Harris County School District
One Team, One Dream
🚨 Attention HCSD Families: 🚨
To prepare for the upcoming year and to complete routine maintenance, HCSD student Google accounts will be temporarily suspended. Here is the schedule:
📅 Friday, July 31, 2026, at 8 a.m.: Students will no longer have access to their Google accounts and other online programs used within HCSD.
📅 Tuesday, August 4, 2026, by 4 p.m.: Student accounts will be reactivated.
📅 Friday, August 7, 2026: First day of school.
🔑 Usernames and passwords will be provided once school begins. No data will be affected. New students will have accounts assigned, and information will be shared the first week of school.
✅ Teacher accounts and data will NOT be affected.
Thank you for your patience as we complete this necessary update. 💻
To prepare for the upcoming year and to complete routine maintenance, HCSD student Google accounts will be temporarily suspended. Here is the schedule:
📅 Friday, July 31, 2026, at 8 a.m.: Students will no longer have access to their Google accounts and other online programs used within HCSD.
📅 Tuesday, August 4, 2026, by 4 p.m.: Student accounts will be reactivated.
📅 Friday, August 7, 2026: First day of school.
🔑 Usernames and passwords will be provided once school begins. No data will be affected. New students will have accounts assigned, and information will be shared the first week of school.
✅ Teacher accounts and data will NOT be affected.
Thank you for your patience as we complete this necessary update. 💻
🍎 Welcome to the Harris County School District family!
This morning, we proudly welcomed our newest educators—from first-year teachers to experienced veteran teachers—as they begin their journey with HCSD.
Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Stacey Carlisle, along with Ginger Fitzpatrick and Tracy Muñoz, led an engaging New Teacher Orientation designed to prepare our newest team members for a successful school year.
Our Board of Education members also took time to welcome our teachers, offering encouragement, support, and words of wisdom as they embark on this exciting new chapter.
Superintendent Michael Barden challenged our educators to begin the year with purpose by building strong, positive relationships with students and parents, reminding them that meaningful connections are the foundation of student success.
We are excited to have each of you as part of One Team, One Dream and look forward to the incredible impact you will make in the lives of our students.
Welcome to HCSD! Here's to an amazing 2026–2027 school year!
This morning, we proudly welcomed our newest educators—from first-year teachers to experienced veteran teachers—as they begin their journey with HCSD.
Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Stacey Carlisle, along with Ginger Fitzpatrick and Tracy Muñoz, led an engaging New Teacher Orientation designed to prepare our newest team members for a successful school year.
Our Board of Education members also took time to welcome our teachers, offering encouragement, support, and words of wisdom as they embark on this exciting new chapter.
Superintendent Michael Barden challenged our educators to begin the year with purpose by building strong, positive relationships with students and parents, reminding them that meaningful connections are the foundation of student success.
We are excited to have each of you as part of One Team, One Dream and look forward to the incredible impact you will make in the lives of our students.
Welcome to HCSD! Here's to an amazing 2026–2027 school year!
🎶 Get Your First Look at the HCHS Marching Band! 🎶
Be among the first to experience the Harris County High School Marching Band's 2026 competition production, Decomposers!
Featuring 124 talented student musicians, this exciting sneak peek brings Mozart back from the dead in a thrilling halftime performance packed with powerful music, dramatic visuals, and nonstop entertainment.
You won't want to miss this unforgettable preview of what promises to be an incredible competition season!
🎼 Come cheer on our Tiger Band as they debut Decomposers!
#HarrisCountyHighSchool #TigerBand #Decomposers #MarchingBand #HCSDProud
Be among the first to experience the Harris County High School Marching Band's 2026 competition production, Decomposers!
Featuring 124 talented student musicians, this exciting sneak peek brings Mozart back from the dead in a thrilling halftime performance packed with powerful music, dramatic visuals, and nonstop entertainment.
You won't want to miss this unforgettable preview of what promises to be an incredible competition season!
🎼 Come cheer on our Tiger Band as they debut Decomposers!
#HarrisCountyHighSchool #TigerBand #Decomposers #MarchingBand #HCSDProud
🚌 Transportation Routes Have Been Sent!
Transportation information for the 2026–2027 school year has now been sent to families via email & SMS.
If you have any questions or notice an issue with the information you received, please access this link https://bit.ly/TRANSPORTATION2026 or scan the QR code below to submit your request for assistance. Our Transportation team will review all submissions as quickly as possible.
Thank you for your patience and continued support as we prepare for another outstanding school year. We are excited to welcome our students back and appreciate your partnership in serving the Harris County community!
#HarrisCountySchools #OneTeamOneDream #BackToSchool
📚 11 Days Until the First Day of School! 🎉
As you make plans for the upcoming school year, here's a helpful reminder of the 2026–2027 Harris County School District student holidays and breaks to help you schedule vacations, appointments, and family travel.
Be sure to save this graphic for easy reference throughout the school year!
One Team. One Dream. 🖤💛 #HCSD #BackToSchool #11DaysToGo #PlanAhead #OneTeamOneDream
As you make plans for the upcoming school year, here's a helpful reminder of the 2026–2027 Harris County School District student holidays and breaks to help you schedule vacations, appointments, and family travel.
Be sure to save this graphic for easy reference throughout the school year!
One Team. One Dream. 🖤💛 #HCSD #BackToSchool #11DaysToGo #PlanAhead #OneTeamOneDream
📚🎉 Sneak-A-Peek is Almost Here! 🎉📚
The countdown to the first day of school is on! We look forward to welcoming our students and families back for the 2026–2027 school year. Sneak-A-Peek is a great opportunity to meet teachers, explore classrooms, drop off school supplies, and get ready for a successful year.
📅 2026 Sneak-A-Peek Schedule
🏫 Mulberry Creek Elementary School
📅 Wednesday, August 5
🕒 3:00–5:00 PM
🏫 New Mountain Hill Elementary School
📅 Wednesday, August 5
🕒 3:00–5:00 PM
🏫 Park Elementary School
📅 Wednesday, August 5
🕒 3:00–5:00 PM
🏫 Pine Ridge Elementary School
📅 Wednesday, August 5
🕒 3:00–5:00 PM
🏫 Creekside School
📅 Wednesday, August 5
🕒 4:00–6:00 PM
🏫 Harris County Carver Middle School
📅 Thursday, August 6
🕒 3:00–5:00 PM
🏫 Harris County High School
📅 Thursday, August 6
🕒 3:00–5:00 PM
For additional back-to-school information, visit:
🔗 https://www.harris.k12.ga.us/o/hcs/page/sneak-a-peek-dates-times
We can't wait to see our Tiger family and kick off another incredible school year!
The countdown to the first day of school is on! We look forward to welcoming our students and families back for the 2026–2027 school year. Sneak-A-Peek is a great opportunity to meet teachers, explore classrooms, drop off school supplies, and get ready for a successful year.
📅 2026 Sneak-A-Peek Schedule
🏫 Mulberry Creek Elementary School
📅 Wednesday, August 5
🕒 3:00–5:00 PM
🏫 New Mountain Hill Elementary School
📅 Wednesday, August 5
🕒 3:00–5:00 PM
🏫 Park Elementary School
📅 Wednesday, August 5
🕒 3:00–5:00 PM
🏫 Pine Ridge Elementary School
📅 Wednesday, August 5
🕒 3:00–5:00 PM
🏫 Creekside School
📅 Wednesday, August 5
🕒 4:00–6:00 PM
🏫 Harris County Carver Middle School
📅 Thursday, August 6
🕒 3:00–5:00 PM
🏫 Harris County High School
📅 Thursday, August 6
🕒 3:00–5:00 PM
For additional back-to-school information, visit:
🔗 https://www.harris.k12.ga.us/o/hcs/page/sneak-a-peek-dates-times
We can't wait to see our Tiger family and kick off another incredible school year!
Beginning July 1, 2026, Harris County Schools encourages all families who believe their child(ren) may qualify for free or reduced-price school meals to complete and submit a Free & Reduced Meal Application.
Applying is quick and easy! Choose the option that works best for you:
🍎 Apply Online: Visit EZMealApp.com
📄 Pick Up a Paper Application: Available at your child's school.
💻 Download an Application: Visit the Harris County School District website at https://www.harris.k12.ga.us.
Applying is quick and easy! Choose the option that works best for you:
🍎 Apply Online: Visit EZMealApp.com
📄 Pick Up a Paper Application: Available at your child's school.
💻 Download an Application: Visit the Harris County School District website at https://www.harris.k12.ga.us.
📢 Parents, we're making great progress!
🎉 So far, 85% of our families have completed Online Registration for the upcoming school year!
Thank you to everyone who has already registered. If you haven't completed your student's Online Registration yet, please take a few minutes to do so today. Click here: https://www.harris.k12.ga.us/page/enrollment-information
Our goal is to reach 100% before next week so students are ready for a smooth start to the school year.
Let's finish strong, Harris County!
The Creekside Chorus made history on July 20, 2026, becoming the first chorus from Harris County to perform the National Anthem at an Atlanta Braves game.
Under the direction of Jessica McRae, the chorus delivered a memorable performance before thousands of fans at Truist Park. Adding a meaningful visual element to the presentation, Hadley Wyatt performed the anthem in American Sign Language alongside the singers.
Despite sweltering summer temperatures, the members of the Creekside Chorus maintained their professionalism and composure throughout the performance. Their dedication and poise reflected not only their commitment to musical excellence but also the pride they have in representing Harris County.
The historic appearance marks a significant milestone for the chorus and serves as a source of pride for the local community. By taking the field before one of Major League Baseball's most recognizable teams, the Creekside Chorus showcased the talent, hard work, and spirit of Harris County on a regional stage.
Under the direction of Jessica McRae, the chorus delivered a memorable performance before thousands of fans at Truist Park. Adding a meaningful visual element to the presentation, Hadley Wyatt performed the anthem in American Sign Language alongside the singers.
Despite sweltering summer temperatures, the members of the Creekside Chorus maintained their professionalism and composure throughout the performance. Their dedication and poise reflected not only their commitment to musical excellence but also the pride they have in representing Harris County.
The historic appearance marks a significant milestone for the chorus and serves as a source of pride for the local community. By taking the field before one of Major League Baseball's most recognizable teams, the Creekside Chorus showcased the talent, hard work, and spirit of Harris County on a regional stage.
❤️ Every great school day starts with a great meal.
We're looking for caring, dependable people to help serve our students as Permanent Food Service Employees.
Whether you're re-entering the workforce, looking for a better schedule, or ready for a rewarding career, we'd love to have you on our team.
👉 Apply today at ESS.com or scan the QR code below.
Tag someone who would be a great fit! 👇
We're looking for caring, dependable people to help serve our students as Permanent Food Service Employees.
Whether you're re-entering the workforce, looking for a better schedule, or ready for a rewarding career, we'd love to have you on our team.
👉 Apply today at ESS.com or scan the QR code below.
Tag someone who would be a great fit! 👇
📣 We're Hiring at Harris County School District!
Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of students? Join the HCSD team and help create a positive learning environment where every student can thrive!
Now Hiring:
🍎 Special Education Paraprofessional – Harris County High School
🍎 Special Education Paraprofessional – Park Elementary School
🍎 Special Education Paraprofessional – New Mountain Hill Elementary School
🍎 Special Education Paraprofessional – Mulberry Creek Elementary School
🍎 General Education Paraprofessional – Mulberry Creek Elementary School
If you're ready to support students, work alongside dedicated educators, and make an impact every day, we'd love to hear from you!
👉 Apply today: https://tinyurl.com/w3cdw2dk
One Team. One Dream. Harris County School District.
#HCSD #NowHiring #EducationJobs #Paraprofessional #JoinOurTeam #OneTeamOneDream #MakeADifference
Four Educators Represent Harris County at National Arts Integration & STEAM Conference
Four educators from Harris County recently joined hundreds of teachers from across the United States and around the world at the 2026 National Arts Integration & STEAM Conference in St. Louis, Missouri. The conference provides educators with innovative strategies for engaging students through arts integration, creativity, collaboration, and hands-on learning.
Attending the conference were Melissa Wilks, STEAM teacher at Creekside School; Amber Byars, music teacher at Park Elementary School; Sara Mack, visual art teacher at Park Elementary School; and Valerie Longshore-Sargent, theatre teacher at Harris County High School.
One of the highlights of the conference was seeing Harris County represented not only as participants, but also as presenters. Wilks led two sessions titled "Building Bridges Between Activities and Understanding," sharing practical strategies that help teachers move beyond engaging activities to create meaningful learning experiences with clear instructional purpose. Her presentations explored flexible thinking routines, interactive drama, and vocabulary connections that educators can adapt across grade levels and content areas.
Throughout the conference, the educators attended keynote presentations by Billy Almon, Barney Saltzberg, and Trevor Muir, whose messages challenged teachers to cultivate curiosity, creativity, and authentic learning experiences for students.
The conference featured workshops led by educators from around the country, offering practical, classroom-tested ideas that teachers can immediately implement. Sessions addressed everything from district-wide approaches to arts integration and STEAM to the everyday "nuts and bolts" of teaching, providing engaging activities, instructional strategies, and creative techniques that support learning in virtually every subject area.
Beyond the sessions themselves, the conference offered valuable opportunities to collaborate with educators from diverse schools and communities. Sharing ideas, discussing challenges, and learning from one another allowed participants to bring home new perspectives while contributing their own experiences to conversations about effective teaching.
Attending together also gave the four educators dedicated time to collaborate as colleagues. By learning alongside one another, they strengthened professional relationships across schools and content areas, creating opportunities to continue sharing ideas long after the conference concluded.
The educators returned home with fresh ideas, renewed enthusiasm, and a collection of practical strategies designed to increase student engagement, foster creativity, and deepen learning. As they begin implementing what they learned, and sharing those ideas with fellow educators, the impact of the conference will continue to reach classrooms throughout the coming school year.
Professional learning experiences like the National Arts Integration & STEAM Conference remind us that some of the most powerful educational growth happens when teachers become learners themselves, continually seeking new ways to inspire the students they serve.
Four educators from Harris County recently joined hundreds of teachers from across the United States and around the world at the 2026 National Arts Integration & STEAM Conference in St. Louis, Missouri. The conference provides educators with innovative strategies for engaging students through arts integration, creativity, collaboration, and hands-on learning.
Attending the conference were Melissa Wilks, STEAM teacher at Creekside School; Amber Byars, music teacher at Park Elementary School; Sara Mack, visual art teacher at Park Elementary School; and Valerie Longshore-Sargent, theatre teacher at Harris County High School.
One of the highlights of the conference was seeing Harris County represented not only as participants, but also as presenters. Wilks led two sessions titled "Building Bridges Between Activities and Understanding," sharing practical strategies that help teachers move beyond engaging activities to create meaningful learning experiences with clear instructional purpose. Her presentations explored flexible thinking routines, interactive drama, and vocabulary connections that educators can adapt across grade levels and content areas.
Throughout the conference, the educators attended keynote presentations by Billy Almon, Barney Saltzberg, and Trevor Muir, whose messages challenged teachers to cultivate curiosity, creativity, and authentic learning experiences for students.
The conference featured workshops led by educators from around the country, offering practical, classroom-tested ideas that teachers can immediately implement. Sessions addressed everything from district-wide approaches to arts integration and STEAM to the everyday "nuts and bolts" of teaching, providing engaging activities, instructional strategies, and creative techniques that support learning in virtually every subject area.
Beyond the sessions themselves, the conference offered valuable opportunities to collaborate with educators from diverse schools and communities. Sharing ideas, discussing challenges, and learning from one another allowed participants to bring home new perspectives while contributing their own experiences to conversations about effective teaching.
Attending together also gave the four educators dedicated time to collaborate as colleagues. By learning alongside one another, they strengthened professional relationships across schools and content areas, creating opportunities to continue sharing ideas long after the conference concluded.
The educators returned home with fresh ideas, renewed enthusiasm, and a collection of practical strategies designed to increase student engagement, foster creativity, and deepen learning. As they begin implementing what they learned, and sharing those ideas with fellow educators, the impact of the conference will continue to reach classrooms throughout the coming school year.
Professional learning experiences like the National Arts Integration & STEAM Conference remind us that some of the most powerful educational growth happens when teachers become learners themselves, continually seeking new ways to inspire the students they serve.
🚨 WE'RE HIRING! Join the Harris County School District Team! 🍎🚌
Looking for a career where you can make a difference every day? Harris County School District has multiple openings for the 2026–2027 school year in education, student support, transportation, and healthcare.
Current opportunities include:
LEAP Program Paraprofessional
General Education Paraprofessional (Mulberry Creek)
Special Education Teacher (Park)
Special Education Paraprofessionals (Multiple Locations)
Speech Pathologist (Pine Ridge)
Visitor Liaison (HCHS)
Bus Drivers
Bus Monitors
Substitute Bus Monitors
Substitute Teachers
Substitute Nurses
Come Join Our Team!
📲 Scan the QR code or visit www.harris.k12.ga.us to apply today.
#HCSD #WeAreHiring #JoinOurTeam #EducationCareers #MakeADifference #OneTeamOneDream #HarrisCountySchools
Looking for a career where you can make a difference every day? Harris County School District has multiple openings for the 2026–2027 school year in education, student support, transportation, and healthcare.
Current opportunities include:
LEAP Program Paraprofessional
General Education Paraprofessional (Mulberry Creek)
Special Education Teacher (Park)
Special Education Paraprofessionals (Multiple Locations)
Speech Pathologist (Pine Ridge)
Visitor Liaison (HCHS)
Bus Drivers
Bus Monitors
Substitute Bus Monitors
Substitute Teachers
Substitute Nurses
Come Join Our Team!
📲 Scan the QR code or visit www.harris.k12.ga.us to apply today.
#HCSD #WeAreHiring #JoinOurTeam #EducationCareers #MakeADifference #OneTeamOneDream #HarrisCountySchools
All Harris County School District offices and schools will be closed on Friday, July 3, in observance of Independence Day and as we celebrate America's 250th Anniversary.
🍎 NOW OPEN: Apply for Free & Reduced-Price School Meals for the 2026–2027 School Year! 🍎
The Harris County School District is now accepting online applications for Free & Reduced-Price School Meals for the 2026–2027 school year.
✅ Apply online today: www.EZMealApp.com
Applying is quick, secure, and confidential. Even if you're unsure whether your family qualifies, we encourage you to apply. Submitting your application early can help prevent meal charges and ensure your child has uninterrupted access to healthy school meals.
📅 Important Reminder: Applications approved during the 2025–2026 school year expire on September 17, 2026, so don't wait!
Need a paper application?
📍 Pick one up at your child's school
📍 Visit the HCSD School Nutrition Office (140 Barnes Mill Road, Hamilton)
📍 Available during Sneak-A-Peek events
📥 Download one from www.harris.k12.ga.us under Departments > Nutrition
💳 Families can also monitor meal balances, set up AutoPay, and receive low-balance alerts through the EZPay portal at secure.EZMealApp.com.
For questions, contact the HCSD School Nutrition Department:
📞 (706) 628-4172
📧 hudson-j@harris.k12.ga.us
#HarrisCountySchools #OneTeamOneDream #SchoolNutrition #FreeReducedMeals #BackToSchool
The Harris County School District is now accepting online applications for Free & Reduced-Price School Meals for the 2026–2027 school year.
✅ Apply online today: www.EZMealApp.com
Applying is quick, secure, and confidential. Even if you're unsure whether your family qualifies, we encourage you to apply. Submitting your application early can help prevent meal charges and ensure your child has uninterrupted access to healthy school meals.
📅 Important Reminder: Applications approved during the 2025–2026 school year expire on September 17, 2026, so don't wait!
Need a paper application?
📍 Pick one up at your child's school
📍 Visit the HCSD School Nutrition Office (140 Barnes Mill Road, Hamilton)
📍 Available during Sneak-A-Peek events
📥 Download one from www.harris.k12.ga.us under Departments > Nutrition
💳 Families can also monitor meal balances, set up AutoPay, and receive low-balance alerts through the EZPay portal at secure.EZMealApp.com.
For questions, contact the HCSD School Nutrition Department:
📞 (706) 628-4172
📧 hudson-j@harris.k12.ga.us
#HarrisCountySchools #OneTeamOneDream #SchoolNutrition #FreeReducedMeals #BackToSchool
The HCSD Transportation Department is proud to recognize the outstanding work of its Fleet Department following this week's annual Department of Public Safety (DPS) inspection, which was completed with virtually flawless results.
The successful inspection reflects the team's dedication to safety, preventative maintenance, and attention to detail throughout the year. It also highlights the leadership of Fleet Manager Tim Malaby and the department's commitment to maintaining the highest standards for the district's fleet.
"This result didn't happen by accident," said Thomas Vowell, Director of Transportation. "It's the direct result of our mechanics' hard work, monthly inspections, and commitment to safety. I've worked with shops in the private sector and other school districts, and I can honestly say we have the best team. I'm grateful for their dedication to keeping our buses safe for our students, families, and community."
The Transportation Department congratulates the Fleet team on another outstanding inspection and thanks them for their continued commitment to excellence.
The successful inspection reflects the team's dedication to safety, preventative maintenance, and attention to detail throughout the year. It also highlights the leadership of Fleet Manager Tim Malaby and the department's commitment to maintaining the highest standards for the district's fleet.
"This result didn't happen by accident," said Thomas Vowell, Director of Transportation. "It's the direct result of our mechanics' hard work, monthly inspections, and commitment to safety. I've worked with shops in the private sector and other school districts, and I can honestly say we have the best team. I'm grateful for their dedication to keeping our buses safe for our students, families, and community."
The Transportation Department congratulates the Fleet team on another outstanding inspection and thanks them for their continued commitment to excellence.
📢 Out-of-County & Student Transfer Applications Opening Soon
Harris County School District will begin accepting applications for Out-of-County Admissions and HB 251 Open Seat Transfers on July 1, 2026.
📅 Application Window: July 1–14, 2026
Out-of-County Admissions
Families residing outside Harris County who wish to enroll their child in an HCSD school may apply during the July application window. Applications and requirements are available at:
🔗 https://www.harris.k12.ga.us/page/out-of-county-tuiton
HB 251 Open Seat Transfers (Elementary Only)
Elementary families wishing to request a transfer to another HCSD elementary school may apply July 1–14, 2026. Approval is based on available space.
🔗 https://www.harris.k12.ga.us/page/hb-251
Hardship Transfers (Elementary Only)
Applications for hardship transfers will be accepted beginning July 15, 2026 and may be submitted throughout the school year.
📌 Important Reminders:
✔ Students must be registered and enrolled in their zoned school before submitting a transfer request.
✔ Transportation is the responsibility of the parent/guardian for approved transfers.
✔ Review all eligibility requirements and deadlines before applying.
For assistance, contact The H.O.P.E. Center at (706) 628-4206 ext. 2301.
🌐 Visit www.harris.k12.ga.us for complete details.
🚍 Harris County School District Transportation Team Attends GAPT Summer Conference 🚍
The Harris County School District Transportation Department recently attended the annual Georgia Association of Pupil Transportation (GAPT) Summer Conference, held June 15–18 in Jekyll Island, Georgia. Representing the district were Carol Taylor, Field Trip Secretary; Paul Bowden, Transportation Supervisor; and Thomas Vowell, Director of Transportation.
This conference provides valuable opportunities for transportation professionals across Georgia to stay current on regulations, participate in professional development workshops, network with peers facing similar challenges, strengthen leadership skills, and explore the latest equipment and technology available in pupil transportation.
Throughout the week, attendees participated in workshops covering a wide range of topics, including routing, fleet maintenance, budgeting, emergency preparedness, leadership development, and more. Many sessions were led by state transportation officials and experienced transportation leaders, offering firsthand insights into industry best practices and emerging trends. The training supports professional growth and helps participants prepare for advanced transportation certifications.
Director Thomas Vowell is especially excited about the Southeastern Pupil Transportation College (SPTC), a recently established program that offers transportation leaders and aspiring leaders the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Arts Pupil Transportation Official Degree through 90 hours of rigorous coursework. The program covers all aspects of pupil transportation and can take up to four years to complete.
“Carol Taylor and I began the program last month, and it has already provided us with a wealth of knowledge from many perspectives across transportation,” said Vowell. “My goal is for Harris County School District to be among the first to complete the program and to encourage more of our staff to become involved. This investment will help ensure our transportation team remains knowledgeable and prepared to serve our students for years to come.”
The GAPT Summer Conference continues to be an important resource for school transportation professionals, providing training, updates on laws and safety requirements, networking opportunities, and exposure to innovative equipment and technology. The knowledge gained helps transportation departments improve operations, maintain compliance, and uphold the highest standards of safety and service for students.
#HarrisCountySchools #StudentTransportation #GAPT #ProfessionalDevelopment #SafetyFirst #ExcellenceInEducation 🚍🍎
The Harris County School District Transportation Department recently attended the annual Georgia Association of Pupil Transportation (GAPT) Summer Conference, held June 15–18 in Jekyll Island, Georgia. Representing the district were Carol Taylor, Field Trip Secretary; Paul Bowden, Transportation Supervisor; and Thomas Vowell, Director of Transportation.
This conference provides valuable opportunities for transportation professionals across Georgia to stay current on regulations, participate in professional development workshops, network with peers facing similar challenges, strengthen leadership skills, and explore the latest equipment and technology available in pupil transportation.
Throughout the week, attendees participated in workshops covering a wide range of topics, including routing, fleet maintenance, budgeting, emergency preparedness, leadership development, and more. Many sessions were led by state transportation officials and experienced transportation leaders, offering firsthand insights into industry best practices and emerging trends. The training supports professional growth and helps participants prepare for advanced transportation certifications.
Director Thomas Vowell is especially excited about the Southeastern Pupil Transportation College (SPTC), a recently established program that offers transportation leaders and aspiring leaders the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Arts Pupil Transportation Official Degree through 90 hours of rigorous coursework. The program covers all aspects of pupil transportation and can take up to four years to complete.
“Carol Taylor and I began the program last month, and it has already provided us with a wealth of knowledge from many perspectives across transportation,” said Vowell. “My goal is for Harris County School District to be among the first to complete the program and to encourage more of our staff to become involved. This investment will help ensure our transportation team remains knowledgeable and prepared to serve our students for years to come.”
The GAPT Summer Conference continues to be an important resource for school transportation professionals, providing training, updates on laws and safety requirements, networking opportunities, and exposure to innovative equipment and technology. The knowledge gained helps transportation departments improve operations, maintain compliance, and uphold the highest standards of safety and service for students.
#HarrisCountySchools #StudentTransportation #GAPT #ProfessionalDevelopment #SafetyFirst #ExcellenceInEducation 🚍🍎
What a weekend for the Harris County High School Shotgun Team at the 2026 SCTP State Championship, held June 5–7 at Forest City Gun Club in Savannah! Our athletes showed up, shot strong, and are bringing home some hardware. We are incredibly proud of the hard work, dedication, and determination this team continues to display every time they step on the field.
Our athletes showed up, shot strong, and are bringing home some hardware. We are incredibly proud of the hard work, dedication, and determination this team continues to display every time they step on the field.
🏆 TEAM AWARDS
• High School State Champions – Skeet
• High School State Champions – Trap
• High School State Champions – Sporting Clays
• 3rd Place Overall Team HOA
🔥 TRAP AWARDS
• All-State Team – Rhett Cail
• 🥇 IE Squad Champions – Jake Matthew Lucas, Hunter Burt, Weston Baker, Braylen Askins, Matthew Miller
• 🥇 IA Individual Champion – Rhett Cail
• 🥉 IA Squad 3rd Place – Rhett Cail, Talon Powers, Evan Stewart, CJ Posey, Bailey Ritterbeck
• 🥉 JV Individual 3rd Place – Rylan Culpepper
🎯 SKEET AWARDS
• 🥈 IA Individual Runner-Up – Rhett Cail
• 🥈 IA Squad Runner-Up – Rhett Cail, Evan Stewart, CJ Posey
• 🥉 IA Ladies 3rd Place – Paislee Linn
💥 SPORTING CLAYS AWARDS
• All-State Team – Rhett Cail
• 🥈 IA Individual Runner-Up – Rhett Cail
• 🥉 IA Squad 3rd Place – Rhett Cail, Cameron Posey, CJ Posey
🔥 SUPER SPORTING AWARDS
• 🥇 IA Individual Champion – Rhett Cail
• 🥉 IA Squad 3rd Place – Rhett Cail, Cameron Posey, CJ Posey
• 🥈 JV Individual Runner-Up – Rylan Culpepper
🏅 HIGH OVER ALL (HOA) AWARD
• IA HOA Champion – Rhett Cail 🏆
A special congratulations to Rhett Cail for an outstanding championship performance, earning multiple podium finishes, two individual state championships, two All-State Team selections, and the IA HOA Championship.
We are extremely proud of all of these athletes and their accomplishments. Their success is a direct reflection of countless hours of practice, commitment, and teamwork.
Thank you to our families, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters who make this program possible. Your encouragement and dedication continue to help our shooters reach new heights.
Congratulations, Tigers! 🐅
— Jennifer Hamby Hartung
Harris County Shotgun Team Head Coach
Our athletes showed up, shot strong, and are bringing home some hardware. We are incredibly proud of the hard work, dedication, and determination this team continues to display every time they step on the field.
🏆 TEAM AWARDS
• High School State Champions – Skeet
• High School State Champions – Trap
• High School State Champions – Sporting Clays
• 3rd Place Overall Team HOA
🔥 TRAP AWARDS
• All-State Team – Rhett Cail
• 🥇 IE Squad Champions – Jake Matthew Lucas, Hunter Burt, Weston Baker, Braylen Askins, Matthew Miller
• 🥇 IA Individual Champion – Rhett Cail
• 🥉 IA Squad 3rd Place – Rhett Cail, Talon Powers, Evan Stewart, CJ Posey, Bailey Ritterbeck
• 🥉 JV Individual 3rd Place – Rylan Culpepper
🎯 SKEET AWARDS
• 🥈 IA Individual Runner-Up – Rhett Cail
• 🥈 IA Squad Runner-Up – Rhett Cail, Evan Stewart, CJ Posey
• 🥉 IA Ladies 3rd Place – Paislee Linn
💥 SPORTING CLAYS AWARDS
• All-State Team – Rhett Cail
• 🥈 IA Individual Runner-Up – Rhett Cail
• 🥉 IA Squad 3rd Place – Rhett Cail, Cameron Posey, CJ Posey
🔥 SUPER SPORTING AWARDS
• 🥇 IA Individual Champion – Rhett Cail
• 🥉 IA Squad 3rd Place – Rhett Cail, Cameron Posey, CJ Posey
• 🥈 JV Individual Runner-Up – Rylan Culpepper
🏅 HIGH OVER ALL (HOA) AWARD
• IA HOA Champion – Rhett Cail 🏆
A special congratulations to Rhett Cail for an outstanding championship performance, earning multiple podium finishes, two individual state championships, two All-State Team selections, and the IA HOA Championship.
We are extremely proud of all of these athletes and their accomplishments. Their success is a direct reflection of countless hours of practice, commitment, and teamwork.
Thank you to our families, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters who make this program possible. Your encouragement and dedication continue to help our shooters reach new heights.
Congratulations, Tigers! 🐅
— Jennifer Hamby Hartung
Harris County Shotgun Team Head Coach
🎉 Congratulations to Jennifer Robinson! 🎉
Jennifer Robinson has been recognized with two prestigious statewide honors for her outstanding contributions to educator preparation and Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE).
🏆 GACTE Teacher Educator of the Year (one of only eight recipients statewide)
🏆 GCCTA Teacher Educator of the Year
These awards recognize excellence in leadership, innovation, service, and dedication to preparing the next generation of educators.
“While I may teach future teachers, the real reward comes from watching them grow into confident, compassionate, and effective educators who make a difference in their own classrooms and communities,” Robinson said.
We are proud of Jennifer’s commitment to developing future educators and grateful for the positive impact she continues to make across Georgia and beyond.
👏 Please join us in congratulating Jennifer on these well-deserved honors!
#HarrisCountySchools #TeacherEducatorOfTheYear #CTAE #ExcellenceInEducation #GeorgiaEducation #FutureEducators
Jennifer Robinson has been recognized with two prestigious statewide honors for her outstanding contributions to educator preparation and Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE).
🏆 GACTE Teacher Educator of the Year (one of only eight recipients statewide)
🏆 GCCTA Teacher Educator of the Year
These awards recognize excellence in leadership, innovation, service, and dedication to preparing the next generation of educators.
“While I may teach future teachers, the real reward comes from watching them grow into confident, compassionate, and effective educators who make a difference in their own classrooms and communities,” Robinson said.
We are proud of Jennifer’s commitment to developing future educators and grateful for the positive impact she continues to make across Georgia and beyond.
👏 Please join us in congratulating Jennifer on these well-deserved honors!
#HarrisCountySchools #TeacherEducatorOfTheYear #CTAE #ExcellenceInEducation #GeorgiaEducation #FutureEducators
