CHECK IT OUT: Our newest edition of TERZA TAKEAWAYS has been published! Read what's on the mind of Superintendent Terza and take in some amazing system highlights and news you can use!
https://bartowcountyschools.edurooms.com/newsletters/bartow-county-school-system/newsletters/terza-takeaways-9-2-26
https://bartowcountyschools.edurooms.com/newsletters/bartow-county-school-system/newsletters/terza-takeaways-9-2-26
HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER OF THE YEAR: Tiffany Tindall
Few educators leave a mark both inside and outside the classroom quite like Tiffany Tindall!
Today, district leaders surprised the Woodland High School dance teacher and Fine Arts Department Chair with the news that she has been named Bartow County's High School Teacher of the Year!
A respected leader in dance education, Tindall has inspired students through excellence in the arts while also serving as a visible community leader through events such as Cartersville Dances with the Stars. Her influence extends far beyond the stage, helping students develop confidence, discipline, and leadership skills.
She now advances as one of three finalists for Bartow County School System Teacher of the Year, which will be announced September 22 at the Booth Western Art Museum.
Congratulations, Ms. Tindall!
Few educators leave a mark both inside and outside the classroom quite like Tiffany Tindall!
Today, district leaders surprised the Woodland High School dance teacher and Fine Arts Department Chair with the news that she has been named Bartow County's High School Teacher of the Year!
A respected leader in dance education, Tindall has inspired students through excellence in the arts while also serving as a visible community leader through events such as Cartersville Dances with the Stars. Her influence extends far beyond the stage, helping students develop confidence, discipline, and leadership skills.
She now advances as one of three finalists for Bartow County School System Teacher of the Year, which will be announced September 22 at the Booth Western Art Museum.
Congratulations, Ms. Tindall!
MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHER OF THE YEAR: Katherine Szweda
For students navigating the transition to middle school, great teachers make all the difference!
That's why district leaders were excited to surprise Katherine Szweda, a sixth-grade ELA teacher at Adairsville Middle School, with the announcement that she is Bartow County's Middle School Teacher of the Year!
Known for building strong relationships and engaging students through literacy, Szweda helps students find their voice while setting high expectations for achievement and growth.
She now advances as one of three finalists for Bartow County School System Teacher of the Year, which will be announced September 22 at the Booth Western Art Museum.
Congratulations, Ms. Szweda!
For students navigating the transition to middle school, great teachers make all the difference!
That's why district leaders were excited to surprise Katherine Szweda, a sixth-grade ELA teacher at Adairsville Middle School, with the announcement that she is Bartow County's Middle School Teacher of the Year!
Known for building strong relationships and engaging students through literacy, Szweda helps students find their voice while setting high expectations for achievement and growth.
She now advances as one of three finalists for Bartow County School System Teacher of the Year, which will be announced September 22 at the Booth Western Art Museum.
Congratulations, Ms. Szweda!
ELEMENTARY TEACHER OF THE YEAR: Emily Zimmermann
A surprise visit from district leaders brought exciting news to Mission Road Elementary today!
Emily Zimmermann has been named Bartow County's Elementary Teacher of the Year, rising to the top among the district's outstanding elementary school Teachers of the Year.
As a first-grade teacher and robotics coach, Zimmermann combines strong instruction with hands-on innovation, helping students build both foundational skills and a curiosity for learning that reaches beyond the classroom.
She now advances as one of three finalists for Bartow County School System Teacher of the Year, which will be announced September 22 at the Booth Western Art Museum.
Congratulations, Ms. Zimmermann!
A surprise visit from district leaders brought exciting news to Mission Road Elementary today!
Emily Zimmermann has been named Bartow County's Elementary Teacher of the Year, rising to the top among the district's outstanding elementary school Teachers of the Year.
As a first-grade teacher and robotics coach, Zimmermann combines strong instruction with hands-on innovation, helping students build both foundational skills and a curiosity for learning that reaches beyond the classroom.
She now advances as one of three finalists for Bartow County School System Teacher of the Year, which will be announced September 22 at the Booth Western Art Museum.
Congratulations, Ms. Zimmermann!
CAUGHT ON CAMERA: Random acts of kindness from our Cass High School football players and cheerleaders! These student-athletes are building connections, spreading Colonel pride, and showing our youngest students what it means to be part of the Colonel Family. Now, somebody fire the cannon! 💥
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
THE BIOGLOW LAUNCH: What happens when 150+ students, STEM experts, and a passion for innovation come together? The perfect kickoff to the FIRST® LEGO League BIOGLOW season! 🌎🤖
Hosted at Georgia Highlands College, Bartow County students engaged in several interactive learning experiences led by biodiversity and STEM professionals from organizations including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Georgia Tech, UGA Extension, Pettit Preserve, and GHC.
This year's challenge encourages students to explore the intersection of nature and technology as they research biodiversity issues, build and code LEGO Spike Prime robots, and create sustainable solutions that make a positive impact on their communities and the planet.
We're excited to see where their creativity, collaboration, and innovation lead this season! Remember, for the last few years, we have had teams make it to the very top...the international stage!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
Hosted at Georgia Highlands College, Bartow County students engaged in several interactive learning experiences led by biodiversity and STEM professionals from organizations including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Georgia Tech, UGA Extension, Pettit Preserve, and GHC.
This year's challenge encourages students to explore the intersection of nature and technology as they research biodiversity issues, build and code LEGO Spike Prime robots, and create sustainable solutions that make a positive impact on their communities and the planet.
We're excited to see where their creativity, collaboration, and innovation lead this season! Remember, for the last few years, we have had teams make it to the very top...the international stage!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
RIGHT WORK: Let’s celebrate our newest Ms. Dot STAR Award winners! These individuals go above and beyond in their roles, making a meaningful impact felt across our district.
Congratulations to:
🎉 Olivia Crow, Paraprofessional, Cloverleaf Elementary School
🎉 Misty Burdick, Administrative Assistant, Adairsville Middle School
🎉 Joy Abernathy, Bookkeeper, Adairsville High School
Congratulations to:
🎉 Olivia Crow, Paraprofessional, Cloverleaf Elementary School
🎉 Misty Burdick, Administrative Assistant, Adairsville Middle School
🎉 Joy Abernathy, Bookkeeper, Adairsville High School
INDY BOUND TIGERS: Not one, not two, but THREE Adairsville High School students have earned national finalist honors in the 2026 National FFA Agriscience Fair!
Dylan Kitchens has been named a national finalist in the Animal Systems, Division 3 category after advancing through the national pre-qualifying judging process, where only the top 10 entries in each category and division were selected to move forward.
Ramzey Gulledge and Savannah Viktora have also been named national finalists, competing as a team in Plant Systems, Division 6. After winning at the state level, their project advanced through national pre-qualifying judging, where only the top 10 entries in each category and division were selected to move forward.
These students will represent Adairsville High School, Bartow County, and Georgia at the National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis this October, where they will compete against the nation's best agriscience projects! Congratulations & good luck, Tigers!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
Dylan Kitchens has been named a national finalist in the Animal Systems, Division 3 category after advancing through the national pre-qualifying judging process, where only the top 10 entries in each category and division were selected to move forward.
Ramzey Gulledge and Savannah Viktora have also been named national finalists, competing as a team in Plant Systems, Division 6. After winning at the state level, their project advanced through national pre-qualifying judging, where only the top 10 entries in each category and division were selected to move forward.
These students will represent Adairsville High School, Bartow County, and Georgia at the National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis this October, where they will compete against the nation's best agriscience projects! Congratulations & good luck, Tigers!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND: You asked and we answered! Join us Aug. 27th for our college fair and financial aid workshop!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
SERVING UP SOMETHING SPECIAL: Innovation is on the menu at Red Top Middle!
We're excited to share that Red Top Middle School has been selected for the Georgia Department of Education's Culinary Innovation Schools Program!
From September 8-10, 2026, the state's culinary chef will be on site working directly with our School Nutrition team, providing hands-on training, fresh ideas, and innovative strategies designed to elevate the student dining experience!
Congratulations to Red Top Middle and our outstanding School Nutrition staff!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
We're excited to share that Red Top Middle School has been selected for the Georgia Department of Education's Culinary Innovation Schools Program!
From September 8-10, 2026, the state's culinary chef will be on site working directly with our School Nutrition team, providing hands-on training, fresh ideas, and innovative strategies designed to elevate the student dining experience!
Congratulations to Red Top Middle and our outstanding School Nutrition staff!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
WOW: Math proficiency in the Bartow County School System has increased by 12.1 percentage points in just three years!
That new growth reflects a districtwide commitment to strengthening math instruction and supporting students at every level.
• Overall math proficiency increased from 35.8% to 47.9% in grades 3 through Algebra: Concepts and Connections.
• Eighth-grade proficiency surpassed the state average, growing from 37% to 57.9%.
• Algebra: Concepts and Connections proficiency exceeded the state average, increasing from 39.5% to 53.9%.
• Every BCSS school now has a dedicated content-specific math coach providing classroom support, lesson modeling, and instructional coaching.
• Teachers participate in ongoing professional learning, collaborative instructional walks, and targeted support aligned to Georgia's K-12 Math Standards.
• Students have access to additional help through school-based office hours and intervention opportunities.
These gains are the result of the intentional work of BCSS teachers, math coaches, school leaders, and district leaders to strengthen math instruction across the district. Watch for even more strong student achievement results in the weeks ahead.
FULL STORY: https://www.bartow.k12.ga.us/article/3087320
That new growth reflects a districtwide commitment to strengthening math instruction and supporting students at every level.
• Overall math proficiency increased from 35.8% to 47.9% in grades 3 through Algebra: Concepts and Connections.
• Eighth-grade proficiency surpassed the state average, growing from 37% to 57.9%.
• Algebra: Concepts and Connections proficiency exceeded the state average, increasing from 39.5% to 53.9%.
• Every BCSS school now has a dedicated content-specific math coach providing classroom support, lesson modeling, and instructional coaching.
• Teachers participate in ongoing professional learning, collaborative instructional walks, and targeted support aligned to Georgia's K-12 Math Standards.
• Students have access to additional help through school-based office hours and intervention opportunities.
These gains are the result of the intentional work of BCSS teachers, math coaches, school leaders, and district leaders to strengthen math instruction across the district. Watch for even more strong student achievement results in the weeks ahead.
FULL STORY: https://www.bartow.k12.ga.us/article/3087320
CENTRAL OFFICE CELEBRATIONS: Being part of a school system and community like ours means there is never a shortage of reasons to celebrate!
This month, we're recognizing Sheila Edwards, our Leadership and Learning Support Specialist. Since coming to Central Office from Woodland High School, Sheila has fit right in and has become an incredible addition to our team. She leads with professionalism, serves with a caring heart, and is always willing to lend a helping hand without expecting anything in return. Her dedication and positivity make a difference every day, and we're all better because she's part of our team!
This month, we're recognizing Sheila Edwards, our Leadership and Learning Support Specialist. Since coming to Central Office from Woodland High School, Sheila has fit right in and has become an incredible addition to our team. She leads with professionalism, serves with a caring heart, and is always willing to lend a helping hand without expecting anything in return. Her dedication and positivity make a difference every day, and we're all better because she's part of our team!
MENTOR A REACH SCHOLAR: We're looking for a few people willing to make a BIG difference!
Bartow's REACH Georgia Scholars have already proven their potential. Now they need mentors who can help them stay focused, encouraged, and connected as they work toward their goals.
The commitment is simple: meet with a high school student once a month.
The impact? Potentially life changing.
We're working to match every REACH Scholar with a mentor, and we need additional community members to step forward. If you're interested in investing in the next generation of Bartow County leaders, we'd love to hear from you!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
Bartow's REACH Georgia Scholars have already proven their potential. Now they need mentors who can help them stay focused, encouraged, and connected as they work toward their goals.
The commitment is simple: meet with a high school student once a month.
The impact? Potentially life changing.
We're working to match every REACH Scholar with a mentor, and we need additional community members to step forward. If you're interested in investing in the next generation of Bartow County leaders, we'd love to hear from you!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
COLLEGE TOUR: It's back by popular demand! Get on the bus and tour prospective colleges and universities! Details below!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
BOARD REPORT & RECOGNITIONS: Adairsville High School senior Abby Britton is leaving her mark both inside and outside the classroom as a standout member of the STEM Magnet Program!
Through the opportunities available in Bartow County Schools, Abby discovered a passion for engineering and has spent her high school years turning that passion into action. Her impressive projects include designing accessible games for individuals with disabilities, developing a mechanical hand and back brace, and helping establish a Women in STEM group to encourage and support future innovators.
Abby's journey is a testament to the impact of providing students with meaningful, hands-on learning experiences. Programs like the STEM Magnet Program help students explore their interests, develop real-world skills, and gain the confidence to pursue ambitious goals. With plans to attend the University of Georgia and a heart for serving others, Abby exemplifies how passion, opportunity, and hard work can create a pathway to success.
Congratulations, Abby! We can't wait to see where your talents and determination take you next!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow #OptionsAndOpportunities
Through the opportunities available in Bartow County Schools, Abby discovered a passion for engineering and has spent her high school years turning that passion into action. Her impressive projects include designing accessible games for individuals with disabilities, developing a mechanical hand and back brace, and helping establish a Women in STEM group to encourage and support future innovators.
Abby's journey is a testament to the impact of providing students with meaningful, hands-on learning experiences. Programs like the STEM Magnet Program help students explore their interests, develop real-world skills, and gain the confidence to pursue ambitious goals. With plans to attend the University of Georgia and a heart for serving others, Abby exemplifies how passion, opportunity, and hard work can create a pathway to success.
Congratulations, Abby! We can't wait to see where your talents and determination take you next!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow #OptionsAndOpportunities
BOARD REPORT & RECOGNITIONS: Innovation was on full display as Kingston Elementary's all-girls robotics team, the Mechanical Eagles, shared their amazing journey with the Bartow County Board of Education!
Following an award-winning season, the team earned the opportunity to compete at an international robotics tournament at Georgia Tech, where they proudly represented their school and community. While their accomplishments in competition are impressive, what stood out most was the confidence, poise, and professionalism they demonstrated while presenting to the Board.
Experiences like these go far beyond trophies and medals. Through robotics, students develop critical thinking, teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills that will serve them well for years to come. The Mechanical Eagles are a shining example of how extracurricular opportunities in Bartow County Schools help students grow as innovators, leaders, and lifelong learners!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow #OptionsAndOpportunities
Following an award-winning season, the team earned the opportunity to compete at an international robotics tournament at Georgia Tech, where they proudly represented their school and community. While their accomplishments in competition are impressive, what stood out most was the confidence, poise, and professionalism they demonstrated while presenting to the Board.
Experiences like these go far beyond trophies and medals. Through robotics, students develop critical thinking, teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills that will serve them well for years to come. The Mechanical Eagles are a shining example of how extracurricular opportunities in Bartow County Schools help students grow as innovators, leaders, and lifelong learners!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow #OptionsAndOpportunities
BOARD REPORT & RECOGNITION: The future is bright in Bartow County Schools. 🌟
Cass High School freshman Faith Folsom recently shared with the Board of Education how the advanced academic opportunities she experienced at Cass Middle School helped prepare her for the International Studies Magnet Program.
From earning high school credits in math, science, and Spanish to participating in STEM programs and extracurricular activities, Faith took advantage of opportunities that challenged her to grow and succeed.
Faith's story demonstrates the impact of early access to rigorous academics and enriching experiences. Across Bartow County Schools, we're preparing students to take on new challenges, pursue their goals, and make the most of every opportunity ahead.
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow #OptionsAndOpportunities
Cass High School freshman Faith Folsom recently shared with the Board of Education how the advanced academic opportunities she experienced at Cass Middle School helped prepare her for the International Studies Magnet Program.
From earning high school credits in math, science, and Spanish to participating in STEM programs and extracurricular activities, Faith took advantage of opportunities that challenged her to grow and succeed.
Faith's story demonstrates the impact of early access to rigorous academics and enriching experiences. Across Bartow County Schools, we're preparing students to take on new challenges, pursue their goals, and make the most of every opportunity ahead.
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow #OptionsAndOpportunities
FREE EDUCATOR EVENT: The Booth Western Art Museum is celebrating educators with Mysteries at the Museum on Sept. 10! Test your detective skills in an art-inspired mystery, enjoy themed food, explore the galleries, and leave with swag and freebies.
Free for school district employees with a school ID. Open to ages 21+. Registration required by Sept. 7. Additional details below!
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1473902141441500&set=a.630318025799920&__cft__%5b0%5d=AZaMGwR450eCE7szUSCr7S6Bk3To_O2dIbCv3XjmdC88mIXYXdPEwIPQEJ0fDNhrtMGRCtdq9OsvVTR32WGfA57MPPsx-5_sXcNU0W2clANZdMP-inbIKAS2CRdnWLtYvPnBGx87GQMDQDRihKbxGFpl37sKcf2FtzVoi_Gp7cnsAedaRnphYsI20D9y80SmEQo&__tn__=EH-R
Free for school district employees with a school ID. Open to ages 21+. Registration required by Sept. 7. Additional details below!
https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1473902141441500&set=a.630318025799920&__cft__%5b0%5d=AZaMGwR450eCE7szUSCr7S6Bk3To_O2dIbCv3XjmdC88mIXYXdPEwIPQEJ0fDNhrtMGRCtdq9OsvVTR32WGfA57MPPsx-5_sXcNU0W2clANZdMP-inbIKAS2CRdnWLtYvPnBGx87GQMDQDRihKbxGFpl37sKcf2FtzVoi_Gp7cnsAedaRnphYsI20D9y80SmEQo&__tn__=EH-R
MEET SINDY ZEPEDA: Did you know that the Bartow County School System has a translator that can answer your questions and assist in meetings? Mrs. Sindy Zepeda can translate for our Spanish-speaking families! Additional details below.
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
LUNCHROOM LIFESAVERS: We always love welcoming 11Alive reporter Kaitlyn Ross to the Bartow County School System! Jeran's story will air soon, and we'll share the details as soon as they're available. We can't wait for you to see how Kingston Elementary School Assistant Principal Mary Payne and Teacher Ashley Gibbs sprang into action, using their quick thinking and training to help save Jeran's life.
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
