BARTOW AND BEYOND: Larry Gardner's voice is going places... and we mean everywhere! The Adairsville High School alumnus turned a passion for announcing local events into opportunities with the Atlanta Hawks, top golf tournaments, and soon, the PGA Tour and Golf Channel. These days, he's not just behind the microphone, he's signing autographs everywhere he goes!
Not bad for a hometown kid with a microphone and a dream. We're proud to be part of your story, Larry, and we'll always be in your fan club!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
Not bad for a hometown kid with a microphone and a dream. We're proud to be part of your story, Larry, and we'll always be in your fan club!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
IN THIS EDITION OF BARTOW AND BEYOND: A classroom presentation at Cass High School helped recent Cass High graduate Kip Mayfield discover the career he was meant to pursue!
After learning about Elite Lineman Training Institute through Mr. Jerome Black's construction class, Kip set his sights on becoming a lineman. He earned one of only two spots in an eight-week internship with Cobb EMC and later received a $25,000 scholarship that covered his full tuition at Elite Lineman.
Kip, who also earned HVAC and Automotive certifications through the Bartow County College and Career Academy, is set to graduate from Elite Lineman this December and hopes to begin a career with Cobb EMC!
His journey is a testament to how career-connected learning, industry partnerships, and dedicated educators help our students turn opportunities into futures! Proud of you, Kip!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow #Tradesman
After learning about Elite Lineman Training Institute through Mr. Jerome Black's construction class, Kip set his sights on becoming a lineman. He earned one of only two spots in an eight-week internship with Cobb EMC and later received a $25,000 scholarship that covered his full tuition at Elite Lineman.
Kip, who also earned HVAC and Automotive certifications through the Bartow County College and Career Academy, is set to graduate from Elite Lineman this December and hopes to begin a career with Cobb EMC!
His journey is a testament to how career-connected learning, industry partnerships, and dedicated educators help our students turn opportunities into futures! Proud of you, Kip!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow #Tradesman
MORE MILESTONES: We're celebrating a pair of milestones today! Our 10th REACH Georgia cohort is also our largest to date, with 10 middle school students beginning a journey that could lead to a nearly cost-free college, university, or technical college education!
READ MORE HERE: https://www.bartow.k12.ga.us/article/3206390
READ MORE HERE: https://www.bartow.k12.ga.us/article/3206390
HER VOICE, HER LEGACY: Hamilton Crossing Elementary School grieves the loss of Ms. Cindy Phillips.
For 24 years, Ms. Cindy was a Knight. During her time at Hamilton Crossing, she served as an instructional clerk, administrative assistant and, for the last 12 and a half years, bookkeeper.
But a job title could never fully capture her impact.
Students knew her as the “candy sale lady.” Families recognized her voice as the familiar voice of the afternoon announcements. And colleagues knew they could always count on her for sage advice, a warm embrace or a clever comeback.
Long before the school day ended, Ms. Cindy had already made her rounds, checking on students, helping staff and making sure people had what they needed. She had a way of making every person feel seen, valued and cared for.
Her absence has already been felt in a big way.
As family, friends and coworkers gather Friday to say goodbye, many will wear bright colors in her honor because that's exactly what Ms. Cindy would have wanted.
And if she could offer her school family one final reminder, it would likely be the same one she shared during afternoon announcements each day: “Get out and touch some grass.”
Then, as always, she'd sign off with her favorite farewell:
“Tootles!”
For 24 years, Ms. Cindy was a Knight. During her time at Hamilton Crossing, she served as an instructional clerk, administrative assistant and, for the last 12 and a half years, bookkeeper.
But a job title could never fully capture her impact.
Students knew her as the “candy sale lady.” Families recognized her voice as the familiar voice of the afternoon announcements. And colleagues knew they could always count on her for sage advice, a warm embrace or a clever comeback.
Long before the school day ended, Ms. Cindy had already made her rounds, checking on students, helping staff and making sure people had what they needed. She had a way of making every person feel seen, valued and cared for.
Her absence has already been felt in a big way.
As family, friends and coworkers gather Friday to say goodbye, many will wear bright colors in her honor because that's exactly what Ms. Cindy would have wanted.
And if she could offer her school family one final reminder, it would likely be the same one she shared during afternoon announcements each day: “Get out and touch some grass.”
Then, as always, she'd sign off with her favorite farewell:
“Tootles!”
BUS DRIVER APPRECIATION: Behind every successful school day is a dedicated transportation team that helps students arrive safely, on time, and ready to learn! During our Bus Driver Appreciation Week, we celebrated the hardworking drivers, monitors, and staff who make that possible each day!
A special thank you to Todd Hooper, Parnick Jennings, and our partners at MetLife for treating our transportation team to breakfast. Our benefits specialists were also on hand to provide one-on-one support and answer questions during open enrollment!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
A special thank you to Todd Hooper, Parnick Jennings, and our partners at MetLife for treating our transportation team to breakfast. Our benefits specialists were also on hand to provide one-on-one support and answer questions during open enrollment!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
GOLD AGAIN: Please join us in recognizing the outstanding work of our Bartow County School Nutrition Team👏🏽
The district has been named a 2025 USDA Turnip the Beet! Gold Award recipient, one of only four school districts in Georgia to earn the distinction. This honor recognizes excellence in summer meal service and celebrates programs that provide children with nutritious, high-quality meals while school is out of session.
Even more impressive, this marks the fourth time in the last five years that Bartow County Schools has achieved Gold status.
Earning Gold status four times in five years speaks to the standard of excellence our School Nutrition team has established. Their commitment to students extends well beyond the school year, helping ensure children have access to nutritious meals all summer long!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
The district has been named a 2025 USDA Turnip the Beet! Gold Award recipient, one of only four school districts in Georgia to earn the distinction. This honor recognizes excellence in summer meal service and celebrates programs that provide children with nutritious, high-quality meals while school is out of session.
Even more impressive, this marks the fourth time in the last five years that Bartow County Schools has achieved Gold status.
Earning Gold status four times in five years speaks to the standard of excellence our School Nutrition team has established. Their commitment to students extends well beyond the school year, helping ensure children have access to nutritious meals all summer long!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
BOARD RECOGNITIONS: The future is bright in Bartow!
This week, students from the Bartow County College and Career Academy, Adairsville High School, Cass High School, and Woodland High School shared their stories with the Bartow County Board of Education, showcasing the incredible opportunities available through our CTAE programs.
With 14 career clusters, 33 pathways, including 25 high-demand career pathways, students are gaining real-world experiences that are preparing them for college, careers, and beyond. Many are also earning technical college certificates while still in high school.
Just ask these outstanding students: Jordan has partnered with Georgia Tech while in high school; Tinsley is an award-winning FFA chapter president with aspirations of attending Texas A&M; Heidi has already completed a neuroscience internship and earned her CCMA certification as she pursues a career as a critical care pediatrician; Ryleigh has placed in the Top 10 nationally at HOSA's International Leadership Conference and plans to become an ER nurse; Maggie is excelling in Public Safety; and Landry Wright is building the skills to one day own his own automotive shop through the Automotive pathway at BCCCA.
Their goals are ambitious. Their futures are promising. And their success stories are a testament to the opportunities available to every student in the Bartow County School System!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
This week, students from the Bartow County College and Career Academy, Adairsville High School, Cass High School, and Woodland High School shared their stories with the Bartow County Board of Education, showcasing the incredible opportunities available through our CTAE programs.
With 14 career clusters, 33 pathways, including 25 high-demand career pathways, students are gaining real-world experiences that are preparing them for college, careers, and beyond. Many are also earning technical college certificates while still in high school.
Just ask these outstanding students: Jordan has partnered with Georgia Tech while in high school; Tinsley is an award-winning FFA chapter president with aspirations of attending Texas A&M; Heidi has already completed a neuroscience internship and earned her CCMA certification as she pursues a career as a critical care pediatrician; Ryleigh has placed in the Top 10 nationally at HOSA's International Leadership Conference and plans to become an ER nurse; Maggie is excelling in Public Safety; and Landry Wright is building the skills to one day own his own automotive shop through the Automotive pathway at BCCCA.
Their goals are ambitious. Their futures are promising. And their success stories are a testament to the opportunities available to every student in the Bartow County School System!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
FEARLESS: More than 2,500 Adairsville area students and staff came together for Adairsville Middle School's 19th Annual Pink Out, turning a school tradition into a powerful show of support for local families impacted by cancer.
This year's theme, "Fearless," took center stage as students filled the football field to form the word FEARLESS, creating a visual reminder of the strength and courage displayed by those facing the disease every day.
For 19 years, this event, led by Christy Ridley, has paired awareness with action. This year, more than $10,000 was raised through donations and T-shirt sales to support local families affected by cancer.
The morning concluded with the Survivors Lap, led by Kim McClure, a Bartow County School System bus driver battling colon cancer, and Myra Bates, who is fighting breast cancer.
Two women. One community behind them.
That's what Pink Out has always been about.
Not just raising money. Not just wearing pink.
Showing people in their toughest moments that an entire community is walking beside them.
This year's theme, "Fearless," took center stage as students filled the football field to form the word FEARLESS, creating a visual reminder of the strength and courage displayed by those facing the disease every day.
For 19 years, this event, led by Christy Ridley, has paired awareness with action. This year, more than $10,000 was raised through donations and T-shirt sales to support local families affected by cancer.
The morning concluded with the Survivors Lap, led by Kim McClure, a Bartow County School System bus driver battling colon cancer, and Myra Bates, who is fighting breast cancer.
Two women. One community behind them.
That's what Pink Out has always been about.
Not just raising money. Not just wearing pink.
Showing people in their toughest moments that an entire community is walking beside them.
THE STAGE IS SET: Take a peek behind the curtain. 🎭
Woodland High School theatre students are hard at work rehearsing for Junie B. Jones the Musical JR., one of two productions featured in A Night of One Acts on October 16 and 17!
We love seeing the talent, teamwork, and creativity taking shape before opening night!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
Woodland High School theatre students are hard at work rehearsing for Junie B. Jones the Musical JR., one of two productions featured in A Night of One Acts on October 16 and 17!
We love seeing the talent, teamwork, and creativity taking shape before opening night!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
A VOICE FOR LITERACY: When Georgia set out to identify leaders to help strengthen literacy instruction statewide, Dr. Charley Walper, Literacy Instructional Support Specialist for the Bartow County School System, was among those chosen!
Appointed by Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, Dr. Walper is one of just nine members statewide selected to serve on the Georgia Literacy Task Force, established through HB 1193. The task force holds its first meeting tomorrow.
Drawing on her work supporting literacy instruction across Bartow County schools, Dr. Walper will join a select group of educators and literacy experts charged with reviewing high-quality instructional materials, literacy screeners, and structured literacy professional learning. The group will provide recommendations on K-3 reading instruction reforms, support Georgia's Vision 2030 literacy goals, strengthen resources for educators, and help ensure strong early literacy foundations for children across the state.
This appointment recognizes Dr. Walper's expertise in literacy and ensures that the voice of Bartow County educators is represented in conversations that will influence reading instruction statewide.
Congratulations, Dr. Walper, on this outstanding honor and opportunity to make an impact beyond our district!
Appointed by Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones, Dr. Walper is one of just nine members statewide selected to serve on the Georgia Literacy Task Force, established through HB 1193. The task force holds its first meeting tomorrow.
Drawing on her work supporting literacy instruction across Bartow County schools, Dr. Walper will join a select group of educators and literacy experts charged with reviewing high-quality instructional materials, literacy screeners, and structured literacy professional learning. The group will provide recommendations on K-3 reading instruction reforms, support Georgia's Vision 2030 literacy goals, strengthen resources for educators, and help ensure strong early literacy foundations for children across the state.
This appointment recognizes Dr. Walper's expertise in literacy and ensures that the voice of Bartow County educators is represented in conversations that will influence reading instruction statewide.
Congratulations, Dr. Walper, on this outstanding honor and opportunity to make an impact beyond our district!
IT'S A BIRD, IT'S A PLANE...IT'S SPACEX: It's not every day a rocket launch in Florida puts on a show for us in Bartow County! That glowing phenomenon, often called a "jellyfish cloud," was created by the SpaceX Falcon 9 launch and could be seen lighting up our sky this morning! Check it out by Cass High and Clear Creek Elementary!
Did you catch a glimpse? 👀✨
Did you catch a glimpse? 👀✨
NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES: Congratulations to Cass High School senior Shania Hernandez on being named a Telemundo Atlanta 2026 Youth Hero! Through her leadership in our International Studies magnet program, presidency of our nationally recognized HoPE chapter, service in healthcare, and work with Intercultural Fest, LLC, Shania is helping make our community stronger! She has also earned recognition as a Coca-Cola Scholars Semifinalist, placing her among just 1,200 students nationwide. We are incredibly proud of you, Shania!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
OUR BARTOW COUNTY TREASURE: Happy Birthday to Ms. Dot Frasier! For more than 70 years, she has dedicated her life to serving students, educators, and families across Bartow County, and at 91, she’s still making a difference every day through her work with the Bartow Education Foundation! Generations have been blessed by her service, inspired by her leadership, and greeted with her signature words: “I love you.” Today, we're proud to say it right back! LOVE YOU!
STEM CAREERS IN ACTION: What does a future meteorologist, engineer, firefighter, scientist, or farmer look like? Pine Log Elementary students explored those possibilities and more during STEM Career Day! Through hands-on experiences and conversations with professionals across a wide range of industries, students saw how the skills they're learning today are used in the real world and left with a powerful takeaway: "I could do that!"
Career Day participants included: Bartow County Sheriff's Office, Bartow County Fire Department, paramedics, Bagwell Farming, Deams-Hay Baler, Pettit Creek Farms, Kirkpatrick Welding, Georgia Department of Transportation, Georgia Forestry, Casey Construction, Bartow County School Transportation, WSB-TV Meteorologist Brian Monahan, NASA, FBI, UGA Extension, Arrow Exterminators, Tellus Science Museum, Georgia Highlands College, Adairsville High School Construction, Dazzle Mountain Apiaries, Brown Home Inspections, Mo Knows Roofing, banking professionals, nurses, cosmetologists, paleontologists, and more!
Career Day participants included: Bartow County Sheriff's Office, Bartow County Fire Department, paramedics, Bagwell Farming, Deams-Hay Baler, Pettit Creek Farms, Kirkpatrick Welding, Georgia Department of Transportation, Georgia Forestry, Casey Construction, Bartow County School Transportation, WSB-TV Meteorologist Brian Monahan, NASA, FBI, UGA Extension, Arrow Exterminators, Tellus Science Museum, Georgia Highlands College, Adairsville High School Construction, Dazzle Mountain Apiaries, Brown Home Inspections, Mo Knows Roofing, banking professionals, nurses, cosmetologists, paleontologists, and more!
SERVING UP SMILES: Ice Cream with a Cop returned to Cloverleaf Elementary today, bringing together second graders and officers from several law enforcement agencies for an afternoon of sweet treats and meaningful connections! Thanks to School Resource Officer Donnie Scott for helping create opportunities for students to see firsthand that the officers who serve their community are also some of their biggest supporters!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
NEW: The Bartow County School System maintained a strong four-year graduation rate of 94.7 percent, once again outperforming the state average of 88.5 percent and demonstrating the district's continued commitment to student success!
Adairsville High: 99.3%
Cass High: 95.5%
Woodland: 90.2%
READ MORE HERE: https://www.bartow.k12.ga.us/article/3160437
Adairsville High: 99.3%
Cass High: 95.5%
Woodland: 90.2%
READ MORE HERE: https://www.bartow.k12.ga.us/article/3160437
SENSORY-FRIENDLY FALL FEST: Fall festivals bring plenty of fun, but the sights, sounds, and crowds can sometimes be overwhelming for Exceptional Education students. To create a welcoming experience for all, Adairsville High School hosted its annual sensory-friendly Fall Fest.
Led by Ms. Lawhorn, the event welcomed Adairsville-area Exceptional Education students from pre-K through 12th grade for a day filled with games, treats, and fall-themed fun tailored to their needs.
The festival was made possible by the dedication of AHS students and staff, with groups including JROTC, Theatre, and Engineering helping create a memorable and inclusive experience for students across the Adairsville community!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
Led by Ms. Lawhorn, the event welcomed Adairsville-area Exceptional Education students from pre-K through 12th grade for a day filled with games, treats, and fall-themed fun tailored to their needs.
The festival was made possible by the dedication of AHS students and staff, with groups including JROTC, Theatre, and Engineering helping create a memorable and inclusive experience for students across the Adairsville community!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
CENTRAL OFFICE CELEBRATIONS: One of the best parts of being part of a school system and community like ours is having amazing people to celebrate!
This month, we're recognizing Melissa Martin, Exceptional Education Administrative Assistant. Melissa is known for her servant's heart, willingness to help wherever she's needed, and dedication to supporting students, families, and staff. A familiar face around Central Office, she consistently goes above and beyond to assist colleagues and ensure Bartow County families receive the support they need.
Her kindness, positive attitude, and commitment to serving others make a difference every day. We're grateful for all she does for Bartow County Schools!
This month, we're recognizing Melissa Martin, Exceptional Education Administrative Assistant. Melissa is known for her servant's heart, willingness to help wherever she's needed, and dedication to supporting students, families, and staff. A familiar face around Central Office, she consistently goes above and beyond to assist colleagues and ensure Bartow County families receive the support they need.
Her kindness, positive attitude, and commitment to serving others make a difference every day. We're grateful for all she does for Bartow County Schools!
NURSES NEEDED: Put your skills to work while enjoying the flexibility of a school-day schedule!
The Bartow County School System is looking for caring and dependable Substitute Nurses to support students across our schools.
Substitute nursing is a great fit for nurses who are looking for:
• Flexible work opportunities
• A school-day schedule
• Meaningful work serving students and staff
Whether you're retired, looking for occasional work, or simply want to give back to your community, we'd love you to meet our team!
Know someone who might be interested? Share this post with them.
Learn more and apply: https://www.bartow.k12.ga.us/page/career-opportunities
Join us and see why it's #BetterInBartow!
The Bartow County School System is looking for caring and dependable Substitute Nurses to support students across our schools.
Substitute nursing is a great fit for nurses who are looking for:
• Flexible work opportunities
• A school-day schedule
• Meaningful work serving students and staff
Whether you're retired, looking for occasional work, or simply want to give back to your community, we'd love you to meet our team!
Know someone who might be interested? Share this post with them.
Learn more and apply: https://www.bartow.k12.ga.us/page/career-opportunities
Join us and see why it's #BetterInBartow!
TOTY BANQUET: Join us in honoring some of the very BEST IN EDUCATION! Congratulations to our 2026-2027 TEACHERS OF THE YEAR!
Katherine Szweda - MIDDLE SCHOOL TOTY & SYSTEM TOTY
Emily Zimmermann - ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TOTY
Tiffany Tindall - HIGH SCHOOL TOTY
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Adairsville Elementary School – Alexandra Adams
Allatoona Elementary School – Kereston Harris
Clear Creek Elementary School – Amanda Robinson
Cloverleaf Elementary School – Olivia Towe
Emerson Elementary School – Katie McAllister
Euharlee Elementary School – Victoria Hartigan
Hamilton Crossing Elementary School – Penny Roberts
Kingston Elementary School – Renee Dittmer
Mission Road Elementary School – Emily Zimmermann
Pine Log Elementary School – Amy Brown
Taylorsville Elementary School – Brooke Brumbelow
White Elementary School – Alyson Smith
Adairsville Middle School – Katherine Szweda
Cass Middle School – Lillie Williams
Red Top Middle School – Joshua Rensch
Woodland Middle School – Vivien Spell
Adairsville High School – Dr. Natalie Crosby
Cass High School – James Huston
Woodland High School – Tiffany Tindall
Bartow College & Career Academy – Jane Rhoades
Special thanks to Ms. Dot and the Bartow Education Foundation, Dr. Davis Nelson, and everyone who donated to this year's big event!
Katherine Szweda - MIDDLE SCHOOL TOTY & SYSTEM TOTY
Emily Zimmermann - ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TOTY
Tiffany Tindall - HIGH SCHOOL TOTY
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Adairsville Elementary School – Alexandra Adams
Allatoona Elementary School – Kereston Harris
Clear Creek Elementary School – Amanda Robinson
Cloverleaf Elementary School – Olivia Towe
Emerson Elementary School – Katie McAllister
Euharlee Elementary School – Victoria Hartigan
Hamilton Crossing Elementary School – Penny Roberts
Kingston Elementary School – Renee Dittmer
Mission Road Elementary School – Emily Zimmermann
Pine Log Elementary School – Amy Brown
Taylorsville Elementary School – Brooke Brumbelow
White Elementary School – Alyson Smith
Adairsville Middle School – Katherine Szweda
Cass Middle School – Lillie Williams
Red Top Middle School – Joshua Rensch
Woodland Middle School – Vivien Spell
Adairsville High School – Dr. Natalie Crosby
Cass High School – James Huston
Woodland High School – Tiffany Tindall
Bartow College & Career Academy – Jane Rhoades
Special thanks to Ms. Dot and the Bartow Education Foundation, Dr. Davis Nelson, and everyone who donated to this year's big event!
