta's iconic attractions with their FBLA peers, including attending an Atlanta Braves game, participating in a block party at Centennial Park, exploring the wonders of the Georgia Aquarium, and experiencing the World of Coke.

Co-FBLA advisors, Ashley Daniel (HCCMS) and Deb Hughes (HCHS), attended the competition with the students.

Daniel shared, "We are extremely proud of our students who competed at FBLA national competition. Their commitment to excellence, professionalism, and the skills they displayed in their respective categories are a testament to their exceptional abilities, and we applaud their achievements on the national stage."

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

Note to editors: Upon request, interviews may be arranged.

Photos are labeled.

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). 

HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL TEAM EARNS NINTH CONSECUTIVE HONOR FOR ACADEMICS FROM THE USMC & AMERICAN VOLLEYBALL COACHES ASSOCIATION

HAMILTON, GA (AUGUST 18, 2023) — The United States Marine Corps and the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) have announced that a total of 1,349 collegiate and high school volleyball teams have earned the prestigious USMC/AVCA Team Academic Award for the current season. Harris County High School has once again achieved this distinction, marking its ninth consecutive year of recognition.

"I continue to take immense pride in our players. While achieving success on the court is undoubtedly rewarding, it's important to emphasize their roles as students first and athletes second, which lends even greater significance to this award," stated Rob Grant, Head Volleyball Coach and educator at HCHS. The team stands as the sole representative from west-central Georgia to receive the award this year, making them one of only 15 high schools, out of a pool exceeding 500, across the state to attain this honor.

AVCA CEO Jaime Gordon remarked, "The dedication displayed by our coaches in guiding their student-athletes toward personal excellence is vividly demonstrated by the academic milestones celebrated today. Historically, accomplishments in the classroom have strongly paralleled triumphs on the court, a correlation mirrored by the multitude of championship programs being recognized."

According to ACVA, this year's tally of honored programs sets an all-time record. The USMC/AVCA Team Academic Award, introduced during the 1992–93 academic term, commends volleyball teams that maintain a consistent year-long grade-point average of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale, or 4.1 on a 5.0 scale.

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

Note to Editor: Interviews are available upon request.

Photo (left to right): Pictured is the 2022 Harris County High School volleyball team whose grades were used to earn the prestigious USMC/AVCA Team Academic Award.

Front Row: Emma Kate Marlowe, Chloe Galyon, Macie Waldron, Emily Calhoun, Emma Patterson, Emma Grace Lane, and Alyssa Johnson

Back Row: Mercori Green, Coach Rob Grant, Isabella Solis, Ashton Whearley, Harper Sprayberry, Kennedy Long, and Kayden Collins

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 ANNOUNCES THIRD VIRTUAL "COUNTY" CURRICULUM CONVERSATIONS TO HELP PARENTS HELP THEIR STUDENTS

HAMILTON, GA (AUGUST 15, 2023) – The Harris County School District (HCSD) is excited to announce the upcoming installment of the "County Curriculum Conversations" series. This virtual event is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 21, via Zoom and aims to provide parents and guardians with valuable insights into supporting their children's education through effective usage of Chromebooks and an understanding of content filtering for internet safety.

The County Curriculum Conversations initiative underscores the district's unwavering commitment to cultivating a collaborative relationship between parents, educators, and the community. These conversations aim to empower parents by equipping them with the tools and information required to understand and bolster their child's academic journey.

In the upcoming session, participants will have the opportunity to interact with Johnathan Smith, the HCSD’s technology director. Smith will guide parents in effectively using Chromebooks for instructional purposes, offering troubleshooting solutions for common challenges, and information related to the Acceptable Use Policy (AUP). Moreover, he will explain the process of content filtering, enabling parents and guardians to feel secure about their students' internet access and proficient use of technology.

To secure a spot in this event, interested participants can register through the HCSD website at www.harris.k12.ga.us/ccc, filling out the registration form. Upon successful registration, participants will receive an email containing Zoom meeting details along with any necessary instructions, ensuring a seamless virtual experience. For those unable to attend, a recording of the event will be made available for viewing.

Dave Dennie, HCSD's elementary director of curriculum, expressed, "As we embark on a new school year, our priority is to equip students and parents with the tools they need for academic success." He added, "By collaborating and equipping parents with this knowledge, we believe we can significantly enhance our students' education. We invite all parents and guardians to join us for this 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 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.
 

Note to Editor: Interviews are available upon request.

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).

GPB FEATURES MULBERRY CREEK ELEMENTARY'S PURSUIT OF STEAM CERTIFICATION

HAMILTON, GA (AUGUST 11, 2023) – Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB) has released a new video highlighting the achievements of Mulberry Creek Elementary (MCE) in Cataula, Ga., on their journey to their anticipated STEAM certification. The video serves as a practical guide for other school districts across Georgia interested in following MCE's model to achieve their own certification.

Obtaining a STEAM certification holds paramount significance for both a Georgia school and its students. In an increasingly technology-driven and interdisciplinary world, a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) certification signifies a commitment to providing holistic education that transcends traditional boundaries. For the school, it showcases a dedication to fostering innovation, critical thinking, and collaboration among students, preparing them for the dynamic demands of the modern workforce. By integrating science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, the certification ensures students develop a well-rounded skill set that bridges the gap between creative expression and analytical prowess. This, in turn, equips them with the tools to solve complex problems, adapt to rapid technological advancements, and contribute meaningfully to society. The STEAM certification not only elevates the school's reputation but also empowers its students with the diverse skills and mindset needed to excel in an interconnected and rapidly evolving world.

The video features MCE's innovative curriculum, teacher empowerment, community engagement, and certification approach that led to their selection for this project. Principal Amy Allen commented, "The video showcases our students' enthusiasm and engagement, helping us nurture well-rounded and forward-thinking individuals."

The video will be screened for Mulberry Creek teachers on Friday afternoon. It can be viewed at https://www.gpb.org/education/learn/school-stories/stem-steam-in-action/certification.

The journey for each school is different and on a different timeline. When MCE achieves certification, they will be the fourth of four elementary schools in the Harris County school District to earn this distinction.
 

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

Note to Editor: Interviews are available upon request.

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).

HCHS SHOTGUN TEAM ACHIEVED REMARKABLE SUCCESS AT NATIONAL TOURNAMENT

HAMILTON, GA (AUGUST 8, 2023) – The Harris County High School Shotgun Team showcased exceptional talent and determination, earning their spot on the winner's podium multiple times at the Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP) National Tournament in Marengo, Ohio. Amid fierce competition from teams representing 34 states, the HCHS shooters demonstrated their prowess. A total of over 4,000 shooters, comprising 350 teams, participated in the event, collectively launching an impressive 2.5 million shells at 12 semi-truck loads of clay targets.

In the discipline of International Skeet, Tinsley Rigsby secured the team's first medal by placing third in the Ladies Varsity category. Her remarkable performance was complemented by achieving an outstanding score of 189 out of 200 in American Skeet. Tinsley's exceptional shooting average and academic achievements earned her recognition as an esteemed All-Scholastic Team Member.

The IA Squad, composed of JJ Bridges, Sims Benson, and Tripp Meyer, showcased their exceptional teamwork and skills by clinching two third-place finishes. They achieved one in Doubles Skeet, scoring 257 out of 300 targets, and another in American Skeet, with a remarkable score of 544 out of 600 targets.

Numerous HCHS shooters, including the youngest participant Rookie Cameron Posey, achieved personal bests across various events. Caleb Patterson and Rylan Culpepper both hit perfect rounds of 25 out of 25, a thrilling moment celebrated by the team and Coach Angie Everson. "Personal growth paves the way for championship success," Coach Everson emphasized.

Garrett Baker, an emerging name in the shotgun community, showcased his exceptional skills by participating in five main events, a children's charity sporting clay shoot, and multiple side events, likely tallying more than 1,200 rounds in just six days. In Sporting Clays, Garrett scored 167 out of 200, earning him seventh place. His performance in trap doubles garnered him 181 out of 200, securing a fourth-place position. Furthermore, Garrett's outstanding performance in Handicap Trap, scoring 179 out of 200, earned him a well-deserved third-place medal. Notably, in trap singles, he achieved the team's highest score of 194 out of 200, placing second in the Intermediate Entry category.

Coach Everson expressed her pride, stating, "Our team's accomplishments at this national tournament reflect their hard work and dedication."

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

Note to Editor: Images and interviews are available upon request.

Photo: Tinsley Rigsby - International Skeet Medalist: Tinsley Rigsby secures the team's first medal by placing third in the Ladies Varsity category of International Skeet. Her exceptional shooting skills are complemented by her academic excellence, earning her recognition as an All-Scholastic Team Member. Tinsley achieved an impressive score of 189 out of 200 in American Skeet.

Photo: IA Squad Triumphs: The IA Squad, composed of JJ Bridges, Sims Benson, and Tripp Meyer, shines bright with their third-place finish in Doubles Skeet, scoring 257 out of 300 targets. Their exceptional teamwork also secured them a third-place victory in American Skeet, with a score of 544 out of 600 targets.

Photo: Garrett Baker's Spectacular Performance: Garrett Baker's exceptional performance resonates as he excels in various events, showcasing his skills within the shotgun community. His achievements include Sporting Clays (167/200, 7th place), trap doubles (181/200, 4th place), Handicap Trap (179/200, 3rd place), and trap singles (194/200, 2nd place in Intermediate Entry).

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).

HCHS STUDENT ACHIEVES TOP 12 FINISH AT FFA NATIONALS

HAMILTON, GA (AUGUST 8, 2023) – Harris County High School's (HCHS) FFA Chapter has proudly secured a distinguished top 12 finish at the FFA Nationals.

Lily Snyder, a member of HCHS FFA, has achieved the remarkable honor of being named a silver finalist for the Environmental Science and Natural Resources Management – Entrepreneurship/Placement category at the 2023 National FFA Agricultural Proficiency Awards. Amongst fierce competition, Lily's exceptional performance earned her the top position in Georgia, a feat that granted her the privilege to represent her state on the national stage.

Jay Borden, HCHS agriculture teacher and FFA sponsor, expressed immense pride in Lily's achievement, highlighting her exceptional performance despite having up to two fewer years of records compared to some of her competitors.

"Lily is a very hard worker and absolutely loves working outdoors. She is a leader among her peers and a great model for how to achieve success in your chosen field. Her field of choice includes forests, wildlife, and ponds to manage,” Borden shared.

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

Photo: Lily Snyder of Harris County High School, pictured at the Georgia FFA Convention following her triumphant first-place victory in the State of Georgia. Her accomplishments have secured her a remarkable top 12 finish at the national level, earning her a well-deserved silver accolade.

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).

SECOND HARRIS COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE EARNS PRESTIGIOUS MILITARY SCHOLARSHIP

HAMILTON, GA (AUGUST 8, 2023) – A 2023 Harris County High School (HCHS) graduate and JROTC cadet is the second in school history to earn the Georgia Military Veterans Hall of Fame (GMVHOF) scholarship.

Hunter Schadt was presented a $4,000 scholarship certificate by GMVHOF Founder Col. Paul Longgrear (USA-Ret) of Pine Mountain, who also is the creator of this military scholarship program.

Son of Thomas and Christina Schadt, Hunter plans to attend the University of North Georgia. The first semester he plans to use the money for the required uniforms that cost $1,800. This is the second time a HCHS graduate has received the scholarship in the last two years.

Longgrear shared, "Our purpose is to influence the patriotic attitudes for local and national leaders by rewarding students who choose to participate in JROTC and ROTC, thereby inspiring citizens to be more Constitutionally oriented.”

According to the GMVHOF Director and Chairman of the Board, Col. Rick White (USA-Ret), to qualify for the scholarship, Georgia high school seniors must possess competitive GPA and SAT scores, have been enrolled in JROTC, be accepted into the ROTC program of an accredited four-year college or university, and express the intent to serve in the U. S. Military upon graduation.

In 2023, 10 of 15 recipients had an overall “A” average for their high school GPA. Applications were received from 15 cities and 11 school districts across Georgia.  Recipients will be attending Georgia Gwinnett College, Georgia Southern University, the University of North Georgia, and Valdosta State University. Including this year’s scholarships, $152,000 will have been invested to develop future military leadership.

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

Note to editors: Interviews may be requested.

Photo (left to right): GMVHOF Founder Col. Paul Longgrear (USA-Ret), HCHS Graduate and JROTC Cade Hunter Schadt, HCHS Principal Lindie Snyder, HCSD Superintendent Roger D. Couch, Ga. State Representative Vance Smith Jr., Thomas Schadt, and Christina Schadt

About the Harris County School District
Georgia’s Harris County School District is an accredited K-12 school system based in the county seat of Hamilton, Georgia. 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 educational excellence for every child,” Harris County School District continually strives to provide students with what they need to become the future workforce and society. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or the Facebook or Twitter pages (@HCSDga).

SEPTEMBER 2023 MOBILE LEARNING LAB SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED

HAMILTON, GA (AUGUST 8, 2023) – The Harris County School District’s (HCSD) award-winning Mobile Learning Lab calendar* has been set for September 2023.

“The Mobile Learning Lab is available for Harris County citizens of all ages who need tutoring or to simply access the internet for career-related opportunities. For elementary students, there is a mobile library in the rear of the bus,” said Shelia Baker, HCSD assistant superintendent of support services. “We want to remind parents that reading with your child every day is the best way to prepare students and keep them prepared for school. The Mobile Learning Lab is one of many opportunities to encourage reading.”

The Mobile Learning Lab is open from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the following locations:

September 2023

Pine Mountain: Pine Lane Apartments

Every Tuesday and Thursday (September 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28)

Hamilton: Harris County Community Center

Monday, September 11

Waverly Hall: Bobby Lowman Recreation Center

Monday, September 18

Shiloh: City Hall/Fire Station

Every Wednesday (September 6, 13, 20, 27)

Whitesville: Dollar General

Monday, September 25

The purpose of the Mobile Learning Lab is to provide technology access and literacy activities for students and adults in the district. It is equipped with Wi-Fi Internet access, laptops, and books for students in the district. To enrich their learning experiences, students can access applications they are already using within their classrooms as well as resources to continually promote college and career readiness. In addition, the Mobile Learning Lab is available to assist adults who may be pursuing educational and work-related career opportunities. The MLL earned the Harris County School District’s (HCSD) Board of Education (BOE) the Leading Edge Award for the innovative “Teaching and Learning Resources” initiatives from the Georgia School Boards Association.

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

*Subject to change
 

Note to Editor: Images and interviews are available upon request.

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).

"ONE STOP SHOP" COMMUNITY RESOURCE FAIR DEEMED SUCCESS

HAMILTON, GA (AUGUST 8, 2023) – The inaugural "One Stop Shop" Community Resource Fair organized on Sat., July 29, by the Harris County School District achieved resounding success.

Through sign-in sheets and counts by the Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center, the event attracted an impressive turnout of 319 participants, alongside the dedicated participation of over 50 volunteers and vendors. The event also featured the presence of five food trucks and a lively bouncy house, enhancing the festive atmosphere. Notably, the fair's impact extended beyond festivities, as over 300 sets of school supplies were distributed. These supplies play a vital role in supporting students' preparation for the upcoming school year, reflecting the fair's commitment to fostering a strong educational foundation within the community.

"ONE STOP SHOP" COMMUNITY RESOURCES FAIR TO PREPARE FOR NEW SCHOOL YEAR ANNOUNCED FOR JULY 29

HAMILTON, GA (JULY 10, 2023) – The public is invited to a free “One Stop Shop” Community Resources Fair in Harris County in a structured, fun environment for families to take advantage of having a variety of resources from the school district and other partners in one setting, especially students in the Harris County School District (HCSD).
 

“We invite all Harris County families to take advantage of this ‘One Stop Shop’ event,” shared Shelia Baker, HCSD assistant superintendent of support services. “We will issue free school supplies, physicals and screenings will be conducted, and parents will have opportunities to ask questions and sign up for various programs with the school district and others. It is our hope that students will be fully prepared to start school, and parents and guardians will be ahead of the game before the first day of school, which is August 8. There will also be bouncy houses and food trucks; therefore, we invite everyone to come out and join us on July 29.”

Families will have the opportunity to:

• Enroll into the HCSD School-based Telehealth Program in partnership with Mercer Medicine Harris County
• Have a Sports Physical conducted (could be a minimum cost, students should bring required school forms/paperwork for physicals)
• Have Hearing, Vision and Dental screenings conducted by Harris County Department of Public Health
• Complete School Meal Applications
• Chat with representatives from the HCSD and community partners/agencies
• Chat with health professionals about the variety of services and options for medical coverage
• Receive free school supplies

Food trucks will be onsite for purchases and bouncy houses for children to enjoy.

The health fair will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, July 29, at the Harris County Community Center, 7509 Hwy. 116, Hamilton, Ga. 31811.

This event is made possible by the Harris County School District and the Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center.

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 Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center
The Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center partners with rural counties to improve health outcomes in their communities. Informed by the data and community stakeholders, their diverse team develops targeted improvement projects, evaluates rural health care delivery systems and their fiscal stability, conducts Rapid Action Assessments based on the health risk status of the County, and maintains their rural physician and health care access point locator.

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 5,600+ 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).

THE PUBLIC IS INVITED TO THE HCHS MARCHING BAND'S "SOUTH OF THE COUNTY" SHOWCASE

HAMILTON, GA (JULY 27, 2023) – Harris County High School’s Marching Band (HCHS) is thrilled to announce its upcoming event, the "Sound of the County” Showcase," which will take place on Friday, July 28, 2023.

The Showcase will highlight selections from their competition halftime show, "The Lion King," along with a brief drumline feature. This demonstration of dedication comes from the students who this summer have tirelessly honed their craft under the guidance of the new HCHS Band Director, Dr. Christopher Libby. This event not only allows the students to showcase their talents before the start of the school year but also fosters a sense of community and appreciation for the arts in Harris County.

 "We are extremely proud of our students' hard work and commitment this Summer. The Sound of the County Band Showcase is an opportunity for them to shine and demonstrate their passion for music," said Libby. The band is currently marching 86 students, more than the 77 in 2022. Libby added, “I fully expect that number to grow as the school year gets rolling.”

Event Details:

Date: Friday, July 28, 2023

Time: Begins at 6 p.m. (Lasts approximately 10-15 minutes)

Location: Tiger Stadium, 8281 GA-116, Hamilton, GA 31811

The event is open to the public, and admission is free. Families, friends, and members of the community are encouraged to attend and show their support for the talented young musicians of Harris County High School. While the concession stand will not be in operation, the Kona Ice Truck will be selling its cooling treats. Attendees should dress and prepare for the weather.

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

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Note to editors: Interviews may be requested.

Photo: Members of the Harris County High School Sound of the County Marching Band Dance Team, JaV’yunna Jackson, Kaylee House, Grace McMillen, Alyse Vaillant, and Anna Williams, rehearse for the halftime show set to “The Lion King.”

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).

GRANT AWARDED TO HARRIS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT TO FOSTER TEACHER DEVELOPMENT

HAMILTON, GA (JULY 25, 2023) – The Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) has announced that the Harris County School District has received a $10,000 grant to support its "Teaching as a Profession" (TAP) Pathway course within the Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) program at Harris County High School (HCHS).

HCHS's "Teaching as a Profession" program, led by Jennifer Robinson, has shown remarkable progress. In May, a signing ceremony witnessed 15 graduating seniors commit to pursuing education-related majors in college. Recognizing the importance of maintaining a balance between retiring and new teachers, the grant will enable the school district to sustain its program and cater to students considering a career in education, according to Tyler Dunn, HCHS's director of CTAE and the Science & Technology Center. He expressed gratitude for the support and guidance of Columbus State University's College of Education and Health Professions, particularly Kimberly Cason and Roger Hatcher from the Department of Teacher Education, Leadership, and Counseling, who played a vital role in securing the grant.

HCHS Principal Lindie Snyder acknowledged the significant contribution of the school district, emphasizing the instrumental role played by Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Stacey Carlisle and all the school principals in creating opportunities for TAP students to gain hands-on experience in real classrooms. While such programs typically only expose students to children in the daycare and Pre-K settings, HCHS students have had the privilege of working with children in Pre-K up to sixth grade, which is an impressive opportunity.

Assistant Superintendent Carlisle shared her conviction in the need for exceptional and qualified candidates, highlighting the value of cultivating their own talents through the TAP program. By providing educational opportunities and subsequently employing these students within the district, the district aims to foster the growth and support of their own community.

For the upcoming fall semester, approximately 20 percent of the HCSD’s new hires are either graduates of HCHS or HCSD paraprofessionals transitioning into teaching. Five paraprofessionals from the class of 2023, who served as teacher cadets in the past academic year, will commence their teacher preparation program while attending college.

State School Superintendent Richard Woods announced the $350,000 grant awarded by the GaDOE program to provide financial support to 38 school districts offering Teaching as a Profession Pathway courses. During its June meeting, the State Board of Education approved Superintendent Woods' recommendation to allocate these funds, which are intended to enhance professional learning for teachers in the program and recruit high school students to participate in the Pathway.

Superintendent Woods stated, "We remain committed to supporting programs that cultivate the next generation of Georgia educators. Teaching is a profession that impacts all other professions, and we strive to provide the best educational opportunities for students aspiring to become teachers."

Recent years have witnessed a decline in student enrollment in Educator Preparation Programs in Georgia, leading to challenges for school systems in recruiting and finding teachers. The Cultivating Teachers Grant aims to address these concerns by providing professional learning opportunities and recruitment support to school districts offering Teaching as a Profession Pathway courses. Teaching as a Profession is among over 100 Career Pathways available to Georgia students through the Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education program, offering students the chance to acquire real-world skills and earn recognized industry credentials.

For more information about employment in the district, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us/employment, or call Human Resources at (706) 628-4206 ext. 1226.

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

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).

PROPERTY MILLAGE RATE PUBLIC HEARINGS; RATE TO REMAIN UNCHANGED

HAMILTON, GA (JULY 18, 2023) – Three public hearings have been set by the Harris County Board of Education to announce its plans for the property tax millage rate. At the August 2023 meeting, the Board is planning to set the 2024 rate for maintenance and operations at 16.500 mills, the same rate as 2023.

Why Does the Value of a House Increase?

Each year, the Board of Tax Assessors is required to review the assessed value for property tax purposes of taxable property in the county. When the trend of prices on properties that have recently sold in the county indicates there has been an increase in the fair market value of any specific property in the county - many which have recently been sold higher than fair market value, the Board of Tax Assessors is required by law to re-determine the value of such property and increase the assessment.  This is called a reassessment.

What Does the Legal Notice Mean by Increased Property Taxes?

It is worth explaining that the wording of the legal notice is required by Georgia code. The notice’s reference to “increase in property taxes” refers to the fact that when the millage rate is applied to the increased property values, the taxpayers will be paying an increased amount of taxes. The school board has no influence on the increase in property values. And by reducing the millage rate, the school district hopes to reduce the impact of those increased property values on the citizens.

Citizens Invited to Public Hearings

The citizens are invited to three public hearings regarding the property tax millage rate. These hearings will be in the auditorium of the Central Office of the Harris County Board of Education, located at 132 Barnes Mill Road in Hamilton, Ga., the following dates and times:

• 10 a.m., Thursday, August 3, 2023
• 6 p.m., Thursday, August 3, 2023
• 6 p.m., Thursday, August 10, 2023

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

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).

HCHS CELEBRATES ACADEMIC HONORS FROM COLLEGE BOARD NATIONAL RECOGNITION PROGRAMS

HAMILTON, GA (SEPTEMBER 8, 2023) – Harris County High School (HCHS) is proud to announce that 23 of its students have earned academic honors from the College Board National Recognition Programs. These prestigious awards recognize exceptional academic achievement and provide a platform for students to showcase their accomplishments to colleges and scholarship programs seeking diverse talent.

The HCHS students receiving these honors include:

• Ariana McKinney: NAARA

• Ava Castleberry: NRSTA

• Connor Archilla: NHRA, NRSTA

• Destiny Bess: NAARA

• Hayden Hesler: NRSTA

• Isabella Zuerner: NRSTA

• Isabelle Campeau: NHRA, NRSTA

• James Gatewood: NRSTA

• Jaxsen Scott: NRSTA

• John Drew: NRSTA

• Kaitlin Lawrence: NRSTA

• Kennedi Miller: NRSTA

• Lane Miller: NRSTA

• Lorenzo Musolino: NHRA, NRSTA

• Michael Thomas: NAARA, NRSTA

• Noah Faulk: NRSTA

• Nyah Rivera: NAARA, NHRA

• Parker Hicks: NRSTA

• Patrick Killough: NRSTA

• Takya Marshall: NAARA, NRSTA

• Tate Williams: NRSTA

• Wesley Zhou: NRSTA

• William Drew: NRSTA

"We’re thrilled to celebrate our students and recognize them for the great work they’ve been doing. We’re proud of their strong academic performance in the classroom and on College Board assessments like the PSAT/NMSQT®, PSAT™ 10, and AP® exams,” said Tammy Bailey, HCHS counselor. “There’s so much that makes our students unique, and receiving this honor reinforces this as an asset for their future."

Eligible students meet the following criteria:

• GPA of 3.5 or higher.

• Exceptional PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT 10 assessment scores, ranking within the top 10% of assessment takers in each state for each award program, or earning a score of 3 or higher on 2 or more AP Exams in 9th and 10th grade.

• Attendance at a school in a rural area or small town, or identification as African American/Black, Hispanic American/Latino, or Indigenous/Native.

These deserving students are invited to apply on BigFuture during their sophomore or junior year and receive their awards at the start of the next school year, allowing them to showcase their achievements as they plan for the future. Simultaneously, colleges and organizations using College Board’s Student Search Service™ can connect directly with these talented awardees during the recruitment process.

“It’s increasingly challenging for students to stand out in the college recruitment process. We're exceptionally proud of the National Recognition Programs for celebrating students who are sometimes overlooked but have demonstrated outstanding academic abilities,” said Tarlin Ray, senior vice president of BigFuture® at College Board. “This benefits not only the students but also colleges and universities committed to recruiting diverse and talented individuals.”

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

Award Key:
National African American Recognition Award (NAARA)
National Hispanic Recognition Award (NHRA)
National Rural and Small-Town Award (NRSTA)
National Indigenous Award (NIA)

About the Harris County School District

Georgia’s Harris County School District is an accredited K-12 school system based in the county seat of Hamilton, Georgia. 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 educational excellence for every child,” Harris County School District continually strives to provide students what they need to become the future workforce and society. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or the Facebook or Twitter pages (@HCSDga).

HARRIS COUNTY SCHOOLS HOST CROSS-CAMPUS EVENT FOCUSED ON CHALLENGES YOUTH FACE TODAY

HAMILTON, GA (SEPTEMBER 7, 2023) – The upper-level schools of the Harris County School District are hosting a cross-campus event featuring Yvonne Harvey-Williams, an award-winning author, and CEO of Speak2inspire LLC.

The event's primary objective is to foster an evening of open dialogue between parents and their children, focusing on addressing the challenges our youth face today. “Our vision is to unite parents, neighbors, schools, and the broader community to collaborate in nurturing the well-being and development of our youth,” shared Ariane Stecher, HCSD administrator for the EOC/STEPS program. “Under the banner of ‘Raising Our Tigers Right,’ we aspire to strengthen the bonds within our community and revive the timeless concept of ‘it takes a village’ to raise our children.”

This event seeks to empower parents to actively engage with their children, schools, and the community. It aims to inform parents about the myriad stressors facing students in today's world, including pressures from peer groups, the influence of media, mental health concerns amid the pre/during/post-COVID era, the significance of selecting the right friends, and the necessity for involved parents and families. Williams will emphasize the importance of establishing healthy boundaries and being strong, positive adult role models to guide and nurture our children, ultimately equipping them to become productive, successful adults who positively contribute to society.

Yvonne Harvey-Williams recently delivered an inspiring presentation to middle and high school-age students, focusing on key messages such as "Anything that does not enhance the quality of your life... cut it off" and "It's not how you start, it's how you finish."

"Anytime I visit," Williams commented, "the students and staff are so receptive, attentive, engaging, and respectful. As a speaker, I appreciate that so much. The greatness pours out of the entire student body. The authentic love and care for their students from the staff is evident and obvious."

Williams has deep ties to the community, with her children, husband, and her Georgia family all having attended school in the Harris County School District.

Event Details:

Date: Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2023

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Location: Harris County High School auditorium

Address: 8281 GA-116, Hamilton, GA 31811

Students and parents from Harris County High School, PLC, EOC/STEPS, and Harris County Carver Middle School are invited to attend.

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

About the Harris County School District

Georgia’s Harris County School District is an accredited K-12 school system based in the county seat of Hamilton, Georgia. 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 educational excellence for every child,” Harris County School District continually strives to provide students with what they need to become the future workforce and society. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

HARRIS COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL SHOTGUN TEAM SUCCESSFUL AT STATE TOURNAMENT

HAMILTON, GA (JULY 3, 2023) – The Harris County High School (HCHS) Shotgun team competed in the State Championship in Savannah, Ga., June 8-11, 2023. 

“We competed against 23 other teams, with more than 500 shooters. Once again, Harris County took the podium multiple times,” said Coach Angie Everson about her team. "I am always excited to watch our kids compete. They continue to bring all that they have prepared for to the competition field - the mental game, the fundamentals, and confidence in themselves - knowing they are ready to represent. I am very proud of our athletes. The loss of Colin [Henson] at the beginning of the season was heartbreaking, but it led to a stronger team bond. We shot for Colin this season and the state-wide shotgun family supported us as well, which was truly amazing to see and feel."

Here are the results from the state championship:

Trap:

2nd place IE Squad: Garrett Baker, Rylan Culpepper, James Forbes, Owen Dean, Tripp Reeves

2nd place IA Squad: Sims Benson, JJ Bridges, Triston Richmond, Asa Duke, Tripp Meyer

1st place Open (Mixed) Squad: Ryleigh Webster, Tinsley Rigsby, Trey Wyche, Tristan Kocak, Trenton Meyer

1st place rookie individual: Beaux Richmond

3rd IE individual: Garrett Baker

3rd IA Individual: Sims Benson

High School HOA (Highest Overall) Champion in Trap 

Harris County Top Scores in Trap: (Male) Tristan Kocak 97 (Female) Ryleigh Webster 90

First-place rookie shooter, Beaux Richmond, said about his first year on the team, "I had a lot of fun shooting with my friends and thought the state championships were really challenging." He is looking forward to shooting again next year.

Sporting:

High School HOA Champion in Sporting

Harris County Top Score in Sporting: (Male) Jackson Henson 80 (Female) Ryleigh Webster 62

Super Sporting: 

3rd Rookie Individual: Cameron Posey

2nd IA Individual: Asa Duke

Harris County Top Scores in Super Sporting: (Male) Asa Duke 41/50 (Female) Alli Gray Everson and Ryleigh Webster 23/50

Skeet:

3rd place IA Squad: JJ Bridges, Sims Benson, Tripp Meyer

2nd IA Individual: JJ Bridges (Tied for first but bumped to 2nd due to reverse run count)

High School HOA Champion in Skeet

Harris County Top Scores in Skeet: (Male) JJ Bridges 98 (Female) Tinsley Rigsby 93

Maddox Diehl, the shotgun team's only senior this year, said "In my eight years of shooting, I met a lot of interesting people who have changed my view on life and about shooting sports. I've had coaches who have taught me many things and I have enjoyed spending my time on the field. Now that I've graduated, I am going to miss the team, but I have picked up a sport that I can participate in for the rest of my life." He ended up shooting a perfect round of skeet for the team.”

Harris County will have eight shooters to represent the team in the national competition in July at the Cardinal Center in Marengo, Ohio. They will be competing against more than 3,500 shooters in all the disciplines.

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

Note to Editor: Images and interviews are available upon request.

Photo: IA Skeet team: Sims Benson, Tripp Meyers, Tristan Richmond, and JJ Bridges

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.gAa.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

IT'S TIME FOR QUALIFIED FAMILIES TO APPLY FOR FREE AND REDUCED SCHOOL MEALS; NEW ONLINE APPLICATION TO SIMPLIFY THE APPLICATION PROCESS

HAMILTON, GA (JULY 1, 2023) – Important news has been announced regarding free and reduced-price meals for students in the Harris County School District (HCSD). Starting from July 1, families can access the "Harris County Household Application for Free and Reduced-Price School Meals" for the 2023-2024 school year but this year, for the first time, the process is primarily available online at www.EZMealApp.com.

"It is very important for all families who qualify for free and reduced meals for their school-aged children to complete the application form," Shelia Baker, HCSD assistant superintendent of support services, emphasized. “Our goal is to ensure that no child goes hungry while at school.  We also do not want any parent to accrue a balance for school meals that could be free or reduced price. To make the process easier for our families, the form will be available online starting July 1."

The application form will be available in the following ways, starting from July 1:

· To complete online, visit www.EZMealApp.com, sign up, and follow the steps.

· To print and complete, visit the HCSD website (www.harris.k12.ga.us) and find the form under the "School Nutrition" tab.

· To get a paper form, visit:

o HCSD School Nutrition Office (132 Barnes Mill Road, Hamilton).

o Harris County One Stop Shop Community Health Fair on Saturday, July 29.

o Sneak-A-Peek events at each school (HCCMS and Creekside on Aug. 3, elementary schools on August 4, and HCHS on Aug. 7).

o Students can request an application on the first day of school (Aug. 8).

Parents are encouraged to complete the online application or return the paper form as quickly as possible. The deadline for application submission is Tuesday, Sept. 19. Completed paper applications should be returned to the child's homeroom teacher or school cafeteria manager. September 19, 2023, is also the expiration date for forms that were approved for the 2022-2023 school year.

For additional information or any inquiries, please contact Johnson at (706) 628-4172 or email johnson-brad@harris.k12.ga.us.

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

Note to Editor: Program graphic is attached.

About the Harris County School District
Georgia’s Harris County School District is an accredited K-12 school system based in the county seat of Hamilton, Georgia. 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 educational excellence for every child,” Harris County School District continually strives to provide students with what they need to become the future workforce and society. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or the Facebook or Twitter pages (@HCSDga).

DESERVING HCHS STUDENT NAMED ROTARY CLUB'S AUGUST 2023 "STUDENT OF THE MONTH"

HAMILTON, GA (SEPTEMBER 12, 2023) – In a continuous effort to recognize students and support education within the Harris County School District, the Rotary Club of Harris County selects one Harris County High School (HCHS) senior as the "Student of the Month" each month.

August 2023's honoree was HCHS Senior Jaxsen Scott, a student with an impressive list of academic achievements, including serving as the co-president of the Science National Honor Society and receiving the AP (Advanced Placement) Environmental Science Award.

HCHS guidance counselor Tammy Bailey expressed gratitude for the local Rotary's dedication to honoring students, saying, "We are fortunate to have our local Rotary devote time to this 'Student of the Month' program. I believe the students value this recognition, and it adds a valuable accolade to their college applications."

In addition to receiving a certificate, honorees have the opportunity to attend a Rotary meeting, where they introduce themselves and share a bit about their backgrounds. Furthermore, these selected students become eligible candidates for Rotary's annual post-secondary scholarship program, which supports them in their journey toward graduation.

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

Image (left to right): Rotarian Emily Byrd, club director of education & youth services; Honoree Jaxsen Scott; Dawne Basha, Jaxsen's parent; Court Dowis, club president.

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).