COMING UP: Who will be crowned the Bartow County School System Teacher of the Year?! We'll find out tomorrow at our annual celebration at the Booth Western Art Museum!
Meet our incredible finalists:
🍎 Jodi Bell – History Teacher, Woodland High School
🔬 Jon Creel – STEM Teacher, Adairsville Middle School
🧩 Lindsey Nasworthy – Autism Self-Contained Teacher, Emerson Elementary School
Congratulations and best of luck to all three!
Meet our incredible finalists:
🍎 Jodi Bell – History Teacher, Woodland High School
🔬 Jon Creel – STEM Teacher, Adairsville Middle School
🧩 Lindsey Nasworthy – Autism Self-Contained Teacher, Emerson Elementary School
Congratulations and best of luck to all three!
KEVIN'S LEGACY: Today, and always, we remember Kevin Trujillo Blas, our gentle, funny, and deeply loved 9-year-old Kingston Eagle who passed away this weekend after a sudden medical emergency last month.
Kevin wasn’t loud, but he didn’t need to be. His quiet presence spoke volumes. His teacher, who had taught him in second grade and briefly this year, shared, “I’ll never forget his morning hugs, his kind smile, and that sweet sense of humor.” That smile, soft and sincere, could shift the mood of a whole room.
Kevin’s family described him as a boy with “a heart as big as his dreams.” He was smart, creative, and focused; he could draw for hours and loved playing soccer. But more than anything, he loved his younger brother. He looked out for him every day, making sure he was in the right class, checking in on him like a protector who took that role seriously.
Kevin was also a vital part of Kingston’s ESOL classroom, and his absence leaves a space that can’t be filled. His spirit, quiet, caring, and full of love, will be missed in ways words can’t fully express.
Kevin wasn’t loud, but he didn’t need to be. His quiet presence spoke volumes. His teacher, who had taught him in second grade and briefly this year, shared, “I’ll never forget his morning hugs, his kind smile, and that sweet sense of humor.” That smile, soft and sincere, could shift the mood of a whole room.
Kevin’s family described him as a boy with “a heart as big as his dreams.” He was smart, creative, and focused; he could draw for hours and loved playing soccer. But more than anything, he loved his younger brother. He looked out for him every day, making sure he was in the right class, checking in on him like a protector who took that role seriously.
Kevin was also a vital part of Kingston’s ESOL classroom, and his absence leaves a space that can’t be filled. His spirit, quiet, caring, and full of love, will be missed in ways words can’t fully express.
STATE SPOTLIGHT: Just a little shoutout from the Georgia Department of Education on Pine Log's STATE STEM CERTIFICATION! First elementary school in the entire county to do so!🎉
📸GaDOE STEM/STEAM Newsletter Summer 2025
📸GaDOE STEM/STEAM Newsletter Summer 2025
🎬 Lights, Camera, ROAR! 🎬 Allatoona Elementary School’s Video Production Team just recorded their first-ever Wiley’s ROAR Report, featuring a special guest, Superintendent Terza!
Led by 5th grade students Garrett, Westyn, Amilliah, Caylee, Waylon, Mia, Melany, and Kailynd, this morning club meets three times a week to learn everything from script writing to taping and editing in their brand-new production lab funded by a recent state STEM grant.
With strong support and mentorship from Cooper Fiscus van Rossum of the Georgia Film Academy, along with guidance from school administrators, this program is taking off! Students are developing real-world production skills, and Allatoona Elementary is one step closer to earning State STEAM Certification.
Congratulations🐾
Led by 5th grade students Garrett, Westyn, Amilliah, Caylee, Waylon, Mia, Melany, and Kailynd, this morning club meets three times a week to learn everything from script writing to taping and editing in their brand-new production lab funded by a recent state STEM grant.
With strong support and mentorship from Cooper Fiscus van Rossum of the Georgia Film Academy, along with guidance from school administrators, this program is taking off! Students are developing real-world production skills, and Allatoona Elementary is one step closer to earning State STEAM Certification.
Congratulations🐾
WOW: Congratulations to the Bartow County 4-H Forestry Teams!
We’re proud to announce outstanding results from the recent Northwest Georgia 4-H Forestry Field Day Competition in Conyers, Georgia:
Junior Team – 1st Place Overall!
Top finishers:
Joanna L. (Woodland Middle) – 1st Place
Luca P. (Woodland Middle) – 3rd Place
Remy O. (Cartersville Middle) – 4th Place
Senior Team – 1st Place Overall!
Hylan W. (Woodland High) – 2nd Place
Milly L. (Woodland High) – 3rd Place
Kate L. (Woodland High) – 4th Place
David S. (Cartersville High) – 5th Place
Shoutout to Kendall G., Nate M., and Sofia O. for their strong performances!
FFD provides an opportunity for students to gain a better appreciation for our local forest resources and how they contribute to our economy and quality of life!
We’re proud to announce outstanding results from the recent Northwest Georgia 4-H Forestry Field Day Competition in Conyers, Georgia:
Junior Team – 1st Place Overall!
Top finishers:
Joanna L. (Woodland Middle) – 1st Place
Luca P. (Woodland Middle) – 3rd Place
Remy O. (Cartersville Middle) – 4th Place
Senior Team – 1st Place Overall!
Hylan W. (Woodland High) – 2nd Place
Milly L. (Woodland High) – 3rd Place
Kate L. (Woodland High) – 4th Place
David S. (Cartersville High) – 5th Place
Shoutout to Kendall G., Nate M., and Sofia O. for their strong performances!
FFD provides an opportunity for students to gain a better appreciation for our local forest resources and how they contribute to our economy and quality of life!
CAUGHT ON CAMERA: Shoutout to Victoria, Kellen, and Nina, three amazing Adairsville Middle 6th graders who went out of their way to help their new classmate, Yichen Z.
Without being asked, they used his translator tablet to communicate, helped organize his notebook, and made sure he felt welcome. Their kindness made a big impact, and we couldn’t be prouder!
“I have had students who didn't speak English before who it seemed students always left alone unless there was another language speaker in the room. However, without my asking any of them, I had a group of three students who just started helping him. I think they really made such a big difference in helping him have a good first day in our class. I normally avoid taking pictures, but I had to sneak a pic of them because it really stood out to me.” – Dillon McFry, AMS Teacher
Without being asked, they used his translator tablet to communicate, helped organize his notebook, and made sure he felt welcome. Their kindness made a big impact, and we couldn’t be prouder!
“I have had students who didn't speak English before who it seemed students always left alone unless there was another language speaker in the room. However, without my asking any of them, I had a group of three students who just started helping him. I think they really made such a big difference in helping him have a good first day in our class. I normally avoid taking pictures, but I had to sneak a pic of them because it really stood out to me.” – Dillon McFry, AMS Teacher
SPIN NIGHT: Feeling overwhelmed by college applications and financial aid? We’ve got you covered! Join us for our annual College Fair and Financial Aid Night, where you’ll get answers to all your questions, and meet with college representatives ready to help. Don’t miss this opportunity to get ahead on your college journey. Details below!
HERE WE GOOOO: Today's Robotics Kickoff was one for the books! Students were inspired by incredible presentations tied to this year’s FIRST LEGO League theme - Unearthed. Alongside learning coding skills, they explored fossils, discovery, and innovation in exciting new ways. The energy was high, and the learning was deep!
FRESH FACE FRIDAY: Help us give a warm Wildcat welcome to one of Woodland High School’s newest teachers, Mr. Dylan Schulte! 👋 We’re thrilled to have him join the team and can’t wait to see the amazing impact he’ll make!
"I'm excited to work in Bartow County because there's a major focus on building community and connection. I also appreciate that the district prioritizes Professional Learning Communities, emphasizing collaboration and student growth for all students." ~ Mr. Schulte
"I'm excited to work in Bartow County because there's a major focus on building community and connection. I also appreciate that the district prioritizes Professional Learning Communities, emphasizing collaboration and student growth for all students." ~ Mr. Schulte
READ TO GROW: Looking for a meaningful way to make a difference in our schools this year? Join our Read to Grow initiative! You choose the time and school, and we’ll connect you with students who could benefit from extra reading support. It’s a simple way to have a lasting impact. More information below!
BEE RELATIONAL: In collaboration with our local business and faith-based communities, we are proud to launch the Bee Relational Campaign, an integral part of the Bartow Cares 4 U initiative.
“In a world where you can be anything, be KIND!”
In a world that can feel heavy, kindness is our quiet superpower.
We define KINDNESS as the quality of being friendly, generous,
thoughtful, compassionate, or helpful without expecting
anything in return. It means wanting what’s good for another
person.
Every small act, every kind word, every helping hand, makes the
world a little lighter. Because kindness isn’t about being perfect.
It’s about being thoughtful, generous, and real, without
expecting anything in return.
So, in a world where you can be anything…Be Kind.
How can you show kindness to the people in your world today?
To get weekly kindness resources, text School25 to 833-
510-2371.
#betterinbartow #bartowcares4u #beethechange #beerelational
“In a world where you can be anything, be KIND!”
In a world that can feel heavy, kindness is our quiet superpower.
We define KINDNESS as the quality of being friendly, generous,
thoughtful, compassionate, or helpful without expecting
anything in return. It means wanting what’s good for another
person.
Every small act, every kind word, every helping hand, makes the
world a little lighter. Because kindness isn’t about being perfect.
It’s about being thoughtful, generous, and real, without
expecting anything in return.
So, in a world where you can be anything…Be Kind.
How can you show kindness to the people in your world today?
To get weekly kindness resources, text School25 to 833-
510-2371.
#betterinbartow #bartowcares4u #beethechange #beerelational
MARK YOUR CALENDARS: Empty Bowls, one of Bartow County’s most popular events, is right around the corner!
Enjoy all-you-can-eat lunch from local restaurants and take home a handcrafted bowl made by local artists and students! A delicious way to support a meaningful cause!
📍 Bartow College & Career Academy
🗓️ October 26
⏰ 12:00–2:30 p.m.
📌 738 Grassdale Road, Cartersville
All proceeds benefit the Backpack Buddies program, helping feed food-insecure children in our community.
As always, special thanks to the Laney's for organizing this event!
FOR MORE INFORMATION & TO BUY TICKETS:
https://givebutter.com/emptybowls25
Enjoy all-you-can-eat lunch from local restaurants and take home a handcrafted bowl made by local artists and students! A delicious way to support a meaningful cause!
📍 Bartow College & Career Academy
🗓️ October 26
⏰ 12:00–2:30 p.m.
📌 738 Grassdale Road, Cartersville
All proceeds benefit the Backpack Buddies program, helping feed food-insecure children in our community.
As always, special thanks to the Laney's for organizing this event!
FOR MORE INFORMATION & TO BUY TICKETS:
https://givebutter.com/emptybowls25
INTERNS IN ACTION: Our Project SEARCH interns are gaining incredible hands-on experience at Piedmont Cartersville!
This week, they had the chance to tour Central Sterile, a behind-the-scenes look at one of the hospital’s most vital departments.
We’re so proud of these interns as they explore new career paths and build real-world skills!
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON PROJECT SEARCH:
https://www.projectsearch.us/
This week, they had the chance to tour Central Sterile, a behind-the-scenes look at one of the hospital’s most vital departments.
We’re so proud of these interns as they explore new career paths and build real-world skills!
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON PROJECT SEARCH:
https://www.projectsearch.us/
HONORING HECTOR: Join Red Top Middle School, along with the family and friends of Hector Josue Arostegui Rodriguez, as we come together to celebrate his life and the joy he brought to everyone around him.
📅 Thursday, August 28, 2025
🕕 6:00 p.m.
📍 Red Top Middle School Café
Hector’s spirit, laughter, and unforgettable high fives will live on in our hearts. Let’s gather in love and remembrance.
📅 Thursday, August 28, 2025
🕕 6:00 p.m.
📍 Red Top Middle School Café
Hector’s spirit, laughter, and unforgettable high fives will live on in our hearts. Let’s gather in love and remembrance.
FEEDING FUTURES 5K: This year’s Backpack Buddies 5K was the largest yet, with over 1,000 participants coming together to support children facing food insecurity in our community.
It was a powerful moment with friends, families, and neighbors united for a meaningful cause.
Huge thanks to Glenda Mitchell, our presenting sponsor, and the 22 additional sponsors who helped make this event a success.
Special appreciation to Wire 2 Wire Running, Cartersville Downtown Development Authority, McStatt’s Printing, our homeless liaison Ashley Saddler, and all who served on the planning committee. Your dedication brought this incredible event to life!
It was a powerful moment with friends, families, and neighbors united for a meaningful cause.
Huge thanks to Glenda Mitchell, our presenting sponsor, and the 22 additional sponsors who helped make this event a success.
Special appreciation to Wire 2 Wire Running, Cartersville Downtown Development Authority, McStatt’s Printing, our homeless liaison Ashley Saddler, and all who served on the planning committee. Your dedication brought this incredible event to life!
RIGHT WORK: Let’s give a big shoutout to our newest Ms. Dot STAR Award winners! These outstanding individuals go above and beyond in their roles, and their impact is felt across the entire district.
CONGRATULATIONS:
Tracy McDowell, Paraprofessional, Clear Creek Elementary School
Terry Smith, Custodian, Cloverleaf Elementary School
Cynthia Copeland, Secretary, Adairsville High School
CONGRATULATIONS:
Tracy McDowell, Paraprofessional, Clear Creek Elementary School
Terry Smith, Custodian, Cloverleaf Elementary School
Cynthia Copeland, Secretary, Adairsville High School
BIG BCSS ANNOUNCEMENT: We’re thrilled to announce your 2025–2026 Middle School Teacher of the Year and System TOTY Finalist — Jon Creel, STEM Teacher at Adairsville Middle School!
Selected from an incredible group of middle school TOTY honorees, Mr. Creel will represent his peers at the TOTY Banquet on September 16 at the Booth Western Art Museum, where the overall System winner will be revealed.
Congratulations, Mr. Creel!🎉🎉🎉
Selected from an incredible group of middle school TOTY honorees, Mr. Creel will represent his peers at the TOTY Banquet on September 16 at the Booth Western Art Museum, where the overall System winner will be revealed.
Congratulations, Mr. Creel!🎉🎉🎉
BIG BCSS ANNOUNCEMENT: We’re thrilled to announce your 2025–2026 High School Teacher of the Year and System TOTY Finalist — Jodi Bell, Social Studies Teacher at Woodland High School!
Selected from an amazing group of high school TOTY honorees, Ms. Bell will represent her peers at the TOTY Banquet on September 16 at the Booth Western Art Museum, where the overall System winner will be revealed.
Congratulations, Ms. Bell! Look at all the pomp and circumstance! 🎉🎉🎉
Selected from an amazing group of high school TOTY honorees, Ms. Bell will represent her peers at the TOTY Banquet on September 16 at the Booth Western Art Museum, where the overall System winner will be revealed.
Congratulations, Ms. Bell! Look at all the pomp and circumstance! 🎉🎉🎉
BIG BCSS ANNOUNCEMENT: We’re thrilled to announce your 2025–2026 Elementary School Teacher of the Year and System TOTY Finalist — Lindsey Nasworthy, Autism Self-Contained K–2 Teacher at Emerson Elementary!
Selected from an incredible group of elementary TOTY honorees, Ms. Nasworthy will represent her peers at the TOTY Banquet on September 16 at the Booth Western Art Museum, where the overall System winner will be revealed.
Congratulations, Ms. Nasworthy!🎉🎉🎉
Selected from an incredible group of elementary TOTY honorees, Ms. Nasworthy will represent her peers at the TOTY Banquet on September 16 at the Booth Western Art Museum, where the overall System winner will be revealed.
Congratulations, Ms. Nasworthy!🎉🎉🎉
POWER IN PINK: Adairsville is gearing up for its ever-popular Pink Out event on October 24 💗 Join the community in showing support for those courageously battling cancer.
Pink Out t-shirts are coming soon! Grab yours from Adairsville Middle and wear it with pride as we stand together for a powerful cause!
Pink Out t-shirts are coming soon! Grab yours from Adairsville Middle and wear it with pride as we stand together for a powerful cause!
