BUILT ON DISCOVERY: Clear Creek Elementary has long been known for leading the way in STEM education, and today, students and families got to experience that tradition firsthand!
This year's annual STEAM-A-PALOOZA and STEM Walk featured a retro theme, taking participants back to the basics with a mix of beloved favorites and brand-new activities. From hands-on exploration to creative problem-solving, the event highlighted the curiosity and innovation that continue to define Clear Creek.
Some traditions never go out of style!
Special thanks to Adairsville Magnet students and School Nutrition for helping & mentoring these young Lions!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
This year's annual STEAM-A-PALOOZA and STEM Walk featured a retro theme, taking participants back to the basics with a mix of beloved favorites and brand-new activities. From hands-on exploration to creative problem-solving, the event highlighted the curiosity and innovation that continue to define Clear Creek.
Some traditions never go out of style!
Special thanks to Adairsville Magnet students and School Nutrition for helping & mentoring these young Lions!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
FROM LEARNING TO EARNING: Check out Adairsville's own Natalie Wade on CBS News!
When students in Bartow County Schools achieve at a level that earns national attention, it's worth celebrating! Thanks to hands-on career pathways and industry-connected learning experiences, our students aren't just preparing for the future. They're standing out on some of the biggest stages!
https://www.cbsnews.com/atlanta/news/georgia-high-school-students-compete-for-construction-honors-and-careers-at-skills-challenge/
When students in Bartow County Schools achieve at a level that earns national attention, it's worth celebrating! Thanks to hands-on career pathways and industry-connected learning experiences, our students aren't just preparing for the future. They're standing out on some of the biggest stages!
https://www.cbsnews.com/atlanta/news/georgia-high-school-students-compete-for-construction-honors-and-careers-at-skills-challenge/
GOLD STATUS: The spotlight isn't the only place Woodland High School's theatre students shine.
Woodland High School's Troupe 5873 has earned Gold Status, the highest level of recognition in the Georgia Thespians Honor Troupe program!
To achieve the distinction, troupes are evaluated on far more than their performances. Theatre productions, community service, student involvement, workshops, conferences, fundraising efforts, and outreach all contribute to the ranking.
The result? A Gold-level honor that recognizes a program making an impact both on stage and beyond it.
Woodland's thespians will be recognized at the state Thescon Conference in February, and their Honor Troupe plaque will serve as a lasting reminder of what can be achieved through talent, dedication, and teamwork!
Congratulations to Troupe 5873 on this AMAZING accomplishment!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
Woodland High School's Troupe 5873 has earned Gold Status, the highest level of recognition in the Georgia Thespians Honor Troupe program!
To achieve the distinction, troupes are evaluated on far more than their performances. Theatre productions, community service, student involvement, workshops, conferences, fundraising efforts, and outreach all contribute to the ranking.
The result? A Gold-level honor that recognizes a program making an impact both on stage and beyond it.
Woodland's thespians will be recognized at the state Thescon Conference in February, and their Honor Troupe plaque will serve as a lasting reminder of what can be achieved through talent, dedication, and teamwork!
Congratulations to Troupe 5873 on this AMAZING accomplishment!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
FUTURE ATTORNEY: Before she's even graduated high school, Adairsville senior Katie Long has earned recognition from the Georgia Bar!
Katie has been named to the Georgia Student Bar Association Class of 2026 With Honors after demonstrating exceptional knowledge and skill in legal studies, trial preparation, and advocacy.
Katie earned the distinction after attending the Georgia Bar's Law Academy in Macon, where she received extensive training in trial preparation, courtroom procedures, legal writing, and case development. To qualify, she successfully completed both a written examination and a closing argument presentation based on a case developed during the academy. To be admitted With Honors, students must score above 90 on both assessments.
In March, Katie will be recognized at the Mock Trial State Finals Award Ceremony in Lawrenceville, where she will receive her certification.
Congratulations, Katie, on this outstanding accomplishment. We can't wait to see what your future holds!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
Katie has been named to the Georgia Student Bar Association Class of 2026 With Honors after demonstrating exceptional knowledge and skill in legal studies, trial preparation, and advocacy.
Katie earned the distinction after attending the Georgia Bar's Law Academy in Macon, where she received extensive training in trial preparation, courtroom procedures, legal writing, and case development. To qualify, she successfully completed both a written examination and a closing argument presentation based on a case developed during the academy. To be admitted With Honors, students must score above 90 on both assessments.
In March, Katie will be recognized at the Mock Trial State Finals Award Ceremony in Lawrenceville, where she will receive her certification.
Congratulations, Katie, on this outstanding accomplishment. We can't wait to see what your future holds!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
CARDIAC CONNECTIONS: Not many high school students can say they've traced blood flow through an actual heart!
Woodland High School Magnet students in Honors Human Anatomy examined sheep hearts today, identifying chambers, valves, and major blood vessels while studying how the heart functions as a complete system. Through rigorous, hands-on coursework, students move beyond memorization to develop a deeper understanding of complex scientific concepts.
The lab serves as preparation for their culminating pig dissection in December, where students will apply and demonstrate their knowledge of anatomy.
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
Woodland High School Magnet students in Honors Human Anatomy examined sheep hearts today, identifying chambers, valves, and major blood vessels while studying how the heart functions as a complete system. Through rigorous, hands-on coursework, students move beyond memorization to develop a deeper understanding of complex scientific concepts.
The lab serves as preparation for their culminating pig dissection in December, where students will apply and demonstrate their knowledge of anatomy.
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
POWERED BY PARTNERSHIPS: Learning about the heart is one thing. Putting it into action is another.
Hamilton Crossing Elementary fourth graders recently wrapped up their first Arts & Letters module with a hands-on experience that brought learning to life! Thanks to Coach AT Barnes of Barnes Performance, students explored how movement affects heart rate and circulation while connecting classroom concepts to real-world application.
To extend the learning, every student received a pedometer to track steps and monitor activity beyond the school day.
This is what strong Tier I instruction looks like: engaging lessons, real-world connections, and community partnerships that help make Bartow County Schools even better!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
Hamilton Crossing Elementary fourth graders recently wrapped up their first Arts & Letters module with a hands-on experience that brought learning to life! Thanks to Coach AT Barnes of Barnes Performance, students explored how movement affects heart rate and circulation while connecting classroom concepts to real-world application.
To extend the learning, every student received a pedometer to track steps and monitor activity beyond the school day.
This is what strong Tier I instruction looks like: engaging lessons, real-world connections, and community partnerships that help make Bartow County Schools even better!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
PROUD TO BE BARTOW: Eighth graders, this one's for you.
As you start thinking about high school, now is the perfect time to explore the opportunities that could shape the next four years.
Whether you're interested in science and technology, global studies, or healthcare, Bartow County's Magnet Programs offer students the chance to dive deeper into their passions while experiencing high school in a unique way.
Come learn more about:
• Adairsville High School's STEM Magnet Program
• Cass High School's International Studies Magnet Program
• Woodland High School's Medical Sciences Magnet Program
Join us for Prospective Student Night to meet program leaders, hear from our schools, and discover which pathway might be the right fit for you.
• Woodland High School | November 10 | 6:30 p.m. | Auditorium
• Adairsville High School | November 12 | 6:30 p.m. | Auditorium
• Cass High School | November 17 | 6:30 p.m. | Auditorium
Families are invited to attend any or all of the sessions.
Before you choose your high school experience, make sure you've explored everything Bartow has to offer!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
As you start thinking about high school, now is the perfect time to explore the opportunities that could shape the next four years.
Whether you're interested in science and technology, global studies, or healthcare, Bartow County's Magnet Programs offer students the chance to dive deeper into their passions while experiencing high school in a unique way.
Come learn more about:
• Adairsville High School's STEM Magnet Program
• Cass High School's International Studies Magnet Program
• Woodland High School's Medical Sciences Magnet Program
Join us for Prospective Student Night to meet program leaders, hear from our schools, and discover which pathway might be the right fit for you.
• Woodland High School | November 10 | 6:30 p.m. | Auditorium
• Adairsville High School | November 12 | 6:30 p.m. | Auditorium
• Cass High School | November 17 | 6:30 p.m. | Auditorium
Families are invited to attend any or all of the sessions.
Before you choose your high school experience, make sure you've explored everything Bartow has to offer!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
AMONG THE NATION'S BEST: Congratulations to Tristan Kennedy of Adairsville High School and Ingrid Brinkley of Woodland High School on being named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists and advancing in the prestigious National Merit Scholarship Program!
Selected from more than 1.2 million students nationwide, these outstanding seniors represent less than one percent of U.S. high school students recognized for their exceptional academic achievement. As they continue through the competition, they remain in the running for National Merit Scholarships that will be awarded next spring.
We're incredibly proud of Tristan and Ingrid for this remarkable accomplishment and wish them continued success on their journey toward National Merit Finalist standing!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
Selected from more than 1.2 million students nationwide, these outstanding seniors represent less than one percent of U.S. high school students recognized for their exceptional academic achievement. As they continue through the competition, they remain in the running for National Merit Scholarships that will be awarded next spring.
We're incredibly proud of Tristan and Ingrid for this remarkable accomplishment and wish them continued success on their journey toward National Merit Finalist standing!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
A WINNING START: A snapshot of WIN Time at Cass Middle School: chess, robotics, band, and Helping Hands students collecting food for families in need.
Each morning, our Colonels are exploring interests, serving others, developing new skills, and making a difference in their school and community. It's just one more example of the great things happening at CMS before the school day even begins!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
Each morning, our Colonels are exploring interests, serving others, developing new skills, and making a difference in their school and community. It's just one more example of the great things happening at CMS before the school day even begins!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
GROWING GREATNESS: One of our district priorities is investing in professional learning, and these educators are putting that commitment into action!
Today, Coach Michael Short (Hamilton Crossing Elementary), Coach Maggie Moore (Adairsville Elementary), Coach Brooke McDurmon (Emerson Elementary), and Coach Eric Elrod (Euharlee Elementary School) are representing Bartow County Schools at the Georgia Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance Conference at LakePoint, learning new PE activities, instructional strategies, and wellness practices they can bring back to their students.
When our teachers keep learning, our students keep benefiting. That's #BetterInBartow! #proudtobebartow
Today, Coach Michael Short (Hamilton Crossing Elementary), Coach Maggie Moore (Adairsville Elementary), Coach Brooke McDurmon (Emerson Elementary), and Coach Eric Elrod (Euharlee Elementary School) are representing Bartow County Schools at the Georgia Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance Conference at LakePoint, learning new PE activities, instructional strategies, and wellness practices they can bring back to their students.
When our teachers keep learning, our students keep benefiting. That's #BetterInBartow! #proudtobebartow
A SWEET TRADITION: Candy is gone in a day, but a good book can last a lifetime!
This weekend, Adairsville Elementary School teachers gave up part of their Halloween to give back, teaming up with the Academic Department at Halloween on the Square. Along with sweet treats, local children were able to take home books and continue building their personal libraries.
Eight years later, this tradition is still going strong thanks to educators who never stop showing up for kids, whether it's in the classroom or out in the community!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
This weekend, Adairsville Elementary School teachers gave up part of their Halloween to give back, teaming up with the Academic Department at Halloween on the Square. Along with sweet treats, local children were able to take home books and continue building their personal libraries.
Eight years later, this tradition is still going strong thanks to educators who never stop showing up for kids, whether it's in the classroom or out in the community!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
NO TRICKS, JUST TALES: Every great costume starts with a great story!
Hamilton Crossing Elementary students brought their favorite book characters to life during today's Character Day Parade! From classic storybook favorites to modern-day heroes, the halls were filled with imagination, creativity, and a love of reading!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
Hamilton Crossing Elementary students brought their favorite book characters to life during today's Character Day Parade! From classic storybook favorites to modern-day heroes, the halls were filled with imagination, creativity, and a love of reading!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
TEACHER SPOTLIGHT: When Georgia State School Superintendent Richard Woods wants to spotlight new educators, it's no surprise he stopped in Bartow County!
Woods recently visited Tripp Stephens, a former award-winning Weather Channel producer who now shares his industry expertise with students at the Bartow County College and Career Academy. The visit was part of the superintendent's New Teacher Engagement Initiative, which helps welcome, mentor, and support educators as they begin their careers in Georgia classrooms.
#avteachers #betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
Woods recently visited Tripp Stephens, a former award-winning Weather Channel producer who now shares his industry expertise with students at the Bartow County College and Career Academy. The visit was part of the superintendent's New Teacher Engagement Initiative, which helps welcome, mentor, and support educators as they begin their careers in Georgia classrooms.
#avteachers #betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
WILDCATS + TIGERS + MATH = SUCCESS: Thirty BCSS high school students put their math skills to the test this week at the Kennesaw State University Mathematics Competition! Representing the BCSS were 23 students from Woodland High School and seven students from Adairsville High School, who competed alongside students from across Georgia.
These students pushed their thinking, demonstrated their problem-solving skills, and took on some tough mathematical challenges! Students who score in the top 10% statewide will advance to the second round of the competition in February.
We are incredibly proud of our Woodland Wildcats and Adairsville Tigers for taking on this opportunity and representing BCSS! We can’t wait to see how they do!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
These students pushed their thinking, demonstrated their problem-solving skills, and took on some tough mathematical challenges! Students who score in the top 10% statewide will advance to the second round of the competition in February.
We are incredibly proud of our Woodland Wildcats and Adairsville Tigers for taking on this opportunity and representing BCSS! We can’t wait to see how they do!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
NINE-TIME NATIONAL CHAMPIONS: They did it again.
Competing against 340 teams from across the nation, including programs from Guam and Germany, the Adairsville High School JROTC Male Raider Team has been crowned the 2026 National Raider Challenge Masters Division Champion for the second time in four years!
The Masters Division is the highest level of Raider competition in the world, featuring the most experienced and elite teams from every military branch. Over three grueling days, Adairsville's cadets dominated the field, winning five of seven events on their way to a national title.
Think about that for a moment: A school of approximately 1,200 students and a JROTC program of just 80 cadets outperformed programs with hundreds of cadets and student populations more than twice its size.
And the success didn't stop there. The Adairsville Mixed Team also delivered an incredible performance, finishing 6th overall while earning a first-place finish in one event and top-three finishes in two others.
This isn't just athleticism. It's discipline. It's grit. It's teamwork. These cadets begin training before summer break, work throughout the summer, and practice five days a week during the season. Over the course of the competition, some competitors cover more than 11 miles, knowing the clock doesn't stop until every teammate crosses the finish line.
With this latest victory, Adairsville Raider teams now own an astounding NINE National Raider Challenge Championships.
Small school. Elite program. National powerhouse.
Congratulations, Raiders!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
Competing against 340 teams from across the nation, including programs from Guam and Germany, the Adairsville High School JROTC Male Raider Team has been crowned the 2026 National Raider Challenge Masters Division Champion for the second time in four years!
The Masters Division is the highest level of Raider competition in the world, featuring the most experienced and elite teams from every military branch. Over three grueling days, Adairsville's cadets dominated the field, winning five of seven events on their way to a national title.
Think about that for a moment: A school of approximately 1,200 students and a JROTC program of just 80 cadets outperformed programs with hundreds of cadets and student populations more than twice its size.
And the success didn't stop there. The Adairsville Mixed Team also delivered an incredible performance, finishing 6th overall while earning a first-place finish in one event and top-three finishes in two others.
This isn't just athleticism. It's discipline. It's grit. It's teamwork. These cadets begin training before summer break, work throughout the summer, and practice five days a week during the season. Over the course of the competition, some competitors cover more than 11 miles, knowing the clock doesn't stop until every teammate crosses the finish line.
With this latest victory, Adairsville Raider teams now own an astounding NINE National Raider Challenge Championships.
Small school. Elite program. National powerhouse.
Congratulations, Raiders!
#betterinbartow #proudtobebartow
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
