"Once a Lion, Always a Lion"

Nine LSHS Graduates Talk About Returning to Teach and Guide Students

The Douglas County School System has many former students and alumni who return as teachers or staff members in various roles each year. This year, Lithia Springs High School has an abundance of loyal lions who are passionate about creating a positive educational experience for today’s students. Currently, LSHS has nine alumni on staff who share similar stories about their desire to perpetuate the influence and impact that helped shape their lives.



Assistant Principal Payton Milinor expressed her excitement about two of her former students, LSHS STEM graduates Naomi Douglas (Class of 2018) and Bryanna Jordan-Pettit (Class of 2016), who have returned as science teachers.  “I taught both of these extraordinary young ladies. Working alongside two amazing teachers who once sat in my classroom is a dream. I am thrilled to have them back on campus, and I know that they will have a lasting impact on their students,” Milinor said. 

Student Resource Officer Chris Billingslea graduated from LSHS in 2004.  He said, "being able to work in law enforcement at the school I attended is a dream come true. I can brag because I played in the first ever game in the "new" gym 20 years ago and had a triple-double (25 points, 14 rebounds, 11 blocks). It's an honor to be able to work with the next generation of Lions!"

Candice Cooke graduated in 1988 and is now a science teacher.  "Returning to the Lion's Den as a teacher brings back wonderful memories and excitement,” she said.  It is a privilege to be part of a school that shaped my journey and to have the opportunity to contribute to the growth and development of new generations."

Nicole Oliver-Wynn graduated in 1991 and now teaches computer science.  "I chose to come back to LSHS as a teacher because I felt compelled to contribute to the educational community that had a meaningful impact on my own academic development. The experiences, insights, and mentorship I gained during my time here in high school have given me a distinct outlook that I can now share with the present generation of students," she explained.

Coach Darius Owens is a member of the Class of 2011 and a current PEC (Program for Exceptional Children) teacher.  "I enjoyed my time here as a student, and I’m excited to be an educator in a place that helped shape me into the person I am today. I'm excited to be back. Go Lions!"

Scotty "Donald" Parker, Class of 1988, Health and PE Teacher said, "It is always great to give back to what you once received -- once a Lion, always a Lion!"

Zephina Romero graduated in 2013 and is working as a long-term substitute teaching English.  “Before last year, I never thought I would come back to teach at Lithia. I had the best time while at Lithia during my four years, and I want these students to have that same experience. So, I’m excited to be back home.”

Jaime Samples, 2003, Social Studies Teacher said, "I am excited to be teaching and coaching at LSHS and have the opportunity to be a positive influence in the lives of my students. So many teachers and staff had a huge impact on the person that I am today, and I hope that I can have that kind of an impact on my students."

DCSS Embraces Generations Uniting for Grandparents Day

Chapel Hill Elementary Hosts Breakfast and Books for Grandparents Day

Grandparents play a significant role in a child’s life, and the Douglas County School System embraces the opportunity to show gratitude and respect for all of their invaluable contributions. Chapel Hill Elementary along with several other DCSS schools created memories that span generations as they hosted hundreds of grandparents for their special day.     

The front lobby, media center and cafe of CHES were overflowing with nearly 350 jovial grandparents and grandfriends (family friends who serve as grandparents) as they gathered to celebrate the memorable occassion. Chapel Hill Elementary School Principal K’Asha Davis said the anticipation was palpable as the CHES Cheetahs eagerly awaited to welcome their adored elders.

The exciting day kicked off with a school library tour where Chapel Hill hosted their book fair sponsored by Scholastics and organized by Media Specialist, Cameron Sheldon.  According to Davis, “Grandparents were visibly moved as they watched their grandchildren’s eyes light up with excitement while selecting interesting books to read. In a matter of an hour, we raised nearly $4,500 to support with updating the publishing year of the text available in the media center,” she added.   

Families flocked to the photo booth to capture cherished memories of the day, preserving the love and joy shared during this special event. PTA members provided families with a full breakfast as they engaged with their grandchildren in the cafeteria. 

Davis was very impressed with the overall turnout of the event. “Grandparents' Day at our elementary school was a resounding success. It served as a beautiful reminder of the profound impact grandparents have on their grandchildren's lives. The day was about celebrating the love, wisdom, and enduring connections between generations. It left a lasting impression on our school community, reminding us all of the importance of family bonds that stand the test of time.”

North Douglas Hosts Grandparents Lunch

North Douglas Elementary hosted several grandparents, fellow church members, and community leaders for lunch as they came out in droves to support their stingrays. “We had many people that are "Grand" in our students' lives take time out of their day to have lunch with their Stingrays, " said NDES Media Specialist, Katie Henry. It was a great reminder to students how special they are to their grandparents as well as their community,” she said. 

Douglas County Senior Services Offers Support to Grandparents

In the heart of the Douglas County community, a group of unsung heroes exists quietly dedicating their lives to nurturing and raising students - not as parents, but as grandparents. These remarkable individuals face several unique challenges acting as caretakers for students, and Douglas County’s Senior Services have finally found a way to offer them the support they deserve. 

But thanks to a grant, the department is able to sponsor support groups for grandparents who are supporting the next generation by raising students. 

“We schedule groups for the individual and for the whole group so that it can be interactive and grandparents can learn strategies to cope with the stress of raising children and students,” said Cherri Griffith of Douglas County Senior Services. 

For parents raising grandchildren, the journey can be both rewarding and demanding. With these support groups, Griffith says that she hopes to see grandparents find an outlet for the stress they feel as well as learn strategies to cope with the tensions that parenting can bring. 

“We want to show them that they are important and that self-care is important, because we can’t care for others if we’re not well ourselves,” said Griffith. “We also know that children are sponges, meaning that they will react as their caregivers do. So that makes it equally important to give them resources to get through things more easily.”

Along with providing information and resources, the support groups also strive to show appreciation to participants. One way they have done this in the past is by bringing in massage therapists to provide massages to say thanks for all the work that they have done. 

The support groups have been gaining in popularity, said Griffith, as she and her team are still working to recruit members by educating them about the benefits of the groups. However, regular attendees have provided great feedback from the sessions, saying that they have not only provided valuable resources but also a sense of community and understanding. 

“We’ve had so many great responses from the attendees. We met a lady who is an angel and she’s caring for a special needs child who isn’t related to her,” said Kellie Clark of Douglas County Senior Services. “ All of our grandparents are angels, and the fact that they’re doing the job of raising students twice is so commendable. They deserve so much more than they’re being given, and anything to help them take a step toward making their lives better helps them and the students they are raising.”

To learn more about the program, contact Douglas County Senior Services at 770-489-3106 and ask for more information about the Kinship GRAND Program. 

Cross Country Previews

Cougars Cross Country Teams Both Boast Top-10 Rankings

Through the early portion of the year, Alexander High School’s boys and girls cross country teams have showcased strong starts to their seasons. 

Both teams are ranked inside the top 10 in the state, and both are eyeing a strong finish down the stretch of the season to earn spots at the state meet. The Cougars’ next meet will be this Saturday, September 16, at the North Georgia Cross Country Invitational in Oakwood.

Panthers Aiming to Place Well in State

Since beginning training in the summer, Chapel Hill High School’s cross country teams have had a single goal in mind – to compete and place well at the state level.

“Even though competing at the state championship is an ultimate goal, our primary objective this season is to give our best effort, showcase our progress, and make our school and community proud,” said CHHS cross country coach Chris Wilson. “We must enter every race with determination and commitment to improvement, knowing our hard work will lead to success, regardless of the outcome. This mentality is crucial for us as a team.”

So far this season, the Panthers have competed in three meets, and they will be in action once again today at The Southern Showcase in Huntsville, Alabama. The team will compete again on September 21 in the Douglas County Cross Country Championship.

Tigers Running Ahead of Pace This Season

With the 2023 season underway, Douglas County High School’s cross country teams are showing over where they were at this point last season. 

Already, the boys team has posted two top-20 finishes in two meets, and they have had one runner, Alex Njoroge, medal with a ninth place finish in a meet. 

The Tigers will be in action once again on September 21 at the Douglas County Cross Country Championship.

LSHS Looking for Strong Finish to Season

Lithia Springs High School’s cross country teams are excited about their progress thus far in the season. Under the leadership of coach Kendra Pleasants, the team has doubled in size from last season with talented runners looking to be competitive at the region and state levels. 

With the increased participation, both the boys and girls teams are projecting to compete at the county and regional meets. Along with competing in their meets, the team has also set goals of developing unity and accountability among teammates in a challenging environment where runners can grow and thrive. 

The Lions will run again at the Douglas County Cross Country Championship on September 21.

NMHS Hoping for Strong Finish to 2023 Season

New Manchester High School's cross country team is looking to have a strong finish at the region and state meets later in the year.

The Jaguars have competed in four meets thus far, with promising finishes in each one. They will take the course again on September 21 at the Douglas County Cross Country Championship and again on September 26 at the South Metro Classic #3.

Classroom Corner

DCSS Commemorates 22nd Anniversary of 9/11

“September 11 is often remembered as a great tragedy in America where many people lost their lives. At Mason Creek, we chose not to focus so much on the sadness but more so on the perseverance of the American people,” said Principal Kristin Martin of Mason Creek Elementary School.   

A hallway filled with students and staff wearing red, white, and blue, a patriotic moment of silence, and a harmonious stair climb is how Mason Creek Elementary honored the first responders and fallen heroes of September 11. “Wearing red, white, and blue was our way to show remembrance of the lives lost on that day. However, these colors were also worn to recognize those who dedicate themselves to helping and to those in the military who continue to keep us safe,” said Martin.

P.E. Teacher, Coach Lindsay Hurley, led the way as third, fourth, and fifth grade students passionately marched up and down the school stairwell to commemorate the tragic events of the day. “Those first responders had to climb several flights of stairs in an attempt to rescue those stranded in both towers of the World Trade Center, " said Hurley.

Twelve years ago, MCES planted two trees to remember those who tragically lost their lives in the Twin Towers. With each passing year, the trees are a reminder to honor and commemorate that day.

Fairplay Middle School students and staff also dressed up in their best red, white, and blue attire for “Merica Monday” during their spirit week in observance of September 11. “On the 22nd anniversary of this horrific event in American history, we had a special moment of silence to remember those who lost their lives as well as those first responders who fought to save them,” said Principal of Fairplay Middle School, Fhonda Strong.

Student Spotlight

Passion and determination are just two of the many qualities fifth grader, Amelia Jones, displays as a shining patriot at Bill Arp Elementary School. The gifted student enjoys life, learning new things, and always strives to consider new perspectives.   

As a critical thinker with a fantastic sense of humor, Jones displays many leadership attributes each day. In addition to excelling academically, she participates in both chorus and drama club. Jones radiates Patriot pride each day!

Weekly Athletics Schedule

Key Dates

• September 15: Start of Hispanic Heritage Month
• October 6: Grading Period Ends
• October 9-13: Fall Break
• October 21: DCEF Fun Run
• October 18: Progress Reports (high school)
• October 18: Report Cards (elementary & middle schools)
• November 7: Teacher Work Day
• November 15: Progress Reports (elementary & middle schools)
• November 20-24: Thanksgiving Holidays
• December 15: End of First Semester

Family Resources

DCSS Community Bulletin Board

Looking for a great weekend event, after-school care, or a new activity? Check out DCSS' Community Bulletin Board at the link above to learn all about events and activities occurring in Douglas County.

Douglas SEES

DCSS offers several resources for student health, wellness and support through the Douglas SEES website. Visit the link above to learn more about the resources available to students and families.

DCSS Family Health Center

DCSS' Family Health Center is a resource for families and staff within the school system. The center is located at the lower level of Burnett Elementary School and offers several services. Click the flyer above to learn more.

Jaguar Classic

Come out to New Manchester High School for a special band exhibition on October 14. See performances from Talladega College's Great Tornado Band, Sounds of Success, and NMHS' Mighty Marching Jaguars. The fun begins at 10 a.m. Click the flyer above for more information.

DCEF Fun Run

Join the Douglas County Education Foundation (DCEF) and the DCSS family for the annual DCEF Fun Run on October 21 at New Manchester High School. The fun begins at 9:00 a.m. and lasts until noon with races for all grades and age groups.

Pre-registration runs through October 7 online here for $20. Race-day registration is $25. All runners who pre-register will receive a Fun Run t-shirt.

For more information, contact DCEF Executive Director Angelia O'Neal at angelia.oneal@dcssga.org.