Statesboro Magazine July/August 2016 by Statesboro Magazine

July August 2016

Outside the

Box

A Gem of a Story

CCAT Turns 15

And Gains STEAM S BONU

SECTI

OE The B 17 0 2016-2ual Ann t Repor

Beautifying the City

The New Visual Arts Incubator

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FROM THE EDITOR

Established March 1, 2000

Jenny Starling Foss Editor

Joe McGlamery

My favorite memories of elementary school are of the field trips we went on. Who remembers riding the bus to visit farms, museums, or factories? What a fun days we had learning outside the classroom! I can remember the excitement and anticipation of seeing things firsthand. Veteran science teacher Gwen Allen Smith believes in engaging children in a meaningful educational experience. She and husband Bill operate a traveling interactive mine exhibit called Diamond Del. Read about their adventures in promoting learning about rocks and gems the fun way. This year Charter Conservatory for Liberal Arts and Technology celebrates its 15th birthday! Can you believe it’s been 15 years since Dr. Kathy Harwood founded Bulloch County’s first charter school? In addition to marking this important anniversary, CCAT is celebrating being unanimously awarded a new, five-year charter by the Charter Schools Commission of Georgia. Along with that announcement comes plans for some important changes to the curriculum for the coming year and the exciting addition of a new mascot for the school. There’s a lot to learn about the new Charter Conservatory beginning on page 16. The Bulloch County Board of Education shares with us a stellar 2016 – 2017 Annual Report beginning on page 35. There’s so much information about programs, achievements, and plans for the coming year, you’ll want to save this section to use as a great reference guide throughout the school year. In this issue we also share news about four ladies who have an extraordinary record of serving for over forty years on the Statesboro Beautification Commission. Learn how the Commission was originally founded and how together they’ve changed the landscape of Statesboro. Another organization making a large imprint on downtown Statesboro is the Averitt Center for the Arts. In September, the Averitt will open its third expansion location when renovation of the space inside the Georgia Southern City Campus is completed. The new Roxie Remley Center for Fine Arts will house the ceramics department, classroom space for the visual arts, and studio space for rent to entrepreneurial artists as well. Mark your calendars - a grand opening celebration is scheduled for September 9th & 10th! We hope you find this Education issue of Statesboro Magazine engaging and exciting – sort of like a little field trip. As Alfred Mercier said, “What we learn with pleasure we never forget.”

Publisher

Hunter McCumber Art Director

Erica Sellers Advertising & Marketing Director

Frank Fortune Contributing Photographer Statesboro Magazine is proudly produced by:

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July August 2016

Outside the

BOX

A Gem of a

Story CCAT Tur ns

15 AND GAIN S STEAM

BONUS SECTION

The BOE 7 2016-201 l

BEAUTIFYIN

G THE CITY

Annua Report

Jenny Foss, Editor

The New Visu March/April 2016 • 45

al ARTS INCU BATOR

Proud publishers of Statesboro Magazine, Weddings by Statesboro Magazine, and GSU’s official football program – FLIGHT! Insta

statesboromagazine.com 4 • Statesboro Magazine

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Featured Contributors TORMENTA FC Heidi Jeffers is the Vice President of Franchise Development for the TORMENTA FC Professional Development League soccer team located in Statesboro. A specialist in Sports Marketing and Sports Tourism, Heidi joined TORMENTA FC in December 2015, after having served as the Executive Director of the Statesboro Convention and Visitors Bureau for five years. She has over 25 years of economic development experience in logistics, industrial, retail, commercial and tourism development.

Visit Statesboro Becky Davis is the new Executive Director of the Statesboro Convention and Visitors Bureau. She has been with the SCVB for four years as Marketing Manager promoting Statesboro and Bulloch County. She also works with hotels, restaurants and attractions to showcase Statesboro as an exciting tourism destination. Her photography featuring our community has been used in local, state and national publications.

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From Eagle Nation is a column brought to you by Georgia Southern University, where we cherish our place in the larger Statesboro community. In each issue, we hope to bring interesting and informative stories to the readers of Statesboro Magazine. Doy Cave is the Marketing Content Manager in the Office of Marketing and Communications at the University, and resides with his family in Statesboro.

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Bill Perry grew up in Live Oak, Florida, a small town just south of Valdosta, GA. After graduating from Stetson University, he earned three degrees from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. In 2004, he retired as pastor of First Baptist Church of Statesboro after serving that congregation for 22 years. He and his wife, Margaret, registrar of Statesboro High School before her retirement in 2005, have two daughters, five grandsons, and one granddaughter. Bill has been very much involved in community life in Statesboro. He is an avid reader and has been a runner since 1973.

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Contents

About the Cover What’s more fun than a field trip? Veteran science teacher Gwen Allen Smith and her husband Bill have found a way to make learning fun for elementary school students through a hands-on gem mining operation known as Diamond Del. She’s examining a prize find with area students in another great cover shot by award winning photographer Frank Fortune.

July August 2016

Outside the

BOX

A Gem of a Story

CCAT Turns 15

AND GAINS STEAM BONUS

N SECTIO

BEAUTIFYING THE CITY

E The BO 7 2016-201 al

The New Visual

Annu Report

ARTS INCUBATOR

THE CULTURE Outside the Box Mining with Diamond Del

Written by Jenny Starling Foss Photography by Frank Fortune ��

Charter Conservatory Gains STEAM

12 IN EVERY ISSUE From the Editor ��

Calendar of Events ��

News & Notes ��

Look Around ��

Transitions ��

Circulation Statesboro Magazine is published bi-monthly (six issues a year) at a $20.00 annual subscription rate by Statesboro Publishing Company, Inc. Standard postage paid at Statesboro, GA. To subscribe, email Statesboro Magazine Editor, Jenny Foss at jfoss@StatesboroMagazine.com or call 912.489.2181. The cover and contents of Statesboro Magazine are fully protected by copyright laws of the United States and may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without the written consent of Statesboro Magazine. We are not responsible for loss of unsolicited inquiries, manuscripts, photographs, transparencies or other materials. Such materials will not be returned unless accompanied by return postage. Address letters and editorial contributions to Statesboro Magazine, P.O. Box 1084, Statesboro, GA 30459. Copyright © 2016 by Statesboro Publishing Company, Inc. All rights reserved.

Written by Jenny Starling Foss Photography by Frank Fortune ��

A Thing of Beauty is a Joy Forever

Written & Photographed by Jenny Starling Foss ��

The Roxie Remley Center For the Fine Arts Opens Written by Scott Foxx ��

SPECIAL SECTIONS

Real Estate ��

It’s A Family Affair ��

BONUS SECTION Bulloch County 2016-2017 Annual Report ��

FEATURED COLUMNISTS Tormenta FC Written by Heidi Jeffers ��

Visit Statesboro! Written by Becky Davis ��

True Blue Written by Doy Cave ��

The Spiritual Pathway Written by Rev. Dr. H. William Perry ��

The View from Here Written by Ric Mandes ��

July/August 2016 • 7

Calendar

July Sunday

monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday 1

Main Street Farmers Market

Saturday 2

First Friday Downtown Picnic Downtown Statesboro

Every Saturday 9 AM-12:30 PM Charlie Olliff Square Downtown

Christmas in July

Jungle Book

6PM – 8PM

7PM

SPLASH in the Boro

Emma Kelly Theater

INDEPENDENCE DAY Firecracker Fest 5PM – 10PM Mill Creek Park

Carrie Ann Baade

Averitt Center

Pieces & Pieces Exhibition Main Gallery Averitt Center

Back to School Bash

Honk, the Musical

6PM – 8PM

Aug 29 - 30

SPLASH in the Boro

7:30 PM

OPEN HOUSE for

Emma Kelly Theater

Bulloch Co. Schools

Averitt Center

31 Honk, the Musical 2:00 p.m. Emma Kelly Theater Averitt Center

8 • Statesboro Magazine

Calendar

August Sunday

monday 1

Tuesday 2

Wednesday 3

Thursday 4

Friday 5

Saturday 6

First Day of School

August 4 - 6

First Friday

Jaycee’s Night Out

Bulloch County

‘night Mother

Pep Rally

Summer Olympics

7:30 PM

Downtown Statesboro

7 PM – Midnight

Whitaker Theater Averitt Center

First Day of School Bulloch Academy

BFSDoART

Brooklet Peanut

Faculty Exhibition

Festival 10 AM

Aug 15 – Sep 16 Center for Art & Theater

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News & Notes

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Georgia Southern University Multimedia Development Center and Department of Music Wins Emmy® Award

Caption: (L-R) Art Berger, Evan Lebish, Rebecca Lynch, and Jeffrey Clark

The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, Southeast Chapter, has recognized Georgia Southern University’s Multimedia Development Center (MDC) and Department of Music with an Emmy® Award for Best Live Audio. Jeffrey Clark, graduate student in the Department of Music, Art Berger, director of the MDC, and Rebecca Lynch, academic and post-production producer for the MDC, won for their work in recording live the Georgia Southern University Wind Symphony’s performance of “Lis Escoubo” from Suite Provençal by Jan Van der Roost. Conducted by Colin McKenzie, D.M.A., the Wind Symphony is composed of students majoring in music education and performance as well as students from many other colleges and departments on campus. The MDC provides students with professional opportunities to hone their skills in the areas of multimedia and television production. “We are very proud of our collaboration with the Department of Music, especially the work of our students and their outstanding performance,” said Berger. The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, NATAS, is a professional organization for individuals in the television and broadcasting industry. NATAS is the standard-bearer for excellence in the television broadcasting industry and the gatekeepers of the prestigious regional Emmy® Awards. The Southeast Chapter represents the most experienced and talented television professionals from all disciplines of the industry and from television markets in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina and Asheville, North Carolina. 10 • Statesboro Magazine

Doing Justice, Loving Mercy, Walking Humbly. — Micah 6:8

Dr. Jaimie Hebert Named 13th Georgia Southern President The Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia named Dr. Jaimie Hebert president of Georgia Southern University in Statesboro. Hebert will assume his new position on July 1, 2016. Hebert joins the University System of Georgia from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, where he has been serving as the provost and vice president for academic affairs. Hebert has served in various roles at Sam Houston State University since 1999. He has worked as a professor of mathematics and statistics, chair of mathematics and statistics, and dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. He has also worked in higher education as an assistant professor of mathematical sciences at Appalachian State University (Boone, North Carolina). Throughout his career, Hebert has been active in University-related, studentrelated, professional and civic organizations including: the Council of Academic Deans, SACS Compliance Committee (2009 reaffirmation), Standing Faculty Tenure Committee, Texas Association of Chief Academic Officers, Journal of Developmental Education, SHSU Rotoract Club, Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity (advisor), Rotary Club of Huntsville, and Huntsville/Walker County Economic Development Committee. Hebert received a bachelor’s degree, master’s and a doctorate in statistics from the University of Louisiana-Lafayette. Hebert has two daughters. Emily is a graduate student and Sarah is an undergraduate student.

GDEcD: WL Plastics Corporation to create 40 new jobs in Statesboro Leading manufacturer of polyethylene pipe to invest $12M in Bulloch County

Ogeechee Riverkeeper Looks to Attract New Supporters Through Ogeechee Lime Society

With over 10 years of river and wetlands advocacy, Ogeechee Riverkeeper has long relied on supporters for financial assistance as well as volunteer efforts. The non-profit has built a solid base of friends and allies who believe in the Riverkeeper’s mission to protect, preserve and improve the water quality of the Ogeechee River basin. As Ogeechee Riverkeeper’s programs, outreach efforts and educational activities continue to expand steadily, a need has arisen for a reinforced network of additional committed donors and backers. The organization wishes to recognize the generous donations of a group of long-term committed donors and encourage new supporters at this level by creating the Ogeechee Lime Society. This elite group of donors is dedicated to protecting, preserving and improving the Ogeechee, Canoochee and coastal rivers of Georgia. Members are committed to supporting the nonprofit with significant financial contributions, which enable the Riverkeeper to continue its work in water-quality monitoring, investigating water polluters and holding them accountable, promoting sound environmental policies, and engaging citizens through education and empowerment. For more information on Ogeechee Riverkeepers or to donate call 866-942-6222 or email info@ogeecheeriverkeeper.org.

Georgia Southern Performing Arts Center Releases 2016-2017 Season Schedule John Michael Montgomery Thursday, September 8, 2016 The Drifters Sunday, October 22, 2016 Doc Severinsen Wednesday, January 25, 2017 Last of the Red Hot Lovers Saturday, February 25, 2017 Annie Tuesday, March 7, 2017 Cabaret Thursday, April 27, 2017 For more about programming or to purchase tickets visit http://academics.georgiasouthern.edu/ pac/

The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) announced in May 2016 that WL Plastics Corporation (WL), one of the largest manufacturers of high performance High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipe and related products for the oil, gas, mining, industrial and municipal water markets, will create 40 jobs and invest $12 million in Bulloch County. “To serve their customer base and remain competitive, companies like WL Plastics need highquality resources like those found throughout Georgia at their disposal,” said GDEcD Commissioner Chris Carr. “Their locating here speaks to the strength and vitality of our ready-to-work labor force and top-ranked business climate. We have no doubt that this industry leader will find much success in our state.” WL currently operates seven state-ofthe-art manufacturing locations in North America. Their manufacturing processes and experienced production personnel help make WL one of the most efficient producers of HDPE pressure pipe. www.wlplastics.com

Smith & Wasden Clothing Company Opens Custom Store in Market District Partners Terry Smith & George Wasden recently opened a “truly Southern” clothing store in the Market District. Geared toward the country lifestyle, Smith & Wasden Clothing Company features custom T-shirts, beach wear, comfort wear, jewelry, and quality apparel along with popular accessories. The new store also carries handmade furniture, wood carvings, and Pictured (L-R) Owners & Entrepreneurs Terry Smith and George Wasden. other rustic home décor. A creative team, Smith & Wasden have designed several clothing lines that are featured throughout the store, including Raised in the Sticks (RITS), Cotton Coast, Reel Man, Wing Man, Arrowhead and Hook & Horn. Open Monday – Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. For more information visit www.smithandwasden.com. July/August 2016 • 11

Box Outside the

Written by Jenny Starling Foss

Imagine you’re in the third grade. You’ve been given an assignment to learn about the classifications of rocks while studying a unit on geology. Which would you rather do: (A) Look at pictures of rocks on the computer screen or (B) Grab a box of sand and mine for precious stones in an actual sluice of rushing water? Raise your hand if you picked (B). It’s the right answer because the excite-

12 • Statesboro Magazine

ment of active participation can make learning an enjoyable experience for both student and teacher. That’s something veteran science teacher Gwen Allen Smith knows very well. Throughout her 20+ year career, she always felt the constraints of teaching inside the classroom versus experiencing nature outdoors in planning units for her elementary and middle school students. She often looked for ways to engage her students beyond the confines of the classroom, remembering that her own curiosity was better satisfied through hands on learning in an engaging environment. Enjoyment of the outdoors is what drew her

to the field of science to begin with. Smith moved with her family to Statesboro in fifth grade attending Julia P. Bryant Elementary School, then William James Middle School, and later graduating from Statesboro High School in 1981. She earned a BS in Biology from Georgia Southern and accepted her first job as a lab technician for the City of Statesboro at the waste water treatment plant. During this time Smith returned to Georgia Southern to earn her teaching certification and in 1986 began teaching seventh grade science at the middle school she had attended, William James. Smith met and married Georgia Southern

marketing instructor Bill Smith early in her career. Together they traveled to Las Cruses, New Mexico, where Smith taught a 99% Hispanic population of eighth graders. After three years, the adventurous couple moved to Jacksonville, Florida, where Smith taught seventh grade science at Darnell Cookman, a medical arts magnet school. While living in Florida’s Palm Coast, the Smiths created and hosted a coastal environmental boat tour for students and their families. The marine excursions centered on the intercoastal waterways, examining and learning about the wildlife and ecosystems of the area. While in Jacksonville, Smith also worked during the summer creating science camp excursions for students to nearby Marineland where they worked on science fair projects requiring experimental research on the coastal inhabitants. “For example, one student’s project involved periwinkle snails that crawl up and down blades of marsh grass with the incoming and outgoing tides,” said Smith. “The experiment was to see if the snails would vacillate like that with no tide. This was of high interest to the students, and learning about the snails in a hands on experiment was both exciting and enjoyable.” She led camping excursions to nearby Cumberland Island, one of the nation’s protected sea shores, to show students firsthand a coastal environment undisturbed by commercial development. The couple later relocated to Anderson, South Carolina, where Smith taught fifth grade science. After a few years in Anderson, they came back home to Statesboro, where Smith taught multiple grades at the Charter Conservatory for Liberal Arts & Technology. “I really enjoyed teaching at CCAT because of the open classroom format and the ability to engage students individually in ways that helped them best to learn,” said Smith. The opportunity to teach engineering and technology to third through fifth graders lured Smith to Beaufort Elementary in Beaufort, South Carolina. It was while teaching there that Smith experienced the Diamond Del Gem Mining Adventure for the first time. She had booked Diamond Del for her own classes. The experience of having a “field trip”” come to the school, was both economical and logistically a lot easier than transporting students to another location. She immediately saw the benefits of the July/August 2016 • 13

Diamond Del Adventure for both students and teachers. Bill Smith spoke with Del Allen, a graduate of Wofford College and founder of Diamond Del’s Gem Mining Adventure, LLC. Allen agreed to franchise his portable field trip operation consisting of a long trailer equipped with sluices along the cave-like interior walls. Students enter the “cave” and are given a shallow wooden box with a screened bottom full of small rock material similar in consistency to cat litter. The gravel has hidden gems that are “discovered” by the students bringing much excitement as cat’s eye, rose quartz, pyrite, garnets and other precious stones are uncovered. Before engaging in the interactive mining activity, the students first see a 20-minute video in the classroom that prepares them for the adventure as Diamond Del introduces each rock and mineral. The 30-minute mining session follows. The Smiths make a 14 • Statesboro Magazine

special effort to talk with each student during the mining activity, answering questions and pointing out interesting aspects of the gem stones. After sifting through the material, students return to the classroom with a bag of stones for closer examination and identification with an accompanying brochure and video that highlights everything in the junior gemologist’s bags. The educational gem mining DVDs are part of the program in which Diamond Del teaches the students how to identify and classify their collections. Bill Smith has been operating as “Billy Rock” with Diamond Del Adventures since 2009 in the South Carolina low country, Georgia, Alabama, Arkansas and North Florida. Four years ago, Gwen joined Bill fulltime with the Diamond Del operation, and now the couple works together to bring the unique learning opportunity to school children.

They have returned to Statesboro as home base, but stay on the road throughout the school year taking the Diamond Del Gem Mining experience to children all over the southeast. “This really appeals to teachers who appreciate an activity that is meaningful, simple, and that meets expectations. They know how the program will go and can build around the experience. The teachers feel good and the kids are so excited. You would think they actually found a diamond! They get to take their rock samples back to the classroom, and we often check on the classes to observe how engaged they are in learning, swapping rocks and having fun.” The Smiths book the Adventure with schools August through November and February through May each year. “Some teachers want to book the activity early in the year when the students are first learning about rocks and minerals in Earth

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Science,” stated Smith. “Other teachers prefer to use Diamond Del right before state testing begins in the spring to reinforce what was learned earlier in the school year.” Diamond Del’s Adventure is good for all elementary and middle grades as it can work to introduce geology in elementary school units like Scientific Inquiry, and helps with more complex learning about geology and the layers of the Earth’s crust; the composition of rocks and minerals, in middle school. “It’s the look on their faces that lets you know they are engaged and you are connected with them in an enjoyable learning experience. That connection is what teachers are always seeking. There is no greater gratification for a teacher than to know that you have reached a student, that you have helped them to learn something new,” Smith said. “You can see it in their eyes. They’re having fun learning.” S

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July/August 2016 • 15

Charter Conservatory

Gains STEAM

Written by Jenny Starling Foss

16 â&#x20AC;˘ Statesboro Magazine

It’s a banner year for the Charter Conservatory for the Liberal Arts and Sciences (CCAT). The 2016-2017 school year marks the 15th anniversary of the school’s founding. That’s reason enough to celebrate, but you can add to that the recent granting of a five-year charter by the current Georgia Charter Schools Commission. For the first time since 2012, CCAT has been given an extended vote of confidence in its administration and in the performance of its students. CCAT began as a public charter school in 2002 led by the late Dr. Kathy Harwood. Over the years it has grown to serve 160 students, in grades 6 – 12. Originally, the school included elementary grades, but focusing on students in upper grades proved to be a more effective mission.

In 2006, Corliss Reese joined the faculty as a teacher. A native of Thomson, Georgia, Reese attended Georgia Southern and has been a volunteer recreation department coach for football, baseball, and basketball teams for nine years. From 2001 – 2006 he headed the Statesboro Storm Travel Team, a baseball team for youth ages 8 – 15 years. This year marks Reese’s tenth anniversary with the school. In 2012, after Dr. Harwood retired, he was chosen to be the next director by the school’s board. Under Reese’s leadership for

the last three years, CCAT has improved student test scores, retention rates, and graduation rates. He believes adapting the STEAM model will only benefit CCAT in the future. What will the new charter mean for the school? “We’ll be enhancing July/August 2016 • 17

our educational programs by becoming a STEAM school,” Reese stated. “STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math. We’ll be engaged in incorporating those areas in all the subjects we teach.” Under the new charter, the school will undergo a name change to Statesboro STEAM College, Careers, Arts and Technology Academy. A student contest was held to name a new mascot for the school, and the CCAT cheetah will be replaced with a dragon. A new logo has already been created showing the changes. What exactly is STEAM? It’s an “educational approach to learning that uses Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics as access points for guiding student inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking. The end results are students who take thoughtful risks, engage in experiential learning, persist in problem- solving, embrace collaboration, and work through the creative process.” Other key points of the STEAM education process include: • Steam is an integrated approach to learning which requires an intentional connection between standards, assessments and lesson design/implementation. • True STEAM experiences involve two or more standards from Science, Technology, Engineering, Math and the Arts to be taught and accessed in and through each other. • Inquiry, collaboration, and an emphasis on proceed-based learning are at the heart of the STEAM approach. • Utilizing leveraging the integrity of the arts themselves is essential to an authentic STEAM initiative. The difference between STEM and STEAM is clearly the Arts. Studies show that the integration of the Arts in curricula help students to excel in all areas of academia. There is evidence that the incorporation of the Arts reduces dropout rates, raises student attendance, develops better team players, and fosters a love of learning. Students 18 • Statesboro Magazine

who participate in the Arts develop fine motor skills, are more creative thinkers, and have improved emotional balance. Being a STEAM school means CCAT will offer a rotation model of blended learning programs in which students will receive part of their education in online learning. Students will have an element of control over time, place, path, and the pace in which they proceed. Another share of their learning experience will occur through teacher-led instruction, while a third component will include collaborative activities at stations where hands on activities can occur. “The blended learning approach will give the students more than one way to approach the subject matter,” stated Reese. “The goal is to create a naturally interdisciplinary differentiated learning

environment that will one day evolve into one that will be transdisciplinary.” Which means subjects will no longer be taught separately, but teachers will collaborate with administrators on developing a curriculum that includes overlapping subjects. What are some of the benefits of being a charter school? “There is a greater freedom in the approach to educating children and teachers have more autonomy in the classroom,” stated Reese. “We have the same tests as regular public school and must show improved performance as well.” According to Reese, CCAT is a little bit above Bulloch County in student growth with a higher graduation rate of 88.2%. At the Charter school, students will be able to choose career paths as early as sixth grade, with flexibility from sixth to eight grades. By high school, Reese believes that students will have found their paths and will stick with them through post-secondary education. There will be

an accelerated program for some students above their grade level. “The new integrated learning of multiple disciplines within one class will reinforce content knowledge, and be a more rigorous, more challenging for students,” stated Reese. “But, it will also be a more comprehensive way to learn.” The Charter school operates on a schedule that differs from the Bulloch County Board of Education, beginning the school year in mid-July and ending in late May. There are two-week breaks after each semester and holiday breaks. The school day starts with a “Morning Mingle” session where announcements are made and students are being motivated by music and a DJ to get ready to learn. At 8:00 a.m. classes begin. Academics are taught in the morning before lunchtime and electives are after lunch. Students brown bag or order lunch and have it delivered. In the afternoon electives such as Chess, physical education, art, drama, journalism, Spanish and Model U.N. are offered. Last year a middle school basketball team was started. Reese hopes to grow the sports program to include a high school basketball team and this year is planning to join the Georgia High School Association (GHSA). Reese and the advisory board are also looking for a location to expand the facilities. There is a waiting list of applicants each school year. This summer, Reese will be overseeing the training of teachers, the renovation of CCAT’s interior, and preparations for the brand new school year. “We’re excited about the new opportunities for partnerships our programming will afford,” said Reese. “We’re encouraged by meetings with the Board of Education and are forming partnerships with non-profits such as the Averitt Center for the Arts to enhance our programs. There is a working buzz around the building that is contagious. I can’t wait for the school year to begin. Our new charter gives us five years to excel. I can’t wait to see where we’ll be in 2021.” S

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STATESBORO ADVANCES TO THE FINAL EIGHT IN THE $10 MILLION PRIZE CAMPAIGN!

The Winning Combo City of Statesboro

The South Main Revitalization Committee (The Blue Mile) Downtown’s Tax Allocation District (TAD) DSDA First Friday Events Main Street Farmers Market Downtown Development Incentives Accepting the award are Statesboro team members Bob Mikell – Brown Rountree PC, Phyllis Thompson – Statesboro-Bulloch Chamber of Commerce, Mandi Cody – former Director of Planning & Development for City of Statesboro, Allen Muldrew - Main Street Statesboro, Darron Burnette – Sea Island Bank, Tan Adams – Georgia Power, Keely Fennell – Nesmith Construction

These eight communities were awarded $100,000 to continue implementation of their revitalization plans; top three winners will be announced in April 2017. In 2014, Frontier Communications, DISH Network, CoBank, and the Weather Channel, launched America’s Best Communities, a $10 million prize competition to stimulate growth and revitalization in small cities and towns across Frontier’s 27-state footprint. Across the nation, more than 350 communities participated and 50 communities awarded $50,000 in the quarterfinalist round and 15 communities awarded $100,000 in the semi-finalist round to develop and implement their comprehensive strategies to accelerate their local economies and improve quality of life. Statesboro’s team, comprised of DSDA, City of Statesboro, Averitt Center for the Arts, Georgia Southern University, South Main Street Revitalization Committee, and the Statesboro-

Bulloch Chamber of Commerce, shares the finalist spotlight with Lake Havasu City, Arizona; Madison, Indiana; Darrington/Arlington, Washington; Chisago Lakes Area, Minnesota; Huntington, West Virginia; Valley County/Meadows Valley, Idaho; and Tualatin, Oregon. “These eight finalist communities have demonstrated the ability to think long-term and create a path forward to make their ideas a reality, an approach that we value at DISH as we serve our customers, many of whom reside in small towns and rural communities,” said DISH EVP Brian Neylon. “This competition is helping to invigorate communities, injecting new resources and energy where needed, and we look forward to seeing these plans become reality.” The top three winners of the most innovative and effective proposals will be announced in April 2017 and awarded a total of $6 million in grand prizes with the grand prize winner receiving $3 million.

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A Thing of Beauty is a Joy Forever Written by Jenny Foss

Pictured Left: (L-R) Wilma Coleman, Helen Watson, Jean Mathews, and Henry ClayPictured Right: Jean Mathews and Virginia Anne Waters

All the ladies agreed that it was Generia Honeycutt “Honey” Bowen, wife of long-time Statesboro Mayor William A. “Bill” Bowen, who was instrumental in forming the Statesboro Beautification Commission in 1973. Mrs. Bowen attended South Georgia Teachers College, met and married Bill Bowen and joined the faculty in physical education at Georgia Southern. She was also instrumental in forming the Statesboro/Bulloch County Parks and Recreation Department, the main offices of which bear her name. “Honey became very interested in the city after marrying Bill,” related Mrs. Jean Smith Mathews, one of the Commission’s founding members and one of four recently recognized by the mayor and city council for their long service and commitment to enhancing the beauty of Statesboro. Mrs. Mathews was joined in being honored by Mrs. Martha Wilma Simmons Coleman, Mrs. Fay Foy Smith, and Mrs. Helen Proctor Morris Watson. All were given emeritus status on the Commission for their many years of service. The Commission was originally appointed by Mayor Bowen with the purpose of “Coordinating, encouraging and promoting efforts on the part of businesses, civic organizations, garden clubs, and citizens to maintain and enhance the beauty and cleanliness of the City of Statesboro.”

Have you ever admired the blooming dogwood trees along College Boulevard or Park Avenue, standing in a row like young girls dressed in their Sunday finest waiting for the Easter parade? Or have you noticed the beautiful fountain and seasonal plantings at Triangle Park where East Main and Savannah Avenue intersect? These lovely details are what create an ambience for our community, a touch of charm and attractiveness. They are just a few examples of the work of the Statesboro Beautification Commission. “The Garden Clubs really wanted it,” said Mrs. Coleman. “We sold roses, shrubs and flowers to enhance the neighborhoods. We put the witch up for the Sallie Zetterower (Elementary School) Fall Carnival, and the Christmas Tree up at the court house.” Of the four honored by city council, three were founding members of the Commission, Mrs. Mathews, Mrs. Smith, and Mrs. Coleman. “Priss Olliff and Nan Bland were also on the first commission,” said Mrs. Mathews. The ladies described their busy lives of garden club meetings, bridge club, tennis, golf, raising children, attending to church work, volunteering for charity concerns and serving on the Beautification Commission as young wives and mothers. All felt it was an important initiative for the community.

“We had dogwoods planted on the sidewalks downtown and worked with James Bland to have camellias and azaleas planted at the cemetery,” said Mrs. Mathews. In addition to encouraging landscaping, the Commission sponsored the replacement of steel drums with attractive refuse receptacles throughout downtown. They sponsored the erection of new street signs, encouraged the standardization of house numbering, and checked regularly on street sweepings and grass cutting in public areas. Some of the goals of the Beautification Commission in the early 1970s are ongoing and just as relevant today as they were 43 years ago: working toward an attractive, safe and functional bike trail; studying the possibility of removing existing utility poles or at least fewer and more attractive poles with newer type lights; and working toward more mini parks throughout the city. The Beautification Commission was also proactive in planning and researching improvements for the City of Statesboro. They enlisted and implemented ideas drawn from what other towns were doing successfully and through the help of professionals “toward the end of making changes in design and practices, and additions that will make our city a uniquely attractive place.” While the Beautification Commission still researches and plans projects, the City July/August 2016 • 23

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Top: Helen Watson and Jean Mathews Center: Helen Watson, Councilman Jeff Yawn, and Fay Foy Smith.

of Statesboro’s Superintendent of Streets and Parks, Robert Seamans, manages the budget and oversees and implements the projects. In addition to the four emeritus members, other members of the Commission currently serving are Virginia Anne Franklin Waters, Henry Clay (Chairman), Perry Ann Dean, Sally Daniel, and Rick Smith. “This is an actual commission,” stated Seamans, “the Tree Board and the Beautification Commission fall under the Georgia Municipal Code with ordinances governing their operations.” Current projects include the new banners on downtown streetlamps, landscaping the Municipal Court building on West Grady Street, renovating the fountain at Triangle Park, and landscaping for Savannah Avenue. Four commemorative benches have also recently been ordered and will be installed in parks within the city, a fitting way to honor the four emeritus members of the Commission. “We served all these years because we appreciate nature and what grows and what adds beauty wherever it is,” said Mrs. Mathews. S Editor’s Note: The ladies were recently honored at a luncheon at the farm of Bill & Virginia Anne Waters in Metter, Georgia.

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Roxie Remley Center for Fine Arts Opens September 2016 Averitt Center’s Third Footprint in Downtown Statesboro Written by Scott FoxX

A pathway of pristine red bricks now paves the unused lane between the downtown buildings of the Georgia Southern University Business Incubator and Fabrication Lab located next door to CAKE bak-

28 • Statesboro Magazine

ery. Aside from being aesthetically pleasing, there is a purpose in the pavement. Stroll to the end of the lane and you reach the past home of the Statesboro Youth Ballet, now housed at the Center for Performing Arts located at 41 West Main Street. Set to open soon in the vacated space, is the Roxie Remley Center for Fine Arts. The brick paved walkway links what has been dubbed an “entrepreneurial zone,” part of the larger vision of the Georgia Southern College of Business. The Roxie Remley Center rounds out the vision by providing space for the study of the visual arts in addition to the Fabrication Lab, a facility with a 3-D printer, and a small business incubator. An Indiana native, Roxie Remley has been a fixture in Statesboro’s art community for years, having taught art at Georgia Southern from 1950-1976. A model of ser-

vice, Ms. Remley attained the rank of Captain during World War II, in the Women’s Army Corps earning her master’s degree in art at the prestigious Pratt Institute. Throughout her life, Ms. Remley has been a prolific artist, producing signature collections of painting, collage and drawing, completing her 20th solo exhibition, “Edge of 90,” at the age of 90. Volunteering with numerous civic organizations, such as the Statesboro Civic Garden Club, The Bulloch County Historical Society and Statesboro First United Methodist Church, Ms. Remley shows no signs of slowing down. In 2011, her life of artistic excellence was recognized by the Averitt Center for the Arts as she became the fourth inductee into the Legends of the Arts beside such vener-

July/August 2016 â&#x20AC;¢ 29

able luminaries as Emma Kelly, Michael Braz, Blind Willie McTell, and Betty Foy Sanders. Naming the visual arts center after her was not only fitting, but the perfect choice. Under the direction of Mrs. Kim Riner, a ceramicist and MFA graduate of Georgia Southern, the two--story Roxie Remley Center for Fine Arts is divided between 2-D and the 3-D arts. On the first floor are two instructional areas; one is a spacious ceramics room where the study of clay, (glazing, wheel throwing and hand building), takes place. Next to the ceramics area is a space for the study of drawing and painting, equipped with easels and model stands for the study of still life and figure drawing. Both rooms are equipped with ventilation and hazardous material disposal, making the building both functional and ecologically responsible. Upstairs the door to the second floor opens to a modern, freshly designed common area surrounded by eight private studios. Chain-link doors into the studios promote a community atmosphere of collaboration, while satisfying privacy and

30 â&#x20AC;˘ Statesboro Magazine

underscoring the industrial design, suggesting that this is not a place to relax, but to engage in the serious work of art making. In these spaces, all of which are already rented, artists of various disciplines will produce their work for the gallery, art fairs or online markets. Affordable studio space is always a challenge for emerging artists, so the benefit of reasonably priced, well equipped studios, along with the collaboration of multi-disciplinary peers in the shared space, is sure to be of great benefit to the area’s aspiring artist community. The Averitt Center for the Arts has been growing rapidly as part of its Creative Growth Capital Campaign. Funding is being obtained through private donations from local individuals and businesses, with the goal of creating a downtown arts campus serving the broadest array of arts disciplines in state- of-the-art-facilities, taught by top notch professional instructors. Spurring economic development in the historic downtown area has always been a large part of the Averitt’s efforts, and the renovation of the Roxie Remley Center for Fine Arts is another phase of that plan. Through creative adaptation and re-use, structures with old character and timeless appeal are enjoying new life. The increased traffic of patrons and customers will inspire others in the region to take advantage of the Entrepreneur Zone to bring new businesses and services to the community. The Roxie Remley Center for the Fine Arts will be welcoming visitors on September 9th & 10th with a ribbon-cutting and gala scheduled for the evening of Friday, September 9th. An Art Market featuring working artists is scheduled for September 10th, where the public is invited to meet the artists and become a patron of the Averitt Center. S Editor’s Note: For further information on the Roxie Remley Center for Fine Arts or to enroll in visual arts classes, please contact Kim Riner at the Averitt Center by calling 912-212-2787 or visit their website at www.averittcenterforthearts.org to sign-up for classes.

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July/August 2016 • 31

HOME

Selling with Confidence. Buying with Success.

W For Agents

For Brokers

Whether you are looking to rent, buy or sell your home, Statesboro Magazine’s directory of local real estate agents and brokers connects you with professionals who can help meet your needs. Because the real estate market is unique, it’s important to choose a real estate agent or broker with local expertise to guide you through the process of renting, buying or selling your next home. Our directory helps you find real estate professionals who specialize in buying, selling, or relocation of residential and commercial properties. Work with a local agent or real estate broker to get the most knowledgeable and expert assistance in real estate buying and selling services.

VALERIE A. THOMPSON, REALTOR® (912) 690-1519 | (912) 489-4433 Thank you for placing an ad with Statesboro Magazine. Below is your proof.| valerie@buystatesboro.com

Please check it closely and let us know right away if there are any changes needed. * A watermark will appear over the ad when printing. *

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For real estate expertise you can trust in St. Simons Island, Contact Brad Davis, a native of Bulloch County. With eight years of experience selling real estate in Georgia, six of which have been in St. Simons Island, I can help you with all of your real estate needs. Whether you are looking to buy a vacation condo, investment property, retirement home, vacant lot, or if you need to sell a property, I can help. Sign up for my monthly ‘DEALS’ newsletter by sending an email to bradsellsssi@gmail.com and request to be added to the ‘DEALS’ newsletter. CIRCLE OF EXCELLENCE MEMBER - 2014-2016 SEA PALMS COASTAL REALTY TOP SALES AGENT - 2013-2015

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32 • Statesboro Magazine

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Bulloch County Schools 2016-2017

Annual Report Preparing Students for Success and Enhancing Community Value

LEADERSHIP CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE

Bulloch County Board of Education 2016 – Pictured Standing (L-R): Jimmy “Jay” Cook, Steve Hein, Cheri Wagner, Glennera Martin. Seated (L-R): Dr. LeVon Wilson, Mike Sparks, Maurice Hill, Mike Herndon.

District 1 CHERI WAGNER, CO-VICE CHAIRMAN 912.852.3495 (H) Term: 1/1/2013 – 12/31/2020 clwag68@yahoo.com

District 5 GLENNERA MARTIN 912.764.3291 (H) Term: 1/1/2015 – 12/31/2018 gmartinsugarhill@yahoo.com

District 2 MIKE SPARKS 912.842.2460 (H) Term: 1/1/2013 – 12/31/2020 msparks@bullochschools.org

District 6 JIMMY “JAY” COOK 912.489.3137 (H) Term: 1/1/2015 – 12/31/2018 jlcook64@gmail.com

District 3* DR. LEVON WILSON 912.489.6688 (H) Term: 1/1/2013 – 12/31/2016 dr.levonwilson@gmail.com

District 7* MIKE HERNDON, CHAIRMAN 912.681.4619 (W) 912.839.3917 (H) Term: 9/14/2006 – 12/31/2016 statesboroagency@gmail.com

District 4 STEVE HEIN 912.536.5807 (C) Term: 1/1/2011 – 12/31/2018 shein@georgiasouthern.edu

College & Career Readiness

Resource Optimization

Student Success & Community Value.

Community Support

District 8 MAURICE HILL, CO-VICE CHAIRMAN 912.764.7134(W&H) Term: 1/1/2005 – 12/31/2020 hillmaurice@yahoo.com

I am proud to serve as chairman of the Bulloch County Board of Education for 2016. Public education is a vital part of a community’s economic development. Bulloch County and its communities are fortunate to have a positive and progressive working relationship between the Board of Education and its city and county governments. That partnership is expressed even in our mission statement: Our mission is to prepare students for success and enhance community value. We want all of our students to graduate and be prepared for the next phase of their lives, whether it be college, military service, technical college, or straight into the work force. Our goal is to prepare children to be productive citizens and to enhance the value of our communities. I am proud that our public school system gives our children such a broad range of opportunities through a set of core values that emphasize relationships, purpose, innovation, collaboration, determination and accountability. I believe Tom Brokaw said it best, “There is a place in America to take a stand: it is public education. It is the underpinning of our cultural and political system. It is the great common ground. Public education after all is the engine that moves us as a society toward a common destiny. It is in public education that the American dream begins to take shape.” To me there is no greater cause for a civicminded individual to stand behind and support than public education. Thank you to all the parents and community members who support public education in Bulloch County. MIKE HERNDON, CHAIRMAN Bulloch County Board of Education

*Beginning January 1, 2017 through December 31, 2020, Districts 3 and 7 will be represented by Heather Mims (912.541.3514; heathermims@live.com) and Dr. Stuart H. Tedders (912.478.1922; stedders@georgiasouthern.edu) Stakeholder Support

SCHOOL SYSTEM BRIEF Student Enrollment Graduation Rate (4 yr. Cohort) Per Pupil Expenditures

2 • Bulloch County Schools - www.bullochschools.org - 912.212.8500

2014 10,044 71.7% $7,423.38

2015 10,192 75.1% $7,651.70

2016 10,370 84.48% Pending

SUPERINTENDENT’S MESSAGE In June 2016, I began my fifth year as superintendent of Bulloch County Schools. I appreciate the confidence the Board of Education has placed in me to help take our district in a bold new direction. Retooling a system as large as ours and entrenched in so many areas is not easy. Key foundational Pieces needed to be put in place. Our employees have so many demands on them, but their passion is preparing our students for the future. Because of this, they are embracing multiple difficult changes for the best, and we are slowly seeing the fruits of their dedication across the system. STRATEGIC PLANNING FIRST, in 2013, we sought community input to help create a strategic plan that would align the community’s goals for quality of life and workforce development with the rigorous and relevant instruction and experiences students need from early learning through post-secondary education. With assistance from the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education and more than 700 stakeholders, we developed a comprehensive needs assessment to combine community values with the state’s education accountability model to create school system goals and initiatives. This plan is now the impetus behind what we do every day at every level to improve student learning and community value. EMPLOYEE RECRUITMENT & RETENTION SECOND, we are developing and implementing processes to attract, retain, and promote effective employees. As superintendent, I have ensured that our leadership teams are effectively trained and empowered to carry out the strategic plan. District staff, school administrators and teacher leaders have participated in the Georgia Leadership Institute for School Improvement’s Base Camp and Leadership Summit. The school system has also developed its own program, Aspiring Leaders, to better develop teachers and other staff for future leadership roles. The second Aspiring Leaders cohort began its nine-month session in April, and several Cohort 1 class members have already been promoted to new leadership roles within the district. In addition, we have established an ongoing training program to develope our schools as professional learning

communities to ensure student growth and allow the sharing of ideas and best practices. No one understands or challenges better than our teachers, so establishing a collaborative, continuous-improvement culture gives us the structure to empower teachers to help our students discover success at every level. We have witnessed many success this year due to increased teacher collaboration. EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT ALIGNMENT THIRD, I am an advocate for establishing an effective education pipeline where there is open, continuous dialogue between grade levels, schools, parents, administrators, postCharles G. Wilson, Jr. secondary partners and business and industry leaders. Superintendent of Schools I focused on finding the best model to match community assets with K-12 instruction. In doing so, in 2013, we discovered the Harvard Graduate School of Education’s project, Pathways to Prosperity. Only two school systems in Georgia were selected by the Georgia Department of Education to work with the Pathway’s program to develop a statewide model for workforce development, Carroll County and Bulloch County. Through the Pathways to Prosperity Network we can better develop community-driven, systems-type solutions to match the labor market and future demands of potential and existing industry. Local business and industry leaders, Georgia Southern University, East Georgia College, Ogeechee Technical College, and other representative groups have been part of the school system’s efforts to re-engineer K-12 education into a deliberate but flexible model for student learning. This coupled with the state’s new Move on When Ready options is allowing Bulloch County Schools to design learning experiences that will allow every student to successfully pursue opportunities based upon their interests and abilities. TEACHER EMPOWERMENT FOURTH, we are combining the best practices of school improvement planning and professional learning communities with the flexibility gained from becoming a Strategic Wavers School System to empower our teachers with student-centered solutions. Through this, we can tap into the creativity and knowledge of our professionals to meet the learning needs of each student. THANK YOU FOR YOUR COMMITMENT TO K-12 EDUCATION Pursuit of our shared vision requires stronger commitments from each of us. We each have to step up in providing critical input and support where needed. Together we can change our students’ future and our community’s value by positioning Bulloch County as a leader in education and workforce development. Thank you for caring and thank you for your support.

COMBINED-ALL FUNDS Total Revenues Total Expenditures

2016 (Budgeted) $102.9 million $110.8 million

2017 (Budgeted) $108.0 million $114.5 million

See a combined statement for all funds at www.bullochschool.org/budget

Annual Report 2016-2017 • 3

Student Success & Community Value

“WE ARE COMBING THE BEST PRACTICES OF SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLANNING AND PROFESSIONAL LEARNING COMMUNITIES WITH THE FLEXIBILITY GAINED FROM BECOMING A STRATEGIC WAIVERS SCHOOL SYSTEM TO EMPOWER TEACHERS WITH STUDENTCENTERED SOLUTIONS.”

4 • Bulloch County Schools - www.bullochschools.org - 912.212.8500

2020 BULLOCH COUNTY SCHOOLS STRATEGIC PLAN VISION By 2020, we will become a school system that prepares our students to be contributing members of society, based upon their interests and abilities, and the opportunity to pursue the colleges and careers of their choice. BELIEF & CORE VALUES We believe everyone can learn and grow in a continuous improvement culture that incorporates our core values. Our core values signify our expectations of ourselves and each other, from our boardroom to our classrooms. Relational: We build relationships with others through integrity, compassion, and respect. Purposeful: We pursue what needs to be accomplished through appropriate and intentional effort. Reflective: We evaluate our efforts in relation to our purpose. Resourceful: We implement resourceful solutions through innovation and collaboration. Courageous: We exemplify commitment, determination, and grit in making needed changes happen. Accountable: We hold ourselves accountable for the decisions we make and the actions we take. MISSION The mission of Bulloch County Schools is to prepare students for success and enhance community value. STRATEGIC GOALS College and Career Readiness Stakeholder and Community Support Resource Optimization STRATEGIC GOAL AREA I COLLEGE AND CAREER READINESS Strategic Objective: We will annually increase our College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI) score, without challenge points, by closing 3% of the gap between the CCRPI baseline score and 100. 1. Implement Professional Learning Communities to empower collective and innovative teaching strategies to provide both enrichment and remediation learning opportunities for student achievement and growth. 2. Effectively utilize the Pyramid of Intervention process to identify and support students at risk. 3. Develop partnerships with early learning providers to ensure that students are school-ready. 4. Identify the factors impeding student attendance and develop a plan to effectively remove these barriers.

Strategic Objective: Provide all students with relevant, real-world learning experiences that prepare them for post-secondary opportunities in a global society. 1. Implement a comprehensive and fullyaligned K-12 career guidance plan. 2. Develop innovative academic programs in grades K-8 that provide foundational 21st century learning skills for all students. 3. Develop robust career pathways and academic programs in grades 6-12 that provide post-secondary opportunities for students entering universities, colleges, the United States Armed Forces, or regional employment. 4. Identify and develop work-based learning solutions with regional employers to prepare students to enter the workforce upon graduation. 5. Identify and develop academic program delivery solutions with Georgia Southern University, East Georgia College, Ogeechee Technical College, and other applicable educational institutions. Strategic Objective: Utilize new and existing technologies to support instruction and learning, engage students, improve process efficiencies, and provide professional development for staff members to sustain the school system’s strategic plan and continuous improvement culture. 1. Increase capacity to administer assessments online moving toward a 1:1 environment. 2. Provide multiple opportunities for administrators, teachers, and students to effectively utilize a variety of digital tools. 3. Replenish and/or upgrade various technologies, including infrastructure and information systems, to support initiatives and decision making. Strategic Objective: Annually provide professional development needed for all employees to complete individual professional growth plans and sustain strategic initiatives. 1. Implement a professional development system that provides the training needed to build teacher effectiveness. 2. Implement a continuous improvement training program for leadership level administrators, school leadership team members, and designated teacher-leaders. 3. Implement an induction/mentoring program for new administrators and teachers to sustain the school system’s strategic plan and continuous improvement culture. STRATEGIC GOAL AREA II STAKEHOLDER & COMMUNITY SUPPORT

Strategic Objective: Increase stakeholder and community involvement for student success. 1. Develop partnerships with parents that result in active involvement in their child’s life

success. 2. Develop ongoing partnerships with community support organizations and regional employers identified as critical to the school system’ mission. 3. Increase stakeholder access to information through various social media platforms, electronic messaging, Internet applications, and websites. 4. Establish partnerships with Georgia Southern University, East Georgia College, and Ogeechee Technical Colleges that provide for partnerships and the delivery of services for academic offerings defined in Bulloch County Schools established career pathways and programs. STRATEGIC GOAL AREA III – RESOURCE OPTIMIZATION Strategic Objective: Develop a funding plan to improve the operating capacity of schools. 1. Implement a resource allocation model for schools and departments that supports innovation and flexible decision-making to accomplish defined objectives. 2. Determine an appropriate funding level for schools to achieve our goals. 3. Utilize flexibility provided under SWSS(IE2) to optimize resources. 2. Strategic Objective: Develop a plan for necessary facilities and infrastructure upgrades to support academic and co-curricular programs (including career pathways), school attendance zones, student enrollment growth, post-secondary partnerships, and workforce development partnerships while balancing resource constraints of the district. 1. Acquire, build, maintain, renovate, and secure physical facilities and infrastructure to provide state-of-the art equipment and technology. 2. Implement school attendance and transportation policies that optimize school capacity and access to programs. Strategic Objective: Improve school nutrition program operations to include an effective balance of quality, student health, cost, community partnerships, and compliance with federal and state regulations. 1. Implement a Farm-to-Table plan with the local farmers market that provides fresh and nutritional foods, within resource constraints and guidelines, while also providing market opportunities for local farmers. Strategic Objective: Develop and implement a plan to attract, retain, and promote effective employees. 1. Develop cost-effective benefit programs for employees. 2. Develop solutions to promote employee health and wellness. 3. Implement a diversity recruitment plan to attract more diverse teacher applicants. Annual Report 2016-2017 • 5

Student Success & Community Value LIZ DRIGGERS STATESBORO HIGH SCHOOL BULLOCH COUNTY TEACHER OF THE YEAR Liz Driggers, a physical education teacher at Statesboro High School, is Bulloch County Schools’ 2017 Teacher of the Year. Driggers is a graduate of Georgia Southern University where she received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Health and Physical Education and Kinesiology. She obtained her specialist’s degree in the Pedagogy of Coaching from Valdosta State University. “I chose to become a health education teacher because students today are experiencing situations that they are not equipped to handle. My goal is to provide my students with health knowledge and foster the creation of positive attitudes

“AS AN EDUCATOR, ONE OF THE GREATEST THINGS YOU CAN DO IS TO INSPIRE THE NEXT GENERATION TO BECOME A TEACHER.” LIZ DRIGGERS

2017 SCHOOL-LEVEL TEACHERS OF THE YEAR Krista Branch Melissa Bazemore Amanda Prather Travis Brooks Rachel Pritchard Ashley Joyner Bob Massee Tosha Johnson Shannon Hattaway David Brown Shannon Robertson Ansley Burke Jenny Hendrix Autumn Horton

Brooklet Elementary School Julia P. Bryant Elementary School Langston Chapel Elementary School Langston Chapel Middle School Mattie Lively Elementary School Mill Creek Elementary School Nevils Elementary School Portal Elementary School Portal Middle High School Sallie Zetterower Elementary School Southeast Bulloch Middle School Southeast Bulloch High School Stilson Elementary School William James Middle School

toward their own well-being. I hope that I can help young students see their own selfworth.”

2016 TRANSPORTATION HONORS 2015-16 BULLOCH COUNTY SCHOOLS RETIREES THIS YEAR’S RETIREES HAVE OUR COMMUNITY A TOTAL OF Dr. Karen Doty Bonnie Taylor Tony Akins Eddie Chester Sandra Neal Michelle Rogers Joyce Donaldson Bea Jones Tammi Woodrum= Marita Thompson Kempson Cooper Cindy Bland Rebecca Goines Anita Hill Dwight Miller Robert Jennings Cathy Rollins Dana White Walter Mikell

SERVED 653 YEARS. Lawanda Scott LTC(ret.) Brian Knox Stacey Moore Daniel Moody Nancy Sheffield Alice Williams Marguerite Cook Paul Curry Dorothy Hodges

Bulloch Co. Road-e-o Winner - Gil Riggs Director’s Cup - Phyllis White Bus Monitor of the Year - Barbara Black Service Technician of the Year - Les Spence Team Brooklet Driver Nancy Callaway Team Julia P. Bryant Driver Helen Chance Team Langston Chapel Driver Dawrence Hutley Team Mattie Lively Driver Cyndi Burnett Team Mill Creek Driver Laquanya Jones Team Nevils Driver Gladys Newman Team Portal Driver Mark Shue Team Sallie Zetterower Driver Stacey Goode Team Stilson Driver Mae Wiley Team Special Education Driver Arjean Holland Team Special Education Driver Arthur Kimble 20 + Years of Service Recognitions Larry Williams, Brenda Miller, Phyllis Morgan, Willie Mae Wooden

BOARD, FACULTY & STAFF ACHIEVEMENTS Mike Sparks (Board) – Invited to serve on the Georgia School Boards Association’s Governmental Operations Committee for 2016.

Phillip Tremble (HR Director) – Recognized as one of the first 500 AfricanAmerican students to graduate from Georgia Southern.

Travis Brooks (LCMS) – Selected as one of Bulloch County’s Top 40 Under 40 leaders.

Troy Brown (CFO) and the Business & Finance Team – Their work led the Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts (GDAA) to present the district with an Award of Distinction for Excellent Financial Reporting for the district’s Fiscal Year 2015 audit.

6 • Bulloch County Schools - www.bullochschools.org - 912.212.8500

Michelle Owen (JPBES) – Received the Golden Apple Award from the district’s Early Learning Department for her 18 years of continuous service as a prekindergarten teacher.

Paige Rountree (MCES) –Led Mill Creek Elementary to become first school in district to be a Digitally Certified School through Common Sense Media due to their digital citizenship efforts for safe technology use by students and parents.

RESOURCE OPTIMIZATION ATTRACTING, RETAINING, TRAINING EFFECTIVE EMPLOYEES

BOARD OF EDUCATION FORMS DIVERSITY COMMITTEE STRATEGIC PLAN OBJECTIVE: DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT A PLAN TO ATTRACT, RETAIN AND PROMOTE EFFECTIVE EMPLOYEES

The Board of Education formed the its current level of 13 percent. the following: community concerns; Diversity Committee in fall 2015. Led by The committee is made up of two barriers to minority recruitment; agencies the district’s director of human resources, Board of Education members, six local to assist; and solutions within the its charge is to implement a diversity citizens, five school system employees committee’s scope. The committee refers recruitment plan to attract its recommendations to the “HAVING A MORE DIVERSE FACULTY WILL MAKE more diverse teachers and Board of Education. “Having a applicants. The school system STUDENTS MORE SUCCESSFUL AND SHOW WHAT OUR more diverse faculty will make COMMUNITY IS MADE OF THAT WE CAN SIT DOWN always strives to hire the most students more successful and AND HAVE THESE CONVERSATIONS.” qualified applicants, but the show what our community is committee works to attract made of that we can sit down more minority applicants and raise the and the superintendent. The committee and have these conversations,” said minority faculty population higher than met six times in 2015-2016. It is identifying Superintendent Charles Wilson.

Cynthia Canty (BES); Beth Cannon (JPBES); Tammy Francis (LCMS); Lashan Allen (MLES); Valerie Powell (MLES); Tara Ward (MCES); Brad Boykin (SZES); Marianna Voiselle (SZES); Ragan Adkins (SHS); Elizabeth Driggers (SHS); David Elmore (SHS); Ashley Thompson (SHS); Lori Oren (SEB/SHS); Meredith Cummings (WJMS); Allison Smith (WJMS); Georgia Starling (WJMS).

ASPIRING LEADERS COHORT ONE MEMBERS ACCEPT LEADERSHIP ROLES; COHORT TWO BEGINS

The Bulloch County Board of Education made a commitment to create a local leadership program. In 2014-15 the first Bulloch County Schools Aspiring Leaders cohort completed its nine-month course of study and capstone projects, and 23 or its 25 members graduated. Several of these teachers and assistant principals rose into higher administration roles within the district after completing the course. “We are very excited about the leadership capacity being built in our schools,” said Superintendent Charles Wilson. In April 2016, the second cohort of

Aspiring Leaders began their course, and will meet monthly through February 2017. The 16-member group is purposefully comprised of just teacher leaders. As with

“WE ARE VERY EXCITED ABOUT THE LEADERSHIP CAPACITY BEING BUILT IN OUR SCHOOLS.” Cohort 1, participants will grow in their understanding of the district’s essentials of leadership along with professional skills and competencies help to shape effectiveness as a leader.

Taught by instructors from the Georgia Leadership Institute for School Improvement (GLISI), the program seeks to effectively train and empower our own leaders to perform their tasks. The course includes lessons on instructional leadership, organizational management, planning and assessment, communication and community relations, professionalism and school climate. Their coursework culminates in a capstone project that requires them to do independent research on a question or problem applicable to their school or the district. Annual Report 2016-2017 • 7

Student Success & Community Value

College & Career Readiness

Resource Optimization

Student Success & Community Value.

Stakeholder Support

COLLEGE & CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Community Support

8 • Bulloch County Schools - www.bullochschools.org - 912.212.8500

SEBHS’s Health Occupations Career Pathway Cluster and its Therapeutic Services and Allied Health & Medicine pathways have received national industry recertification

PMHS’s Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources Career Pathway Cluster students supply their school and PES with two varieties of lettuce grown in their greenhouses using aquaponics

COLLEGE & CAREER READY POST-SECONDARY & WORKPLACE PARTNERSHIPS CAREER COUNSELING BEGINS EARLY Bulloch County Schools’ team of 24 counselors prepares students for success by providing age-appropriate, careerready experiences and counseling for kindergarten through twelfth-grade students. Faculty advisors begin working with students in the sixth grade to establish a GAcollege411 account and explore its resources, such as career planning, applications, tracking their high school progress, online test preparation courses, researching careers, developing an online portfolio and resume, and scholarship and financial aid information. When students reach eighth grade, counselors work with them to develop individual graduation plans to ensure students register for the most appropriate courses and Move On When Ready options to place them on their chosen path to go straight to the workplace, attend a two-year college, or a four-year university. MATCH NEEDS TO CAREER PATHWAYS Our Career Technical Agricultural Education (CTAE) program partners with area businesses, post-secondary institutions (EGC, OTC and GS), and the Georgia Department of Labor to ensure the relevance of instruction to the workforce. We review information from our Pathways to Prosperity Asset Mapping, the Governor’s High Demand Career Initiative and Georgia’s Hot Jobs to determine workforce needs. We also survey students in grades 8 – 12 to ensure our career pathways match their careers of interest. The school system then reviews and prioritizes career pathway options based on this data. We collaborate with Ogeechee Technical College to determine additional courses to offer either on our high school campuses or on site at OTC. Bulloch County Schools currently has 12 of Georgia’s 17 Career Pathways Clusters and offers 29 different career pathways within those clusters. We have also streamlined the process to make it easier for our high schools to add new courses. Through these career pathways students are able to explore their interests and use advanced applications as they take

SEBHS’s Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources Career Cluster and its studentled National FFA Organization are a state and national awardwinning program.

SEBHS named its Career Technical & Agricultural Education wing the Dr. Tom Bigwood Center due to his 20-year tenure at SEBHS which resulted in national School of Excellence honors and development of the CTAE wing and course offerings.

courses. They gain technical skills and connect the relevance of the academic skills imbedded in their CTAE coursework through real-world scenarios and lab settings and opportunities with national co-curricular student organizations. CAREER FAIRS & JOB SHADOWING OPEN DIALOGUE Our counselors, work-based learning coordinators and teachers work together to provide annual career fairs and job shadowing opportunities at the middle and high school levels. More than 200 different professionals from industries, small businesses and post-secondary institutions volunteer their time each year to share their career experiences and the required skills, certifications or degrees students need. WORK-BASED LEARNING BUILDS SKILLS & RESUMES Work-Baded Learning is an extension of the career-related education experiences within our (CTAE) program. Students in eleventh or twelfth grade, who are at least 16 years of age and have a defined CTAE pathway, can participate and be placed in work sites of local partners. Work-based learning coordinators at our high schools are available to assist local businesses that wish to establish opportunities that are relevant to our students’ career coursework or interests. Nearly 100 businesses and industries partner with our three high schools to provide work-based learning sites for more than 160 students. In 2015-16, these students worked more than 50,000 hours and earned more than $344,000 in wages. MOVE ON WHEN READY Move On When Ready (MOWR), Georgia’s dual enrollment program, allows high school students (9-12) to earn college credit while working on their high school diploma. The MOWR program includes provisions to help remove some of the financial barriers that may prevent students from participating in a dual enrollment program. Bulloch County Schools partners with Georgia Southern, East Georgia College and OTC to provide the MOWR program.

1,250 of our students participated in their schoollevel technology fairs; 146 advanced to the Regional Student Tech. Fair; 50 qualified for state; nine placed in top three at the GA Educational Tech. Fair.

GA Southern’s Kappa Kappa Gamma Chapter raised $6K to host Girls Academy for 50 young women at WJMS. The national leadership, values, and service-focused retreat featured Mayor Jan Moore, GS Interim President Jean Bartels, GA Power Mgr. Tan Adams and attorney/author Kathy Bradley.

Annual Report 2016-2017 • 9

STATESBORO HIGH LOGISTICS BOOKS SOLID SKILLS CAREER PATHWAY OFFERS SEAMLESS TRANSITION TO GA SOUTHERN DEGREE PROGRAMS & LOCAL JOBS Statesboro High School offers the Distribution and Logistics career pathway for Bulloch County students. It’s one of nine pathways within the Georgia Department of Education’s Transportation (GaDOE), Distribution and Logistics Career Cluster. “Logistics is a leading major at colleges across the country,” said Glenn Bailey, the pathway’s instructor and a SkillsUSA team advisor. “Students, who complete the threecourse pathway in Logistics (Fundamentals of Logistics, Logistics Operations, and Materials Management), can test with the Manufacturing Skill Standards Council.” If successful, students receive certification as a Certified Logistics Associate. This certification is recognized across the country by leading logistics firms. Bailey’s students are also trained through the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to operate Classes I, IV, and V industrial equipment which includes Fork-Truck Operation Certification. Bailey’s level-three logistics students operate a distribution center at school for a not-for-profit company, First-Book. This realworld client purchases and distributes brand new books from publishing companies’ excess inventories and resells them nationwide for $.25-$1.00 to schools and organizations that encourage reading and literacy. First-Book contracts with distribution centers, including high school logistics labs like Statesboro High School’s, to receive, sort, pack, barcode, inventory shipments, load pallets and ship to First-Book’s customers all over the country. SHS’s partnership with First-Book and UPS also includes use of their systems and hardware. The students’ first shipment was 50,000 books from Random House Publishing and Walt Disney Publishing. This inventory was used to fulfill their first 1,000 orders.

COLLEGE & CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

SEBHS’s Tyler Collins & Tanner Todd were selected to serve on State School Superintendent Richard Woods’ Student Advisory Committee.

10 • Bulloch County Schools - www.bullochschools.org - 912.212.8500

SEBHS’s symphonic band had a private workshop and performed on stage with the internationallyacclaimed Dallas Brass thanks to the Averitt Center for the Arts.

PMHS received a $1K grant from the Bulloch Co. Foundation for Public Education to create a community art project. PMHS Art Teacher Deena Scarborough and her fine arts students will create a mosaic mural reflecting historical and ongoing agricultural industries of the community in downtown Portal.

CONTRACTORS COLLABORATE WITH ARCHITECTURE & CONSTRUCTION PATHWAYS PARTNERSHIPS BUILD LOCAL SKILL CAPACITY Statesboro High School offers Carpentry, Masonry, Electrical of Savannah, and Project Manager Daniel Tucker hosted 17 SHS and Plumbing career pathways for Bulloch County students. students at their sheet metal prefabrication shop. Students These are four of the 11 pathways within the GaDOE’s Architecture learned about building information modeling and how it’s used & Construction Career Pathway Cluster. to make more informed design, engineering and construction Area contractors are partnering with these career pathways decisions. Mock also installed a new air compressor for four and their teacher and SkillsUSA advisor, Matthew White, to of SHS’s Career Technical Agriculture Education (CTAE) labs, help bolster the program and build local skill capacity for saving the school district nearly $1,000. an industry experiencing major labor shortages. The Sack Elkins General Contractors twice hosted SHS students at their Company, Choate Construction, job site in Pooler, where they are Mock Plumbing, Gold Merch, building a new city hall. Students BAK Builders, R.W. Allen, LLC, learned how to use blueprints Elkins General Contractors, and and better read job site plans. the Area General Contractors The company also sent two (AGC) Foundation are a few of associates to SHS to share more the area industry leaders whose information about metal stud professionals are investing framing and masonry. time and resources to support In addition to these area students. mentors, SHS participates in According to the U.S. Bureau SkillsUSA, a national partnership of Labor Statistics the job growth of students, teachers and industry for HVAC employees, plumbers, working together to ensure a pipefitters, steamfitters, and skilled workforce. The student electricians is expected to organization offers students a be 12-14 percent, and their co-curricular opportunity within corresponding median annual the career pathways. It provides salaries are above $50,000. leadership training programs and The Sack Company, competitive events which reflect headquartered in Bulloch current curriculum standards County and the Southeast’s Pooler City Hall job site with Elkins Construction and competencies for the largest commercial and industrial school’s instructional programs. contractor for mechanical, electrical and plumbing operations, This year 11 SHS students participated in the regional SkillsUSA concurs with this information. event. Eight of the 11 placed third or higher and five placed in the This year Billy Mock, owner of Mock Plumbing & Mechanical top two to advance to the state SkillsUSA event.

Students donate their state-winning (3rd place) scale-model home to Habitat for Humanity to use as a visual representation with their customers. The students placed third in the state against 16 other statewide competitors.

The Sack Company and other area businesses make it possible for students like Bryce Findley and nearly 20 of his peers to compete in SkillsUSA. Findley won 2nd at state and received a national STEM scholarship. Annual Report 2016-2017 • 11

Student Success & Community Value BRIGGS & STRATTON BEGINS APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

Briggs & Stratton (BASCO) established a new technician apprenticeship program for our high schools’ work-based learning students. Four students, three from Statesboro High School and one from Portal Middle High School, worked four hours per day Monday – Thursday for nine months. They were paired with an employee mentor and were given the opportunity to work in all areas of the manufacturing plant’s production. “This job pushed me to my limit and really made me learn,” said Clay Thompson of SHS. “I enjoyed learning. It was a fun experience, and I would do it again.” “Our hope is to find future talent for our plant,” said Amanda See, BASCO’s human resources manager. “We enjoyed having the students on board.”

VIRACON PROVIDES JOB SKILLS TRAINING & LEARNING SESSIONS This year Viracon hosted job skills training each month for graduating seniors, who wanted to go directly into the workforce and save money for college. The company also conducted learning sessions each month at their facility. Participating students became OSHA certified after they completed a 10-hour course taught by Viracon’s safety manager.

DID YOU KNOW?

84.2 % of Bulloch County Schools’ graduates who enter the Technical College System of Georgia or the University System of Georgia: • Do not require remediation or learning support; • Score program ready on the Compass Test; • Score at least 22 out of 36 on the composite ACT; • Score at least 1550 of 2400 on the combined SAT; • Score three or higher on two or more Advanced Placement exams; (out of five). 75.4 % percent of our graduates complete a Career Technical & Agricultural Education pathway and earn a national industry recognized credential. 75.4 % percent of our graduates earn high school credit(s) for accelerated enrollment via ACCEL, Dual HOPE Grant, Move On When Ready, or Advanced Placement courses.

COLLEGE & CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Ogeechee River Keepers spent three days with PMHS’s environmental science students training them on water quality monitoring and water systems. Five students went on to meet the requirements to be certified volunteer water quality testers

12 • Bulloch County Schools - www.bullochschools.org - 912.212.8500

SHS’s environmental science classes opened the secondphase of their outdoor classroom, The Duck Pond, to continue their multiple research projects.

The school system is creating STEM exploratory labs for our elementary schools. All students will have an opportunity at least once each week to explore more about science, technology, engineering and math.

LOCAL INDUSTRIES HELP BRIDGE TRANSITION FROM SCHOOL TO WORK

Grant funding made it possible for GA Southern’s Dr. Lucy Green & Dr. Mete Akcaoglu to work all year with a group of advanced WJMS students on coding. This and other STEM initiatives are being added for students

SHS’s Bryce Findley received a national SkillsUSA STEM Scholarship. A student in the school’s Mechatronics Pathway, his Industrial Motor Control project placed 2nd in the state SkillsUSA competition.

SHS’s Culinary Arts Pathway team placed first in their State Star event. They advanced to national competition.

Collaboration between the district’s three high school band directors resulted in a combined marching band, Bulloch Blues, which marched in the 2016 Citrus Bowl Parade, and a district symphonic honor band.

Annual Report 2016-2017 • 13

BULLOCH COUNTY SCHOOLS REPORT CARD FINANCIAL TRANSPARENCY AND EFFICIENCY GENERAL FUND HIGHLIGHTS ($ MILLIONS) Revenues over/(under) Expenditures

Fiscal year

State Revenues

Property Tax Revenues

Local Option Sales Tax Revenues

Total Revenues

Total Expenditures

FY ‘08

$44.2

$15.4

$10.8

$73.5

$73.0

$.6

$11.9

FY ‘09

$43.3

$16.3

$10.2

$71.3

$(0.1)

$11.8

FY ‘10

$37.9

$16.4

$9.7

$70.1

$68.6

$1.6

$13.4

6 ($1,350,000)

FY ‘11

$41.4

$17.3

$10.0

$72.8

$66.3

$6.5

$19.8

3 ($675,000)

FY ‘12

$40.2

$17.1

$10.4

$69.1

$68.9

$.2

$20.1

2 ($461,600)

FY ‘13

$39.5

$16.6

$9.6

$68.8

$69.0

$.2

$19.9

5 ($1,169,200)

FY ‘14

$38.4

$16.5

$9.9

$68.5

$70.7

$(2.2)

$17.7

2 ($470,000)

FY ‘15

44.0

$17.2

$10.2

$74.5

$74.6

$(.1)

$17.6

FY ‘16 (Budgeted)

$46.0

$17.4

$10.9

$77.4

$83.2

$(5.7)

$13.3

FY ‘17 (Budgeted)

$50.8

$17.8

$10.8

$82.5

$86.3

$(3.80)

$12.6

Ending Fund Balance

Furlough Days (salary reduction)

FAST FACTS ABOUT BULLOCH COUNTY SCHOOLS Elementary Schools ............................................................9

African-American ..........................................................37.5%

#Free / Reduced Meals ..............................6,476(62.73%)

Middle Schools .......................................................................3

Caucasion ..........................................................................51.1%

# Title 1 Schools ..................................................................... 13

High Schools ...........................................................................3

Hispanic..............................................................................6.2%

#Focus Schools (CCRPI) .....................................................3

Middle/High Schools ............................................................1

Asian......................................................................................1.5%

#Reward Schools (CCRPI) ..................................................2

Alternative Schools ................................................................1

Am.Ind.;Pacific Isld.; 2 or more Races .....................3.8%

# 2016 Graduates ...............................................................639

Central Support Services $1,538,962

Other Support Services $232,092

Student Transportation Services $6,120,590

Maintenance & Operations $7,626,509 Business Administration $889,638 School Administration $5,478,481 General Administration $422,784 Pupil Services $3,594,351

Instruction $56,518,807

14 • Bulloch County Schools - www.bullochschools.org - 912.212.8500

BULLOCH COUNTY SCHOOLS REPORT CARD ELEMENTARY

County

BES

JPB

LCES

MLES

MCES

NES

PES

SZES

SES

Achievement Points (of 50)

29.7

29.6

36.2

31.2

21.3

25.7

27.6

34.2

31.0

28.3

Progress Points (of 40)

33.8

34.1

36.4

38.5

31.6

29.1

33.0

35.1

29.9

37.1

33.6

Achievement Gap Points (of 10)

6.7

5.8

7.5

6.7

5.0

5.8

4.2

5.0

6.7

Challenge Points (of 10)

5.8

1.1

5.2

4.1

1.3

0.5

3.3

7.0

4.9

2.1

1.8

2015 CCRPI Score

76.0

70.6

85.3

80.5

59.2

60.3

68.9

82.1

70.0

72.5

70.4

2014 CCRPI Score

72.7

66.8

83.8

75.7

57.1

66.7

73.5

72.2

62.8

69.1

2013 CCRPI Score

77.8

74.7

89.5

78.4

64.4

63.2

81.2

78.1

80.0

81.3

69.0

2012 CCRPI Score

74.5

70.4

65.9

61.1

57.8

70.1

81.2

64.4

74.2

MIDDLE SCHOOLS

County

LCMS

PMS

SEBMS

WJMS

Achievement Points (of 50)

29.3

27.6

23.9

29.0

31.1

27.7

Progress Points (of 40)

34.6

34.4

31.9

34.2

37.2

33.8

Achievement Gap Points (of 10)

6.7

5.0

6.7

5.0

Challenge Points (of 10)

0.6

0.5

2.7

3.1

0.5

2015 CCRPI Score

71.2

67.4

61.3

70.9

78.1

67.0

MLES

2014 CCRPI Score

73.8

72.9

71.6

78.6

81.9

71.3

MCES

NES

PES

PMHS

SZES

SEBMS

SEBHS

SHS

2013 CCRPI Score

74.6

75.4

70.5

76.2

78.1

77.8

2012 CCRPI Score

73.8

84.8

83.8

85.9

86.9

84.1

CLIMATE STAR RATING (out of 5 stars) BES

JPBES

LCES

LCMS

HIGH SCHOOLS

County

SHS

PHS

SEBHS

Achievement Points (of 50)

32.8

33.0

32.2

34.2

34.3

Progress Points (of 40)

34.3

32.9

34.9

37.9

28.7

Achievement Gap Points (of 10)

6.7

5.8

7.5

4.2

SES

Challenge Points (of 10)

2.0

1.3

0.7

2.8

1.7

WJMS

2015 CCRPI Score

75.8

73.0

73.6

80.4

68.9

2014 CCRPI Score

68.4

67.3

63.1

75.2

70.6

2013 CCRPI Score

71.8

74.7

71.7

77.5

75.6

2012 CCRPI Score

72.8

70.1

68.2

74.0

75.0

FINANCIAL EFFICIENCY RATING (out of 5 stars) Bulloch County Schools

COLLEGE & CAREER READY PERFORMANCE INDEX (CCRPI) The CCRPI is Georgia’s comprehensive school accountability tool. It replaced the Elementary and Secondary Education Act’s Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) in 2012. The overall CCRPI score is based on a 100point scale. It measures schools’ and their school systems’ performance in four areas: (1) Achievement (50 Pts.): Content Mastery

20 pts.; Post-secondary readiness 15 pts.; Graduation rate 15 pts.; (2) Progress (40 Pts.); Achievement Gap (10 pts.); (3) Challenge Points (bonus of up to 10 pts.) CCRPI scores are the basis for accountability in Bulloch County Schools’ Strategic Waivers School System (SWSS) contract with the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement. The Bulloch County Board of Education voted to pursue SWSS status at its Nov. 6, 2014 meeting. After completing the application and public hearing process, the

contract was approved by the State BOE on Feb. 18, 2016. The legally-binding five-year contract (2016 -2021) with the state gives the district flexibility from certain state education laws and regulations in exchange for performance. Bulloch County Schools’ 2015-16 (FY ’16) CCRPI scores will be the baseline performance data for the SWSS contract with the state. Under the contract, the district’s 15 schools must now show a three percent improvement each year on the gap between the baseline performance data year’s index score and a perfect score of 100. At this time it is not possible to directly compare year-to-year CCRPI scores. The previous scores listed here are for reference only. This is due to the CCRPI’s performance targets and weights not remaining constant as well as changes in state academic standards and assessments.

Annual Report 2016-2017 • 15

REACH Georgia

Support for Innovative Teachers Since its creation in 2006, the Bulloch County Foundation for Public Education Foundation has funded nearly 200 innovative projects with grants totaling more than $170,000 for Bulloch County Schools’ teachers. The Foundation provides a way for individuals, businesses, industry and civic organizations to invest in local public education. Each year the Foundation awards $20,000 in grants to teachers for projects that inhance students’ academic experiences, some of which benefit all children in Bulloch County, even local charter, private and home-schooled students. Visit our website to see these and other projects.

The Bulloch County Foundation for Public Education Foundation sponsors Bulloch County Schools’ participation in the state’s REACH Georgia Scholarship Program with a $7,500 annual contribution. REACH Georgia is a needs-based mentoring and scholarship program designed to ensure that the state’s academically promising eighth-grade students have the academic, social and financial support needed to graduate from high school and complete college. Since 2013, the Foundation has contributed $22,500 to the college funds of 15 Bulloch County REACH scholars. With local and state REACH Scholarship funds, plus agreements from more than 60 local and statewide post-secondary institutions, each of our REACH scholars has $20,000 waiting for him/her for college. These scholars annually meet strict academic, behavior and attendance requirements and meet with an assigned mentor in order to remain scholarship eligible.

Bulloch County Teacher of the Year The Bulloch County Foundation for Public Education Foundation annually provides a $1,000 grant to the Bulloch County Schools Teacher of the Year.

Fundraising Events & Campaigns The Foundation hosts the annual Turkey Trot 5K in November and year-round giving opportunities to raise funds for grant projects. The Foundation is supported by generous donations from businesses, educators and the public. Please consider joining our efforts today with a tax deductible contribution. To learn more, contact 912-212-8530.

Bulloch County Foundation for Public School Education 912.212.8530 | www.bulloch.k12.ga.us/foundation Recipient of the Georgia Association of Elementary School Principals’ Patron and Distinguished Patron Awards for 2014.

G E OR G IA SOUT HERN U NIV E R SIT Y’S

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52 • Statesboro Magazine

A Family Affair s McCooks Pharmacy

McCook’s Pharmacy

This past December, McCook’s Pharmacy celebrated its 10 Year Anniversary. McCook’s Pharmacy is locally owned and operated by pharmacists, Len and Janie McCook. The McCook’s originally worked with chain pharmacies in Statesboro, but God opened the door for them to start their own independent pharmacy business in 2005. Since then, McCook’s Pharmacy has grown to a staff of 5 full-time pharmacists,

with several pharmacy technicians and floor employees. A personal blessing to the business was in 2013 when their son, Josh McCook, joined their business after graduating from pharmacy school. With their son, the McCook’s are excited about continuing the tradition of serving the community. The McCook’s each have special “niches” in the store operations and this helps the business run efficiently and smoothly. Their family business model has always

been to offer the highest level of customer service and care; to be an innovative pharmacy and offer special services such as vaccinations and free local delivery; and to give back to the community through helping charities and offering employment opportunities in a family environment. The McCook’s are thankful to God for the opportunity to serve this community as a home-town pharmacy, and the blessing they receive is that they get to serve together as a Family!

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Check Out All of the Great Events From the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences at Class.Georgiasouthern.edu 56 â&#x20AC;˘ Statesboro Magazine

Visit Statesboro! s Becky Davis

Summer Fun

Looking for some fun this summer? Explore the exciting attractions and entertainment that Statesboro has to offer to tourists, visitors, and residents. Slide into a wet wonderland of fun on one of six water slides at Bulloch County’s own Splash in the Boro water park. Cool off in the zero-depth entry play pool or relax in the leisure pool. For the more adventurous, there’s a five lane Mat Racer slide & Spray Ground, or tube the 800-foot Lazy River for a relaxing ride around the park. Splash offers fun for the whole family, plus a full concession stand with seating area. Take advantage of the extended summer hours now. Splash is open seven days a week through August 7th. For summer specials and promotions visit www.splashintheboro.com. If thrills are what you’re seeking, you can experience the rush of a lifetime jumping out of an airplane at The Jumping Place Skydiving Center. They offer a first-time experience in skydiving in tandem with USPA certified, experienced instructors. After 30 minutes of training, you’ll soar in a plane to two miles above the Earth and jump with your partner free-falling at speeds of 120

mph as you race toward the ground. Packages include all training, equipment, and affiliated costs. On-line reservations for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday are available at www.thejumpingplace.com. If you’re more of the laid-back type, you’ll enjoy one of the area’s most beautiful sunsets at Meinhardt Vineyards. Meinhardt holds the distinction of being the first winery in southeast Georgia. Located about 15 miles from Statesboro in southern Bulloch County, Meinhardt features some of the area’s best muscadine wines in a bucolic setting that offers a cozy place to gather for weddings, luncheons, and sunset tastings. The wine list reflects the character of the vintage with names like Eagle Run, Eagle Harvest, and Southern Eagle; from sweet to dry respectively. Don’t miss the annual Grape Stomp Festival in September. For details visit www.meinhardttvineyards.com. Another great festival you won’t want to miss is the 27th Annual Brooklet Peanut Festival on Saturday, August 20th in downtown Brooklet. Vendors from all over the southeast gather to offer a sampling of peanuts in every form: boiled, parched, and

roasted, with boiled being the most popular treat for Southerner’s. The day-long festivities begin with a Peanut Run at 7:00 a.m., parade at 10:00 a.m. and end with a street dance at 10:30 p.m. In between are tractor races, live entertainment, arts & crafts, amusement rides, and tons of Bulloch County peanuts. www.brookletpeanutfestival.com. Whether you’re beating the heat or avoiding the rain, Statesboro offers a wide array of indoor activities for summer fun, too. Play with clay at Free Spirit Pottery while creating memories that will last a lifetime. Indulge your inner artist in painting original one-of-a-kind ceramic pieces personalized by you. Enjoy the relaxing environment while you select paint, brushes, stamps, and design tools for your creation. It’s a great place for parties and small group outings, too! www.freespiritpottery.com. “The Most Fun You Can Have in One Place!” That’s what The Clubhouse promises. Start with the mini-golf course and after a challenging round, feel the wind in your hair in your own fully electric go-cart on the Coca-Cola® 125 Raceway. After the race, inside you’ll find 42,000 square feet of fun with 24 bowling lanes, over 80 stateof-the-art arcade games, and a separate laser tag arena. Ballocity is an attraction in itself with over 50,000 foam balls coming at you from blasters, cannons, and buckets in a play area designed for kids of all ages, including parents. With reasonable rates and on-site restaurant, Spikes Sports Grill, The Clubhouse is a great way to spend any day! www.clubhousestatesboro.com. If you like to have fun learning, explore Georgia Southern’s family friendly attractions that offer very interesting ways to spend your free time. Take better vacation photos after a visit to the Georgia Southern Museum exhibit – CLICK! Exploring the History & Science of Cameras. Or, see birds fly and observe raptors in their natural habitats at the Wildlife Education Center where you can attend an afternoon “creature” show and get up close and personal with a Burmese python or Madagascar hissing cockroach. For times and shows visit http://academics.georgiasouthern.edu/museum or http://academics.georgiasouthern. edu/wildlife. Whatever you choose, you’ll find Statesboro is home to Summer Fun July/August 2016 • 57

A PARTNERSHIP OF EXCELLENCE

Georgia Southern University — with nearly 50 programs ranked in the TOP 20 nationally for excellence and affordability — is proud to have a long and rewarding partnership with the City of Statesboro, one of AMERICA’S BEST COMMUNITIES.

True Blue GS s Doy Cave

Back to school! What about you?

Late summer in Statesboro brings an excitement that’s contagious. As you prepare for thousands of children, teens and young adults to return to their classrooms and campuses, do you ever think of going back? I don’t mean going back to elementary school — which was a rough place for a kid with a name like “Doy,” I can tell you. I’m talking about going back to college. At Georgia Southern, it doesn’t matter if you want to finish off that bachelor’s degree or just take a few classes to upgrade your skills. It’s never too late to learn something new, and you might help your paycheck in the process. Philip Bruce, director of Career Services, says going back to school is just like remodeling your house. With every little addition, your house becomes more valuable. In the same way, every little degree, whether it’s a certificate, bachelor’s or master’s, makes you a lot more valuable to an employer. “It’s not like your employer is waiting on graduation day to hand you a check,” he said. “But at the same time, if you are making an investment in your future and in your capabilities as an employee, the company recognizes that. “And if they don’t, there’s a company right down the street that does, and will probably pay you a lot more money,” he added. For the dabbler... You don’t have to be in search of a degree to go back to school at Georgia Southern. Mary Thaler, administrative assistant for programming in the Division of Continuing Education, says you don’t even need to know what you want to do. Whether you’re interested in digital photography, learning Microsoft Office software or getting certified in fiber optics technology, you can find a wealth of short-term classes both on campus and online. “It’s a little more feasible for someone that’s actually working and looking to expand and see what else is out there for them,” she said, “even if they’re just thinking about what they want to dabble in.”

For the teacher... Georgia Southern is home to affordable, fully online post-baccalaureate programs, which are specially crafted for working teachers. For all of the teacher certification fields (early childhood, middle grades, secondary education, special education and reading education), the College of Education has master’s in education and education specialist degrees which are taught 100 percent online. “It’s very flexible,” said Tracy Linderholm, Ph.D., professor and associate dean of graduate education and research in the College of Education. “If you want to further your education, it’s online, and with the exception of just a few programs, we admit students fall, spring and summer. And we have a lot of options.” For the business person… For business people in Bulloch and neighboring counties, Georgia Southern offers a master’s of business administration (MBA) on campus in Statesboro, on campus in Savannah, as well as an award-winning online program that can reach students anywhere. In an age when technology and ideas change faster every day, Steven Stewart, assistant professor of management in the College of Business Administration, says a degree can update your skillset and make you more valuable in the marketplace. “What you used to know is becoming a little staid or obsolete,” he said. “Technology is going to outgrow us, so I think we learn more contemporary technologies. We learn more contemporary lingo, and I don’t think that can be overstated.” For the career-builder... In addition to the IT and Engineering graduate degrees offered in the Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Information Technology, two 12-hour, specialized graduate certificates were created to enhance the skills of engineers and managers well into their careers. The Graduate Certificate in Occupational Safety and Environmental Compliance helps industry workers sharpen their skills

in industrial hygiene, safety engineering, environmental sanitation, fire protection and radiological health. The Graduate Certificate in Engineering and Manufacturing Management provides a scientific and rational approach to relevant issues with courses in management and various technological areas. “It gives them upward mobility, and can serve as a stepping stone to greater leadership roles,” said David Williams, Ph.D., associate dean of the college. “Some certifications can mean pay increases of $10,000 to $15,000.” If you’re well into your career, or just thinking about re-joining the workforce after a long hiatus, Georgia Southern has courses for you. Thinking about nursing? Are you a budding scientist? Maybe you’d like to be a fitness instructor? It’s never too late, and the benefits outweigh the investment. What are you waiting for? It’s time to go back to school! July/August 2016 • 59

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The Spiritual Pathway s Rev. Dr. H. William Perry

I’m Left-Handed, What’s Your Superpower?

August 13 is International LeftHanders’ Day, an annual event when lefthanders everywhere can celebrate their left-handedness and a day to raise public awareness of the ongoing struggles lefties face daily in a right-handed society. Lefthanders are one of the last unorganized minorities in society. While we left-handers make up only 10% of the population, the number is still signif-

icant. It amounts to over 7,000 in Bulloch County. Thus this article. Until the last century parents did all they could to keep their children from being lefthanded, primarily because left-handers were looked at with suspicion and fear. In fact, when you trace the origin of the word left in most languages you will find it derived from such words as sinister, weak, clumsy, deceitful, defective or broken. And so there were many superstitions associated with left-handedness: – A saying in Scotland describes an unlucky person as one who must have been baptized by a left-handed priest;

– If you experience a ringing in your right ear it means someone is praising you; if a ringing is in your left ear someone is cursing you; – The tradition of wearing a wedding ring on your left hand was started by Romans who used the ring to ward off evil associated with the left. Thank the Lord we have moved beyond those superstitions! There are still some funny statements about left-handedness: “If you lose your left hand your right hand will be left.” “Life without left-handed people wouldn’t be right.” Are you left-handed? If ink gets all over the side of your hand when you write, you may be left-handed. If you bonk elbows with a person at the dinner table, you may be left-handed. If you tend to chew your food on the left side of your mouth, you may be left-handed. If the clothes on your side of the closet face the opposite way than those of your spouse, you may be left-handed. If you approach hugging another person like a boxer, weaving this way and that, you may be left-handed. And if you find yourself putting your belt on upside down, you may be left-handed. Some left-handed people have accomplished so much they are recognized by their first names: Babe, Harpo, Leonardo, Goldie, Whoopie, Oprah, and Ty. And we celebrate the accomplishments of many other lefties like Henry Ford, Thomas Jefferson, Mozart, Beethoven, Mark Twain, Marie Curie, Julia Roberts, Albert Einstein, Isaac Newton, and Ben Franklin. And did you know that 70% of our United States Presidents since 1974 have been left-handed? Things seem to be improving for lefthanded people. Did you know you can now buy lefthanded scissors, left-handed ball-point pens, left-handed measuring cups, left-handed can openers, left-handed ice cream scoops, and left-handed rulers to name a few. And you know, we lefties are really pretty nice people. We don’t demand our rights like many minorities do. Yes, August 13th is a very special day for 10% of our population. You, who are in the majority, may find yourselves receiving left-handed compliments from us. July/August 2016 • 61

LOOK AROUND Legislative Appreciation Dinner Honoring Bulloch Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Delegation Senator Jack Hill Majority Leader Jon Burns Representative Butch Parrish Representative Jan Tankersley Wednesday, June 15, 2016 Gene Bishop Fieldhouse Paulson Stadium Co-Hosted by Bulloch County Board of Commissioners Development Authority of Bulloch County Georgia Southern University City of Statesboro Ogeechee Technical College Statesboro-Bulloch Chamber of Commerce

62 â&#x20AC;˘ Statesboro Magazine

July/August 2016 â&#x20AC;¢ 63

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The View From Here s Ric Mandes

Places of Solitude

Each of us has a place to go when we want to be alone. Many find that trail to isolation in reading; others, in a long walk; some, lying on the sofa and looking at pictures of the family. An afternoon nap offers confinement. For me, it’s sitting at the keyboard. Often I write about outlandish activities – i.e., singing with Alabama, or having a Coke® with the Pope, or hitting tennis balls with Nadal. When I was a boy living with Granny in Dock Junction, just outside of Brunswick, I spent a lot of time in the woods. Usually, the Boone brothers and Jennings, my best friend, and I would be playing cowboys and Indians or digging a cave, or climbing a giant oak. Occasionally, I would slip into the shadows alone. I’d sit on the bank of the canal and toss twigs into the moving water and watch until they disappeared around the bend. I would wonder how far these little vessels would hold up.

By some miracle, would a twig make it through the bends of the canal leading to Turtle River and on for miles, to the ocean? I would be caught up in the twig’s destiny. I had removed it from its resting place, had chosen to launch it on its way. I was the Admiral. My favorite time in the woods and at the canal was dusk. I would have had supper and helped Gran clean the table and wash the dishes. She would have said: “When it begins getting dark, come home. I don’t want to have to call you.” “Yes, ma’am,” I’d say. Within that pastoral setting, the sun would be an orange ball rolling down a long hill, slipping farther and farther away. Its strong beams would hold out as long as they could, touching everything: the tall pines, the giant oaks, the canal banks, and the water. Soon the lightning bugs would be out.

Their squadron beams blinking on and off . . . on and off. The chorus of crickets and frogs would fill the evening with the signal, “We are here; we are here.” I would be taken by their hiding place during the day. Where did they sleep? Why was the night so special to them? There was a coolness brought by night— the business of living slowed down. Maybe that’s why the chorus was saved for the evening. Their talents would be wasted on man-made noises during the day. Now I sit at my keyboard drawing imaginative scenes . . . or recalling real ones. I am alone. Each of us has a place. Each of us should have a place. Each of should feel good about needing to be alone now and then. Whether reading, napping or taking a walk, it is then we answer questions, reach conclusions, and remember! July/August 2016 • 65

TRANSITIONS

“It will be the little things that you will remember. The quiet moments, the smiles, the laughter. It will be the memories of these little things that help to push away the pain, and bring smiles back again.” Mr. James Floyd Akins

04.14.16

Mrs. Karen Venita Lloyd Finch

05.21.16

Mr. Curtis Lamar Postell

06.27.16

Mr. Delton Akins, Sr.

04.15.16

Mrs. Sarah Hagan Fowler

05.22.16

Minister Jay E. Rawls

06.28.16

Mrs. Cynthia Johnston Anderson

04.16.16

Mr. Rufus Goodman, Jr.

05.23.16

Mr. Columbus Rawls, Jr.

06.29.16

Mr. Joseph Randal “Randy” Attaway

04.17.16

Mr. Ellison “Ellie” “Pa” Hackle

05.24.16

Deacon Jake Rich

06.30.16

Mrs. Betty Anne Patrick Barnes

04.18.16

Mrs. Priscilla Saxton Harris

05.25.16

Mr. Michael Rigdon

07.01.16

Lt. Col. Phillip Roland Bell

04.19.16

Mrs. Kimberly Heller

05.26.16

Mr. Willie Foy Robbins

07.02.16

Mr. Allen Joseph Blanchette

04.20.16

Mr. Johnny L. Hodges

05.27.16

Mr. Daniel D. Rogers

07.03.16

Mrs. Doris Mozelle Thompson Bowen

04.21.16

Mr. Foster Harold Holloway

05.28.16

Mrs. Diane Keene Rowe

07.04.16

Miss Jade Ansley Braddy

04.22.16

Mr. Lewis William “Bill” Hook, Jr.

05.29.16

Mr. Fred Ruffin

07.05.16

Mr. Ward Brinson

04.23.16

Mrs. Mandy Hannah Cruse Hulsey

05.30.16

Mr. Melvin Sherrill Rushing

07.06.16

Mr. Carl Gerard Brister

04.24.16

Mr. Joe Vaughn Hulsey

05.31.16

Mrs. Mercile Saunders

07.07.16

Mr. Lonnie Brown, Jr.

04.25.16

Dr. Douglas Vance Jewson

06.01.16

Mr. Levon Shatteen

07.08.16

Ms. Cynthia Latreal Brunson

04.26.16

Mr. John Willie Johnson

06.02.16

Mrs. Louise Shirreffs

07.09.16

Mr. William H. Bryant, Jr.

04.27.16

Mrs. Alpha Mae Kemp

06.03.16

Mr. Dexter J. Shuford

07.10.16

Mrs. Eva Bulloch

04.28.16

Mr. Jonathan Gray Kicklighter

06.04.16

Mr. John Lester “Pops” Sikes, Jr.

07.11.16

Mrs. Mary Ellen Myers Bunch

04.29.16

Mr. Thomas “Tom” Kile, Sr.

06.05.16

Mr. Timothy Wayne Simmons

07.12.16

Mrs. Alberta Carroll

04.30.16

Mr. Thomas Lee Kurowski

06.06.16

Ms. Lucy JoAnn Smith

07.13.16

Mr. Joey Herbert Carter

05.01.16

Dr. Patricia Ann LaCerva

06.07.16

Mr. Harold Walter Smith

07.14.16

Mr. Freeman Noah “Toby” Carter, III

05.02.16

Dr. Paul J. LaSala

06.08.16

Mrs. Rosa May Smith

07.15.16

Mrs. Mary Holland Chester

05.03.16

Mrs. Lillie McGaha Leveritt

06.09.16

Mr. Jim Smith

07.16.16

Mr. Joe Colbert

05.04.16

Mr. Keith Linton, Jr.

06.10.16

Mr. John Andrew “Mr. John” Sokolik

07.17.16

Mr. Don A. Coleman

05.05.16

Mr. David McNabb Mackintosh

06.11.16

Mrs. Nellie Ussery Sowell

07.18.16

Mr. Jerry Lee Collins

05.06.16

Mr. Clifford Douglas Marcum

06.12.16

Mrs. Ernesteen Vickery Stewart

07.19.16

Mrs. Glenda B. Cowart

05.07.16

Ms. Lessie McCoy

06.13.16

Mrs. Bonnie Allen Strozzo

07.20.16

Mr. Douglas McArthur Crosby

05.08.16

Mr. Randy McKinney

06.14.16

Mr. Fred John “Buddy” Sward

07.21.16

Mrs. Christine Wimpey Currie

05.09.16

Mrs. Elena “Helen” Melton

06.15.16

Mrs. Corinne Forehand Thorud

07.22.16

Mr. Robert Lewis Dabbs

05.10.16

Elder John Shelton Mikell

06.16.16

Mrs. June Attaway Tillman

07.23.16

Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Brannen Davis

05.11.16

Mr. George Harold “Pa” Miller, Jr.

06.17.16

Mrs. Jewell Love Tremble

07.24.16

Ms. La’Brittany Davis

05.12.16

Mrs. Dorothy M. Moore

06.18.16

Ms. Sylvia Tremble

07.25.16

Mr. Winton DeLoach

05.13.16

Mrs. Shirley “Ann” Moser

06.19.16

Mr. James Anthony Von Dolteren, Jr.

07.26.16

Mr. Raymond Dickerson

05.14.16

Mr. Kristhpher I. Mullen

06.20.16

Mrs. Carole Thomas Walters

07.27.16

Ms. Martha Ann Jones Drawdy

05.15.16

Mrs. Deanna Scalf Napier

06.21.16

Mrs. Faye Owens Waters

07.28.16

Ms. Nancy Faye Turner Dunn

05.16.16

Mrs. Virginia “Ginny” Dickerson Nease

06.22.16

Mr. John Leonard “Jack” Waters

07.29.16

Mrs. Annette Houston Eason

05.17.16

Mr. Cecil Jackson “Jack” O’Quinn, Jr.

06.23.16

Mrs. Christine Brabham Waters

07.30.16

Mrs. Melba Rackley Elkins

05.18.16

Mr. Cornell Parrish

06.24.16

Mrs. Beatrice “Doll” Watts

07.31.16

Ms. Angela Dawn Fancher

05.19.16

Mr. Edward Percell

06.25.16

Master Jacob Landen Williams

08.01.16

Mrs. Kathy Poe Finch

05.20.16

Mr. Denning Post

06.26.16

Mr. Eddie Lee Williams, Sr.

08.02.16

66 • Statesboro Magazine

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