Media Releases 2024-2025

HAMILTON, GA (MAY 20, 2025) – The Harris County School District’s (HCSD) award-winning Mobile Learning Lab (MLL) will again be on the move this June, continuing its mission of providing free educational support and internet access to the Harris County community.

“The Mobile Learning Lab is available for Harris County citizens of all ages who need tutoring or internet access for schoolwork or career-related opportunities,” said Shelia Baker, HCSD Assistant Superintendent of Support Services. “Elementary students can also enjoy the mobile library located in the rear of the bus. We encourage parents to read with their children daily as a key way to prepare them for school success. The MLL supports this with accessible learning resources throughout the summer.”

Mobile Learning Lab – Summer 2025 Schedule

Open from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Pine Mountain – Pine Lane Apartments
Tuesdays (June 3, 10, 17, 24)
Two teachers on site

Waverly Hall – Melody Lakes
Thursdays (June 5, 12, 26)
Two teachers on site

The Mobile Learning Lab provides:

• Wi-Fi internet access
• Laptops and books for student use
• Access to educational applications used during the school year
• Literacy and tutoring support
• Career and educational guidance for adults

Designed to enrich educational access in the community, the MLL helps both students and adults stay connected and continue learning throughout the summer. It supports the district’s broader goal of promoting college and career readiness.

The MLL has been recognized by the Georgia School Boards Association with the Leading Edge Award for innovative “Teaching and Learning Resources” initiatives.

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
The Harris County School District is in Hamilton, Ga., and serves more than 5,600 students through four elementary schools, one intermediate school, one middle school, one high school, and one performance learning center. With the vision of “one community committed to the well-being and preparation of every student for life-long success in a global society,” HCSD strives to provide an excellent education to every student. Learn more at www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow the district on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

HAMILTON, GA (MAY 7, 2025) – Free meals will be available this summer for all children in Harris County through the Harris County School District’s Seamless Summer Food Program (SSFP). During the summer months, many children may miss out on the regular nutritious meals they receive during the school year. This program helps bridge that gap and ensures children stay nourished during their break.

For summer 2025, the free meal options are:

On-Site Meals at Harris County High School

Dates: Monday-Thursday only June 2-26, 2025; closed on Friday and June 19 for federal holiday
Location: Harris County High School (8281 GA-116, Hamilton, GA 31811)

• Breakfast: 7:30 a.m. to 8:15 a.m.
• Lunch: 10 a.m. to Noon

*Meals must be consumed on-site in the school cafeteria.

7-Day Meal Pick-Up at Park Elementary

Dates: Mondays - June 2, 9, 16, and 23, 2025
Time: 10 a.m. to Noon
Location: Park Elementary (13185 US Highway 27 N, Hamilton, GA 31811)
*A parent or guardian must be present to pick up meals.
*Each child’s legal first and last name is required.

“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,” said Brad Johnson, HCSD School Nutrition Director. “Our goal is to make sure every child in Harris County has access to nutritious meals, even when school is out.”

The Seamless Summer Feeding Program is federally funded and offers free meals to all children ages 18 and under when school meals are not available.

For more information, contact Brad Johnson at (706) 628-4172 or via email at johnson-brad@harris.k12.ga.us.

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Note to Editor: Interviews are available upon request.

About the Harris County School District
The Harris County School District is in Hamilton, GA, and serves more than 5,600 students through four elementary schools, one intermediate school, one middle school, one high school, and one performance learning center. With the vision of “one community committed to the well-being and preparation of every student for life-long success in a global society,” HCSD strives to provide an excellent education to every student. Learn more at www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow the district on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga)

HAMILTON, GA (MAY 6, 2025) — The Harris County High School (HCHS) Girls Who Code team put their skills to the test on Friday, April 18, as they competed in Columbus State University’s (CSU) inaugural high school coding competition. Hosted by the CSU Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) Chapter, the event brought together high school students for an intense two-hour coding challenge focused on the Python programming language.

Throughout the school year, the HCHS team prepared diligently for the 15-problem competition, which featured challenges spanning beginner to expert levels. The competition was more than a test of coding skills—it was a celebration of collaboration, critical thinking, and perseverance.

“It was truly remarkable to watch all participants showcase their skills with such focus and intention,” said a representative from the CSU ACM Chapter. “The display of collaboration, critical thinking, and perseverance through various difficult problem sets was inspiring to witness.”

The event was generously sponsored by Synovus’ Women in Technology (WIT), who provided lunch for participants and awarded prizes to the top two teams. Their support played a key role in making the event a positive and empowering experience for all.

“Our Women in Technology group at Synovus was thrilled to sponsor such a fantastic event that showcased the talent and determination of these young coders,” said Synovus Senior IT Support Analyst  Rachel Benefield. “It was a pleasure to provide support and resources to help make the competition a success. Seeing the girls engage in the challenges and demonstrate their skills in using Python shows their commitment to learning and growth.”

According to HCHS Teacher and Advisor Katie Sizemore, “We plan to build on this experience by continuing to support young women in technology and expanding opportunities for students to participate in similar competitions.” Organizers at CSU also hope to grow the event in the future by welcoming additional high schools from the region.

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: Additional images and interviews are available upon request.

Photo:
(Back L-R): Harris County High School Teacher Katie Sizemore with students Kimberly Waters, Sandy Bradley, Cass Lloyd, Lillianna Smith, Annika Church, Destiny Bess, and Takya Marshall
Front (L-R): Katy Williamson, Addie White, Temperance Blaisdell, Nyah Rivera, and Ariana McKinney

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 5,600+/- 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).

HAMILTON, GA (MAY 6, 2025) – The Harris County School District (HCSD) is proud to announce its partnership with CareSource to offer the “Tar Wars” tobacco and vaping prevention program to all 3rd and 4th grade students in the district from May 12-15, 2025.

Tar Wars is an early prevention program designed to educate young students about the harmful effects of tobacco and vaping, as well as the marketing techniques used by the tobacco industry to target youth. The program, presented by dedicated, trained CareSource staff, has been adapted to address the alarming increase in vaping among middle and high school students. Through interactive activities and a comprehensive curriculum, the program aims to prevent the initiation of tobacco and vaping use among youth.

Shelia Baker, HCSD Assistant Superintendent of Student Services, emphasized the importance of the program considering the rising use of e-cigarettes among young people. “The Tar Wars program provides our students with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health,” said Baker. “It’s crucial that we address the dangers of tobacco and vaping early, as nearly all tobacco product use begins during youth and can lead to serious health consequences, including addiction.”

According to the National Institutes of Health, nicotine exposure during adolescence can negatively impact brain development, leaving youth vulnerable to addiction and increasing their susceptibility to other harmful substances, such as cocaine and methamphetamine.

Vaping products, particularly e-cigarettes, have gained popularity among youth due to appealing flavors and sleek designs, including pod-based devices modeled after USB drives. The Tar Wars program will educate students on the true costs of vaping and the harmful ingredients found in e-cigarettes, such as heavy metals and chemicals linked to lung disease and other health issues.

“The short-term effects of vaping include rapid deterioration of vascular function, impaired respiratory and cardiovascular systems, and other health risks,” said Baker. “We want to stop this dangerous trend before it starts and ensure that our students are empowered to make healthier choices.”

The Tar Wars program, funded by the W.G. Raoul Foundation, is offered at no cost to participating schools and is part of a statewide initiative to combat the rise of vaping in Georgia. The program aligns with Georgia House Bill 287, signed into law in 2021, which mandates vaping prevention education for students in kindergarten through 12th grade.

For more information about the Tar Wars program or to schedule a training session, visit the Georgia Healthy Family Alliance website at https://georgiahealthyfamilyalliance.org/tarwars/.

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 is an accredited K-12 school system based in the county seat of Hamilton, Georgia. It serves approximately 5,600 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).

Pine Mountain, GA (April 26, 2025) — The Harris County High School Army JROTC Color Guard had the honor of opening the annual Symphony on the Sand at Callaway Gardens, delivering a patriotic tribute to begin the evening’s festivities.

As the sun set over Robin Lake Beach, the cadets marched onto the stage in full uniform to present the National Colors and the Georgia state flag. Their precise movements and solemn presence set the tone for the Columbus Symphony Orchestra’s stirring performance of the national anthem, which played as the audience stood in respectful silence.

The JROTC Color Guard’s participation brought a powerful and meaningful start to the evening, which was filled with music, community connection, and celebration. Events like Symphony on the Sand highlight the strength of community traditions and the value of student involvement.

Gracie Thompson, program manager at Callaway Resorts and Gardens, shared, “We are very excited to have the Harris County Army JROTC participate in the Symphony on the Sand with the DeKalb Symphony Orchestra. It was a wonderful event.”

Pictured (left to right): Cadet SFC Ashton Boyd, Cadet PFC PJ Denio, Cadet 1SG Jodi Behar, and Cadet PFC McKenna Locklar.

HAMILTON, GA (APRIL 25, 2025) – The Harris County School District’s (HCSD) award-winning Mobile Learning Lab calendar* has been set for May 2025.

“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 2025
Pine Mountain: Pine Lane Apartments
Most Tuesdays and Thursdays (May 1, 6, 8, 13, 15, 20)

Shiloh: City Hall
Most Wednesdays (May 7, 14, 21)

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 2024-2025 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 5,600+ 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 (APRIL 18, 2025) – It is time to register children for the eSTARS25 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 “Light, Camera, STEAM.” 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 23-27, 2025, in the HCHS science labs and is led by HCHS teachers, Tim Jones and Brittany Moss. It is open to students who have completed first through fifth grade.

The cost is $200 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, 2025. 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

For information, contact Tim Jones at 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 5,600+ 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 (APRIL 7, 2025) – Due to heavy rain, ongoing power outages, and additional inclement weather expected, the Harris County School District (HCSD) will delay the start of school and all district operations by two hours today, Monday, April 7, 2025.

Shawn Fisher, HCSD assistant superintendent of business services and technology announced that students and staff will report two hours later than normal start times. Buses will run two hours later than normal pickup times.

Specifics include:

• All Harris County students and staff should report two hours after their normal start times.
• Buses will pick up students two hours later than their regular scheduled times.
• The instructional day will end at its normal time.
• Afternoon buses are expected to run on their normal schedule and routes.

Many of our students and staff live in areas connected by more than 100 miles of rural roads—roads that are more prone to weather-related hazards such as flooding, downed trees, and poor visibility. This delay provides valuable time for transportation and operations teams to monitor conditions and make safety-focused decisions.

Fisher added, “We will continue to monitor the weather throughout the day and communicate any additional updates as needed.”

This announcement is being shared through:
• HCSD Communication system (Infinite Campus)
• HCSD Facebook Page (@Harris County School District – GA)
• HCSD website (www.harris.k12.ga.us)
• Release to local and regional 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 5,600+ 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 (MARCH 25, 2025) – Valley Healthcare System is bringing its 39-ft. fully equipped Mobile Dental Unit to Park Elementary School on March 26-27, providing essential dental services to students. Staffed by experienced Valley Healthcare dentists and hygienists, the Mobile Dental Unit offers exams, cleanings, sealants, simple restorations, X-rays, teledentistry, and referrals.

"This is a great community partnership that allows us to bring critical dental services directly to our students," said Shelia Baker, assistant superintendent of student services. "Park Elementary is just the first stop, and we look forward to announcing additional dates for other schools soon."

As part of Valley Healthcare’s commitment to accessible dental care, all economic backgrounds are welcome, and no one is denied services. All insurance plans are accepted, and a sliding scale is available to ensure affordability. It is hoped that this program will continue for years to come, further strengthening community health efforts.

The Mobile Dental Unit regularly serves schools, Housing Authority sites, and the Homeless Resource Network locations, reinforcing Valley Healthcare’s dedication to making quality dental care accessible to underserved populations.

Additionally, for residents in Harris County, Valley Healthcare System provides family dental and medical services every fourth Friday of the month from 8 a.m. to Noon at:

Valley Healthcare Family Practice – Harris County
94 McCrary Road
Fortson, GA 31808
(706) 987-8216

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: Images are attached to this email.

About Valley Healthcare System
Valley Healthcare System, Inc. is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to improving the health and wellness of its patients. Utilizing the Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) model, Valley Healthcare provides high-quality, cost-effective primary care through a patient-centered, culturally appropriate, and team-based approach. This model enhances chronic disease management, increases patient and provider satisfaction, and improves the overall quality of care. Evidence-based medicine and clinical decision-support tools guide treatment, ensuring comprehensive and preventative healthcare services for the community. For more information about Valley Healthcare System and its Mobile Dental Unit services, please visit www.valleyhealthcolumbus.com or call (706) 987-8216.

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 5,600 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 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 (MARCH 25, 2025) – Harris County High School’s Class of 2025 PAGE (Professional Association of Georgia Educators) STAR (Student Teacher Achievement Recognition) Student Tate Williams was recently selected as the Regional STAR Student. He received the news at a banquet at Columbus State University in Columbus, Ga. He now advances to the state STAR Student recognition event on April 28, 2025, at the Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta. While the school’s selection is based on the highest GPA, selections at the state level consider additional factors beyond GPA.

Tate has consistently excelled academically, particularly in the field of computer science. His achievements include the Academic Award for Achievement in Computer Science, state and national placements in Academic Bowl, Technology Student Association, and CyberPatriot, recognition as a College Board Rural Scholar and AP Scholar with Distinction, participation in the National Science Bowl, and membership in honor societies such as the National Honor Society and Science National Honor Society.

“Tate is an incredibly gifted student who thrives in any challenge he takes on,” said Tammy Bailey, HCHS senior guidance counselor. “His passion for learning and problem-solving sets him apart, and we are so proud of his accomplishments.”

Tate selected Katie Sizemore, his AP Computer Science teacher, as his STAR Teacher. Sizemore has played a pivotal role in nurturing Tate’s passion for computer science and critical thinking. “Tate’s enthusiasm for problem-solving and dedication to excellence make him a standout student,” Sizemore said. “It’s an honor to be part of his academic journey.”

Beyond academics, Tate is also dedicated to community service, participating in initiatives such as laying wreaths at Andersonville National Historic Site and assisting at a women’s shelter. While he has yet to decide on a college, he plans to pursue a degree in computer science.

“Harris County High School is proud to celebrate Tate, whose achievements reflect the school’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and leadership,” said HCHS Principal Lindie Snyder. “His determination and passion for learning will undoubtedly lead to continued success in his future endeavors.”

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): Harris County High School (HCHS) Class of 2025 PAGE STAR Student Tate Williams, and Melanie Vinyard, representative from the event sponsor, the Columbus Rotary Club; Dr. Bob Heaberlin, Professional Association of Georgia Educators, District 6 Membership Services Representative.

About the STAR Program
The Student Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) program recognizes Georgia’s outstanding high school seniors and the teachers who have been most instrumental in their academic development. Since its inception in 1958, the STAR program has honored more than 30,000 high school seniors and their STAR Teachers. The purpose of the STAR program is threefold:

• To recognize academic achievement in Georgia’s high schools and to motivate students to be good scholars and high achievers.
• To honor excellence in teaching, to promote teaching as a career, and to encourage outstanding teachers to remain in the classroom.
• To demonstrate the business community’s commitment to excellence in education and to increase interaction between students and the business community.

PAGE STAR Sponsors Professional Association of Georgia Educators www.pageinc.org. PAGE Foundation www.pageinc.org

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 (MARCH 25, 2025) – The Harris County School District’s (HCSD) award-winning Mobile Learning Lab calendar* has been set for April 2025.

“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 2025

Pine Mountain: Pine Lane Apartments
Most Tuesdays and Thursdays (April 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29)

Shiloh: City Hall
Most Wednesdays (April 9, 16, 23, 30)

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 2024-2025 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 5,600+ 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 (MARCH 21, 2025) – Aria Ellison, a seventh-grade student at Harris County Carver Middle School (HCCMS), has won the local 2025 Middle School Design a Bookmark Contest, sponsored by Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB).

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

The contest, aimed at highlighting the significance of agriculture in Georgia, invited students in grades 6-8 to create original bookmark designs that reflect the agricultural landscape of the state. Aria’s submission impressed the judges with its creativity and strong representation of Georgia's agricultural heritage. The contest rules stipulated that entries must be original and reflect Georgia agriculture.

“On behalf of Harris County Farm Bureau, I would like to thank each student and teacher who participated in our bookmark contest,” said Luttrell.

The Harris County School District is based 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): Gina Hunt, Harris County Carver Middle School (HCCMS) art teacher; Lacoya Day, HCCMS assistant principal; Aria Ellison, HCCMS student and winner of the 2025 Middle School Design a Bookmark Contest; and Linda Luttrell, program manager for Harris County Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB), gathered for a photo following the award presentation for the local 2025 Middle School Design a Bookmark Contest, sponsored by GFB.

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 (MARCH 20, 2025) – Harris County High School’s (HCHS) Future Georgia Educators team celebrated a remarkable achievement at the Future Georgia Educators State Competition, sponsored by the Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE), which took place on Thursday, March 13, at Middle Georgia University in Macon, Ga.

The team, consisting of Seniors Joey Duncan, Kirsten Nowling, and Emily Steele, secured third place in the Knowledge Bowl competition. Additionally, Junior Olivia Pope won first place in the essay competition, marking the team’s first-ever first-place award.

This marks HCHS’s second year competing in the event, and the team’s continued success highlights their dedication and knowledge in the field of education. The competition challenges students on topics such as educational theory, ethics, law, instructional strategies, and assessment methods.

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): Harris County High School Seniors Joey Duncan, Emily Steele, and Kirsten Nowling celebrate their third-place finish in the Knowledge Bowl.

Photo 2: Unable to be pictured as she was simultaneously competing at the band’s large group performance event, Harris County High School Junior Olivia Pope won first place in the essay competition, marking the team’s first-ever first-place award.

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 (MARCH 20, 2025) – Harris County High School (HCHS) students achieved impressive results at the 2025 HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America – Future Health Professionals) State Leadership Conference March 5-8, 2025. Several students placed in the top ten in their respective events, showcasing their skills and dedication in the healthcare field.

The following students earned top 10 placements in the state competition:

• 2nd Place - Mental Health Awareness: Nora Martin, Julia Smith, and Marissa Wirth
   

   

• 4th Place - Life Support Skills: Zoie Mertz

• 10th Place - Medical Assisting: Chloe Williams
   

   

The Mental Health Awareness team’s second place finish qualifies them for HOSA International Conference this Summer in Nashville, Tenn.

“I am so proud of these students and all their hard work leading up to the conference,” said Patsy Boykin, HCHS health sciences teacher and HOSA sponsor. “Their passion for healthcare is evident, and they are all shining examples of future leaders in the field.”

HOSA’s Competitive Events Program offers more than 55 events for students to compete in, ranging from leadership to healthcare skills. Through these competitions, students develop knowledge and skills that will prepare them for careers in the healthcare industry.

“These students have shown incredible dedication, and I am confident their achievements will inspire others,” said Natalie Kelly, HCHS health sciences teacher and HOSA sponsor. “We look forward to seeing what they accomplish next.”

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: Images are attached and labeled. Interviews are available on request.

Picture (Group Picture)- 
Back Row Left to Right: Emma Edwards, Zoie Mertz, Nora Martin, Julia Smith, Chloe Williams, Adyson Baker, Adah Spurlock, Emma Kay Shine
Front Row Left to Right: Destiny Bess, Marissa Wirth, Ashley Reaves, Ava DeVore

Picture (3 girls)- Left to Right: Marissa Wirth, Julia Smith, Nora Martin

Picture (Blue Scrubs)- Zoie Mertz

Picture (Pink Scrubs)- Chloe Williams

About HOSA
The mission of HOSA is to enhance the delivery of compassionate, quality health care by providing opportunities for knowledge, skill, and leadership development of all health science technology education students, therefore, helping students to meet the needs of the health care community.

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 (MARCH 19, 2025) – Harris County High School (HCHS) is proud to announce that Junior Riley Markert has made history by winning first place in the Columbus State University (CSU) Go2Teach "Excellence in Teaching Competition," becoming the first HCHS student to earn this prestigious honor.

 

Markert, who competed against other aspiring educators, was tasked with teaching a lesson to fourth graders within a 15-minute window. Her outstanding performance earned her the top honor, which provides her with a $300 scholarship to CSU.

"I could not be prouder of Riley," said Jennifer Robinson, Instructor of the HCHS Teacher Cadet program. "She has truly shown her exceptional teaching abilities, and this recognition speaks volumes about her dedication and talent in the field of education."

As a finalist in the competition, Riley presented her lesson to the group of students and a panel of judges at CSU on March 11. The Go2Teach program, designed to nurture aspiring educators, provides opportunities for students to receive mentorship and guidance from CSU's Education representatives, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in teaching.

The Teacher Cadet program at HCHS, a part of the Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) pathway, helps students gain valuable hands-on experience in the classroom. Students in this pathway engage in courses such as "Examining the Teaching Profession" and "Contemporary Issues in Education," and complete an internship, where they work with mentor teachers at Mulberry Creek Elementary or Creekside Intermediate School.

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. Interviews are available on request.

Photo Caption: Harris County High School’s Teacher Cadet Instructor and Junior Riley Markert proudly displays her Columbus State University Go2Teach trophy and plaque after winning first place in the 2025 "Excellence in Teaching Competition."

Photo: Harris County High School’s Teacher Cadet Instructor and Junior Riley Markert competes in the Columbus State University Go2Teach in the 2025 "Excellence in Teaching Competition" by teaching students while being judged.

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 (MARCH 19, 2025) – On Saturday, March 8, at the Annual Harris County Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Gala a Harris County School District (HCSD) leader was honored with the prestigious 2025 Community Spirit Award.

Baker’s outstanding contributions to the community include organizing meal programs to ensure that children up to 18 years old never go hungry, even during school closures and summer breaks. She ensures that the Mobile Learning Lab continues to be a resource, bringing academic support and internet access to underserved areas, and leads initiatives providing food, clothing, and essential resources to families in need. Through her vision, the “Help Yourself Shelf” was established, ensuring students in all schools have free access to toiletries and school supplies. Additionally, her efforts have implemented school-based telehealth centers in all schools and expanded mental health support in Harris County schools, securing partnerships with Mercer Medicine, FOCUS, Inc., CareSource, Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center, New Horizons Behavioral Health and Georgia Hope.

“Receiving the 2025 Community Spirit Award was unexpected and surprising but most definitely very much appreciated. From an early age, my parents instilled in me the importance of selflessness and serving others. Every day, I strive to grow—both personally and professionally—so that I can make a meaningful impact,” Baker shared upon receiving the award, Baker expressed her gratitude and commitment to service.

“Being part of a school district and community that values strong, positive relationships and partnership is a true blessing. I wholeheartedly believe in the power of kindness, innovation, and collaboration. I find joy in guiding and uplifting others, in fostering a team of dedicated professionals, and in working alongside community partners who share my vision. If we equip our students and families with the resources they need to succeed, we uplift our entire community. Together, we are creating a brighter future for Harris County.”

Superintendent Justin Finney also praised Baker’s dedication, stating, “Shelia Baker’s tireless efforts and passion for serving others embody the true spirit of leadership and community service. Her work has made a lasting impact on our students, families, and the entire Harris County community. We are proud to celebrate her achievements and look forward to the continued positive influence she will have on our district.”

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:  Images are attached to this email.

Pictured: Harris County School District Assistant Superintendent of Student Services Shelia Baker was honored with the Community Spirit Award at the 2025 Harris County Chamber of Commerce Annual Gala for her dedication to improving the lives of HCSD students and their families. She is pictured with Chamber President and Georgia State Representative Vance Smith Jr. (left).

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 5,600 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 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 (MARCH 19, 2025) – Harris County High School (HCHS) is excited to announce a day full of community events on Saturday, March 22, 2025, with all proceeds benefiting student programs. From car shows to live music, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while supporting the students of HCHS. These events have been rescheduled due to rain and will take place in various locations throughout the school campus.

Event Schedule:

County Cars and Handlebars Car Show 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Student Parking Lot
The day kicks off with the “County Cars and Handlebars Car Show.” Spectators can enjoy free admission while car enthusiasts can register their vehicles in various categories. A food truck from 219 Food & Spirits will be on-site, with a portion of proceeds benefiting HCHS student programs. Registration for contestants will be from 7:30 to 9 a.m. and judging will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Awards will be announced at 12:30 p.m. Entry fees are $25 per vehicle.

Empty Bowl Event 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. – HCHS Cafeteria
Next, join the HCHS Visual Arts program for the annual Empty Bowl event, where attendees can enjoy lunch while supporting the local nonprofit FOCUS. The event will feature student-made bowls as keepsakes, along with a silent auction of student artwork. Tickets are $15, and all proceeds benefit the FOCUS organization, which helps local families in need.

Spring Plant Sale 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. – HCHS Greenhouse
From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., visit the HCHS greenhouse for the annual Spring Plant Sale, hosted by the FFA. This year’s sale promises more than 8,000 plants, including hanging baskets, herbs, and heirloom tomatoes. All plants have been grown by HCHS students and proceeds will go toward purchasing a new agriculture vehicle for the FFA program.

County Jams Benefit Concert 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. – Durham Field
The day culminates with a live music concert, County Jams, from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at Durham Field. The concert features performances by popular Georgia and Alabama bands GP-38 and JMac and Caleb. Ticket options include general admission, preferred seating, and VIP seating with table service. Food and drinks will be available for purchase, with a portion of proceeds supporting the HCHS CTAE programs.

Families with children can also take advantage of on-site childcare from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., with pizza, activities, and a family-friendly movie for just $20 per child. Tickets for County Jams can be purchased at GoFan. For more details on the events or to inquire about donations, sponsorships, or vendor opportunities, please contact Gary Johannes at johannes-g@harris.k12.ga.us.

Supporting HCHS Students These events are not only a fun day for the community but also provide HCHS students with hands-on learning experiences through the Work-Based Learning and Teaching as a Profession Pathway programs. All funds raised will directly benefit HCHS student programs, providing them with valuable resources for future success.

“Whether you're a car enthusiast, music lover, or plant collector, there’s something for everyone on March 22,” said Gary Johannes, HCHS Work-Based Learning coordinator. “By attending these events, you're helping us provide our students with real-world learning opportunities that will prepare them for their future careers.”

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

Note to Editor: Interviews and photos 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 approximately 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 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 (MARCH 14, 2025) – Harris County School District (HCSD) is proud to recognize its outstanding Special Olympics student-athletes who brought home state titles in their respective sports following the Fall 2025 competition. Their dedication, hard work, and sportsmanship have set a high standard for athletic excellence in our community.

State Titles
Harris County High School (HCHS) celebrates the incredible achievements of the following student-athletes who secured state championship titles in basketball:

• Hailee Garcia, first place in basketball
• Braedyn Johnson, first place in basketball
• Grant Parker, second place in basketball
• Devin Turner, third place in basketball
• Kai Bohannon, third place in basketball

HCHS is also thrilled to celebrate Olivia Griffith, who demonstrated exceptional skill and determination to earn a state title for third place in bowling.

HCHS also congratulates Olivia Griffith, who earned a state title with third place in bowling.

Additionally, Creekside Intermediate School and Mulberry Creek Elementary students earned basketball state titles:

• Ashton Johnson, second place in basketball
• Luke Krannacker, third place in basketball
• Milo Peltier, third place in basketball

Ongoing Support for Harris County Champs Athletes
Harris County Champs provides opportunities for students to compete in bowling, basketball, swimming, and bocce ball. State championship events for these sports occur throughout the year:

• Late January – Bowling, Basketball
• Mid-May – Swimming
• Mid-October – Bocce Ball

In addition to these state competitions, athletes also compete in local, regional, and statewide invitational events. It’s vital to continue supporting and recognizing their achievements throughout the year.

Harris County Champs, a local branch of Special Olympics Georgia, provides year-round sports training and competitive opportunities for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. These programs promote physical fitness, social inclusion, and personal growth while fostering meaningful friendships within the community.

“We are incredibly proud of our student-athletes and their accomplishments,” said Angela Pavlakos, Management Team Chairperson for Special Olympics Harris County Champs. “These athletes put in the work year-round, and it would be fantastic for the schools and community to show continued support for their efforts in all events leading up to the state championships.”

“We are incredibly proud of our student-athletes and their accomplishments,” said Shelia Baker, HCSD assistant superintendent of student services, “These student-athletes put in the work year-round both in the classroom and in their sport.”

HCSD encourages students, faculty, and the community to rally behind these champions and all athletes representing Harris County throughout the year.

For more information or to stay updated on upcoming events, contact Angela Pavlakos at harriscountychamps@gmail.com.

A district-wide Adaptive Sports Field Day will be hosted at Harris County High School on Thursday, March 20.

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 IMG_6542 (left to right):
Back row: Grant Parker, Jacob Pavlakos, Braedyn Johnson
Front row: Devin Turner, Kai Bohannon, Hailee Garcia, Ashton Johnson, Milo Peltier

Photo: Hailee Garcia with ceremony volunteers as a torchbearer for the opening ceremonies.

Photo IMG_6547 (left to right):
Back row: Devin Turner, Braedyn Johnson, Grant Parker
Front row: Olivia Griffith, Hailee Garcia, Kai Bohannon

Photo IMG_6544: Devin Turner

Photo IMG_6543 (left to right):
Back row: Grant Parker, Jacob Pavlakos, Braedyn Johnson
Front row: Luke Krannacker, Devin Turner, Milo Peltier, Kai Bohannon, Hailee Garcia, Ashton Johnson

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 approximately 5,600 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).

HAMILTON, GA. (MARCH 14, 2024) -- The Harris County School District (HCSD) proudly joins the statewide recognition of Georgia School Board Appreciation Week, taking place from March 10-14, 2025. This dedicated week honors the commitment and service of local school board members who play a crucial role in shaping the future of education.

 "Our school board members serve as the foundation of our district, ensuring that every decision supports student success and community growth," said HCSD Superintendent Justin Finney. "Their dedication and leadership help create an educational environment where students are encouraged to reach their full potential."

The members serving on the Harris County School Board include:

• Steve Goodnoe, Vice Chair and District 6 Super District Board Member, 24 years of service
• Scott Greene, District 4 Board Member, 8 years of service
• Stephen Johnston, District 1 Board Member, 1 year of service
• Harry Proctor, District 5 Board Member, 4 years of service
• Bridgett Oliver, District 2 Board Member, 6 years of service
• Garnett Ray, Chair and District 3 Board Member, 8 years of service
• Monica Sparks, District 7 Super District Board Member, 9 years of service

"These dedicated individuals work tirelessly to make decisions that enhance our educational programs, facilities, and overall student experience," Finney added. "Their unwavering support ensures that we continue to provide innovative learning opportunities, preparing students for success in an ever-evolving world."

School board members in Georgia serve as constitutional officers with significant responsibilities, including setting educational policies, hiring school personnel, and managing district resources. As advocates for students, they focus on fostering a learning environment that prioritizes academic achievement, well-being, and opportunity for every child.

The Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA) leads this statewide initiative, emphasizing the importance of strong school governance. GSBA is dedicated to advancing public education through leadership, advocacy, and professional services tailored to local school boards.

"Our board members are deeply invested in the future of our students and our community," Finney said. "Their collaborative efforts ensure that our schools continue to thrive, and that each student has the resources they need to succeed. We are grateful for their service and commitment."

To recognize their contributions, board members will be recognized at the HCSD Board of Education meeting on Thursday, March 13.

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): The Harris County School District's Board of Education includes Monica Sparks, Scott Greene, Garnett Ray, Justin Finney, Harry Proctor, Steve Goodnoe, and Stephen Johnston. This file photo shows them posing with the Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA) Exemplary Board award in December 2024 at the annual conference in Atlanta, Ga.

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 11, 2025) – Harris County High School (HCHS) proudly hosted the 2025 GHSA Region 3-AAAA Literary Competition on March 8, 2025, and emerged as the Region 3-AAAA Champions after an outstanding performance across multiple literary and fine arts categories. Competing against schools such as Central-Carroll (Region Runner-Up), Griffin, Northside-Columbus, and Starr's Mill, HCHS students demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication.

The GHSA (Georgia High School Association) Literary Competition is a prestigious academic and fine arts event that includes Interpretation, Essay Writing, Extemporaneous Speaking, and Music Performance. Schools accumulate points based on individual rankings in each event, with the highest-scoring school earning the title of Region Champion.

Individual Region Champions
These region winners will compete at the GHSA State Literary Championships on March 15, in Warner Robins, where they will compete against other regional winners for the ultimate title of State Champion:

• Girls Solo: Allison Everson – Region Champion (Fourth consecutive title)
• Duo Literary Interpretation: Emily Steele and Leila Jenkins – Region Champions
• Humorous Literary Interpretation: Kendall Markert – Region Champion
• Extemporaneous Speaking - Domestic: Ava Wise – Region Champion
• Argumentative Essay: Ava Castleberry – Region Champion

Additional Placements

• Extemporaneous Speaking - International: Nyah Rivera – Region Runner-Up
• Trio Performance: Kaleigh Rivera, Karlee Grubbs and Allison Everson – Region Runners-Up
• Boys Solo: Damien Chhum – Region Runner-Up
• Personal Essay: Blair Childers – Third Place
• Quartet Performance: Christian Collins, Colin Dupree, Ryan Mullen and Luke Ussery – Fourth Place

“With each competition, our students continue to demonstrate their dedication and talent in both literary and performing arts,” said Valerie Longshore-Sargent, HCHS Fine Arts department chair, theatre teacher, and coach for the Literary Team and Theatre Director. “Winning the region championship again is a testament to their hard work and perseverance. I am so proud of their achievements and look forward to seeing them compete at the state level.”

With this victory, Harris County continues its tradition of excellence in literary and performing arts, proving that dedication, talent, and teamwork lead to success. Event times for the GHSA State Literary Meet in Warner Robins can be found at GHSA Literary Meet Schedule (https://www.ghsa.net/literary). The event is open to the public.

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:  Images are attached to this email.

Group of 6 are the individual Region champs:
Back Row (L-R): Ava Wise, Ali Everson
Front Row (L-R): Kendall Markert, Ava Castleberry, Emily Steele, and Leila Jenkins

Group Photo:
Front Row (L-R): HCHS Teacher Valerie Longshore-Sargent, Kendall Markert, Karlee Grubbs, Allison Everson, Emily Steele, Leila Jenkins, Nyah Rivera, Rachel Rigel, Damien Chhum, and HCHs Teacher Antoine Bray
Second Row (L-R): Ava Wise, Kaleigh Rivera, Ava Castleberry, Ryan Mullen, Luke Ussery, Christian Collins, and Colin Dupree 

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 5,600 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 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 (MARCH 8, 2025) – On International Women’s Day, a time to celebrate the achievements of women in all fields, the Harris County High School girls flag football team is making history. The team has been selected to compete in the prestigious Corky Kell + Dave Hunter Classic, one of Georgia’s most elite high school football showcases. This honor not only recognizes their dominance on the field but also underscores the growing impact of girls' flag football as a competitive sport.

The competition will take place on September 17, 2025, at West Forsyth High School, and the event will be televised, offering the team a remarkable opportunity to showcase their talent on a major stage. In addition to the competition, the team will enjoy a red carpet experience and a special dinner celebrating their accomplishments.

Over the past five years, the HCHS girls flag football team has consistently demonstrated excellence. The team has reached the Elite 8 in four out of the five seasons, with a state championship runner-up finish in Year 3 and a Final 4 appearance in Year 4. Their overall record during this period is an impressive 64-14. Notably, every team the Tigers have lost to during these seasons has either gone on to win the state championship or play in the championship game. This track record speaks to the caliber of competition the team has faced and their own continued success.

"We’ve come a long way in just a few years," said Head Coach Zach Moss. "We’ve faced the best, and every team we’ve lost to has either won the state championship or played in the final game. Being invited to the Corky Kell Classic, a prestigious event reserved for teams predicted to be state championship-caliber, is an incredible honor. From the previous season to 2025, we’re predicted to be one of the top teams in the state. This is a huge step for our program, and we’re excited to show what we’re made of."

The Corky Kell + Dave Hunter Classic has long been a staple for Georgia high school football, and this year marks the second for flag football teams to be invited. The inclusion of flag football highlights the growing popularity of the sport and the dedication of teams like Harris County’s to advancing girls’ athletics.

"We’re thrilled to be a part of this event and show the state what Harris County flag football is all about," Coach Moss added. "I’m proud of our athletes and how hard they’ve worked to make this program a powerhouse. This is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to see where it takes us. We’re working hard to make flag football a college-level sport, and hopefully, we’ll see our athletes competing at the next level soon."

As the team prepares for the Corky Kell + Dave Hunter Classic, they not only represent their school and community but also continue to blaze a trail for the future of girls' flag football in Georgia.

Fans are encouraged to tune in and support the team as they take the field for this exciting event.

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 are available upon request.

Photo: Harris County High School flag football team from Fall 2024 season. Please advise if a higher resolution file format is needed.

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 approximately 5,600 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).

HAMILTON, GA (MARCH 7, 2025) – The Harris County High School FFA will host its annual Spring Plant Sale on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Harris County High School Greenhouse located at 8281 GA 116, Hamilton, Ga. 31811. This year, the sale promises to be bigger and better, offering more than 8,000 plants, twice as many as last year.

The sale will feature a variety of plants including hanging baskets, pothos, herbs, and five types of tomatoes, two of which are heirloom varieties. All plants have been nurtured with care by Harris County High's general horticulture students.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for the community to add some greenery to their homes or start a summer garden, all while supporting a great cause," said Jay Borden, HCHS FFA teacher. "The funds raised will go toward purchasing a new agriculture vehicle for our FFA members. Our current vehicle is turning 10 years old this March and is no longer able to transport students, so it’s crucial that we get a new one to continue our activities."

The sale is open to the public, and last year’s event sold out in just four hours.

For more information or questions, contact Julia Gonzalez, HCHS FFA instructor, at gonzalez-j@harris.k12.ga.us. A detailed list of plants and varieties will be available closer to the event.

Gonzalez shared, “Thank you for helping us grow a greener future and supporting our FFA members.”

For more information about the Harris County School District, 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 5,600+ 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 (MARCH 7, 2025) – Harris County High School (HCHS) students have once again demonstrated excellence at the SkillsUSA Georgia State Leadership and Skills Conference. Over the weekend, 26 students traveled to Atlanta to compete in 19 diverse events, with four placing in the top three statewide.

Joey Gibbs secured his third gold medal in the plumbing competition, continuing his reign as state champion. He will advance to represent Georgia at the National SkillsUSA competition this summer.

In the leadership categories, Addison White excelled in extemporaneous speaking, earning a silver medal for her ability to think quickly and speak effectively on an impromptu topic.

Demonstrating the strength of the school’s healthcare program, Leighton Granberry won a silver medal in practical nursing.

Rounding out the medalists, Tucker Sewell impressed the judges with a bronze medal in the sheet metal competition.

“This competition is a testament to our students' dedication, skill, and resilience,” said Kennis Thomas, HCHS graphic communications Teacher and SkillsUSA advisor. “To watch them put in the work, push through challenges, and rise to the occasion is what makes all of our efforts as educators worthwhile.”

The SkillsUSA Georgia State Leadership and Skills Conference is the premier event for career and technical education students, bringing together top competitors from across the state. Participants not only showcase their technical abilities but also sharpen their leadership and workplace skills through specialized training and state officer elections.

HCHS students competed in a variety of fields, including masonry, carpentry, electrical construction wiring, cabinetmaking, plumbing (1st place), Facilithon (a new category), Team Works, construction blueprint reading, basic drafting test, practical nursing (2nd place), dental assisting, welding, sheet metal (3rd place), heavy equipment operation, crime scene investigation, extemporaneous speaking (2nd place), T-shirt design, and firefighting.

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: Harris County High School students (left to right) Joey Gibbs, Tucker Sewell, Addison White, and Leighton Granberry proudly represent Harris County High School after their outstanding performance at the 2025 SkillsUSA Georgia State Leadership and Skills Conference. Standing in front of the HCHS CTAE sign reading "Excellent By Choice," Gibbs earned gold in plumbing, White secured silver in extemporaneous speaking, Granberry won silver in practical nursing, and Sewell took home bronze in sheet metal.

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 (MARCH 6, 2025) – Harris County High School (HCHS) Visual Arts will host Empty Bowl, a lunch event celebrating the arts while raising funds for a local nonprofit, on Saturday, March 22, 2025. The event will take place from 1-3 p.m. in the HCHS cafeteria, at 8281 GA-116 in Hamilton.
 

Proceeds from Empty Bowl will benefit FOCUS, a Hamilton-based organization dedicated to serving the community.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the impact of the arts in the community, enjoy a silent auction featuring student artwork, and experience live performances by the HCHS chorus and band.

“I am excited and honored to bring back Empty Bowl to Harris County,” said Kate Barnett, HCHS visual arts teacher. “The arts offer students countless opportunities, and it's vital to share these talents and gifts with the community.”

Tickets are $15 each and include lunch along with a student-made souvenir bowl. Tickets can be purchased through Ludus at hcvisualarts.ludus.com.

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.

About FOCUS
Established in 1984, FOCUS, Inc. (Fellowship of Christians United in Service) is a non-profit in Hamilton, Georgia which serves the residents of Harris County.  The vision of the founding leaders was to bring together churches from across the county to meet the needs of those suffering from food insecurity and those in need of clothing.  Forty years later, the organization is led by over 100 volunteers representing 30+ churches.  The ministry has grown exponentially and is now serving close to 4,000 families per year.  The organization is led by a board of business leaders, local pastors, and retired professionals. Funding is provided through donations received from churches, individuals, civic organizations, and the sale of items donated to the FOCUS Thrift, Boutique, and Furniture Store.

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 approximately 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 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 (MARCH 6, 2025) – The Harris County School District’s (HCSD) H.O.P.E. Center is pleased to announce two upcoming Shopping Days to support families in need during the winter months. The first Spring 2025 event will be on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, the final event of a four-part series for the 24-25 school year.

Through the generosity of community support and dedicated volunteers, the H.O.P.E. Center will offer free access to clothing, personal items, and other essential goods to families in need. These Shopping Days help ensure that all students are equipped with the resources they need to succeed, regardless of financial barriers.

“We are thrilled to continue offering these events to our students and families,” said Vicki Williams-Curry, HCSD coordinator of social services. “Providing free clothing and basic necessities allows our students to focus on their education and personal growth, knowing their immediate needs are being met.”

The final Spring 2025 Shopping Day Date is March 12, 2025.

All events will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at The H.O.P.E. Center, located at 106 Mountain Creek Drive, Hamilton, Ga., 31811.

The H.O.P.E. Center (Helping Other People Excel) is a vital resource within the district, offering assistance for students and families facing basic needs such as clothing, food, and educational support throughout the school year—not just on Shopping Day events.

For more information or to make reservations, please contact The H.O.P.E. Center at (706) 628-4206, ext. 2301, or email curry-vicki@harris.k12.ga.us.

To learn more about the Harris County School District, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

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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 more than 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 educational excellence for every child,” Harris County School District strives to provide students with the tools they need to become the future workforce and leaders in society. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or find us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

HAMILTON, GA (MARCH 6, 2025) – Harris County High School (HCHS) proudly announces that Junior Riley Markert has been selected as a finalist in the Columbus State University (CSU) Go2Teach "Excellence in Teaching Competition" program.
 

"Riley Markert has demonstrated outstanding talent and dedication in the field of education, earning her place as a finalist in this prestigious competition," stated Jennifer Robinson, Instructor of the HCHS Teacher Cadet program. "Riley has showcased remarkable teaching abilities and will have the opportunity to present her lesson in front of judges and a group of fourth graders on March 13 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 (right), and Senior Riley Markert (left) proudly display Riley's Columbus State University Go2Teach Finalist 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 5,600+ 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 (MARCH 6, 2025) – The Harris County School District (HCSD) is preparing two new specially equipped school buses to enhance transportation for students with special needs. These new additions come as the district experiences an increased number of special needs students requiring transportation, as well as a need to replace aging buses in the fleet.

These two 2025 International school buses are designed to increase wheelchair capacity and improve overall accessibility for students. Each bus accommodates 54 passengers and features a four-point camera system, LED interior and exterior lighting, two air conditioning units, and a Kidde fire suppression system. The buses were built by Rush Bus Center, Atlanta Ga., and sold by Rush Bus Sales of Atlanta, Ga. These two buses will replace older, non-air-conditioned models, ensuring a safer and more comfortable ride for students.

Justin Finney, superintendent, emphasized the importance of leveraging multiple funding sources, “The school district and Board of Education continue to seek out financial opportunities to support our students. These buses were funded through a combination of an $88,000 state grant and ESPLOST (Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) funds, with a total investment of $290,000.”

“The transportation department is extremely grateful for these new buses,” said Dee Miller, HCSD transportation director. “With a growing number of special needs students, increasing wheelchair capacity was a priority. This also allows us to retire some of our older special needs buses, ensuring that our students travel safely and comfortably. We sincerely appreciate the continued support of ESPLOST voters, whose contributions make these improvements possible.”

A SPLOST is a one-cent sales tax approved by voters that funds capital projects such as buses, building construction, renovations, technology, safety upgrades, furniture, and equipment. Other recent SPLOST expenditures include the construction of a new transportation facility, additional buses, enhanced safety and security measures at each school, and the purchase of classroom computers and other instructional technology.

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 is attached to email.

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 5,700 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 4, 2025)– The Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter at Harris County Carver Middle School (HCCMS) has once again demonstrated excellence, earning top placements at the FBLA State Leadership Conference and securing spots at the National competition in multiple events. It will be June 29-July 2, in Anaheim, Calif.
 

After an impressive performance at the regional level, the students continued to shine at the state competition, competing against more than 70 schools and more than 1,300 attendees. Every HCCMS competitor finished in the top 10, a testament to their dedication, business acumen, and leadership skills.

Four Competitive Events Qualify for Nationals The following teams will represent HCCMS FBLA at the National Leadership Conference:

• 2nd Place – Community Service Presentation (Help the Hooch Initiative): Katy Kozee, Ava McEldoon, Isaac Cooper
• 2nd Place – Annual Chapter Activities Presentation: Taylor Harris, Baylee Garver
• 3rd Place – FBLA Mission and Pledge Speech: Atticus Taylor
• 4th Place – Marketing Mix – Business Proposal: Katy Kozee, Ava McEldoon, Nolan Cummings

Additional Top 10 State Achievements:

• 3rd Place – Video Public Service Announcement: Abbie McMurtry
• 5th Place – Video Public Service Announcement: Hayden Smith, Blake Hood
• 5th Place – Critical Thinking: Hayden Smith, Blake Hood, Isaac Cooper
• 6th Place – Career Research: Taylor Harris
• 6th Place – Exploring Business Issues: Jada Smith, Emma Hinton, Lena Riley
• 7th Place – Public Speaking: Raelyn Stecher
• 7th Place – Career Exploration: Jada Smith
• 8th Place – Career Research: Madison Perry
• 9th Place – Exploring Website Design: Nolan Cole, Nolan Cummings

“Our students’ incredible accomplishments at the State competition showcase their commitment to learning, teamwork, and leadership,” said Ashley Daniel, HCCMS FBLA advisor. “We are thrilled to see them advance to Nationals and represent Harris County on a national stage.”

HCCMS FBLA Recognized as a Top 10 Chapter In addition to individual and team successes, the HCCMS FBLA chapter was honored as a Silver Level Chapter, placing it among the top 10 most active FBLA chapters in Georgia.

Looking Ahead, the national qualifiers will now prepare to compete at the FBLA National Leadership Conference, where they will compete among the best and brightest young business leaders from across the country.

“Congratulations to all of our FBLA members for their outstanding performance,” added Daniel. “Their success is a reflection of their hard work and the unwavering support of our school and community. We look forward to Nationals and the opportunities ahead.”

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.

Group Photo (left to right): Back Row: Jada Smith, Hayden Harris-Smith, Abbie McMurtry, Ava McEldoon, Taylor Harris, Atticus Taylor, Nolan Cummings, Isaac Cooper, Madison Perry, Baylee Garver, Lena Riley. Front Row: Raelyn Stecher, Emma Hinton, Katy Kozee, Nolan Cole, Blake Hood.

Nationals Qualifiers Photo (left to right): Front Row: Katy Kozee, Baylee Garver, Taylor Harris. Second Row: Ava McEldoon. Back Row: Nolan Cummings, Isaac Cooper, Atticus Taylor.

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 (MARCH 3, 2025) – The Harris County School District’s (HCSD) award-winning Mobile Learning Lab calendar* has been set for March 2025.

“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 2025

Pine Mountain: Pine Lane Apartments
Every Tuesday and Thursday (March 4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25, 27)

Hamilton: Harris County Community Center
Monday, March 3
Monday, March 24

Pine Mountain Valley Dollar General or Fire Station
Monday, March 10

Shiloh: City Hall
Every Wednesday (March 5, 12, 19, 26)

Whitesville: Dollar General
Monday, March 17

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 2024-2025 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 5,600+ 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 (FEB. 26, 2025) – The Harris County Public Library transformed into a vibrant gallery space on Feb. 6 as it hosted the opening reception for the countywide student art show. The event featured artwork from 55 student artists, ranging from Pre-K through 12th grade, representing all seven local schools within the Harris County School District (HCSD).
 

The evening reception welcomed a diverse crowd of more than 100 guests, including students, families, teachers, and school administrators. Attendees had the opportunity to admire an array of student artwork, including paintings, drawings, and three-dimensional pieces, all showcasing the creative talents of young artists. Each student whose work was selected for display received a certificate in recognition of their artistic achievement.

"This art show is a testament to the incredible creativity and dedication of our students," said Florence Barnett, art teacher at Creekside Intermediate School and HCSD Art Chair. "It’s inspiring to see the community come together to celebrate these young artists and their work."

In addition to highlighting student achievements, the event encouraged community engagement through a creative Valentine’s Day initiative. Guests were invited to design heartfelt Valentine’s Day cards, which were later delivered to residents of a local Harris County nursing home. This activity underscored the ability of art to connect generations and spread kindness throughout the community.

The reception was attended by several school principals who showed their support for students and the importance of arts education in Harris County schools. The event also reinforced the library’s role as a space for creativity and community involvement.

"The arts play a crucial role in education, providing students with opportunities for self-expression and personal growth," Barnett added. "Seeing their work displayed in a public setting is an invaluable experience that builds confidence and fosters a lifelong appreciation for the arts."

The exhibit will remain on display at the Harris County Public Library (7511 Georgia Highway 116, Hamilton, Ga., 31811) until Feb. 28, allowing visitors to experience the talent and vision of the county’s young artists. The library's hours are as follows: Closed on Sunday, open Monday through Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This annual showcase continues to strengthen the community’s appreciation for the arts and highlights the exceptional work of Harris County 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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Note to editor: Interviews available upon request.

Photo 1 (left to right): Artwork from Creekside Intermediate and Harris County Carver Middle School is displayed at the Harris County Art Show, showcasing the creativity and talent of young artists. The exhibit will be open to the public at the Harris County Public Library through Feb. 28.

Photo 2 (left to right): Cooper Chaudoin (6th grade), Art Teacher Florence Barnett, and Camille Chaudoin (6th grade) pose in front of their artwork at the Harris County Art Show on Feb. 6. The annual event highlights student artistry and encourages community engagement through the arts. The exhibit will be available for viewing at the Harris County Public Library through Feb. 28.

Photo 3(left to right): Gretchen McGregor, Kate Barnett, Kathy Wright, Florence Barnett, Susan Banks, Leslie McNeal, and Gina Hunt stand together at the Harris County Art Show reception on Feb. 6 at the Harris County Public Library. The event celebrated the artistic achievements of student artists from across the county. The exhibit will remain on display through Feb. 28.

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 approximately 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 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 (FEB. 24, 2025) – The public is invited to attend and/or show off their cars at the Harris County High School (HCHS) “County Cars and Handlebars Car Show” on Saturday, March 8, 2025.

Admission for spectators is free. The show will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Harris County High School (8281 GA Hwy. 116, Hamilton, Ga., 31811). Food will be available for purchase from the 219 Food and Spirits food truck, with a portion of proceeds donated back to the event.
 

For contestants, registration will be onsite from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Judging will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with winners and awards announced from 12:30 to 1 p.m. The entry fee is $25 per vehicle per category. Payment can be made via cash or check at the spectator entrance gate. Checks should be made payable to “Harris County High School.” Parking spaces will be assigned in order of arrival.

Car Show Classes Include:

• American Car 2022-2000
• American Car 1999-1979
• American Car 1978-older
• Asian Car 2022-2000
• Asian Car 1999-1979
• Asian Car 1978-older
• European Car 2022-2000
• European Car 1999-1979
• European Car 1978-older
• Electric Car
• Motorcycle Cruiser
• Motorcycle Sports
• Hot Rod
• Rat Rod
• Tractor
• Side by Side
• ATV
• Lawn Mower
• Truck/SUV
• Jeep
• Lowriders

Trophies will be awarded to the winners in each class.

“The ‘County Cars and Handlebars Car Show’ will help raise money for our Electrathon Race Team, fund projects for the Technology Student Association, and support future initiatives for the HCHS Work-Based Learning program,” said Ryan Miller, HCHS engineering drawing and design teacher and Technology Student Association advisor. “All proceeds and donations go directly to supporting these student programs.”

In addition to the HCHS Work-Based Learning and TSA programs, event sponsors include 219 Food and Spirits and O’Reilly Auto Parts.

For donation, vendor, sponsorship, or car club inquiries, contact Gary Johannes at johannes-g@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 editor: Interviews available upon request.

Photos: Previous images from Harris County High School's "County Cars and Handlebars Car Show."

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 approximately 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 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 (FEB. 25, 2025) – Harris County High School (HCHS) will celebrate Black History Month with a special event highlighting the contributions of African Americans to the arts. The Black History Month Showcase, scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 27, will feature student performances, local choirs, vendors, and displays of student artwork, offering an educational and historical experience for the community.
 

The showcase will include choreographed dances, theatrical performances, and more, aiming to illuminate the often-overlooked impact of Black artists throughout history. Organized and directed by HCHS Students Nyah Rivera and Gui Nu Whitley in collaboration with the HCHS Theatre program, the event seeks to engage and educate attendees through the power of the performing arts.

“This showcase is an opportunity to honor the legacy of African American artists and their significant contributions to the arts,” said Rivera. “We hope to bring the community together to celebrate and learn from these powerful stories and performances.”

The event will take place in the HCHS auditorium (8281 GA-116, Hamilton, GA 31811) and will begin at 7 p.m. It will run for approximately one hour and thirty minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. The event is free of charge and open to the public, and community members are encouraged to attend and support this important initiative.

For more information, please contact Nyah Rivera at (254) 669-4303 or via email at hayn52073@gmail.com.

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 is an accredited K-12 school system based in the county seat of Hamilton, Georgia. It serves 5,600+/- 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).

HAMILTON, GA (FEB. 24, 2025) – The Creekside Intermediate School Be THE Voice students recently scored a touchdown for kindness with their "SOUP-ER BOWL" Challenge, a spirited food drive aimed at helping those in need. Held the week leading up to the big game, Feb. 3-7, students in the Be THE Voice program rallied their peers to participate in a friendly competition to collect cans of soup for the HOPE Center Food Pantry.

The challenge pitted 5th-grade students against 6th-grade students, each competing to donate the most cans. As an added incentive, the losing administrator would receive a silly string makeover, making the event both fun and impactful. The Creekside community came together in full force, collecting a total of 1,203 cans—and the donations are still rolling in!

“This was an incredible way for our students to give back to the community while having some fun,” said Latina Maddox, Be THE Voice sponsor at Creekside. “The enthusiasm and generosity from our students and their families were truly inspiring. The H.O.P.E. Center Food Pantry will benefit tremendously from their efforts, and we couldn’t be prouder.” H.O.P.E. stands for “Helping Our People Excel,” and is operated by the HCSD Department of Social Services.

The "SOUP-ER BOWL" Challenge aligns with Creekside Intermediate School’s ongoing mission to foster leadership, character, and community service. By engaging students in activities that promote kindness and generosity, the Be THE Voice program continues to make a lasting impact within the school and beyond.

This impactful program was made possible through the generosity of the Rotary Club of Harris County.

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:
Front Row: Nelia Basset, Landry Parsons, Shelby Hatcher

Middle: Emme Terry, Gloria Douglas, Abby Hood, Abbie Grantham, Levi Vowell

Last: Creekside Teacher and Be the Voice Sponsor Latina Maddox, Mrs. Holmes, Emerson Pracht, Kate Stone, Lillana Ruiz, Hailey Burgess, Eli Grimsley, Brock Bridges, Creekside Assistant Principal Ryan Hart

Photo 2 (left to right): Emme Terry, Shelby Hatcher, Nelia Basset

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 5,600+ 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 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 (FEB. 20, 2025) – The Harris County High School (HCHS) Science Olympiad team made history this year with their first-ever appearance at the regional competition, earning multiple top placements in challenging STEM events. Their outstanding performance is a testament to their dedication, problem-solving skills, and teamwork.

Lorenzo Musolino and Autumn McCrory secured first place in Bungee Drop, while Grace Wilkinson and Sara McAllister achieved second place in Experimental Design. The team of Shubham Rao, Oliver Guerrero, and Camden Burns placed fourth in the Helicopter event, showcasing their dedication and STEM expertise.

The Science Olympiad is a prestigious competition featuring 20 rigorous events that challenge students in various STEM disciplines. Participants engage in hands-on engineering tasks, such as testing the weight capacity of a tower before it collapses, programming a robot to navigate a maze, and designing a rubber band-powered helicopter to maximize flight time. Other students showcase their expertise through academic events like entomology, disease detection, and chemistry lab experiments. This competition fosters curiosity and innovation while adding a competitive edge to STEM learning.

“This year marks our team’s first trip to the regional competition—a testament to our students’ hard work and dedication. It truly paid off,” said Timothy Jones, HCHS Science Olympiad sponsor and teacher. “Their success reflects countless hours of preparation, problem-solving, and teamwork, and I couldn’t be prouder of them. We now progress on to the State Championship at Georgia Tech on March 29.”

The team's success was further supported by a generous $1,000 donation from the Kiwanis Club in January of this year, which helped cover competition fees, travel expenses, and resources necessary for students to compete at the highest level.

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

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Note to Editor: Additional images and interviews are available upon request.

Photo 1: Science Olympiad Team (left to right):

Back Row: Grace Wilkinson, Carsten Gibson, Camden Burns, Lawson Killough, Connor Archilla, Lorenzo Musolino, Tim Jones
Middle: Jennifer Rolison, Shubham Rao, Ava DeVore, Sara McAllister, Oliver Guerrero, Neely Carroll
Front: Takya Marshall, Destiny Bess, Autumn McCrory, Charlie Albrecht

Photo 2 (left to right): Bungee Drop Champions: Harris County High School students Lorenzo Musolino and Autumn McCrory celebrate their first-place victory in the Bungee Drop event at the state Science Olympiad competition.

Photo 3 (left to right): Experimental Design Excellence: Grace Wilkinson and Sara McAllister proudly display their second-place medals after showcasing their problem-solving skills in the Experimental Design event.

Photo 4 (left to right): Helicopter Team Success: Shubham Rao, Oliver Guerrero, and Camden Burns demonstrate their engineering prowess after securing fourth place in the Helicopter event at the state competition.

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).

About Science Olympiad
Science Olympiad is a nationwide program dedicated to improving the quality of science education, increasing student interest in science, and recognizing outstanding achievement in STEM disciplines. Teams compete in various hands-on, collaborative events that cover topics in biology, chemistry, engineering, physics, earth science, and technology. Founded in 1984, Science Olympiad fosters teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking among students, preparing them for future careers in science and engineering.

HAMILTON, GA (UPDATED MARCH 6, 2025) – The Harris County High School Work-Based Learning program will host County Jams, a live music event benefiting CTAE (Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education) programs, on Saturday, March 22, 2025*, from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at Durham Field in Tiger Stadium, 8281 GA-116, Hamilton, GA 31811.

Music lovers can enjoy performances by GP 38 (Link to Video) and the country music sister duo Kit+Char (Link to Video), both well-known across the Chattahoochee Valley and throughout Georgia and Alabama.

Seating & Ticket Information
(Alcohol, smoking, and vaping are prohibited on school property; the school dress code will be enforced.)

·         General admission (bleacher seating): $25 through March 21; $30 at the gate
·         Preferred seating (floor level): $35
·         VIP floor seating (includes table service, six seats per table): $50 per seat

Gates open at 5 p.m. Parking is free.

Tickets are available at GoFan: https://gofan.co/app/school/GA15915.

Dine Onsite and Support the Cause
Attendees can enjoy a selection of local favorites from 219 Food & Spirits (https://www.219foodandspirits.com/), which will be available for purchase during the event. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to support Harris County High School’s CTAE programs, benefiting students through both the car show and concert. Dining at 219 Food & Spirits is another way for attendees to contribute to local student success.

On-Site Childcare Available
For families attending with children, on-site childcare will be available starting at 4:30 p.m. for ages 5 to 13. The cost is $20 per child ($10 for each additional sibling) and includes:

·         Pizza, fruit, cookie, and a drink
·         Game centers
·         Craft activities
·         A family-friendly movie

County Cars & Handlebars Car Show
The County Cars & Handlebars Car Show will take place from the same day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the student parking lot. Car entry is $25 per vehicle, and spectators attend for free. A food truck from 219 Food & Spirits will be available with a percentage of proceeds being donated to the CTAE programs. Registration is available through GoFan (https://gofan.co/event/3273988?schoolId=GA15915) or on the day of the event.

Student Involvement & Hands-On Learning
In addition to great food and entertainment, attendees will support students who played a key role in event logistics, T-shirt printing, table decorations, and both car show and concert setup—gaining valuable hands-on experience through their CTAE programs.

Supporting CTAE Programs
Proceeds from these events will benefit HCHS Work-Based Learning and the Teaching as a Profession Pathway, two of the many CTAE programs that provide students with hands-on learning experiences to prepare them for future careers.

“This event is an exciting way to bring our community together while recognizing the hard work of our students,” said Gary Johannes, HCHS Work-Based Learning coordinator. “Our CTAE programs, including Work-Based Learning and the Teaching as a Profession Pathway, provide real-world opportunities that help students build the skills they need for future success.”

Get Your Concert and Childcare Tickets Today!

Tickets are available at GoFan: https://gofan.co/app/school/GA15915. 

 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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*RAIN DATE: County Jams rain date is Saturday, March 22, 2025.

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 5,600+/- 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).

HAMILTON, GA (FEBRUARY 18, 2025) – With prom season around the corner, the Harris County School District's (HCSD) Department of Social Services and Parent University is seeking donations of new and gently used dress clothes and formalwear for the upcoming fifth annual Prom-a-Palooza event. This collaborative effort aims to alleviate the financial burden on high school students, ensuring that prom remains an inclusive and memorable experience for all Harris County High School students.

“All shopping is done in a discretionary manner, and all dresses, suits, and accessories are given to students free of charge. Our focus is on eliminating financial stress and making happy memories for our Harris County High School students,” said Shelia Baker, HCSD assistant superintendent of support services. For those willing to contribute or volunteer, please reach out to Mrs. Carey at the H.O.P.E. Center.“

To reach Carey at the H.O.P.E. Center about donations, contact her at (706) 628-4206, Ext. 2301, or via email at carey-t@harris.k12.ga.us. Donations are requested to be dropped off Feb. 17 through March 4.

Prom-a-Palooza welcomes both donors and volunteers to contribute the following items:

For Girls:
·         Formal dresses
·         Shoes
·         Accessories

For Boys:
·         Suits
·         Shirts
·         Ties
·         Shoes

Additionally, donations of makeup, personal hygiene items, bottles of water, and snacks are appreciated to make gift bags for the students.

All shopping during Prom-a-Palooza is conducted discreetly, and all dresses, suits, and accessories are provided to students completely free of charge. The primary focus is on eliminating financial stress and creating joyful memories for our high school students.

Event Details:
Date: Saturday, March 8, 2025
Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Appointments: Students must register and select a time to come to the H.O.P.E. Center for their individual shopping. Upon arrival, they will be assigned personal shoppers to assist with their Prom-a-Palooza experience.

Location: The HCSD H.O.P.E. Center, 106 Mountain Creek Drive, Hamilton

The prom is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025.

Baker added, “Together, the community will help make the 2025 HCHS Prom a stress-free and unforgettable experience for our high school 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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Note to editors: Upon request, interviews may be arranged.

About the HCSD Department of Social Services and Parent University
The Department of Social Services and Parent University collaborate to address the needs of high school students facing financial barriers in preparing for prom. Together, they strive to create an inclusive and joyous prom experience for all students in the Harris County School District.

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 5,600+ 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 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).

On Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025, Harris County School District (HCSD) Superintendent Justin Finney addressed the members of the Chipley Woman's Club in Pine Mountain, Ga., during their monthly meeting.

His presentation focused on the district's most recent annual report, which is available at https://www.harris.k12.ga.us/school-board/strategic-plan-scorecards. The session also included an insightful question and answer session, where topics were discussed such as the potential construction of new schools in the district and the ongoing debate about dismantling the U.S. Department of Education. Dr. Finney’s presentation sparked thoughtful conversation and provided valuable updates for the community.

As a token of appreciation for Dr. Finney taking the time to speak with their group, Mary Ruth Mullins of the Chipley Woman’s Club's generously presented Dr. Finney with a donation to help cover outstanding student lunch account balances in the district, reinforcing their commitment to supporting local students.

HAMILTON, GA. (FEB. 7, 2025) –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 2026-2027 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-5 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 School District’s
• Student days divided as evenly as possible by nine weeks per semester
• Attempted observation of federal holidays
• Stakeholder (parent, teacher, and community) input

2026-2027 Calendar Options

Both calendar options feature:
·         Teacher in-service begins on August 4
·         Students begin school on August 7
·         Have 180 student days with 88 days/92 days balance between first and second semester
·         Have 10 professional learning days
·         Have Spring Break aligned with Muscogee County School District’s

The differences for each version are:

·  Version A – 

• • December 21 – Teacher in-service day
  • January 4-5 – Teacher in-service days
  • January 6 – Students return from break
  • May 25 – Last day for students

·  Version B –

• • January 4-6 – Teacher in-service days
  • January 7 – Students return from break
  • May 26 – Last day for students

Stakeholder input is being collected through midnight on Friday, Feb. 28. 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 Infinite Campus Parent Portal. For a paper version of the information, the community may visit the HCSD Central Office (132 Barnes Mill Road Hamilton, Ga. 31811) between the hours of 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday.

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 5,600+ 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 (FEB. 6, 2025) – Harris County High School (HCHS) recently honored the exceptional academic achievements of its top students from the Class of 2025: the Valedictorian, Salutatorian, STAR (Student Teacher Achievement Recognition) Student, and STAR Teacher. For the second consecutive year, the Salutatorian and STAR Student titles were earned by the same individual, resulting in two students being recognized instead of three. The ceremony celebrated their dedication, perseverance, and outstanding academic excellence.

Valedictorian of the Class of 2025 – Connor Archilla

Earning the highest GPA in HCHS history with a 4.7679, Connor Archilla has distinguished himself as a scholar, leader, and community advocate. His rigorous academic journey includes maxing out the school’s AP course offerings, earning multiple AP Scholar distinctions, and excelling in advanced mathematics.

His accomplishments include:

• Attending the Governor’s Honors Program as a sophomore in Mathematics
• Completing two advanced mathematics courses at Columbus State University
• Earning top AP exam scores, with eight fives and four fours
• Leading and participating in various clubs and community service projects
• Running a lawn care business while maintaining academic excellence

“Connor’s work ethic is truly inspiring,” said Tammy Bailey, HCHS senior guidance counselor. “His ability to balance such a challenging course load while also giving back to his community is remarkable. He has set the bar high for future students.”

Connor’s leadership extends beyond the classroom, including stepping in to teach Pre-Calculus when a teacher was unavailable. His enthusiasm for education and unwavering optimism make him a standout student and role model. While awaiting final college decisions, Connor plans to major in mathematics.

Recognizing Excellence: STAR Student and Salutatorian – Tate Williams

Tate Williams, recognized for his intellectual curiosity, discipline, and leadership, earned the prestigious titles of STAR Student and Salutatorian. Ranking in the top 10 percent of his class and achieving the highest SAT score in a single sitting, Tate has consistently excelled academically, particularly in the field of computer science.

His achievements include:

• The Academic Award for Achievement in Computer Science
• State and national placements in Academic Bowl, Technology Student Association, and CyberPatriot
• Recognition as a College Board Rural Scholar and AP Scholar with Distinction
• Participation in the National Science Bowl
• Membership in honor societies such as the National Honor Society and Science National Honor Society

“Tate is an incredibly gifted student who thrives in any challenge he takes on,” said Bailey. “His passion for learning and problem-solving sets him apart, and we are so proud of his accomplishments.”

Beyond academics, Tate is also dedicated to community service, participating in initiatives such as laying wreaths at Andersonville National Historic Site and assisting at a women’s shelter. While he has yet to decide on a college, he plans to pursue a degree in computer science.

 STAR Teacher: Katie Sizemore

Tate selected Katie Sizemore, an HCHS computer science teacher, as his STAR Teacher. In announcing his choice, he shared that Sizemore has been a constant source of positivity and motivation, encouraging him and his peers throughout high school. As Tate advances to the regional and state levels of recognition, Sizemore will continue alongside him in the STAR program.

The valedictorian and salutatorian are determined after the fall semester based on the highest cumulative grade point average (GPA). Additionally, the 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.

“Harris County High School is proud to celebrate these students, whose achievements reflect the school’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and leadership,” said HCHS Principal Lindie Snyder. “Their determination and passion for learning will undoubtedly lead to continued success in their future endeavors.”

HCHS faculty, staff, Board of Education members, and the students’ families attended the event to celebrate these exceptional scholars. Peers and teachers also participated in the ceremony, which was live-streamed for the entire student body. Following the event, attendees gathered for a breakfast reception and cake to commemorate the students’ achievements.

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 and images are available upon request.

Photo 1 (left to right): Harris County High School (HCHS) Class of 2025 Valedictorian Connor Archilla, STAR Teacher Katie Sizemore, Salutatorian and STAR Student Tate Williams, and Harris County School District Superintendent Justin Finney.

Other photos have names in the titles.

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 (FEB. 6, 2025) – The Harris County School District’s (HCSD) H.O.P.E. Center is pleased to announce two upcoming Shopping Days to support families in need during the winter months. The first Spring 2025 event will be on Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025, with the final event in the four-part series scheduled for Wednesday, March 12, 2025.

Through the generosity of community support and dedicated volunteers, the H.O.P.E. Center will offer free access to clothing, personal items, and other essential goods to families in need. These Shopping Days help ensure that all students are equipped with the resources they need to succeed, regardless of financial barriers.

“We are thrilled to continue offering these events to our students and families,” said Vicki Williams-Curry, HCSD coordinator of social services. “Providing free clothing and basic necessities allows our students to focus on their education and personal growth, knowing their immediate needs are being met.”

Upcoming Spring 2025 Shopping Day Dates:
• February 12, 2025
• March 12, 2025

All events will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at The H.O.P.E. Center, located at 106 Mountain Creek Drive, Hamilton, GA 31811.

The H.O.P.E. Center (Helping Other People Excel) is a vital resource within the district, offering assistance for students and families facing basic needs such as clothing, food, and educational support throughout the school year—not just on Shopping Day events.

For more information or to make reservations, please contact The H.O.P.E. Center at (706) 628-4206, Ext. 2301, or email curry-vicki@harris.k12.ga.us.

To learn more about the Harris County School District, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

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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 more than 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 educational excellence for every child,” Harris County School District strives to provide students with the tools they need to become the future workforce and leaders in society. For more information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or find us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

HAMILTON, GA. (FEB. 4, 2025) – Harris County High School (HCHS) recently received a significant boost to its CTAE (Career, Technical, and Agriculture Education) Automotive Program, thanks to a generous donation from Kia Georgia. The school has received two vehicles—a Kia Telluride and a Kia K5—that will serve as vital instructional tools for students pursuing hands-on experience in automotive technology.

The addition of a 2020 Kia Telluride and a 2021 Kia K5 marks a new chapter for the program, enabling students to work on modern vehicles equipped with advanced systems and features. These vehicles will allow participants to gain practical, real-world skills in diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining complex automotive technologies, preparing them for successful careers in a fast-changing industry.

“We are incredibly grateful to Kia Georgia for their generous support of our program,” said Tyler Dunn, HCHS CTAE director. “This donation represents an extraordinary opportunity for our students to engage directly with the cutting-edge systems they’ll encounter in the workforce. It’s a gift that will have a lasting impact on their education and future careers.”

The vehicles will serve as training tools in key areas of automotive technology, including:

• Diagnostics and troubleshooting of advanced electronic and safety systems

• Maintenance and repair of modern powertrain technologies

• Application of industry-standard tools and techniques in real-world scenarios

The donation highlights Kia Georgia’s commitment to fostering education and workforce development in the local community. As one of the most advanced manufacturing facilities in the region, Kia Georgia continues to support programs that inspire and prepare the next generation of skilled professionals.

Principal Lindie Snyder shared, “Partnerships like the one we have with Kia Georgia are essential in providing our students with the real-world experiences they need to succeed beyond the classroom. By working with industry leaders, we can bridge the gap between education and career readiness, ensuring that our students graduate with the skills and confidence to excel in today’s workforce.”

For more information about the HCHS Automotive Program or any other CTAE programs, or to inquire about sponsorships and donations, please contact Tyler Dunn at dunn-t@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 editors: Interviews available upon request.

Photos: Kia Georgia has donated two vehicles - a Kia Telluride and a Kia K5 – to the Harris County High School CTAE (Career, Technical, and Agriculture Education) Automotive Program to provide students with hands-on learning opportunities.

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 (FEB. 4, 2025) – Despite the grey, misty day, spirits were high at Park Elementary as students, staff, and special guests gathered to celebrate a truly out-of-this-world event—the planting of Luna, a Loblolly Pine seedling that traveled over 268,000 miles around the Moon aboard NASA’s Artemis I Mission.

The first-grade class, assisted by representatives from the Georgia Forestry Commission, had the honor of planting Luna in her new home on school grounds alongside the sidewalk as guests enter the front entrance of the school.

"Today, we’re planting more than just a tree," said Principal Allyson Douthit. "We’re planting a symbol of exploration, scientific discovery, and the boundless potential of our students. Luna’s journey—from space to Harris County—will serve as a lasting reminder to our Tiger Cubs to dream big and reach for the stars."

To mark the occasion, guests enjoyed Moon Pies as a fun nod to the tree’s cosmic journey, while students received Starburst candy, reinforcing the theme of space and discovery.

Heather Westad, the Park Elementary teacher who applied for and secured the school’s Moon Tree, shared her excitement: “This is an incredible opportunity—not just for our students and school, but for the entire community. Having a piece of space exploration right here in Harris County is truly special.”

Luna now stands as a living testament to innovation and exploration, encouraging students to embrace curiosity and STEM learning for generations to come.
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 1 (left to right): Ben Talley, Ben Brogdon, Keith Sanders of the Georgia Forestry Commission assist the students in planting the tree.

Photo 2 (left to right): Olivia Yepez, (WRBL employee) Sterling Gonos, Heather Westad, and Collins Moye

Photo 3 (left to right): HCSD Park Moon Tree Jan 2025 Left to right Leilani McKinnon, Maverick Brening, Justin Yates, Faith Trippett,  Harmony Clarke, Ryker Lackey, Josilas Singleton, and Collins Moye

Photo 4 (left to right):Justin Yates, Jameson Childress, Leilani McKinnon, Faith Trippett, Ryker Lackey, Josilas Singleton, Collins Moye, Emmeline Cork, and Finn Crawford

Additional Information:
To learn more about the Artemis Mission Moon Trees and their journey, visit NASA’s official page: NASA Artemis Moon Trees.

Background Information:

• Artemis I Mission: The spacecraft traveled around the Moon and back, carrying five species of tree seeds as part of a historic payload.
• Germination Process: Upon return to Earth, the seeds were nurtured by the USDA Forest Service, and recipients were carefully selected by NASA.
• Luna’s Potential: As a Loblolly Pine, Luna could grow up to 90 feet tall with a breadth of 35 feet, standing as a living testament to the spirit of discovery.

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 (JAN. 28, 2025) –The Harris County High School (HCHS) Science Olympiad team recently received a generous $1,000 donation from the Kiwanis Club following a presentation by team members and sponsors.

The presentation, which outlined the goals and needs of the Science Olympiad team, highlighted the importance of financial support in enabling students to compete in science-focused events and develop their STEM skills. The donation will help cover competition fees, travel expenses, and resources for the team.

“Support like this from the Kiwanis Club means the world to our students,” said Tim Jones, one of the Science Olympiad sponsors. “It allows us to provide opportunities for students to grow, compete, and excel in STEM fields.”

During the check presentation, the team expressed their gratitude for the Kiwanis Club’s commitment to supporting youth development and education in the community.

The Science Olympiad team is now gearing up for upcoming competitions, with hopes of representing Harris County at the state and national levels.

For more information about the Harris County School District, 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 (left to right): Tim Jones, Harris County High School teacher and Science Olympiad sponsor; Jamie Webb, Kiwanis representative; Connor Archilla, Science Olympiad president; Oliver Guerrero, Science Olympiad member; and Jennifer Rolison, Science Olympiad sponsor.

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).

About Science Olympiad
Science Olympiad is a nationwide program dedicated to improving the quality of science education, increasing student interest in science, and recognizing outstanding achievement in STEM disciplines. Teams compete in various hands-on, collaborative events that cover topics in biology, chemistry, engineering, physics, earth science, and technology. Founded in 1984, Science Olympiad fosters teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking among students, preparing them for future careers in science and engineering.

HAMILTON, GA (JAN. 27, 2025) – The Harris County School District’s (HCSD) award-winning Mobile Learning Lab calendar* has been set for February 2025.

“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:

February 2025

Pine Mountain: Pine Lane Apartments
Every Tuesday and Thursday (February 4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 25, 27)

Hamilton: Harris County Community Center
Monday, February 3

Pine Mountain Valley/Dollar General or Fire Station
Monday, February 10

Shiloh: City Hall
Every Wednesday (February 5, 12, 19, 26)

Whitesville: Dollar General
Monday, February 24

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 2024-2025 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 5,600+ 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 (JANUARY 27, 2025) – It is time for the Pre-K (pre-kindergarten) registration process to begin for the Harris County School District (HCSD) for the 2025-2026 academic year. This program provides children, four years of age, with foundational skills needed to prepare them for kindergarten. Seats are limited to 20 students per class by the state and are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

“Parents can now apply to confirm eligibility based on a set of criteria,” shared Assistant Superintendent of Support Services Shelia Baker. “Those determined eligible will receive a confirmation email with a link that will be accessible on the registration date and time. At that point, the limited number of seats in the county will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.”

The three-step process includes:

STEP ONE: Confirm Eligibility – Tuesday, February 18-Tuesday, March 24, 2025
The window to submit the Pre-K application is Tuesday, Feb. 18, through Tuesday, March 24. Required documents to have on hand for this submission include (Tip: when naming files for uploading, be sure to not use spaces, ex. JohnDoeBirthCertificate):

·         Harris County Pre-K serves students residing in Harris County, GA or the child of a current HCSD employee

·         Student must be four (4) years old by or on September 1, 2025.

·         Proof of child’s age: child's birth certificate

·         Parent Identification: A current, valid government-issued ID that must show current residency (ex. Georgia driver’s license)

·         THREE (3) Proofs of residency: Lease/mortgage statement, vehicle registration, utility bill, land-line phone bill (no cell phone bills), etc. (Bills must be within the last 60 days and include name and address matching registration.) If you do not have the required proof(s) of residency, you will need to apply for an Affidavit of Residency. To apply, as soon as possible contact the H.O.P.E. CENTER at (706) 628-4206 ext. 2301 for an appointment. Allow up to two weeks for the appointment and approval. Affidavit must be approved prior to submitting Pre-K Application.

To submit this eligibility information, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us/roundup. “For this process, it is imperative that parents use a confirmed email address that they have access to on a regular basis,” Baker stated. “And it is important that for each child there is only one submission. Please verify that your email is accurate before submitting your application.”

For those who need assistance, the HCSD H.O.P.E. Center (106 Mountain Creek Dr., Hamilton, Ga.) is available between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. to complete the online form using a limited number of available devices and/or internet connection. For the H.O.P.E. CENTER, call (706) 628-4206 ext. 2301.

Once eligibility is confirmed, a registration link will be sent by email for use on Pre-K Sign Up Day on Wednesday, April 9.

STEP TWO: Pre-K Sign Up Day – OPENS ON Wednesday, April 9, 2025
·         Only those who received a pre-approval email with the Pre-K Sign Up link will be able to sign up on this date. (If not received, before calling please check Spam/Junk folder in email account).

·         The link will be live at 7 a.m., Wednesday, April 9, 2025.

·         The submissions at this link will be timestamped, and spots will be filled in the order they are electronically received. The District will notify parent/guardian of acceptance or wait-list status by email on or before Friday, April 18, 2025.

STEP THREE: Online Registration (OLR) (Start date to be determined)
For those who receive an email of acceptance, to secure their child’s Pre-K spot, the parent must complete the Online Registration process at https://harris.k12.ga.us/olr no later than Wednesday, April 30, 2025. You will be required to re-upload vital documents when completing OLR.

Parents and guardians need to be prepared and be familiar with the following:

·         Students must be willing to attend school in person (At this time, no virtual option will be offered for Pre-K.)

·         Pre-K students must register for the school in their home school attendance zone. To ensure that parents are choosing the correct school, prior to online registration, parent/guardians should confirm the school assigned to their address by contacting the HCSD Transportation Department at (706) 628-4220, extension 1301, 1306, or 1307. Note: If a student is registered for the incorrect school zone, the student's name will be placed at the bottom of the registration list or wait list for the school in which he/she is zoned.

·         Late Pre-K registration will open April 21, 2025.

The HCSD has released its 2025-2026 school calendar, which is slated to begin Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025. The calendar is available at www.harris.k12.ga.us. All enrollment required forms are due by Sept. 15, 2025.

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 (DEC. 17, 2024) – Harris County High School’s (HCHS) Construction and Welding Team had an impressive showing at the 2024 SkillsUSA and Skills Challenges, securing 28 state qualifier spots for the upcoming state competition in February.

Joshua Tracy, HCHS construction teacher, expressed his pride in the team's performance, noting, “Of the 35 placements to go to state, Harris County High School earned 28. This outstanding achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of our students and staff. As we prepare for the state competition in February, we are proud to see such strong representation in various trades. Our goal remains to foster excellence in the skilled trades and prepare our students for successful careers in construction and related industries. Thank you to everyone who supports these students and their achievements.”

HCHS students competed in multiple events across different challenges, with standout performances from several individuals.

2024 Skills Challenge Results

Central Georgia Skills Challenge, Macon, Ga. (Oct. 31, 2024)

• Kortney Brown, Masonry – 2nd place
• Trey Wyche, Electrical – 3rd place

West Georgia Skills Challenge, Columbus, Ga. (Nov. 12, 2024) – SkillsUSA Region 4 State Qualifier

• Kortney Brown, Masonry – Champion and SkillsUSA State Qualifier Gold Medalist
• Lindsey Hare, Carpentry – Champion and SkillsUSA State Qualifier Gold Medalist
• Joey Gibbs, Plumbing – Champion and SkillsUSA State Qualifier Gold Medalist
• Trey Wyche, Electrical – Champion and SkillsUSA State Qualifier Gold Medalist
• Anderson Beal, Cabinetmaking – Champion and SkillsUSA State Qualifier Gold Medalist
• Easton Mobley, Cabinetmaking – 2nd place and SkillsUSA State Qualifier Silver Medalist
• Kassidy Lisle, Blueprint Reading – 3rd place
• Layne Hudson, Blueprint Reading – Competitor
• Jay Hydrick, Teamworks – Champion
• Coleton Lehman, Teamworks – Champion
• Colby Morneault, Teamworks – Champion
• Hayden Lovett, Teamworks – Champion
• Cuyler Morneault, Carpentry – SkillsUSA State Qualifier Silver Medalist
• Mason Mudd, Plumbing – SkillsUSA State Qualifier Silver Medalist
• Anderson Vargas, Electrical – SkillsUSA State Qualifier Silver Medalist
• Jackson Phillips, Welding – SkillsUSA State Qualifier Gold Medalist
• Calym Gray, Welding – SkillsUSA State Qualifier Bronze Medalist
• Garrett Meeler, Welding Fabrication Team – 2nd place
• Mary Rehrauer, Welding Fabrication Team – 2nd place
• Ayden Garcia, Welding Fabrication Team – 2nd place
• HCHS – Overall Winner/Alliance Award

South + Southwest Georgia Skills Challenge, Moultrie, Ga. (Nov. 14, 2024)

• Joey Gibbs, Plumbing – Champion
• Trey Wyche, Electrical – Champion
• Kortney Brown, Masonry – 2nd place
• Calym Gray, Tulsa Welding – 11th place (approx. 100 competitors)

The students earned awards such as banners, medals, and hand tools from sponsors like DeWalt and Milwaukee Tool Co. Participation in the Skills Challenges is free for students, further supporting the growth of young talent in skilled trades.

For more information about Harris County School District, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow them on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

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): Harris County High School's Construction and Welding Team celebrates their success at the 2024 SkillsUSA and West Georgia Skills Challenges. The team earned 28 state qualifier spots and was named Overall Winner/Alliance Cup Winner at the Central Georgia Skills Challenge in Columbus, GA. Pictured are the students who placed in various events, including masonry, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, welding, and team competitions. Front Row: Logan Davidson, HCHS Welding Teacher Mark Howington, Kassidy Lisle, Kortney Brown, Anderson Vargas, Coleton Lehman, Cuyler Morneault, Cale Bedford. Middle Row: Owen Daughtery, Ian Poague, James Rose, Layne Hudson, Mary Reyerhouser, Chris Tracy, Lindsey Hare, HCHS Construction Teacher Joshua Tracy, Anderson Beal, Joey Gibbs, Colby Morneault. Back Row: Jay Hydrick, Sincere Howard, Hayden Lovett, Jackson Phillips, Calym Grey, Aiden Garcia, Trey Wyche, Easton Mobley, Mason Mudd

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 (DECEMBER 17, 2024) – Harris County High School (HCHS) is proud to announce that Ryan Gilbert, a 2022 graduate of the school, has been selected as the recipient of the Construction Ready Graduate of the Year Champion Award. This prestigious honor is awarded by Construction Ready staff to individuals who have made significant contributions to advancing the construction industry in Georgia.

Ryan Gilbert, a graduate of HCHS’s welding program, earned three welding certifications before graduation and furthered his education at the Divers Institute of Technology in Seattle, where he completed a program in underwater welding. In Baltimore, he is part of the team involved in the salvage efforts of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, following a shipwreck incident in March 2024 that caused the collapse of the bridge’s spans. Currently, he is working in the Gulf of Mexico on an oil rig employed by Phoenix International.

"I’m truly honored to receive this recognition from Construction Ready," said Gilbert. "The welding program at HCHS provided me with the skills and certifications that have helped me succeed in my career. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such an important project and to continue advancing in the construction industry."

Mark Howington, Gilbert’s welding instructor at HCHS, shared his pride in Gilbert’s achievements: "Ryan was a dedicated student who demonstrated a true passion for welding from the start. His hard work and commitment to his craft have taken him far, and it’s no surprise that he’s making such an impact in the field. We’re incredibly proud of Ryan’s accomplishments, and this recognition is well-deserved."

HCHS’s Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) programs, including the welding and construction pathways, equip students with the skills and knowledge they need for real-world success. By offering hands-on training, industry certifications, and access to apprenticeship opportunities, the CTAE program helps students like Gilbert gain a competitive edge in the job market. The program prepares students for a variety of career paths, providing them with valuable certifications that boost employability and open doors to advanced career opportunities.

"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’s Science and Technology Center. "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."

In addition, 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.

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Note to editors: Interviews may be requested.

Photo 1: Ryan Gilbert, a 2022 graduate of Harris County High School, proudly holds his Construction Ready Graduate of the Year Champion Award, recognizing his significant contributions to the construction industry and his career in underwater welding.

Photo 2: Ryan Gilbert, a 2022 graduate of Harris County High School, receives the Construction Ready Graduate of the Year Champion Award from Scott Shelar, president and CEO of Construction Ready. Gilbert was recognized for his outstanding contributions to the construction industry. His work in underwater welding and his role in the salvage operations of the Francis Scott Key Bridge is a highlight.

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).

About Construction Ready
Construction Ready is a workforce development program dedicated to preparing individuals for successful careers in the construction industry. Offering comprehensive training, certification, and job placement support, Construction Ready equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in various construction fields. With a focus on hands-on learning and industry partnerships, Construction Ready helps meet the growing demand for skilled labor in Georgia’s construction industry. For more information, visit www.constructionready.org.

HAMILTON, GA (DECEMBER 17, 2024) – The Rotary Club of Harris County continues its esteemed tradition of recognizing exceptional educators in the Harris County School District (HCSD) through its Teacher of the Month awards. Each month, one dedicated teacher is spotlighted for their outstanding commitment to their students, colleagues, and the broader educational community.

September 2024: Maritza Alamo – Harris County High School (HCHS)
Maritza Alamo, an esteemed Spanish teacher, brings the Spanish language to life with her quick wit and vivacious personality, earning the admiration of her students and peers. She consistently seeks innovative ways to engage students and foster a love for learning. As a dedicated mentor, Mrs. Alamo has been instrumental in the growth of the Spanish department, advocating for expanded Spanish education at both middle and high school levels. “Mrs. Alamo is truly ¡fabulosa!,” said HCHS Principal Lindie Snyder.

October 2024: Paige Burns – Harris County Carver Middle School (HCCMS)

Since joining HCCMS in 2022, Paige Burns has made an immediate and lasting impact on both her students and colleagues. Principal Jennifer Taylor shared that Burns is known for her dedication and passion for growth, Burns embraces new challenges to enhance educational opportunities. She fosters essential relationships that create meaningful learning experiences, embodying the spirit of teaching in every way.

November 2024: Andrea Small-Jules – EOC/STEPS

Andrea Small-Jules, affectionately known as “Momma Jules”, exemplifies resilience, care, and dedication to Harris County’s at-risk youth at the EOC/STEPS program. From her early days as a bus driver to becoming the 2023-2024 EOC Teacher of the Year, Jules has demonstrated a passion for helping students thrive. Her ability to provide a warm, structured, and nurturing environment ensures every student feels valued and capable of success. “Her unwavering dedication and tireless work ethic make her an irreplaceable figure at the EOC,” shared EOC/STEPS Administrator Ariane Stecher.

December 2024: Jessica Grubbs – Creekside School (CS)

As a 5th-grade social studies teacher, Jessica Grubbs has a gift for bringing history to life. Her hands-on teaching style helps students connect the past to the present in meaningful ways. Serving as both the 5th Grade Social Studies Content Lead and yearbook advisor, Grubbs’ influence extends beyond the classroom, enhancing Creekside’s community and climate. “Every student in her class assumes they are her favorite, as she makes each one feel valued,” shared Creekside Principal Jennifer Sappington.

Each honoree was recognized for their achievements at Rotary Club meetings, where they received a certificate of appreciation and a gift card in recognition of their exceptional service.

“These educators represent the very best of our district,” said Emily Byrde, Rotarian and youth services director. “Their dedication to their students and schools inspires excellence throughout Harris County.”

For more information about the Harris County School District, 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. Serving more than 5,600 students, HCSD operates 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,” HCSD ensures 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).

Photo 1 (left to right): Rotarian and Youth Services Director Emily Byrd presents Maritza Alamo of Harris County High School with her certificate for being selected as the September 2024 Rotary Club of Harris County Teacher of the Month.

Photo 2 (left to right): Paige Burns of Harris County Carver Middle School receives her certificate for being selected as the October 2024 Rotary Club of Harris County Teacher of the Month, presented by Rotarian and Youth Services Director Emily Byrd. The Harris County School District appreciates the Rotary Club working to recognize our educators.
Photo 3 (left to right): Rotarian and Youth Services Director Emily Byrd presents Andrea Small-Jules of Harris County School District’s EOC/STEPS with her certificate for being selected as the November 2024 Rotary Club of Harris County Teacher of the Month.

Photo 4 (left to right): Rotary Club President Jim Trott, Rotarian and Youth Services Director Emily Byrd, and Jessica Grubbs of Creekside Intermediate School, who was selected as the December 2024 Rotary Club of Harris County Teacher of the Month.

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 (DEC. 20, 2024) – To recognize academic excellence and support education in the Harris County School District, the Rotary Club of Harris County selects a Harris County High School student each month as the “Student of the Month.”

For the final months of 2024, the following students have been recognized:

• September – Nya Rivera

   

• October – Tate Williams

•  

• November – Sara McAllister

   

• December – Lane Miller

   

Honorees receive a certificate and are invited to attend a Rotary meeting, where they are introduced and share something about themselves. These students also become candidates for the Rotary's annual scholarship program, awarded at graduation.

“We are very fortunate to have our local Rotary take the time to honor our students with this ‘Student of the Month’ program,” said Tammy Bailey, senior counselor at Harris County High School. “The students appreciate the recognition, and it’s a wonderful accolade to include on college applications.”

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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Photos and Captions:

• September: Nyah Rivera (center), a senior at Harris County High School, receives the Student of the Month award from Rotary Club Youth Services Director Emily Byrd (left). Nyah’s mother joined her at the event.
• October: Tate Williams (center) was accompanied by his mother, Tammy Williams, at the October Rotary Club meeting to accept his Student of the Month award for the month of October.
• November: Sara McAllister receives the November Student of the Month award from Emily Byrd (left), Youth Services Director of the Rotary Club of Harris County. Sara’s parents were in attendance.
• December: Lane Miller, a senior at Harris County High School, is presented the December Student of the Month award by Rotary Club President Jim Trott and Youth Services Director Emily Byrd. Lane’s father, Chris Miller, accompanied him.

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 (JANUARY 23, 2025) – The Harris County School District (HCSD) announces the extension of school closures through Friday, Jan. 24, 2025, as hazardous road conditions persist across the area. Despite efforts to address the aftermath of this week’s winter storm, many surface roads remain ice-covered and unsafe for travel.

Shawn Fisher, HCSD assistant superintendent of business services and technology, stated, “The safety of our students, staff, and community continues to be our top priority. With surface roads still covered in ice, the risks associated with operating school buses or having teen drivers on the roads are too great. We are committed to making decisions that prioritize safety above all else.”

This decision includes the cancellation of all after-school activities and planned events for Friday. HCSD encourages all families to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve.

District leaders will continue monitoring weather and road conditions.

This announcement is being communicated through multiple channels, including:

• HCSD Communication Program (Infinite Campus)
• HCSD Facebook Page (Harris County School District – GA)
• HCSD website (www.harris.k12.ga.us)
• Local media outlets

For updates, please stay tuned to the HCSD website and social media platforms.

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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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 (JAN. 23, 2024) –The Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) chapter at Harris County Carver Middle School (HCCMS) delivered an outstanding performance at the recent FBLA Regional Leadership Conference, earning top honors and advancing to the State competition in multiple categories.

Despite being reassigned to a highly competitive region this year, the students rose to the challenge and proved their excellence in business leadership and skills. Every performance-based entry from HCCMS secured a spot at the State competition.

“We are incredibly proud of our students for their remarkable achievements,” said Ashley Daniel, HCCMS FBLA advisor. “Their hard work, dedication, and ability to adapt to new challenges truly paid off. It’s inspiring to see their efforts recognized at such a high level.”

State-Bound Performance-Based Competitions

• 1st Place, Marketing Mix: Katy Kozee, Ava McEldoon, Nolan Cummings
• 1st Place, Critical Thinking: Hayden Harris-Smith, Isaac Cooper, Blake Hood (Highest score in the state)
• 1st Place, FBLA Mission and Pledge: Atticus Taylor
• 2nd Place, Public Speaking: Raelyn Stecher

Top Online Exam-Based Competitions

• 1st Place, Business Concepts: Isaac Cooper
• 2nd Place, Interpersonal Communications: Atticus Taylor
• 3rd Place, Business Concepts: Hayden Harris-Smith
• 3rd Place, Interpersonal Communication: Ava McEldoon
• 3rd Place, Exploring Economics: Nolan Cummings
• 4th Place, Business Concepts: Blake Hood

In addition, four students—Isaac Cooper, Taylor Harris, Emma Hinton, and Blake Hood—achieved the prestigious Statesmen Award by scoring 90 or higher on a rigorous exam covering FBLA, leadership, and business knowledge.

“Our students’ achievements reflect their commitment to learning and growing as future leaders,” said Daniel. “They’ve set a high standard for success, and we’re excited to see what they accomplish at the State competition.”

The HCCMS chapter was also recognized as the third-largest chapter in the region, highlighting the strength and engagement of the program.

Looking Ahead
The HCCMS FBLA team will prepare to compete at the State competition in February, where they will showcase their skills among the best and brightest from across Georgia.

“Congratulations to our incredible students on their achievements,” added Daniel. “Their success is a testament to the support of our school and community, and we look forward to seeing them excel at 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 (left to right): Members of the Harris County Carver Middle School’s FBLA attended the FBLA Regional Leadership Conference including Hayden Harris-Smith, Katy Kozee, Raelyn Stecher, Ava McEldoon, Isaac Cooper, and Nolan Cummings

Photo: (left to right): Statesmen Award Photo - Isaac Cooper, Emma Hinton, Taylor Harris, and Blake Hood

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 (JANUARY 22, 2025) – The Harris County School District (HCSD) announces the extension of school closures through Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025, due to ongoing hazardous winter weather conditions. Governor Brian Kemp has declared a State of Emergency, and the Harris County Emergency Management Services (HCEMS) has deemed all roads impassable through tomorrow until further notice. This declaration was announced through an emergency call at 9:30 a.m. this morning.

“The safety of our students and staff is always our top priority,” Shawn Fisher, HCSD assistant superintendent of business services and technology, stated. “With more than 100 buses transporting more than 3,000 students across our large rural area, the risk of icy roads and dangerous conditions is too great to proceed with operations. Additionally, we are mindful of the risks posed to teen drivers who are inexperienced in navigating such hazardous conditions.”

Fisher continued, “We appreciate the community’s understanding as we take these necessary precautions to protect everyone in our district. We urge all families to remain safe and avoid travel until conditions improve.”

This decision includes the cancellation of all after-school activities and planned events. HCSD is monitoring conditions closely and will provide updates regarding any additional changes as soon as possible.

This announcement is being communicated through multiple channels, including:

• HCSD Communication Program (Infinite Campus)
• HCSD Facebook Page (Harris County School District – GA)
• HCSD website (www.harris.k12.ga.us)
• Local media outlets

For updates, please stay tuned to the HCSD website and social media platforms.

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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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 (JANUARY 21, 2025) – The Harris County School District (HCSD) announces the cancellation of all operations for Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025, due to severe winter weather conditions, which may include freezing temperatures and precipitation expected to persist overnight, creating hazardous road conditions. This includes the cancellation of all after-school activities.

Shawn Fisher, HCSD assistant superintendent of business services and technology stated, “The safety of our school community remains our top priority, and we appreciate your understanding as we navigate these dangerous conditions.”

To view the Jan. 21, briefing of the weather situation by the Georgia Emergency Management Agency, visit: https://www.gpb.org/events/news/2025/01/21/gema-inclement-weather-briefing.

This announcement is being communicated through multiple channels, including:

• HCSD Communication Program (Infinite Campus)
• HCSD Facebook Page (Harris County School District – GA)
• HCSD website (www.harris.k12.ga.us)
• Local media outlets

For updates, please stay tuned to the HCSD website and social media platforms.

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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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 (JANUARY 20, 2025) – The Harris County School District (HCSD) announces the cancellation of all operations for Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025, due to severe weather conditions predicted by the National Weather Service. The forecast includes freezing temperatures and precipitation expected to persist overnight, creating hazardous road conditions.

“The combination of severe cold and frozen precipitation poses significant safety concerns for our students and staff,” Shawn Fisher, HCSD assistant superintendent of business services and technology, stated. “With Harris County’s large rural area and 100 buses traveling extensive routes, ensuring safe transportation becomes challenging. Additionally, icy conditions could place an extra burden on emergency services and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.”

Fisher emphasized, “We are closely monitoring the weather for Wednesday, Jan. 22, and will announce a decision regarding operations on Tuesday, Jan. 21. The safety of our school community remains our top priority, and we appreciate your understanding as we navigate these hazardous conditions.”

The cancellation includes all after-school activities and the planned recruiting event for School Nutrition personnel scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 21.

This announcement is being communicated through multiple channels, including:

• HCSD Communication Program (Infinite Campus)
• HCSD Facebook Page (Harris County School District – GA)
• HCSD website (www.harris.k12.ga.us)
• Local media outlets

For updates, please stay tuned to the HCSD website and social media platforms.

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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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 (DEC. 17, 2024) – Two teachers at Pine Ridge Elementary (PRE) School have been featured on a Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB) podcast. The episode, titled "Integrated Curriculum in Shared Environment," highlights the school’s successful journey to achieving initial STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) certification, with a special focus on how the curriculum is designed to include all students, including those in our Special Education program.
 

Abbie Hudson, kindergarten teacher, and Lindsey Cook, Special Education teacher, were featured on the podcast, which was released in November 2024. The segment showcases PRE’s commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment where all students have the opportunity to thrive in STEAM education. Hudson and Cook shared their insights on how the school’s integrated curriculum encourages collaboration, hands-on learning, and supports every student’s unique needs.

Principal Donna Crooks expressed her pride in the recognition: “We are thrilled to be featured by GPB and so grateful for the opportunity to showcase our amazing teachers and the work we’re doing at Pine Ridge. Our STEAM certification represents a shared commitment to all students, and it’s wonderful to see our efforts being recognized at a state level. Mrs. Hudson and Mrs. Cook’s participation in the podcast is a testament to their dedication and passion for making education accessible for everyone.”

The podcast can be accessed by searching online using the title “GPB Podcast Episode 512 - Integrated Curriculum in Shared Environment.”

Crooks added, “Pine Ridge Elementary is excited to share this achievement with the district and the community, and we encourage everyone to listen to the episode to learn more about how our teachers are shaping the future of education for all 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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Note to editors: Interviews are available upon request.

Photo (left to right): Lindsey Cook, Special Education teacher, and Abbie Hudson, kindergarten teacher, pictured at the Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB) studios during the recording of the podcast, "Integrated Curriculum in Shared Environment." They discussed Pine Ridge Elementary’s STEAM certification and the inclusive approach to education for all students, proudly representing both their school and the Harris County School District.

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 (JAN. 14, 2025) – On Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2025, four members of the Harris County Board of Education were sworn in by Harris County Probate Judge Thomas Lakes with some family members on hand for the ceremony.

Participating board members included:

• Garnett Ray: re-elected to represent District 3 and board chair
• Scott Greene: re-elected to represent District 4
• Steve Goodnoe: re-elected to represent District 6 Super District and vice chair
• Stephen Johnston: newly elected to represent District 1, replacing Shane Lipp.

Other board members include Bridgett Oliver (District 2), Harry Proctor (District 5), Monica Sparks (District 7 Super District).

For more information about the Harris County School District, 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 (left to right): Harris County Probate Judge Thomas Lakes swears in Scott Greene, Steve Goodnoe, Stephen Johnston, and Garnett Ray during a ceremony on January 9, 2025. Greene, Goodnoe, and Ray were re-elected, while Johnston was newly elected to the Harris County Board of Education.

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 (JAN. 13, 2024) – Creekside Intermediate School’s Jr. Beta Club is thrilled to announce the launch of the "Be THE Voice" program, an inspiring initiative aimed at fostering kindness and inclusion among students. This impactful program was made possible through the generosity of the Rotary Club of Harris County.

"Be THE Voice" is a student-driven movement that encourages individuals to "do what is right, not what is easy." The program includes weekly videos, discussion points, and engaging club activities that empower students to take an active role in creating a positive and inclusive school environment. To kick off this initiative, the school hosted a high-energy pep rally that set the tone for an exciting year ahead.

Latina Maddox, Jr. Beta Club teacher-organizer at Creekside, shared her enthusiasm about the program’s potential. “We are so grateful to the Rotary Club of Harris County for their support in bringing this program to our school,” said Maddox. “‘Be THE Voice’ gives our students the tools and confidence they need to stand up for kindness and inclusion. It’s more than just a program – it’s a movement that will shape the culture of our school for years to come.”

Maddox also expressed her appreciation for the pep rally’s success in generating excitement. “The energy and enthusiasm from the students during the pep rally was incredible,” she said. “It’s clear that our students are ready to embrace this program and make a real difference.”

The "Be THE Voice" initiative aligns with Creekside Intermediate School’s commitment to fostering character development and leadership among its students. With the support of the Rotary Club of Harris County, the Jr. Beta Club is poised to make kindness and inclusion a cornerstone of the school community.

For more information about the Harris County School District, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

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Photo (left to right): Emerson Pracht, Lilianna Ruiz, and Landry Parsons

Photos (left to right):
Back Row- Latina Maddox (Jr. Beta Sponsor), Emerson Pracht, Emme Terry, Haliey Burgess, Lilianna Ruiz, Brock Bridges, Eli Grimsley, Levi Vowell, Jenifer Sappington, (Principal).
Middle: Kate Stone, Nelia Basset, Shelby Hatcher, Abigail Hood, Landry Parsons, Abbie Grantham, Carson Tarver
Bottom: Harper Carroll, Gracylan Tillery

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 5,600+ 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 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 (JAN. 15, 2024) – Harris County High School (HCHS) junior Adyson Baker, a member of the prestigious 2024-2025 Youth Advisory Council (YAC) of the Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA), participated in the GSBA/GSSA Annual Conference held in early December in Atlanta.

During the conference, Adyson and fellow YAC members spoke to more than 700 Board of Education members and superintendents from across Georgia. Their presentations covered critical topics, including how Board members and community leaders can better prepare students for life after school, implement safety measures in schools, and enhance mental health and other student support services.

“This has been such an incredible opportunity,” Adyson said. “Sharing students' perspectives on important issues directly with education leaders is an honor. I’m proud to represent Harris County High School and contribute to this important work.”

Adyson’s selection to the GSBA Youth Advisory Council earlier this year was based on her outstanding application and video submission. Out of more than 500 applicants statewide, she was one of only 10 chosen to join this prestigious group of student leaders.

"The work Adyson has done as a member of the Youth Advisory Council has already made a meaningful impact," said Lindie Snyder, principal of HCHS. "Her ability to advocate for students across Georgia speaks to her dedication and leadership. We are so proud to have her represent our school and district."

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

For more information about the Harris County School District, 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: Harris County High School junior Adyson Baker recently attended the GSBA/GSSA Annual Conference in Atlanta, where she and other Youth Advisory Council members presented to more than 700 Board of Education members and superintendents.

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 (JAN. 11, 2025) – The Harris County School District’s (HCSD) School Nutrition Department is actively seeking dedicated individuals to join its team as school nutrition food assistants and substitute food assistants. Offering opportunities to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of students, the district will host three informal recruitment events titled “Cooking Up Careers” in January.

These events will take place from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 14; Tuesday, Jan. 21, and Tuesday, Jan. 28, at the HCSD Central Office (132 Barnes Mill Rd., Hamilton, Ga. 31822).

At each event, attendees will have the opportunity to speak with current school nutrition staff, ask questions about the roles, enjoy complimentary coffee and sausage biscuits. No registration is required.

“Nutrition is a cornerstone of student success,” said Brad Johnson, HCSD school nutrition director. “By joining our team, you become an essential part of the educational experience. These events provide a welcoming space to explore what it means to support our students through school nutrition.”

The school nutrition food assistant position offers a competitive hourly wage, with flexible schedules ideal for parents or individuals seeking part-time work. Benefits include medical, dental, life insurance, and retirement plan options. Training and professional development opportunities are provided for all new hires.

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Hold a high school diploma or equivalent

• Pass local and federal background checks

• Complete a pre-employment physical and drug/alcohol screening

Applications should be submitted online. To apply, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us/employment, select “HCSD Current Job Openings,” find “School Food Service.” For more information, contact the HCSD School Nutrition Department at (706) 628-4220 ext. 1401.

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 district based in the county seat of Hamilton. 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 educational excellence for every child,” the Harris County School District continually

HAMILTON, GA (DEC. 27, 2024) – Jessica Burns, a teacher at New Mountain Hill Elementary, was recently awarded a $300 grant as part of the WRBL-TV News 3 “One Class at a Time” program.

The grant, provided by Five Star Painting, offers $300 for classroom supplies, enabling Jessica to enhance learning opportunities and resources for her students. During the surprise visit, Burns received the grant alongside leadership from New Mountain Hill Elementary, WRBL, and Five Star Painting.

According to WRBL’s website, the program was created because, “Our children’s education is a top priority and concern for all of us in our community. WRBL regularly reports on the financial struggles facing school districts in our viewing area. That’s why we are launching ‘One Class at a Time.’ We will award $300 per week to local classrooms and teachers, making a meaningful difference in our community. Thanks go to sponsors like Five Star Painting.”

The person who nominated Burns said, “Mrs. Burns is a compassionate and passionate teacher. She is a gifted teacher with extensive experience with STEAM criteria. She cares deeply about each child's academic achievements. She delivers consistently in thinking outside the box to keep children engaged and encourage their love for learning. She is the teacher I would choose for my 2nd grader.” STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering/Empathy, Arts, and Mathematics.

Teachers and students may be nominated weekly online at www.wrbl.com/one-class-at-a-time/. An advisory board of educational professionals and WRBL staff members evaluate all grant applications to select each awardee.

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: An image is attached to this email.

Photo Back Row: (left to right): Five Star Painting representative (left), New Mountain Hill Elementary Teacher and Honoree Jessica Burns; NMHE Principal Jessica Burnett, and WRBL’s Kaylee Barbee along with Burnett’s class proudly display the giant check for a $300 grant awarded through WRBL-TV's "One Class at a Time" program. Burns' students look on excitedly as they celebrate this generous contribution to their classroom's resources.

 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 (DEC. 23, 2024) – The Harris County School District’s (HCSD) award-winning Mobile Learning Lab calendar* has been set for January 2025.

“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:

January 2025
Pine Mountain: Pine Lane Apartments
Most Tuesdays and Thursdays (January 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30)

Hamilton: Harris County Community Center
No January dates

Pine Mountain Valley/Dollar General or Fire Station
Monday, January 13

Shiloh: City Hall
Most Wednesdays (January 8, 15, 22, 29)

Whitesville: Dollar General
Monday, January 27

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 2024-2025 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 5,600+ 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 (DEC. 20, 2024) – Avian Baker, a teacher at Harris County High School, was recently awarded a $300 grant as part of the WRBL-TV News 3 “One Class at a Time” program.

The grant, provided by Five Star Painting, provides $300 for classroom supplies, enabling Avian to enhance learning opportunities and resources for her academic pursuits. During the surprise visit, Avian received the grant alongside leadership from Harris County High School, WRBL, and Five Star Painting.

According to WRBL’s website, the program was created because, “Our children’s education is a top priority and concern for all of us in our community. WRBL regularly reports on the financial struggles facing school districts in our viewing area. That’s why we are launching ‘One Class at a Time.’ We will award $300 per week to local classrooms and teachers, making a meaningful difference in our community. Thanks go to sponsors like Five Star Painting.”

Teachers and students may be nominated weekly online at www.wrbl.com/one-class-at-a-time/. An advisory board of educational professionals and WRBL staff members evaluate all grant applications to select each awardee.

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 is attached to this email.

Photo 1 (left to right): Five Star Painting representative (left) and Harris County High School Teacher Avian Baker (right) proudly display the giant check for a $300 grant awarded through WRBL-TV's "One Class at a Time" program. Baker’s students look on excitedly as they celebrate this generous contribution to their classroom's resources.

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 (NOV. 18, 2024) – The Harris County School District is proud to announce that four outstanding educators have been selected as the 2025 Teachers of the Year by Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 10558 in Cataula, Ga. These honorees were recognized for their excellence across all school levels and were celebrated at a special reception on Friday, Nov. 15, 2024.

Highlights from the Honorees

Elementary: Kristine Connally from Mulberry Creek Elementary has been recognized for her innovative teaching methods and her ability to connect history lessons to real-world civic values. “Your dedication to academic excellence, creativity, and character development has had a lasting impact on your students. Thank you for shaping the future,” shared VFW Post 10558 Commander William Fields.

Middle School: Maddie Fuerte, from Harris County Carver Middle School, engages her students through hands-on projects and discussions that bring the importance of patriotism and civic duties to life. Fields shared, “Your exceptional teaching, guidance, and passion for education have inspired personal growth and academic excellence. Thank you for your tireless commitment to shaping young minds,” Fields remarked.

High School: Jennifer Robinson, representing Harris County High School, has been praised for creating programs that encourage students to appreciate and honor the sacrifices of American veterans. “Your commitment to instructional leadership and student empowerment has made a profound impact on your students' lives. Thank you for inspiring excellence,” Fields said.

EOC (Equal Opportunity Center): Ariane Stecher has been honored for her leadership in the EOC/S.T.E.P.S. programs, providing tailored support to at-risk students while promoting connections between veterans and the broader educational community. “Your exceptional teaching, mentoring, and passion for student growth have made a lasting impact on their academic and personal development. Thank you for shaping future leaders,” Fields added.

Recognizing Excellence Across Levels
The VFW Post 10558 Commander William Fields emphasized the importance of acknowledging educators from various levels of schooling. “Each of these teachers brings a unique and invaluable perspective to the classroom, contributing to the education of our next generation of leaders while highlighting the role of veterans in our nation's history.”

The honorees will now be considered for the district-level competition, with the potential to advance to state and national recognition as part of the VFW’s esteemed program.

About the Program
The VFW’s Teacher of the Year award is designed to celebrate educators who inspire patriotism, teach American values, and highlight veterans' contributions to the nation's history. Local posts like Cataula’s Post 10558 collaborate with schools to identify exceptional teachers each year.

For more information about the Harris County School District, visit www.harris.k12.ga.us or follow us on Facebook or Twitter (@HCSDga).

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Note to editors: Interviews are available upon request.

Photo: On Nov. 15, the Cataula VFW honored their 2025 Teachers of the Year. Pictured (left to right): Honorees pictured left to right: Jennifer Robinson (Harris County High School), Ariane Stecher (EOC/S.T.E.P.S. Programs), William Fields (Commander of VFW Post 10558), Kristine Connally (Mulberry Creek Elementary), and Maddie Fuerte (Harris County Carver Middle 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 5,600+ 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).

About Veterans of Foreign Wars
Founded in 1899, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW) is the nation’s largest organization of war veterans. The VFW’s mission includes legislative advocacy, community service, and educational programs like the Teacher of the Year award that instill patriotism and civic duty.

HAMILTON, GA (NOVEMBER 2024) – Santesia Ellison, an eight-year teaching veteran at Harris County High School, was honored with the Kinetic Credit Union Golden Apple Award, presented in partnership with WRBL News 3. Ellison, a graduate of North Carolina State University, is known for her unwavering dedication to her students as both a science teacher and an assistant girls' basketball coach.

"I’m very grateful and thankful that I’m able to do what I do and impact kids the way that I do," Ellison said upon receiving the award. Her nominator praised her for treating students with respect and dignity, exemplifying the qualities of a true educator.

Principal Lindie Snyder and peers joined in celebrating this well-deserved 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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Photo 1: Harris County High School Teacher and Coach Santesia Ellison was interviewed by WRBL News 3 after being surprised with the WRBL Kinetic Golden Apple Award.

Photo 2 (left to right): Harris County High School Principal Lindie Snyder posed for a picture after the surprise presentation of the WRBL Kinetic Golden Apple Award to Honoree Santesia Ellison.

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 (Dec. 17, 2024) – The Harris County School Board attended the annual Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA) conference in Atlanta, where they were honored with the 2024 Exemplary School Board award.

The recognition program highlights best practices in school governance and leadership, with GSBA acknowledging boards that foster educational community cultures to advance student learning and achievement.

The Harris County School District met and exceeded the criteria established by GSBA to earn the distinction of a 2024 Exemplary Board. Out of Georgia’s 181 public school boards, 64 earned the Exemplary Board status this year.

The GSBA Governance Team Recognition Program was developed by Georgia superintendents and board members in alignment with the state Board of Education’s standards for effective governance. This three-tiered program recognizes leadership and exemplary governance practices.

The Georgia School Boards Association was among the first school board associations in the nation to establish a standards-based recognition program, beginning in 1998.

For more information about GSBA’s recognition program and award criteria, visit gsba.com/awards/board-recognition-awards.

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: The Harris County School Board attended the GSBA Annual Conference where they received their Exemplary Board recognition award. From left to right: Monica Sparks, Scott Greene, Garnett Ray, Superintendent Justin Finney, Harry Proctor, Steven Goodnoe, Stephen Johnston, and Bridgett Oliver.

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 2024) – Jennifer Robinson, an “Education as a Profession” instructor and student teacher coordinator at Harris County High School (HCHS) in Hamilton, Ga., was presented with the Kinetic Credit Union Golden Apple Award in partnership with WRBL News 3. This honor is given to educators who are nominated by the community for making a positive impact on students.

“Mrs. Robinson started the Teacher Cadet program at Harris County High School and has shown such deep devotion to this program that now all schools across the state of Georgia are modeling their own Teacher Cadet programs after hers,” said the person who nominated her for this honor. “She exemplifies what a true teacher should be and molds the students who go through this program to be all they can be—not only as future educators but also as individuals who will positively impact the students they will teach in the future.”

The award presentation was a surprise during school hours in front of a classroom of her students. Principal Lindie Snyder and Assistant Principal Jeffrey Wheeless were present to show their support.

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 (left to right): Kinetic Credit Union’s Clink Perkins, HCHS Principal Lindie Snyder, HCHS Teacher Cadet Teacher and Honoree Jennifer Robinson, and Assistant Principal Jeffrey Wheeless

Photo 2: Jennifer Robinson was surprised during class with the WRBL Kinetic Golden Apple Award. 

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 (DEC. 3, 2024) – The Harris County School District’s (HCSD) award-winning Mobile Learning Lab calendar* has been set for December 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:

December 2024
Pine Mountain: Pine Lane Apartments
Most Tuesdays and Thursdays (December 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19)

Hamilton: Harris County Community Center
Monday, December 16

Shiloh: City Hall
Most Wednesdays (December 4, 11, 18)

Whitesville: Dollar General
Monday, December 9

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 2024-2025 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 5,600+ 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 (NOV. 25, 2024) – On Friday, Nov. 22, students from the Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) and the STEPS program in the Harris County School District participated in the second annual Career Day, a day filled with valuable insights and hands-on experiences. The event took place at the EOC, where students were introduced to a wide range of career fields and had the chance to interact directly with professionals from various industries.

This year’s Career Day featured 12 interactive stations, where students could engage with experts from landscaping, cosmetology, occupational therapy, nursing, fire rescue, emergency services, mental health counseling, construction, business ownership, the National Guard, computer engineering, plumbing, and ministry leadership.

Students had the opportunity to ask questions and participate in hands-on activities such as hair styling, strength tests, working with a therapy dog, applying medical equipment, trying on fire rescue gear, hammering nails, and using various tools. The day was designed not only to inform but also to inspire, allowing students to get a real-world sense of the skills needed in each profession.

“We are incredibly grateful to all the local professionals who volunteered their time to share their knowledge and experiences with our students,” said Meagan Wright, EOC/STEPS/PLC school counselor. “Many of these volunteers are Harris County High School alumni, making this a full-circle experience for our students. This is a prime example of how our community comes together to support and uplift the next generation.”

Despite being an alternative setting, the EOC and STEPS program ensure that students receive the same opportunities for growth and learning as their peers in traditional settings. The Career Day exemplifies the district’s commitment to preparing students for their futures by offering real-world experiences and the tools they need to make informed decisions about their careers.

“We work hard to provide our students with opportunities like these that will help them become well-rounded, respectful, and productive members of society,” Wright continued. “When we all come together – as a school, a community, and a support system – we can truly make a difference in the lives of our students.”

Wright shared, “The EOC/STEPS staff and students extend a heartfelt thank you to all the volunteers who made the event a success. The EOC/STEPS Career Day is more than just a school event; it’s an opportunity to impact the future of our students and empower them to pursue careers with confidence.”

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, bottom row: Tyler Jordan (Outdoor Solutions Landscaping), Ellie Grogan (Master Cosmetologist), Kenslei Reeves (Master Cosmetologist), Caitlyn Barfield and Gus (Occupational Therapist and Therapy Dog), Emily Willis (Nurse Practitioner), Jennifer Smith (Lieutenant, Paramedic), Travis Contreras (Paint Ops), Chris Russell (National Guard, Computer Engineer), Khiry Thomas (SFC National Guard, Recruiter), Kyndal Hutto (Registered Nurse).

Left to right, top row: Tim Jordan (Outdoor Solutions Landscaping), Nick Bruner (Young Life Director), Davis Wright (Sergeant, EMT), Tanner Childs (Youth Pastor), Ben Burdette (Burdette Property Inspections), Kelly Crawford (Mental Health Counselor), Ben Baier (Ret. U.S. Army, Construction).

HAMILTON, GA (NOV. 29, 2024) –The Harris County School District (HCSD) is inviting stakeholders to participate in a series of public information meetings regarding House Bill 581 (HB581), also known as House Resolution 1022, which was passed by state referendum during the Nov. 5, 2024, election. These meetings aim to inform citizens about the legislative bill, its implications, and to gather public feedback on whether the district should opt-in or opt-out of its provisions.

HB581 introduces a "floating" homestead exemption for property taxes on homesteaded properties, adjusting annually to offset changes in property values and potentially lowering property tax bills for homeowners. While this exemption may reduce tax obligations for homeowners, it could result in decreased revenue for local school districts and county governments. To offset these funding reductions, governing bodies may need to increase millage rates or other taxes and fees, or reduce critical services, including student programs, staffing, and facility improvements. This type of legislation is generally more sustainable in communities with a large commercial tax base that can absorb much of the financial impact, which may not be the case in Harris County. The legislation allows school districts and county governments to opt-out by passing a resolution, conducting three public hearings, and ensuring public advertisement of their decision.

Opting out of this bill could actually save Harris County residents money in the long run by keeping the current system, which avoids sudden increases in taxes or fees to make up for funding gaps. Staying with the current system also allows for more predictable budgets, rather than budgets that change each year based on inflation and property values. 

The Harris County School District Board of Education is seeking input from the community to make an informed decision regarding HB581/HR1022.

Public Information Meetings: Dr. Justin Finney, HCSD Superintendent, will lead a series of public meetings to discuss HB581 and its potential effects. Meetings will take place at 6 p.m. on the following dates:

• Monday, Dec. 2, 2024
• Monday, Dec. 9, 2024
• Monday, Dec. 16, 2024
• Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2024

• Meeting Location:
  Harris County Board of Education Boardroom
  132 Barnes Mill Rd., Hamilton, Ga. 31811

In addition to the meetings, HCSD has prepared resources to assist stakeholders in understanding the potential impact of HB581:

• Recorded HB581 Public Information Video (https://youtu.be/RglDYRtFvMk)
• HB581 Public Information Slide Deck (https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1s3wNw0OINVk3EyBJpwikIPqZtDk86Y7F/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=112226146841561343353&rtpof=true&sd=true)

Stakeholders are encouraged to review these materials before attending the meetings. Feedback gathered during the sessions will help inform the district's decision-making process.

Questions and Further Information:
For more information, please contact Dr. Justin Finney, HCSD Superintendent, at (706) 628-4206 ext. 1201 or via email at finney-j@harris.k12.ga.us.

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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 5,600+ 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. (OCT. 22, 2024) – Pine Ridge Elementary (PRE) welcomed State Representative Carmen Rice on Oct. 10 as part of Georgia Pre-K Week 2024. During her visit, Rep. Rice engaged with Pre-K students by reading the book A Magnificent Field Trip to the Governor's Mansion, which tells the story of a class exploring the Governor’s Mansion in Georgia, encountering animals, and meeting Governor Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp.

Rep. Rice's visit was attended by several local officials and school representatives, including Harris County School District (HCSD) Superintendent Justin Finney, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services Shelia Baker, Board of Education Member Bridgett Oliver, Pine Ridge Elementary Principal Donna Crooks, Assistant Principal Brantley Sawyer, and Alex Dagenhart, Pre-K Program Specialist from DECAL Bright from the Start.

This event was part of Georgia Pre-K Week, a statewide initiative designed to emphasize the importance of early childhood education and to celebrate Georgia's Pre-K program. The visit provided an opportunity for local leaders to see firsthand the impact of high-quality early learning on the state’s youngest learners.

State Representative Vance Smith Jr. also showed his support for Georgia Pre-K by visiting Park Elementary on the same morning, where he also read to a Pre-K class.

"This was a wonderful opportunity to showcase the value of early learning," said Superintendent Justin Finney. "We appreciate the time and dedication of our state representatives to invest in the educational journey of our students, starting with Pre-K."

In addition to these visits, there were numerous activities throughout the district to celebrate Georgia Pre-K 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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Photo 1: Georgia State Representative Carmen Rice read to a Pine Ridge Elementary Pre-K class during a week to set aside to celebrate the importance of starting children early on their education path. The visit was organized by Georgia’s DECAL Bright from the Start program.

Photo 2 (left to right): Pine Ridge Elementary (PRE) Pre-K teacher Ashley Vannoy, HCSD School Board Member Bridgett Oliver, HCSD Assistant Superintendent of Student Services Shelia Baker, HCSD Superintendent Justin Finney, Georgia State Representative Carmen Rice; Alex Dagenhart, Pre-K Program Specialist from DECAL Bright from the Start, PRE Principal Donna Crooks, PRE Assistant Principal Brantley Sawyer, PRE Paraprofessional Leslie Champion

Photo 3: Georgia State Representative showed his support of the Georgia Pre-K program by stopping by Park Elementary to read to a class during Georgia Pre-K Week.

About the Book:
A Magnificent Field Trip to the Governor's Mansion takes readers on a journey with Mr. Malcolm’s class as they tour the historic Governor’s Mansion in Georgia. The story highlights the excitement of exploring the grounds, encountering various animals, and meeting the state's leadership, including Governor Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp.

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 more than 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).

Harris County School District Superintendent Justin Finney (left) receives a certificate of appreciation from Rotary Club of Harris County President Jim Trott (right) for speaking to the Rotary as the new superintendent. During his address, Finney shared his vision of "keeping the main things the main things," focusing on educating students while ensuring the safety and health of both students and teachers. He encouraged the community to reach out to teachers and administrators with any questions rather than turning to social media, helping to foster better communication and understanding.

HAMILTON, GA (SEPTEMBER 10, 2024) – Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. While such thoughts are common, they should not be considered normal and often signal more serious issues. In recognition of September as Suicide Prevention Month, the Harris County School District (HCSD) is committed to raising awareness and promoting mental health support.

Throughout September, a dedicated effort is made to shift public perception, spread hope, and provide essential information to those affected by suicide.

Shelia Baker, HCSD Assistant Superintendent of Support Services shared, “Our goal is to ensure that individuals, families, and friends have access to resources for discussing suicide prevention and seeking help.”

Baker encourages everyone to participate: “We invite the HCSD family to join us in wearing teal, turquoise, and purple on September 13. These colors symbolize our commitment to suicide prevention awareness and our solidarity with those affected by mental health challenges. By coming together, we can raise awareness, foster understanding, and offer hope to those in need.”

For more information about suicide prevention resources and support, please visit the NAMI (national Alliance on Mental Health) Helpline, which is available Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET. Call (800) 950-6264, text “helpline” to 62640, or chat online at https://www.nami.org/support-education/nami-helpline/. In a crisis, call or text 988 (24/7).

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 Editor:  Interviews 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 5,600+ 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 (SEPTEMBER 10, 2024) – Kia AutoSport of Columbus, in partnership with WRBL-TV News 3, organized a successful school supply drive benefiting students in the Columbus area, including those within the Harris County School District (HCSD).

The local Kia AutoSport dealership teamed up with WRBL-TV News 3 to launch the campaign, spearheaded by Kia General Manager Melanie Lee. The effort resulted in the collection of a significant number of school supplies.

Shelia Baker, HCSD Assistant Superintendent of Support Services, expressed the district's gratitude for being included in this important initiative. The donated items—ranging from pencils and erasers to backpacks, personal hygiene products, and cleaning supplies—were distributed across all schools in the district. Each school’s counselor received the supplies to ensure smooth delivery and distribution to students in need.

One method of distribution is through the "Help Yourself Shelf" program, which places supply shelves outside each counselor’s office. Students who need items are encouraged to take what they need discreetly, without having to ask, preserving their dignity.

“We are deeply honored and grateful for this donation, which directly supports students who may not have the supplies they need,” said Baker. “Having the proper school supplies is a crucial factor in a student’s success. This kind of generosity not only alleviates some of the burden on parents but also contributes significantly to students’ ability to thrive in their education. The supplies will be put to good use, and we sincerely appreciate the ongoing support from community partners like Kia AutoSport of Columbus and WRBL.”

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 Editor:  Interviews available upon request.

Photo 1:
Pictured (left to right): WRBL Representative Lisa Burton delivered school supplies to the Harris County School District (HCSD), generously donated by Kia Autosport of Columbus, for students in need of supplies to succeed. Pictured are Shelia Baker, HCSD assistant superintendent; Lisa Burton, WRBL; and Justin Finney, HCSD superintendent.

Photo 2:
Pictured (left to right):  School supplies generously donated by Kia Autosport of Columbus were divided and distributed to guidance counselors across the Harris County School District for students in need of supplies. Pictured are Shelia Baker, HCSD Assistant Superintendent; Amanda Elliott, Harris County High School Counselor; Steve Hammonds, Harris County Carver Middle School Counselor; Lori Storey, Creekside Intermediate School Counselor; Denise Belt, New Mountain Hill Elementary Counselor; Megan Wright, EOC/STEPS Counselor; Kristin Roberts, Mulberry Creek Elementary Counselor; and Sean Myers, Pine Ridge Elementary Counselor. (Not pictured: Emily Henderson, Park Elementary Counselor).

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 (SEPTEMBER 6, 2024) – In recognition of September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, the Harris County School District (HCSD) Department of Social Services’ Parent University, in partnership with NAMI Georgia, is proud to announce an important online presentation titled "Ending the Silence for Families," which aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health by encouraging open dialogue within families and providing them with the tools they need to support their children.

This one-hour event will take place on Sept. 17, 2024, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and is designed for parents and guardians of middle and high school-aged students. The presentation aims to raise awareness about mental illness, providing families with essential tools and information to support their children. Attendees will learn to recognize the warning signs of mental illness, communicate effectively with their children, collaborate with school personnel, and understand the latest mental health statistics.

“Adolescence is a unique and formative time. Protecting adolescents from adversity, promoting socio-emotional learning and psychological well-being, and ensuring access to mental health care are critical for their health and well-being during adolescence and adulthood,” stated Shelia Baker, HCSD assistant superintendent of support services. “Multiple factors affect mental health. The more risk factors adolescents are exposed to, the greater the potential impact on their mental health. Our goal is ensuring that our students, staff, and families have access to the resources they need to be proactive with prevention strategies in seeking help without embarrassment or stigmas.”

Vicki Curry-Williams, HCSD coordinator of social services and the operations of the social services department at The HCSD H.O.P.E Center, states, “Mental health is a critical component of our children's overall well-being. In light of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, this presentation is an opportunity for parents and guardians to equip themselves with knowledge and strategies to better support their children and foster open communication.”

The event will feature expert insights from NAMI Georgia, offering a comprehensive overview of mental health issues that can impact middle and high school students. By participating, families will gain a clearer understanding of how to address mental health concerns and work effectively with their schools to ensure their children receive the support they need.

Registration is free and open to all interested participants. To sign up, please visit the following link: https://forms.gle/c2SZ44PQT6fKwhze8.

The Parent University is an initiative of the HCSD Department of Social Services, which is based at The H.O.P.E. (Helping Our People Excel) Center, located at 106 Mountain Creek Dr., Hamilton, Ga. 31811. It was launched in the Spring of 2017 with the mission of providing beneficial programming for the community. The Department of Social Services provides support to the children, parents, and faculty/staff of the HCSD. It is the mission of this office to ensure that all students have the physical, social, and emotional resources to be successful in school and in life. The school social worker serves as a liaison between the school, the home, and the community, facilitating services and advocating for students’ academic and personal success.

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.

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).

About NAMI Georgia
NAMI Georgia is a leading mental health organization providing education, support, and advocacy for individuals affected by mental illness and their families. Their mission is to improve the quality of life for people living with mental health conditions through awareness and community support.

HAMILTON, GA (SEPTEMBER 6, 2024) – In alignment with Georgia House Bill 538 and Senate Bill 64, the Harris County School District (HCSD) will continue universal literacy screenings for all kindergarten through third grade students. The new legislation, aimed at improving literacy outcomes, mandates that all Georgia schools conduct universal screenings to identify students who may need additional support in reading and literacy skills.

While this is a new state requirement, HCSD has been proactively administering literacy screeners for the past three years to ensure students' success.  Moving forward, the district is fully prepared to meet these requirements.

"Teachers have been using the screener results to determine the best strategies to provide support for students who need it," said David Dennie, HCSD elementary director of curriculum and instruction. "What’s new under the current laws is that we are now required to notify all parents and guardians of their child’s screening results, regardless of the outcome. This is an important step in keeping our families informed and engaged in their child's literacy development."

Next week, HCSD will be sending home the results of these screenings with all K-3 students. These results will provide insights into each child’s reading development, identifying strengths as well as areas where they may benefit from extra attention. The first page will identify one of four categories a child falls into: Exceeding Expectations, On Track, At Risk, and High Risk.

"If a student falls into the 'At Risk' or 'High Risk' category, a second page will be included detailing the interventions and support the school is providing," added Dennie. "We urge all parents to review these results carefully."

Parents and guardians should be on the lookout for these reports, which will be sent home as paper documents with each K-3 student next week. Any questions or concerns should be directed to the curriculum department at curriculum@harris.k12.ga.us.

The curriculum department will be hosting a “Curriculum Conversations” online event to address concerns and answer any parent or guardian questions. Details will be announced when confirmed.

"We appreciate your partnership as we work together to ensure every child in the Harris County School District develops strong literacy skills," said Dennie.

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.

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 (JULY 20, 2024) – 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 26, 2024.

The Showcase will highlight selections from their competition halftime show, "Oz-mosis," which features music from The Wizard of Oz, The Wiz, and Wicked, 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 HCHS Band Director, 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 95 students, up from 77 in 2022. Libby added, “I fully expect that number to grow as the school year gets rolling.”

Event Details:
Date: Friday, July 26, 2024
Time: Begins at 6 p.m.
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. Limited concessions will be available.

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: Taking a well-deserved break under the sun, the 95 band members of the Harris County High School “Sound of the County” Marching Band are focused and ready for their next drill. The dedication and hard work they put in during this summer heat is truly inspiring. The public is invited for free to enjoy their Showcase on Friday, July 26, at 6 p.m. at Tiger Stadium.
 
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).

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HARRIS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT ANNOUNCES TEMPORARY REOPENING OF REQUIRED ONLINE REGISTRATION/RESIDENCY VERIFICATION

HAMILTON, GA (July 19, 2024) – The Harris County School District (HCSD) announces the temporary reopening of the required Online Registration (OLR)/Residency Verification for all K-12 students until 11:59 p.m. on July 26, 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 Shawn Fisher, 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.”

Fisher added, “It is imperative for parents to complete the form so that the schools can plan for the correct number of students for the 2024-25 school year. Teachers can be assigned and classes can be assigned for students. 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:

·         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.
·         Parent photo ID
·         New students only: Student birth certificate
·         New students only: Student social security card
·         New students and 7th and 11th graders only: Georgia Student Immunization Form 3231
·         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."

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,” Fisher 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, 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).

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


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

Online Application Saves Paper and Prevents Potential Paper Tracking Issues; Families Can Avoid Accruing Lunch Fees


HAMILTON, GA (JULY 19, 2024) – Important news has been announced regarding free and reduced-price meals for students in the Harris County School District (HCSD). As of July 1, families can access the "Harris County Household Application for Free and Reduced-Price School Meals" for the 2024-2025 school year. For the second year, the process is primarily available online at www.EZMealApp.com.

The price for breakfast for the 2024-2025 school year is $1.50. The prices for lunch will be $2.75 for elementary schools and $3.00 for intermediate school, middle school, and high school.

"It is very important for all families who qualify for free and reduced meals for their school-aged children to complete the application form," said Shelia Baker, HCSD Assistant Superintendent of Support Services. "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:

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

·         Sneak-A-Peek events at each school (HCCMS and Creekside on Aug. 5, elementary schools and HCHS on Aug. 6).

·         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, 2024, is also the expiration date for forms that were approved for the 2023-2024 school year.

For additional information or any inquiries, please contact Brad Johnson, HCSD director of school nutrition, at (706) 628-4172 or email johnson-brad@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.

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).