Douglas County School System Celebrates High CTAE Graduation Rates

The Douglas County School System and the Douglas County Board of Education are proud to announce the Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) graduation rates for the 2022-2023 academic year. The district’s overall CTAE graduation rate is an impressive 99%, surpassing the state average of 97.75%.

“Our CTAE program reflects our commitment to preparing every student for success in life after high school,” said Trent North, Douglas County School System Superintendent. “The outstanding graduation rates achieved by our CTAE students prove that the opportunities we offer are relevant and effective."

The CTAE graduation rates at individual high schools are as follows:

• Alexander High School: 100%
• Chapel Hill High School: 100%
• Douglas County High School:99%
• Lithia Springs High School: 98%
• New Manchester High School: 98%

“Completing a CTAE pathway equips our students with real-world, industry-recognized skills and experiences,” said Tekmekia Gilchrist, Executive Director of CTAE. “These opportunities not only contribute to future career success but also strengthen the economic vitality of our community.”

The Douglas County School System’s CTAE program offers over 35 Career Pathways, ranging from business to agriculture, allowing students to explore wide-ranging career interests. Students earn industry credentials, engage in work-based learning, and gain valuable hands-on experience through apprenticeship and internship opportunities.

“CTAE pathways are designed for all students, regardless of their post-secondary plans,” added Gilchrist. “Whether pursuing higher education, entering the military, or embarking on a career, our CTAE graduates are well-prepared for their chosen paths.”

Douglas County School System CTAE graduation rates reflect a commitment to providing high-quality, innovative educational opportunities that empower students to thrive in their future endeavors.

Visit the CTAE Career Planner for more information on CTAE Pathways and how the Douglas County School System prepares students for college and career success. 

More Than 200 Businesses, Organizations Support DCSS Through Partners in Education

More than 200 local businesses and organizations are currently supporting Douglas County Schools through Partners in Education (PIE).

Tekmekia Gilchrist, who serves on the PIE Board and is the DCSS Liaison in addition to her role as Executive Director of Teaching and Learning for DCSS, said these partnerships with local schools “not only provide much-needed resources and support to schools but also offer businesses the opportunity to actively engage with the school system.

“Partners in Education help to shape the future workforce and contribute to the overall well-being of our community,” Gilchrist said. “We are proud and honored to have so many partners that truly support the mission and vision of the Douglas County School System."

Dr. Deborah Johnson-Blake, the 2023-2024 Chair of PIE, said benefits of businesses and organizations partnering with PIE include:

• Enhanced Community Engagement
• Access to Talent Pipeline
• Demonstrated Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Long-term Impact on Student Achievement

Johnson-Blake said one organization, 100 Black Men of Douglas County, has partnered with DCSS and PIE for several years and was recently featured in the Douglas County Sentinel and on WSB-TV for their work greeting students at New Manchester Elementary School on the 100th day of school.

Another partner, GreyStone Power, held a STEM DAY event at their Corporate Headquarters on April 18.  

Last year, a third partner, the Carrollton-Douglasville Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., was awarded Partners in Education of Douglas County's Legacy Partner of Excellence. This fraternity has significantly impacted students by donating $15,800 to cover school lunch balances at all 20 elementary schools, Stewart Middle School, and Douglas County High School.

“We are immensely grateful for the invaluable partnerships forged through PIE, which have profoundly enriched our Douglas County School System students,” Johnson-Blake said. “Through collaborative efforts with businesses and organizations, including our dedicated PIE board members, we've witnessed transformative impacts on student success and the overall vitality of our school system.”

Visit www.piedc.org to learn more.

Mount Carmel Students Strike Gold in Stock Market Competition

Mount Carmel Elementary School students and staff are celebrating two of their own for achieving significant success in the spring Stock Market Game. Azsiah Owens and Kennedi Kelly clinched 1st place in the competitive online simulation where students researched and applied their investment ideas in a real-world market environment.  

Azsiah and Kennedi competed with 88 other teams in the regional district and successfully created the best performing portfolio of stocks, bonds and mutual funds in a live trading environment. At the beginning of the game, Azsiah and Kennedi started with $100,000, opting to invest in companies such as Amazon, Walmart and Target. By the end of 10 short weeks, their initial $100,000 investment grew to an astonishing $105,702.79.

Kedus Bryant and Gavin Henderson also received praise for securing a 4th place finish in the spring Stock Market Game.

The two scholars collaborated to create an impressive investment portfolio, turning their $100,000 investment into $105,320.91 in just 10 weeks. 



Gifted teacher Kim Houston, who facilitates the online simulation, is grateful students had an opportunity to gain real-world marketplace experience.     

"The Stock Market Game provides our students with a wonderful opportunity to put their critical thinking and problem-solving strategies to work," Houston said. "I'm so very proud of the collaborative work all the teams did to build an impressive investment portfolio to make their money work for them.” 

The online simulation of the global capital markets engages students in grades 4-12 in the world of economics, investing and personal finances. 

DCSS School Nutrition Department Earns Turnip the Beet Recognition

School Nutrition is relishing in receiving the Turnip the Beet Award, which recognizes outstanding sponsors across the nation for their summer meal program. The United States Department of Agriculture recently announced the 2023 award winners for the hard-working sponsors who offer high-quality meals to children that are appetizing, appealing, and nutritious during the summer months. 

Danielle Freeman, Executive Director of School Nutrition, says her team consistently goes above and beyond to ensure students receive a healthy meal. 

“Feeding our students a nutritious yet delicious meal is always at the forefront and summer meals are no different," Freeman said. "We always aim to give our students our best and that does not change whether it is a hot meal or a sandwich.”  

Summer meals are critical in the lives of millions of our nation’s youth, whose risk for food insecurity increases during the summer months when they no longer have access to the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and the School Breakfast Program. These high quality summer meals provide daily energy, and help make sure children are healthy and ready to learn when they return to school in the fall. 

The Turnip the Beet Award was created to showcase sponsors who are going above and beyond to ensure that children in their care are receiving high-quality meals that are both nutritious and appetizing.

“Each year we strive to feed more students in the summer and our food quality is what will ensure we have repeat customers. We are honored for the Award and hope we make Douglas County Schools and our community proud,” said Freeman. 

Career Field Trip Opens Doors for DCSS Students

With an eye toward the future, Douglas County students recently had the opportunity to explore potential career paths through the Career Ready program. This collaborative effort between Douglas County School System and Elevate Douglas gives students an inside look at high-demand industries through engaging field trips and job training.

On April 17th, students from across the county embarked on industry tours at top local companies, such as the American Red Cross, Uniform Advantage, DeNyse, WSA, CornerStone/Silver Line, GFS, Seasons4, and Sam's Club. 

"Seeing these potential career areas up close is invaluable for our students," said Superintendent Trent North. "The Career Ready program exposes them to fields they may have never considered and excites them about their future prospects."

Besides the field trips, DCSS students also learned more about the Douglas County Career Ready Training Program. This free, industry-specific course offers certification in areas like forklift operation, preparing students for in-demand jobs. 

By partnering with the community's top businesses and employers, DCSS ensures its students have a competitive edge after graduation. The Career Ready program opens doors to exciting opportunities and allows students to establish their professional future.

Battle of Bands Set for May 14 at Douglas County Jamboree

Band students from three Douglas County high schools will face off May 14 in a battle of the bands at the Douglas County Jamboree.

The Jamboree will be held at Douglas County High School in the new gym at 7 p.m. and will feature New Manchester High School’s Mighty Marching Jaguars, the DCHS Incomparable Tiger Band and the Lithia Springs High School Pride of DC.

Tickets are $12 in advance online and $15 at the door and proceeds will help all participating bands.

“This is the first time we've done a spring Jamboree-style band event in Douglas County,” NMHS Director of Bands Marcus Chester and DCHS Director of Bands Torre Goodson said in a joint statement about the event. “It's a tremendous opportunity for all the students involved as well as the community and the school system to see and support the many different facets of bands in our county, and an exciting way to end the school year!”

Classroom Corner

Zoo Trip Creates Fun Memories for Dorsett Shoals Kindergarteners

The kindergarten students at Dorsett Shoals Elementary recently went on an unforgettable field trip to Zoo Atlanta. This learning experience allowed the young scholars to observe animals up close and learn about their habitats in a fun, immersive way.

The trip provided an excellent opportunity for the kindergarteners to compare baby animals to their adult counterparts.

In addition, the students delighted in learning about animals and their habitats. 

While experiencing animal encounters, the field trip reinforced the importance of protecting wildlife and the environment.

The students learned about how zoos help animals and conserve their natural habitats around the world.

"Visiting Zoo Atlanta was such an enriching experience for our kindergarten students," said Principal Kelly Brown. "They could see concepts taught in their classroom come to life right before their eyes. We are so grateful to our teachers for organizing this memorable trip."

Field trips like this one spark curiosity and create lasting memories. By observing and learning about the animal kingdom, the students have taken their first steps toward developing a lifelong appreciation for the world around them. 

Sweetwater Elementary Unites for a Literacy Celebration

Sweetwater Elementary School came alive with the sounds of families learning together at the school's recent Literacy Night. Parents, students, and even grandparents joined forces to explore the importance of sight word fluency through interactive games and discussions.

The evening included an engaging dialogue where families shared their insights on why developing strong sight word skills is a vital foundation for young readers. Many spoke about how mastering this ability supports overall reading fluency and comprehension.

Throughout the evening, students enjoyed a series of fun games. Students teamed up with adults for exciting literacy activities and word-based fun. 

As the festivities ended, the school equipped families with new books and educational games to continue fostering sight word mastery at home. The eager young readers were excited by the evening's activities and look forward to continuing their reading adventures. 

Student Spotlight

Turner Middle School proudly recognizes Jordan Bates in the Student Spotlight. As an active member of the Beta Club, Peer Ambassadors, band, soccer team and morning news crew, the eighth grader carries the banner of excellence at Turner in every pursuit. 

In addition to her many extracurricular activities, Jordan represents TMS as one of the school’s delegates, maintaining an A average in all of her classes. John Chandler, Principal of Turner Middle School is proud to call her a member of the TMS Indian family. 

"Jordan is a once-in-a-generation student. She models excellence inside and outside of the classroom and is a true ambassador for not only our school but also the school district.”

Jordan plans to attend the International Baccalaureate Magnet program at Douglas County High School next year. In fact, she is eager to hit the ground running as a high school freshman so she can set a high standard for herself and her peers.  

“Since my arrival here, Jordan has made it known that no task is beneath her, especially if it helps to make the school better. I am proud to have served her these last two years. Turner will miss Jordan at the end of the year, but we will always cheer for her success from afar,” said Chandler.  

Damien McAdoo is a shining star representing both the Success Center and New Manchester High School. The junior excels in the Fine Arts Magnet Education Program (F.A.M.E.), recently performing in the chorus spring musical: Sister Act. 

The scholar exhibits admirable leadership qualities. She serves as a representative on the District Student Advisory Committee and recently traveled with a group of Douglas County students to explore Tokyo, Japan.

In addition to her dedication and commitment to extracurricular activities, Damien excels academically. The young scholar has a 3.6 GPA and is planning to participate in the Dual Enrollment program at West Georgia Tech in the fall. 

Lowe Setting Pace for Lady Cougars in Playoff Run

Alexander High School’s girls soccer team has built a reputation as a perennial state playoff contender.

The Lady Cougars went 7-0 in Region 5-6A to win the region title this season and took a 10-game winning streak and 15-3 overall record into their second round playoff match with Lassiter late Thursday.

Senior forward Aliyah Lowe had 42 goals entering last night’s game and 105 for her career, both of which fifth-year Alexander Coach Jason Cann believes are school records. Freshman Emory Pitts is second on the team with 26 goals and sophomore Brielle Delgado is third with 21.

“I was telling our athletic director this earlier today — she’s the kid after every game who’s sending me a message asking: ‘Coach, what can I do better?’ I’m like, ‘Aliyah, you scored three goals and had two assists.’ She’s like, ‘I know, but there’s got to be something. Tell me what I can do better.’ It shows. She’s just gotten better and better each year,” Cann said of Lowe.

In addition to his top three scorers, Cann also spotlighted the play of senior Madi Thomas and junior Mia Showalter.

Showalter has stepped up in her role as a center back and has “just been outstanding for us there,” Cann said. The coach said he has nicknamed Thomas “Elmer” because “she kind of holds everything we do together.”

Four members of the team have signed to play soccer at the college level: Lowe (Young Harris), midfielder Savannah Wolff (Jacksonville State), goalkeeper Katrina Buckelew (Albany State) and midfielder Casey Leatherwood (Gordon State).

Cann said the Lady Cougars’ success this year is even more impressive because it has been achieved with three starters injured for most or all of the season, including Wolff.

“It’s been a good program for a long time,” Cann said. He added: “We’re definitely losing a lot this year, but we have a lot of talent coming back as well.”

Mason Creek Baseball, Fairplay Soccer Teams Win Middle School Championships

Mason Creek Middle School’s baseball team and Fairplay Middle School’s girls and boys soccer teams recently won the Douglas County Championships in their respective sports.

Mason Creek’s baseball team finished the season with a 9-1 record and defeated Fairplay in the title game.

Mason Creek's Finnley Vandegraft was named County MVP, and he was one of three Wolves named All-Conference along with Ira DeBorde and Scott Segal.

Fairplay’s girls soccer team defeated Chapel Hill in the title game and finished the season at 9-0. Fairplay’s boys soccer team beat Turner in the championship and finished at 8-0-1.

In the girls championship game, seventh-grader Megan Nutter scored the only goal in the 1-0 victory for the Lady Jaguars. Coach Mackenna Dutcher said guidance and leadership from captains Caraline and Juliette also played big roles in the win.

Read more about the championships here.

Key Dates

• May 22: Report Cards (elementary schools)

Family Resources

2024 Kindergarten Registration

Kindergarten registration will begin on Wednesday, May 1st. Click here to Register Online.

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 on the lower level of Burnett Elementary School and offers several services. Click here to learn more.