By Makaylee Randolph Staff Writer ….
By Makaylee Randolph Staff Writer mrandolphadvance@gmail.com
Soon, school buses will scurry through the area, as classes resume and students begin the 2026/2027 school year. In preparation for the school year’s official beginning, local superintendents and heads of schools discussed what they are most excited about in the upcoming year.
Wheeler County Schools students will return to the classroom first, as the District’s doors open to students on Friday, July 31. Superintendent Alex Alvarez said that there are no major changes at the district this year, and that he is hoping to continue to ensure our students win in classroom, on the playing field, and in life.
When asked what he felt like the District’s biggest accomplishment of the 2025/2026, Alvarez said,
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“Our biggest win last year was working together as a community to create our 2026-2031 Strategic Plan. This plan will guide our work around our five strategic goal areas and help us ensure our mission.”
He also spoke about his excitement for the upcoming year. “I am most looking forward to working alongside of our students, staff, community, and Board of Education to ensure our mission and vision for all. Our community is very committed to student success, and that brings a great deal of positive energy to our district culture and climate,” he remarked. “Be sure to check out our Wheeler County Schools story throughout the school year on Facebook, our website, and instagram.”
Montgomery County Schools Montgomery County Schools will begin their new school year on Monday, August 3.
Montgomery County Schools Superintendent Ronda Hightower highlighted some changes within the school system, as she said the district’s biggest change would be the implementation of a new student discipline matrix. “Montgomery County Schools have not been immune from the significant increase in student discipline that is prevalent in society today, and that all school systems are having to address. The most significant change for our school system is the new discipline matrix and the requirement for it to be enforced. This significant change will result in a more positive and safer environment for all students. We have addressed the distractions cell phones were causing in the learning environment, and the added layer of a new discipline matrix will enhance success for all students. This will be accomplished with all of us working together: students, parents, teachers, leaders, and board members,” she said.
The new matrix is available for review online at the Montgomery County Schools website (www. mcboe.net) or within the student handbook.
When reflecting on last year, Hightower shared it was hard to choose one specific accomplishment to be deemed the school’s “biggest win.”
“Because Montgomery County is so blessed with such a strong team of staff, teachers, and leaders, a single biggest win is hard to define. One of the biggest wins that was seen last year was an even stronger focus on student learning and student achievement. This increased focus caused students in 5th grade science and biology to accomplish the highest percentage of proficient and distinguished learners in 5 years. Students in Algebra demonstrated the highest percentage of proficient and distinguished learners in the 3-year existence of the assessment,” she remarked.
Hightower continued, “The vast majority of subject areas saw academic improvement over the prior year; however, the following areas of student achievement saw double digit (10% or higher) gains in student learning over the prior year. Milestones: 3rd Grade Math, 5th Grade Science, Biology; Agriculture Pathway Assessments: Agriscience Systems, Forestry & Animal Science, Ag Leadership- Horticulture, Horticulture Mechanics, Ag Leadership-Animal Production, Plant Mechanics, Horticulture & Animal Science, NFS/ServSafe; IReady Assessments: 3rd Grade Reading, 5th Grade Reading, 7th Grade Reading, and 3rd Grade Math. We believe the added layer of the accountability system, along with support will continue to broaden achievement across the curriculum for all students.”
She stated that the school prides itself on the foundation of its core beliefs, which read, “We believe in relationships first. We believe in every single child and we believe in each other. We believe the right decision becomes clear when the focus is on students.”
Hightower also said the mission of Montgomery County Schools is to do whatever it takes to develop EAGLES – educational excellence, academic achievement, good citizenship, lifelong learning, extracurricular enrichment, and success for all – as the district is ultimately “committed to inspiring excellence for all.”
She spoke about her excitement for the upcoming school year, as she said, “We are looking forward to more of what we saw in the 2025-2026 school year; an even stronger focus on student learning and achievement. While we recognize that “not everything that counts can be counted” by test scores, the main purpose of schools is to provide opportunities for a high level of mastery learning from students demonstrated in a variety of ways, including through a variety of assessments. A written Accountability System for Instruction is being implemented to better support our teachers. One of the most impactful practices in improving student achievement is improving teacher support. We are looking forward to implementing targeted monthly support systems and action steps detailed in the Accountability System for Instruction. These supports are from the boardroom to the classroom.”
Hightower shared a quote from Nikos Kazantzakis, which states, “In order to succeed, you must first believe you can,” as she elaborated on the school’s approach to educating students.
“In Montgomery County Schools, we believe in every single child and we believe in each other. We believe we offer small town benefits with big town opportunities for students. Being an educator and working in schools is harder than it has ever been before, yet we still see our staff show up day after day, challenge after challenge, and success after success, all because they have an unwavering belief that every child can learn and that they make a difference. We believe when the focus of each decision is on students, the right decision becomes clear. Here in Montgomery County Schools, we believe every child can thrive and every opportunity is within reach. We believe!” she concluded.
Treutlen County Schools Treutlen County Schools will also kick off their new school year on Monday, August 3.
This year, one of the biggest changes at Treutlen County Schools will be the beginning and dismissal times for each school. “As we prepare for the 2026-2027 school year, we are making an important adjustment to the daily schedule for students in grades 6-12. In previous years, many of our bus riders arrived on campus around 7:25 a.m. but did not begin their instructional day until 8:00 a.m. By moving the start of the school day to 7:40 a.m., we are making better use of valuable instructional time while creating a more efficient schedule for our students. An additional benefit of this change is an earlier dismissal. After- school activities and athletic practices can begin sooner, allowing student- athletes to miss less instructional time when traveling for competitions. Families will also gain additional time together in the evenings, making this a positive change for both our students and our community,” Superintendent Susan Stone explained.
Stone also spoke about what she feels the school’s biggest accomplishment was last year, as she championed the school’s expansion of programs offered to students. “One of our district’s greatest accomplishments last year was expanding opportunities for students to earn industry-recognized credentials without leaving our campus. Programs such as Welding and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) allow students to graduate with valuable certifications that can lead directly to high-demand, well-paying careers,” Stone said. “We also expanded our Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) pathways and significantly increased participation in our Work-Based Learning program. Students are gaining realworld experience while earning high school credit, helping them build the skills, confidence, and professional experience needed for success after graduation. These opportunities will continue to prepare our students for college, careers, and life.”
She continued, “Our CTAE offerings continue to grow and now include pathways in Graphic Design, Agriculture, Forestry, Teaching as a Profession, Early Childhood Education, Criminal Investigations, Computer Programming, Mechatronics, Welding, and Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). These programs provide students with meaningful hands-on learning experiences and multiple pathways to success after graduation. Our Work-Based Learning program has also experienced tremendous growth. Students earn high school credit while gaining valuable on-the-job experience through partnerships with local businesses and organizations. These experiences help students develop workplace skills, explore career interests, and prepare for future employment.”
Stone highlighted other aspects of the district that have helped to make it unique from surrounding districts and effective in serving its students. “Treutlen County Schools continues to focus on providing every student with exceptional opportunities while maintaining the close-knit, family atmosphere that makes our district special,” she emphasized. “As a Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) district, all students receive free breakfast and lunch every school day, helping ensure they are nourished and ready to learn. Through the Georgia Rural Teacher Apprenticeship Program (GaRTAP), we are investing in our future educators by helping paraprofessionals continue their education to become certified teachers. This ‘grow our own’ initiative strengthens our workforce while providing career advancement opportunities for members of our community.”
She added, “Our Work-Based Learning program has also experienced tremendous growth. Students earn high school credit while gaining valuable on-the-job experience through partnerships with local businesses and organizations. These experiences help students develop workplace skills, explore career interests, and prepare for future employment.”
Stone also stressed that the school prioritized safety, student engagement, and academic excellence. “We are committed to creating schools where students feel safe, supported, and inspired to learn each day,” she remarked.
According to Stone, Treutlen County Schools focuses on preparing all students for success in life, as they engage, equip, and inspire students for the future. “At Treutlen County Schools, our mission and vision guide every decision we make. We are committed to providing every student with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities they need to be successful in college, careers, military service, and life. Through high-quality instruction, meaningful relationships, and innovative learning experiences, we strive to ensure every student graduates prepared to reach their full potential,” she commented.
When asked what she was looking forward to this year, Stone said, “The first day of school is always one of my favorite days of the year. I look forward to welcoming our students and staff back to campus and seeing the excitement that comes with a fresh start. Every new school year brings new opportunities to learn, grow, and celebrate success. I am excited to visit classrooms, build relationships with students and staff, and watch our students achieve great things throughout the year.”
She praised the community for their support. “One of the greatest strengths of Treutlen County Schools is our community. The partnerships between our schools, families, businesses, and community organizations create opportunities that would not be possible without their continued support. Together, we are preparing all students for success in life, and we are excited about the opportunities that await them during the 2026-2027 school year,” Stone concluded.
Vidalia City Schools
Students at Vidalia City Schools will return to the classroom on Tuesday, August 4.
According to Superintendent Sandy Reid, Vidalia City Schools prides itself on setting the pace in equipping their students to become productive citizens, as the district’s schools invest in relationships, ignite learning, inspire excellence, and impact their community.
One of the ways that the district is accomplishing this is through the opportunities with which they provide students. “While there are not a lot of additional programs being introduced this year, we are intentionally strengthening the opportunities we already provide,” Reid explained. “We are going deeper with STEM education by expanding hands-on, real-world learning experiences, while also realigning our gifted and accelerated programs to create a more intentional pathway for advanced learners. Our focus is on providing every student with the right level of challenge and support while continuing to strengthen the overall educational experience for all learners.”
She highlighted several accomplishments that the district had achieved last year, as well as in recent years. “One of our biggest accomplishments this past year was building on the strong foundation already in place by becoming even more intentional in our work. We strengthened our instructional practices, refined our strategic focus, and continued investing in our staff to ensure every decision supports student success. Those efforts are already paying off. We saw stronger literacy scores and meaningful growth in several key areas. While there is always more work to do, it’s encouraging to see the results of our collective efforts and the positive momentum we are building for the future,” Reid said.
Reid continued, “Our community has so much to be proud of as we celebrate the accomplishments of our students across academics, athletics, and the arts. While we are celebrating stronger literacy scores and meaningful academic growth, we also experienced an outstanding year in athletics and the arts. Vidalia High School was recognized as one of the top athletic programs in the state through the Directors Cup standings, reflecting excellence across multiple sports. Our One Act Play program continued to demonstrate why it is considered one of the best in the state. Our Literary Team captured its 13th consecutive Region Championship and once again represented Vidalia with distinction at the state level. Our choral program earned multiple honors through the GHSA State Literary Competition while also showcasing its incredible talent through many stellar performances as Vidalia Voices throughout the year. Our band program continued its tradition of excellence, representing Vidalia through outstanding performances and demonstrating why it is consistently regarded as one of the premier programs in the state.”
She shared that the district’s Class of 2026 also celebrated outstanding postsecondary success, with graduates pursuing college enrollment, military enlistment, and meaningful careers. “These accomplishments reflect the incredible talent of our students in academics, the arts, and athletics, as well as their commitment to preparing for success beyond graduation. They are also a testament to the dedication of our teachers, coaches, directors, support staff, and families who invest in our students every day,” Reid remarked.
When asked what she was most excited about with the upcoming school year, Reid emphasized, “I’m looking forward to watching our culture continue to grow. ‘Built Different Starts With Us’ isn’t just a theme—it’s a commitment. I can’t wait to see our staff continue investing in one another and in our students every single day.” Toombs County Schools
Toombs County Schools will kick off the new school year on Thursday, August 6.
Superintendent Barry Waller said that the District is ready to accomplish its vision of excellence for all and mission of believing in every child every day throughout the 2026/2027 school year.
He spoke about the changes in the school system’s approach to literacy that will be implemented this year. “Across the state, Early Literacy has become a hot button topic. Our legislation passed a landmark bill (HB1193) on a comprehensive approach to the teaching and support of reading, specifically in the early grades. We are in the early stages of the new law but are working diligently to not only being compliant but are striving to thrive in supporting our teachers and staff in providing quality instruction for our students,” Waller said.
He continued, “One piece of the law required the creation of Literacy Coach positions to provide support to our staff and students. We are blessed to have been asked to participate in a ‘pilot’ program offered by Georgia Southern University that started last school year and will continue into this year that will provide ongoing training opportunities to our elementary grade teachers in innovative instructional methods that provides personalized coaching and support to our students.”
He reflected on the achievements that the District accomplished during the last school year. “We are extremely proud of the support of our board of education members in having the vision to support the ongoing building projects of new Construction/ Engineering Lab that will accommodate the recent growth of our schools and system. The lab will provide innovative opportunities for our students to meet the high demand fields of Heavy Equipment Operations, Construction, and Engineering that have recently been identified as Georgia High-Demand Careers. This expansion continued from page
will provide our other pathway opportunities at TCHS to have their own dedicated space,” he remarked.
“We are also excited about the opportunities for our students and community afforded by our school board in the construction of a multi-purpose training facility that will impact our student athletes, band, and other extra-curricular efforts,” Waller added. “Just like CTAE pathways, we have had several of our athletic and extra-curricular activities share space due to our growth. Now, with the vision of our board, we will be able to grow our programs effectively.”
He continued, “Finally, we are anxiously awaiting the final touches to be completed at Booster Stadium (“The Pit”). As the community is well aware, the stadium was built in 1965, and though we have made several modifications over the years, many of the features of restrooms, concessions, and flow throughout the stadium have not been accommodating. Though Friday nights at “The Pit” have always been one of the best places in the state to watch our students perform, the internal challenges to maintain it created the necessary renovation. We feel this project will be something that not only our system but also our community will be proud of for years to come.”
When asked what he was excited about with the upcoming school year, Waller said, “We are always excited about another school year. Each year is an opportunity to see our students continue to grow and excel. We are blessed to have an amazing staff across our schools and district. We talk frequently about being a lighthouse in our community and leading in a way that attracts partnership with our parents, our businesses, and our industries. By doing this, our goal is to create innovative learning opportunities that give our students the chance to be exposed to world-class experiences that prepare them to be successful citizens.”
“Finally, as we are welcoming our staff and students back over the next few days, it is our hope that we will, along with our parent and community partnerships, create the best opportunities for our students to thrive as we chase ‘Excellence’ for All,’” Waller concluded.
Robert Toombs Christian Academy Robert Toombs Christian Academy will officially begin the 2026/2027 school year on Friday, August 7.
Head of School Scott Tuck said that the biggest changes are some personnel changes, such as the head football coach and other positions, that he feels will bring a positive impact to the school.
Tuck explained that the school prides itself on fixating all efforts – academic and extracurricular – on the school mission, academic vision, and spiritual vision statements. The school’s mission is “to offer a quality education conducted in a Christian environment utilizing rigorous academic standards and Christian-based discipline to foster intellectual, spiritual, and social growth.”
Academically, Robert Toombs Christian Academy works “to implement an academic program that provides continuity and connection for all students as they progress through each grade level.” The school conducts an academic program that utilizes current educational resources and technology and a comprehensive learning environment that encourages all students to excel academically and spiritually to prepare them to be successful in their future educational endeavors and their society.
Meanwhile, the school works to accomplish a spiritual mission, as it provides a Christcentered environment in which students are encouraged and supported in developing a personal relationship with Christ through guidance and support to develop their personal spiritual vision in which students display and witness Christ-like character and actions to guide their everyday lives and develop as strong spiritual leaders.
Tuck reflected on last year’s accomplishments, as he shared that the school’s “biggest win” of the year was the implementation of the cell phone ban. “I actually think the cell phone ban may have been one of our most positive things. Success in athletics and other extracurriculars was also certainly enjoyed. Finally, the greatest ‘win’ was witnessing the spiritual growth of students,” he shared.
When asked what he was most looking forward to this year, Tuck said he was excited to get back to interacting with the students and faculty, and continuing growth and improvement at the institution. “As my third year as Head of School begins, I am looking forward to the challenges and opportunities that the new term presents. New and growing relationships with students, staff, and families is excitedly anticipated,” he remarked.
Vidalia Heritage Academy Students will return to classes at Vidalia Heritage Academy on Friday, August 7.
According to Headmaster Jeff McCormick, the sole mission of Vidalia Heritage Academy is “to equip students spiritually, intellectually, and physically to love God and serve Him as Christ’s ambassadors in the world.”
He elaborated on this mission, as he said, “For us at VHA, the goal is always to see students grow in their faith and increase their knowledge of Him and their unique place in the world. Each year, we see students come to faith in Christ, grow in that faith, and take on leadership roles in student activities. Academically, we continue to see students reach beyond the norm and get into the colleges and careers of their choice. We need to keep that goal in mind!”
This year, Vidalia Heritage Academy has the highest number of students enrolled in the Academy’s history, and students will have the chance to enjoy updated facilities and other changes that have occurred at the school. “Both the upper school and elementary school underwent some significant renovations this summer. At the upper school, not only did the entire exterior receive a facelift with new paint and trim, but we also added an outdoor pavilion with a hardscape patio/play area for numerous games to be played, a large greenspace, and a half-court for basketball. This gives the students a much needed area in which to relax, unwind, and have fun in the midst of a rigorous academic schedule,” McCormick explained. “At the Elementary School, the entire lunchroom was renovated with a new mural reminding them how special they are and to keep trying their best for God’s glory. It is really beautiful. We also added some new security measures on the exterior of the building to keep our students safe.”
He emphasized his enthusiasm for the upcoming school year, as he stated he looks forward to continued growth at the school. “We will have our largest enrollment ever this year and I am looking forward to getting to know all the new students and families. I am entering my 21st year as Head of School here and I am just as excited now as I was when I first began,” Mc-Cormick concluded.
