Toombs County Schools Administrators Share Hopes For Upcoming Year
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Toombs County Schools Superintendent Barry Waller and the district schools’ principals shared their hopes for the upcoming school year during a roundtable discussion on Thursday, July 31.
“We are excited to begin the journey of preparation for our students to join us on August 7th,” Waller began. He stated that the district had hosted New Student Registration on Wednesday, July 30, and over 129 new students had registered to join the district. New Employee Orientation was held to welcome new staff members to the district on Thursday, July 31.
In addition to preparing for the academic year, Waller addressed important updates from the state. He highlighted House Bill 268 and the district’s partnership with ESE Mental Health Services, which allows the district to offer expanded support to students and families across the community. He also discussed Senate Bill 351 and the addition of Parent ProTech, an educational platform designed to help families and students navigate technology safely. This platform equips communities with practical tools and knowledge for responsible digital engagement, drawing on the expertise of parents, educators, and tech professionals. Lyons Primary School Principal Tracy Mulkey spoke about her school’s plans for excellence. “ As the new school year begins, Lyons Primary is excited to welcome students back and reaffirm our commitment to ‘building the foundation for learning’ through a clear vision, a dedicated team, and an environment designed for student success,” she remarked. “At the heart of our school is a mission to provide an engaging, safe, and supportive learning environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive. This mission comes to life each day through the work of our amazing staff, who are passionate about helping all students succeed— academically, socially, and emotionally.”
She continued, “We’re proud of the incredible work our educators and support staff do every day. They go above and beyond to ensure our students feel valued, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential.”
Mulkey said that one of her favorite improvements that the school had undergone in preparation for the upcoming year is the addition of new murals in the facility’s lunchroom and media center, which are a part of the school’s continued effort to create a positive and inviting atmosphere.
She also highlighted the success of the Get Toombs Reading Mentorship Program, which launched last year with over 15 community volunteers mentoring students in first grade reading classes. “This initiative brought meaningful connections between our students and local mentors while supporting early literacy. This year, we are excited to expand the program into 2nd-grade classrooms,” Mulkey added.
“Again, we are so excited to welcome all of our students back and are looking forward to an amazing school year focused on collaboration, high expectations, and nurturing a love for learning in every child,” she emphasized.
Toombs Central Elementary School Principal Wendie Sikes shared her excitement for the various fun events and traditions that the school for which the school was already preparing. “At Toombs Central Elementary, every child matters, and it all starts with our amazing teachers. We are excited to welcome our dedicated staff back as we prepare for another year of growth, learning, and community. With one heart and one shared purpose, we’re ready to support every student, value every teacher, and create a school year filled with purpose and pride,” she commented. “We are excited to plan and welcome parents back to our campus for a few traditions that will return in the fall such as the Red Ribbon week program, the Veterans’ Day program, and Fall festival. We can’t wait to see our students walk through the doors—welcome back!”
Assistant Superintendent Tabatha Nobles will return to her roots at the beginning of this year, as she serves as the district’s assistant superintendent and the Lyons Upper Elementary School Interim Principal, as former principal Rhonda Stone retired last year.
“As we kick off another exciting school year at Lyons Upper Elementary, I am thrilled to welcome our students, staff, and families back to campus,” Nobles emphasized. “I’m excited to get started and can’t wait to see all the learning, growth, and fun this year will bring. This year, we’re proud to host the 21st Century After School Program, serving elementary students in the Toombs County School System. 21st Century after school will allow us to provide students with academic and enrichment opportunities beyond the school day.”
She continued, “We’re also partnering with Proximity Gap Network to bring The Bridge Project Sessions to our school system. It's a powerful, community-led initiative focused on mentoring, family support, and youth resilience. We are incredibly grateful for the community partners who continue to support our students and staff. Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected school community.”
Toombs County Middle School will also be led by a new principal this year, as Sidney Spell takes over the position. She discussed her excitement for the year, saying, “We are excited to get the new year started and serve the students of this great community. We like to think of TCMS as a Family and strive to be the Standard. There's a lot of new faces and plenty of exciting energy in the building for this upcoming year. We have a great staff and plan to continue to put students first and build the family culture. The Dawgs have made academic improvements, drastically reduced discipline referrals, and dominated in Athletics winning 8 conference championships last year. We are looking forward to a great year and can't wait to see you in the Dawg House!”
Toombs County High School Principal Marissa Morris said that she is excited for another year of excellence in academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities. “As we kick off a new school year at Toombs County High School, we are thrilled to welcome our students back and celebrate the incredible team of educators and students who are the heart of our school. Our teachers are committed to excellence, and their passion, dedication, and tireless work are what make TCHS a place where students grow, thrive, and succeed,” she remarked. “We are excited about continuing to win in all that we do—whether it’s in the classroom, on the field, or through our clubs and programs. As the reigning State Champions in football and the former State Champions in boys soccer in 2024, the momentum continues as we highlight the many opportunities available to students through our CTAE pathways and extracurricular activities. These programs connect students with real-world skills and experiences that lead to high-demand careers and lifelong success.”
“At Toombs County High School, we challenge every student and staff member to Create Your Legacy—and with these exciting opportunities and our outstanding team in place, we are doing just that,” she added.
Superintendent Waller ended the discussion by emphasizing the district’s commitment to student success. “Our school staff will be diligently preparing to pour into our students for another year as we relentlessly pursue Excellence for All,” he concluded.
