Catoosa County Public Schools celebrates record graduation rates and new educational initiatives

In a vibrant gathering at the Catoosa County Public Schools (CCPS) headquarters, educators and administrators came together to reflect on the district's remarkable achievements and future aspirations during the State of the System Address. The atmosphere buzzed with optimism as the superintendent likened the district's strategic plan to a vital map, guiding them through the educational landscape and ensuring a focused mission: empowering every student every day.

The address highlighted several significant milestones, including the recognition of four secondary schools—Heritage Mill, Wendell Mill, Harry Chine, and LFO High School—as math leader schools by the Georgia Department of Education. This accolade underscores the district's commitment to academic excellence, particularly in mathematics. Additionally, Wood Station Elementary earned the prestigious Title I Reward School designation, a testament to its exceptional student achievement.

One of the most notable achievements shared was the district's highest graduation rate in history, reaching an impressive 90.81 percent, well above the state average of 85.4 percent. This statistic reflects the dedication of educators and the hard work of students, as all three high schools also earned AP honor status, showcasing a remarkable 25 percent growth in participation in advanced placement courses.

The address also celebrated individual accomplishments, such as Billy Clark from Window School being named CCPS Teacher of the Year and four outstanding students receiving the $10,000 REACH scholarship, which opens doors to future opportunities. The Catoosa County Board of Education was recognized for its consistent excellence, earning the GSBA Exemplary Scoreboard Award for the tenth consecutive year.

As the meeting progressed, the superintendent emphasized the importance of community engagement and collaboration. Initiatives like the Catoosa Connects program and the superintendent's pulse check survey ensure that parents, students, and staff have a voice in decision-making processes. The district's commitment to safety was also highlighted, with ongoing enhancements to security measures and emergency preparedness.

Looking ahead, the CCPS is set to expand its facilities, with the completion of phase one of the Boynton Elementary expansion and plans for further developments at Warrington Elementary. These improvements aim to create modern learning environments equipped with the latest technology.

The address concluded with a call to action, urging all stakeholders to continue working together to foster an environment where every child can thrive. The superintendent's closing remarks resonated with the audience, reinforcing the belief that the collective efforts of educators, families, and the community are the foundation of student success. As the district charts its course for the future, the potential for growth and achievement remains limitless.