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!
HELP FIGHT HUNGER: The unique, handmade bowls have been carefully crafted. We're just waiting on you to fill them! Join us this weekend for the Empty Bowls event. All proceeds will benefit the Backpack Buddies initiative, helping provide weekend meals for food-insecure students in our district. details below🔽
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow

MS. DOT DAY: Before we celebrate Bartow County's newest Teacher of the Year tonight at the Booth Western Art Museum, we're taking a moment to honor a true legend, Ms. Dot Frasier.
As Bartow County's very first Teacher of the Year, Ms. Dot has spent SEVEN DECADES shaping lives, inspiring educators, and leaving an immeasurable mark on our schools and community.
In 2021, the Bartow County Board of Education officially designated the day of the annual Teacher of the Year banquet as "Ms. Dot Day," recognizing her extraordinary dedication to public education and her lasting impact on generations of students.
Today, we celebrate a teacher, a mentor, a trailblazer, and the heart of Bartow County Schools.
Ms. Dot, our Queen of Education, thank you for all you've given to our students, staff, and community. Today is for YOU. ❤️
If Ms. Dot has touched your life, share a memory or leave her a message in the comments below! 👇
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
As Bartow County's very first Teacher of the Year, Ms. Dot has spent SEVEN DECADES shaping lives, inspiring educators, and leaving an immeasurable mark on our schools and community.
In 2021, the Bartow County Board of Education officially designated the day of the annual Teacher of the Year banquet as "Ms. Dot Day," recognizing her extraordinary dedication to public education and her lasting impact on generations of students.
Today, we celebrate a teacher, a mentor, a trailblazer, and the heart of Bartow County Schools.
Ms. Dot, our Queen of Education, thank you for all you've given to our students, staff, and community. Today is for YOU. ❤️
If Ms. Dot has touched your life, share a memory or leave her a message in the comments below! 👇
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
CAUGHT ON CAMERA: And sometimes one of the best reasons to come to school is waiting for you at the front door! Sweet Clear Creek friends! Happy Friday, BCSS!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow

SIGNATURE OF SUCCESS: During Constitution Week, Georgia State School Superintendent Richard Woods visited Adairsville Elementary School to present John Hancock Awards to Adairsville Elementary, Adairsville Middle, Hamilton Crossing Elementary, and Allatoona Elementary.
The award recognizes schools where students demonstrate proficiency in cursive writing, helping them build literacy skills and read our nation's historic documents in their original form.
A special congratulations to Adairsville Elementary, which earned the John Hancock Award for the second consecutive year and Ribbon of Distinction. This honor is awarded to schools where at least 90% of students can write both their names and the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution in cursive.
Congratulations to all four schools on this outstanding accomplishment!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
The award recognizes schools where students demonstrate proficiency in cursive writing, helping them build literacy skills and read our nation's historic documents in their original form.
A special congratulations to Adairsville Elementary, which earned the John Hancock Award for the second consecutive year and Ribbon of Distinction. This honor is awarded to schools where at least 90% of students can write both their names and the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution in cursive.
Congratulations to all four schools on this outstanding accomplishment!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
DRIVEN TO SERVE: Every school day starts and ends with our incredible transportation team, and we're proud to recognize these dedicated bus drivers for achieving perfect attendance during the 2025-2026 school year.
A special congratulations goes to Mike Blalock, who has achieved an extraordinary 15 years of perfect attendance. Fifteen years without missing a day is an incredible milestone that reflects the pride, consistency, and dedication Mike brings to his work each day. His commitment to serving students and supporting our schools has made a lasting impact, and we're proud to celebrate this remarkable achievement.
🚌 15 Years: Mike Blalock
🚌 5 Years: Jennifer Edwards
🚌 3 Years: Bruce Poore
🚌 2 Years: Vivian Higueras, Gwen Tanner
🚌 1 Year: Derek Colbert, Belinda Cox, Amber Denoux, Ann Hobgood, Olivia Hoffman, Jerry Hoover, Randy Jackson, Miranda Jennings, Brian Johnson, Joice Maikoski, and Kysia Williford
We would also like to thank Dan Clark and the Bartow Education Foundation for helping sponsor the recognition event and providing monetary gifts to honor these outstanding employees and their commitment to Bartow County students.
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
A special congratulations goes to Mike Blalock, who has achieved an extraordinary 15 years of perfect attendance. Fifteen years without missing a day is an incredible milestone that reflects the pride, consistency, and dedication Mike brings to his work each day. His commitment to serving students and supporting our schools has made a lasting impact, and we're proud to celebrate this remarkable achievement.
🚌 15 Years: Mike Blalock
🚌 5 Years: Jennifer Edwards
🚌 3 Years: Bruce Poore
🚌 2 Years: Vivian Higueras, Gwen Tanner
🚌 1 Year: Derek Colbert, Belinda Cox, Amber Denoux, Ann Hobgood, Olivia Hoffman, Jerry Hoover, Randy Jackson, Miranda Jennings, Brian Johnson, Joice Maikoski, and Kysia Williford
We would also like to thank Dan Clark and the Bartow Education Foundation for helping sponsor the recognition event and providing monetary gifts to honor these outstanding employees and their commitment to Bartow County students.
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
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
