WE REMEMBER. WE HONOR. WE SERVE. WE STAND TOGETHER: Twenty-five years after September 11, 2001, the Red Top Middle School community came together to reflect on the lives lost, recognize the sacrifices of our military and first responders, and celebrate the everyday heroes among us. 🇺🇸
As we remembered those who were lost and honored those who continue to live with that loss each day, the RTMS Chorus performed God Bless America, the RTMS Band performed The Star-Spangled Banner, and the Cass High School JROTC presented the colors and led a flag-folding ceremony alongside our students.
The school was honored to welcome Bartow County School Police Chief Billy Henson and his team, Major Mark Mayton with the Bartow County Sheriff's Office, local veterans, Superintendent Terza, Deputy Superintendent Suttle, Human Resources Director Mr. Robinson, and Fine Arts Director Dr. Shropshire for this special assembly.
Guest speaker Chief Warrant Officer 4 Darryl Farr, a former U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter pilot, challenged students to be everyday heroes through courage, kindness, and service to others.
Today, we remember the fallen, honor the resilient, and carry forward the lessons of unity, sacrifice, and compassion. We will never forget!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
As we remembered those who were lost and honored those who continue to live with that loss each day, the RTMS Chorus performed God Bless America, the RTMS Band performed The Star-Spangled Banner, and the Cass High School JROTC presented the colors and led a flag-folding ceremony alongside our students.
The school was honored to welcome Bartow County School Police Chief Billy Henson and his team, Major Mark Mayton with the Bartow County Sheriff's Office, local veterans, Superintendent Terza, Deputy Superintendent Suttle, Human Resources Director Mr. Robinson, and Fine Arts Director Dr. Shropshire for this special assembly.
Guest speaker Chief Warrant Officer 4 Darryl Farr, a former U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter pilot, challenged students to be everyday heroes through courage, kindness, and service to others.
Today, we remember the fallen, honor the resilient, and carry forward the lessons of unity, sacrifice, and compassion. We will never forget!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
READY, SET, COMPETE: Does your student LOVE technology? The Georgia Student Technology Competition is the perfect opportunity to put those skills to the test! Open to students in grades 3-12, this competition allows students to compete on their own or with a partner in categories such as robotics, programming, graphic design, digital photo editing, digital game design, and more. Contact your school to register before Oct. 2nd!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
SIDELINE SURPRISE: When you scan a Georgia Bulldogs football game, you might just spot a WILDCAT!
Not in the stands. Not in the student section.
But on the sidelines.
Woodland High School senior Jett Siniard is there as a credentialed photographer, capturing some of the biggest names and moments in sports.
And the craziest part? His résumé is already more impressive than most adults'.
What started as a self-taught passion has turned into an incredible career in the making:
🏈 Works with University of Georgia Football
📰 Works for Bulldog Illustrated magazine
📣 Signed with two nationally recognized sports media agencies
🏀 Nearly two years with Overtime Elite
⚽ Has traveled hundreds of miles and across the country covering MLS matches
⭐ Works for/took pictures of sports icons including Shaquille O'Neal, Cam Newton, and Drake London
🤝 Commissioned by Atlanta Falcons star Drake London
📈 Reached 2.2 million views across his content in the last six months
Not bad for a high school senior.
His goal now is to attend Michigan State University, and judging by where his camera has already taken him, we have a feeling this isn't the last major sideline he'll be standing on.
Congratulations, Jett!
Enjoy a few photographs from this past weekend in Athens!
#betterinbartow #bartowandbeyond #proudtobebartow
Not in the stands. Not in the student section.
But on the sidelines.
Woodland High School senior Jett Siniard is there as a credentialed photographer, capturing some of the biggest names and moments in sports.
And the craziest part? His résumé is already more impressive than most adults'.
What started as a self-taught passion has turned into an incredible career in the making:
🏈 Works with University of Georgia Football
📰 Works for Bulldog Illustrated magazine
📣 Signed with two nationally recognized sports media agencies
🏀 Nearly two years with Overtime Elite
⚽ Has traveled hundreds of miles and across the country covering MLS matches
⭐ Works for/took pictures of sports icons including Shaquille O'Neal, Cam Newton, and Drake London
🤝 Commissioned by Atlanta Falcons star Drake London
📈 Reached 2.2 million views across his content in the last six months
Not bad for a high school senior.
His goal now is to attend Michigan State University, and judging by where his camera has already taken him, we have a feeling this isn't the last major sideline he'll be standing on.
Congratulations, Jett!
Enjoy a few photographs from this past weekend in Athens!
#betterinbartow #bartowandbeyond #proudtobebartow
CULINARY COLLABORATION: When Chef DuBose from the Georgia School Nutrition Program comes to Red Top Middle School, you know exciting things are bound to happen! 👨🍳✨
Our Miner staff recently had the opportunity to learn, collaborate, and explore new ideas together alongside one of the best in school nutrition. Experiences like these help strengthen our commitment to serving students while continuing to grow as a team.
A big thank you to Chef DuBose for investing in our staff and supporting the RTMS Miner family. We can't wait to see the delicious results of this partnership...this week!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
Our Miner staff recently had the opportunity to learn, collaborate, and explore new ideas together alongside one of the best in school nutrition. Experiences like these help strengthen our commitment to serving students while continuing to grow as a team.
A big thank you to Chef DuBose for investing in our staff and supporting the RTMS Miner family. We can't wait to see the delicious results of this partnership...this week!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
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
