Belwood Elementary REACH teacher Tim Gilreath brought STEM learning to life today as students coded Sphero robots for a festive reindeer game. Students attached reindeer images to their robots and used their coding skills to knock over bowling pins decorated with “grandmas,” creating a fun and engaging blend of creativity, problem solving, and holiday cheer.
Mr. Gilreath consistently incorporates hands-on STEM activities into his gifted classes, and the students’ strong coding abilities were evident once again when he sponsored the Belwood Elementary Robotics Team, who won the inaugural Gordon County Schools Technology Winners' Cup. Beginning this year, the Technology Winners’ Cup is awarded to the elementary school with the highest average scores on locally submitted technology projects. The trophy will stay with the winning school for the year before being passed to the next champion at the start of the local Technology Competition. We are proud to announce that the first-ever Technology Winners' Cup has been awarded to Belwood Elementary School.
In addition to his work with students, Mr. Gilreath recently completed his FIRST LEGO League Challenge certification and was recognized for his service on the Pets in the Classroom Teacher Advisory Committee with the Pet Care Trust. Many in our community know that Mr. Gilreath has classroom guinea pigs, which he uses to support student learning and well-being through meaningful interactions with classroom pets.
Thank you for all that you do, and congratulations to Belwood Elementary!
#ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryBES
Mr. Gilreath consistently incorporates hands-on STEM activities into his gifted classes, and the students’ strong coding abilities were evident once again when he sponsored the Belwood Elementary Robotics Team, who won the inaugural Gordon County Schools Technology Winners' Cup. Beginning this year, the Technology Winners’ Cup is awarded to the elementary school with the highest average scores on locally submitted technology projects. The trophy will stay with the winning school for the year before being passed to the next champion at the start of the local Technology Competition. We are proud to announce that the first-ever Technology Winners' Cup has been awarded to Belwood Elementary School.
In addition to his work with students, Mr. Gilreath recently completed his FIRST LEGO League Challenge certification and was recognized for his service on the Pets in the Classroom Teacher Advisory Committee with the Pet Care Trust. Many in our community know that Mr. Gilreath has classroom guinea pigs, which he uses to support student learning and well-being through meaningful interactions with classroom pets.
Thank you for all that you do, and congratulations to Belwood Elementary!
#ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryBES
W. L. Swain Elementary music teacher Andy McLeod had students working hard in music stations today as they explored a variety of percussion and keyboard instruments. Students practiced playing rhythms on drums and read music to perform on instruments such as bells and a miniature piano. It was great to see students engaged, active, and making music while building foundational skills in music literacy.
#ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryWLS
#ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryWLS
Tolbert Elementary media specialist Katie Edwards spent time reading to 4th graders today during specials, continuing the outstanding work she does to inspire a love of reading across the school. Mrs. Edwards is dedicated to creating meaningful literacy experiences for students and fostering a vibrant reading community in the media center.
Earlier this year, she delivered a lightning talk for the University of West Georgia School Library Virtual Conference, a professional event for school library media specialists and administrators focused on innovation in literacy. Her presentation highlighted how Tolbert Elementary is using Wonderbooks to engage and motivate young readers. These interactive books were added to the library last year thanks to support from the Ratner Grant, and they have quickly become a favorite among students.
#ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryTES
Earlier this year, she delivered a lightning talk for the University of West Georgia School Library Virtual Conference, a professional event for school library media specialists and administrators focused on innovation in literacy. Her presentation highlighted how Tolbert Elementary is using Wonderbooks to engage and motivate young readers. These interactive books were added to the library last year thanks to support from the Ratner Grant, and they have quickly become a favorite among students.
#ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryTES
Gordon County Schools is proud to recognize National Special Education Day, a day that honors the students, families, educators, and support staff who make our special education programs strong and meaningful.
We are grateful for our dedicated special education teachers, paraprofessionals, therapists, and support teams who work tirelessly to meet the unique needs of every learner. Their expertise and commitment ensure that all students have the opportunity to learn and grow.
#ExtraordinaryGCS
We are grateful for our dedicated special education teachers, paraprofessionals, therapists, and support teams who work tirelessly to meet the unique needs of every learner. Their expertise and commitment ensure that all students have the opportunity to learn and grow.
#ExtraordinaryGCS
Gordon County Schools is proud to congratulate Beth Herod, Director of Early Learning and Elementary Education, on becoming the new President of the Georgia Association of Curriculum and Instructional Supervisors (GACIS). Effective immediately, President-Elect Herod will assume the full role of GACIS President.
Beth brings a wealth of experience, a deep commitment to supporting instructional leaders across Georgia, and a strong understanding of the mission and values of GACIS. Her leadership will continue to strengthen curriculum and instructional support statewide.
Please join us in congratulating Beth on this significant achievement and welcoming her as she steps into this important role. We look forward to the vision, energy, and dedication she will bring to GACIS.
#ExtraordinaryGCS
Beth brings a wealth of experience, a deep commitment to supporting instructional leaders across Georgia, and a strong understanding of the mission and values of GACIS. Her leadership will continue to strengthen curriculum and instructional support statewide.
Please join us in congratulating Beth on this significant achievement and welcoming her as she steps into this important role. We look forward to the vision, energy, and dedication she will bring to GACIS.
#ExtraordinaryGCS
Happy Thanksgiving from Gordon County Schools! We hope each of you has an extraordinary day with family and friends. #ExtraordinaryGCS
Our December breakfast and lunch menus are slap-full of delicious meals and some special treats. National Cookie Day is Thursday, December 4th and our popular Christmas Brunch for Lunch is Tuesday, December 16th -- featuring a fantastic new warm and fluffy Cinnamon Biscuit.
Gordon County Schools extends a heartfelt thank-you to our substitute teachers for the essential role they play in supporting our students, classrooms, and staff.
Substitutes step in with flexibility, professionalism, and care, often on short notice, to keep learning moving forward. Their willingness to help, adapt, and support our schools makes a tremendous difference each day.
We appreciate your dedication to our students and your commitment to making sure teaching and learning continue smoothly. Thank you for everything you do for Gordon County Schools.
#ExtraordinaryGCS
Substitutes step in with flexibility, professionalism, and care, often on short notice, to keep learning moving forward. Their willingness to help, adapt, and support our schools makes a tremendous difference each day.
We appreciate your dedication to our students and your commitment to making sure teaching and learning continue smoothly. Thank you for everything you do for Gordon County Schools.
#ExtraordinaryGCS
Excellent work in Lacey Mullinax’s 8th grade science class as students learn the difference between acceleration and velocity and practice describing how acceleration occurs! Their thoughtful responses and active participation show a strong grasp of these key physical science concepts. #ExtraordinaryRBMS #ExtraordinaryGCS
At Red Bud Elementary, Mr. Maldonado’s second graders are showing creativity and gratitude as they write about what they are thankful for and craft fun turkey projects to accompany their work! It is wonderful to see students expressing themselves while building writing skills in such an enjoyable way. #ExtraordinaryRBES #ExtraordinaryGCS
Outstanding learning in Mrs. Weaver’s classroom as GCHS science students dive into explaining and describing genetically modified organisms! Their thoughtful discussions and growing understanding show strong engagement with this important scientific concept. #ExtraordinaryGCHS #ExtraordinaryGCS
Great work happening in Mr. Peacock’s 8th grade social studies class as students build visual literacy by analyzing Civil War political cartoons to better understand the war’s impact on Georgia! This meaningful approach helps students think critically and see history through multiple perspectives. #ExtraordinaryAMS #ExtraordinaryGCS
We are truly thankful for the amazing school nutrition team at W. L. Swain Elementary and for Director Nicole Head, who joined in cooking and serving a wonderful Thanksgiving meal for students and families!
We also appreciate every school nutrition staff member across the district for providing delicious and nutritious meals daily—your dedication makes such a difference. #ExtraordinaryWLS #ExtraordinaryGCS
We also appreciate every school nutrition staff member across the district for providing delicious and nutritious meals daily—your dedication makes such a difference. #ExtraordinaryWLS #ExtraordinaryGCS
Today we celebrate our outstanding Education Support Professionals who keep our schools running smoothly every single day! From bus drivers and cafeteria teams to paraprofessionals, custodians, secretaries, and so many others, your work ensures that students can learn, grow, and thrive. Thank you for the vital role you play in preparing all students for life. #ExtraordinaryGCS
Gordon County Schools is proud to celebrate two extraordinary middle school students who were recognized by the Kiwanis Club of Calhoun-Gordon County for their outstanding character. Cooper Ingram from Red Bud Middle School and Addy Temple from Ashworth Middle School exemplify kindness, leadership, and service in their schools and communities.
Cooper Ingram (top of image) is an exceptional young man who consistently demonstrates compassion and a willingness to help others. He is always ready to lend a hand, often stepping in without being asked simply because he recognizes a need. Cooper never seeks recognition or the spotlight. Instead, he acts out of genuine care and integrity, making his classroom and school a better place each and every day. His character shines through his everyday actions, reflecting who he truly is at heart.
Addy Temple (bottom of image) has shown remarkable leadership through her daily responsibility of raising and lowering the U.S. and Georgia state flags at Ashworth Middle School. With quiet pride and dedication, she ensures that the flags are displayed respectfully, demonstrating discipline, honor, and teamwork. Whether she is organizing the flag area, mentoring younger students, or stepping up to help whenever needed, Addy leads through service and sets a powerful example for her peers. She reminds us that leadership often begins with small acts carried out with excellence and heart.
We are incredibly proud of Cooper and Addy for representing the spirit of Red Bud Middle School and Ashworth Middle School with such integrity and character. Congratulations to these outstanding students.
#ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryAMS #ExtraordinaryRBMS
Cooper Ingram (top of image) is an exceptional young man who consistently demonstrates compassion and a willingness to help others. He is always ready to lend a hand, often stepping in without being asked simply because he recognizes a need. Cooper never seeks recognition or the spotlight. Instead, he acts out of genuine care and integrity, making his classroom and school a better place each and every day. His character shines through his everyday actions, reflecting who he truly is at heart.
Addy Temple (bottom of image) has shown remarkable leadership through her daily responsibility of raising and lowering the U.S. and Georgia state flags at Ashworth Middle School. With quiet pride and dedication, she ensures that the flags are displayed respectfully, demonstrating discipline, honor, and teamwork. Whether she is organizing the flag area, mentoring younger students, or stepping up to help whenever needed, Addy leads through service and sets a powerful example for her peers. She reminds us that leadership often begins with small acts carried out with excellence and heart.
We are incredibly proud of Cooper and Addy for representing the spirit of Red Bud Middle School and Ashworth Middle School with such integrity and character. Congratulations to these outstanding students.
#ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryAMS #ExtraordinaryRBMS
Even though they stay busy constantly throughout the day, we were able to get a picture of just a few of the many extraordinary people in our Transportation Department to say this: Thank you!
Thank you to our entire Transportation Department for the incredible work they do every day to keep our students safe. From drivers to mechanics, our warehouse manager, routing and department coordinators, assistants, and Director of Transportation Tim Watkins, each person plays an essential role in supporting our schools.
This dedicated team ensures students get to and from school safely, travel to athletic events and field trips, and arrive at the College and Career Academy. We are grateful for their commitment, professionalism, and care for our students and community. Thank you for being EXTRAORDINARY!
#ExtraordinaryGCS
Thank you to our entire Transportation Department for the incredible work they do every day to keep our students safe. From drivers to mechanics, our warehouse manager, routing and department coordinators, assistants, and Director of Transportation Tim Watkins, each person plays an essential role in supporting our schools.
This dedicated team ensures students get to and from school safely, travel to athletic events and field trips, and arrive at the College and Career Academy. We are grateful for their commitment, professionalism, and care for our students and community. Thank you for being EXTRAORDINARY!
#ExtraordinaryGCS
Thank you to the Fairmount Elementary school nutrition staff for everything they do and for the delicious Thanksgiving lunch they served today to staff, students, and visitors. Nutrition Director Nicole Head also joined the team to help cook and serve, and we truly appreciate the hard work and care these ladies put into every meal.
W. L. Swain Elementary will serve its Thanksgiving lunch on Thursday, November 20!
#ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryFES
W. L. Swain Elementary will serve its Thanksgiving lunch on Thursday, November 20!
#ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryFES
Tolbert Elementary 5th grade teacher Marie Taylor and co-teacher Jason Etheridge led an engaging lesson where students worked together to read and understand the experiences of the Oregon Trail. Students took on different roles within their groups, selected a leader, and navigated interactive tasks to determine their fate as they “moved out west.”
This hands-on activity helped students deepen their understanding of history, teamwork, and the challenges pioneers faced.
#ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryTES
This hands-on activity helped students deepen their understanding of history, teamwork, and the challenges pioneers faced.
#ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryTES
Our "Winter Holiday Meal Box" registration is now open! Registration ends Wednesday, November 19th at 11:59 p.m., so act quickly if you are interested!
Gordon County Schools is excited to support families this holiday season by providing 10 breakfasts and 10 lunches per child to help cover meals during Winter Holidays/Christmas Break. This program is open to all children ages 0–18 (and 0–21 for students with special needs) in Gordon County; no school enrollment required.
Pickup Date & Time:
Friday, December 19th — 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM
(PLEASE NOTE: There has been a change to our previous survey. GCS was notified that we are only permitted to do pickup for Friday, December 19th due to regulations pertaining to this amazing program. We will be notifying anyone who originally chose Thursday's date to let each family know of the change and whether they can still pick up or not.)
Pickup locations vary by school; please select your preferred site in the form. Registration is required to accurately supply food. One meal kit per child.
Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/eisxPH9B5W
We look forward to serving our Gordon County families this holiday season!
Thanksgiving Break Reminder!
Gordon County Schools will be on Thanksgiving Break from November 24 through November 28. We hope all of our students, staff, and families enjoy a safe and relaxing break with loved ones.
#ExtraordinaryGCS
Gordon County Schools will be on Thanksgiving Break from November 24 through November 28. We hope all of our students, staff, and families enjoy a safe and relaxing break with loved ones.
#ExtraordinaryGCS
