This week, Gordon County Schools joins the nationwide celebration of National School Bus Safety Week, recognizing the vital role that school transportation plays in keeping students safe every day.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our dedicated bus drivers and transportation staff who ensure that students arrive to and from school safely and on time. Their professionalism, care, and commitment make them true heroes on the road.
We also thank our families and community members for doing their part by staying alert, stopping for school buses, and following safety laws that protect our children.
Together, we help make every ride a safe one.
#ExtraordinaryGCS #NationalSchoolBusSafetyWeek
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our dedicated bus drivers and transportation staff who ensure that students arrive to and from school safely and on time. Their professionalism, care, and commitment make them true heroes on the road.
We also thank our families and community members for doing their part by staying alert, stopping for school buses, and following safety laws that protect our children.
Together, we help make every ride a safe one.
#ExtraordinaryGCS #NationalSchoolBusSafetyWeek
Today, we proudly celebrate the dedicated bus drivers and monitors who safely transport our students each and every day. Your commitment, care, and kindness ensure our students start and end their days with a smile.
Thank you for keeping Gordon County Schools moving safely and smoothly — rain or shine! #ExtraordinaryGCS
Thank you for keeping Gordon County Schools moving safely and smoothly — rain or shine! #ExtraordinaryGCS
The weather was picture-perfect today at Fairmount Elementary. Our Bulldogs had a blast at recess! #ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryFES
The 2025 Gordon County-Calhoun Special Olympics was held today at Ratner Stadium, bringing together student athletes, teachers, families, and community volunteers for a day of competition and celebration!
Athletes from schools across Gordon County and the City of Calhoun participated in a variety of Olympic-style events, including track races and shot put. The event began with an opening ceremony featuring a parade of athletes and remarks from local organizers and leaders. Volunteers and staff helped coordinate events throughout the day, ensuring that each athlete had the opportunity to participate and be recognized for their achievements.
Families, classmates, and supporters cheered on each student and event. Athletes were celebrated with a ribbon ceremony after each event to acknowledge their success and sportsmanship.
The Gordon County-Calhoun Special Olympics continues to provide meaningful opportunities for students to demonstrate determination, sportsmanship, and community spirit. Thank you to everyone who came out today and the sponsors who helped make it possible.
#ExtraordinaryGCS
Athletes from schools across Gordon County and the City of Calhoun participated in a variety of Olympic-style events, including track races and shot put. The event began with an opening ceremony featuring a parade of athletes and remarks from local organizers and leaders. Volunteers and staff helped coordinate events throughout the day, ensuring that each athlete had the opportunity to participate and be recognized for their achievements.
Families, classmates, and supporters cheered on each student and event. Athletes were celebrated with a ribbon ceremony after each event to acknowledge their success and sportsmanship.
The Gordon County-Calhoun Special Olympics continues to provide meaningful opportunities for students to demonstrate determination, sportsmanship, and community spirit. Thank you to everyone who came out today and the sponsors who helped make it possible.
#ExtraordinaryGCS
Gordon County Schools students continue to demonstrate strong academic achievement, outperforming national averages on the 2025 ACT.
According to results released by the Georgia Department of Education, Georgia students overall exceeded national averages for the ninth consecutive year—and Gordon County students contributed to that success with impressive local results across all tested areas. Students from Gordon County Schools achieved an average composite score of 20.4, compared to the national average of 19.4. GCS students surpassed national averages in every subject area, showing particular strength in reading and science.
For the ninth year in a row, Georgia students as a whole outperformed their peers nationwide on the ACT, even as the national average remained steady. State School Superintendent Richard Woods praised students and educators statewide for their commitment to academic success, saying, “We are nearing a decade of Georgia students beating the national average on the ACT, with similar results on the SAT. Despite the challenges public schools across the country have faced over the last decade, our students continue to outperform the national average—our teachers, school leaders, families, and students should take great pride in that accomplishment.”
The ACT measures students’ readiness for college-level coursework in English, mathematics, reading, and science. Gordon County Schools’ strong performance reflects the district’s dedication to preparing students for postsecondary success and future careers. District leaders credit ongoing efforts to strengthen instruction, expand learning opportunities, and support student achievement as key factors behind these results.
Gordon County Schools will continue to focus on academic excellence, ensuring students are well-equipped for success beyond graduation.
According to results released by the Georgia Department of Education, Georgia students overall exceeded national averages for the ninth consecutive year—and Gordon County students contributed to that success with impressive local results across all tested areas. Students from Gordon County Schools achieved an average composite score of 20.4, compared to the national average of 19.4. GCS students surpassed national averages in every subject area, showing particular strength in reading and science.
For the ninth year in a row, Georgia students as a whole outperformed their peers nationwide on the ACT, even as the national average remained steady. State School Superintendent Richard Woods praised students and educators statewide for their commitment to academic success, saying, “We are nearing a decade of Georgia students beating the national average on the ACT, with similar results on the SAT. Despite the challenges public schools across the country have faced over the last decade, our students continue to outperform the national average—our teachers, school leaders, families, and students should take great pride in that accomplishment.”
The ACT measures students’ readiness for college-level coursework in English, mathematics, reading, and science. Gordon County Schools’ strong performance reflects the district’s dedication to preparing students for postsecondary success and future careers. District leaders credit ongoing efforts to strengthen instruction, expand learning opportunities, and support student achievement as key factors behind these results.
Gordon County Schools will continue to focus on academic excellence, ensuring students are well-equipped for success beyond graduation.
The Gordon County Schools Board of Education is proud to announce that it has received the Georgia School Boards Association’s (GSBA) 2025 Exemplary Board Recognition, the highest honor in GSBA’s board recognition program.
This prestigious achievement highlights the Board’s strong commitment to effective governance, continuous improvement, transparency, and collaboration—key principles that foster excellent schools and expand opportunities for every student in Gordon County.
To earn this distinction, the Gordon County Schools Board of Education met and exceeded rigorous standards established by GSBA to recognize boards that demonstrate outstanding leadership and accountability in serving their communities.
The GSBA Board Recognition Program, developed by Georgia superintendents and school board members and based on the State Board of Education’s Standards for Effective Governance, was established in 1998 as one of the first programs in the nation to set clear, measurable expectations for local boards of education.
The program includes three levels of recognition: Quality Board, Distinguished Board, and Exemplary Board. Attaining the Exemplary level represents the highest standard of excellence and service for local school boards across Georgia.
This recognition reflects the Gordon County Schools Board of Education’s dedication to serving students, staff, and the community with integrity and vision. Through strong leadership and a shared commitment to student success, the Board continues to ensure that Gordon County Schools provides extraordinary educational opportunities that prepare every student for a bright and successful future.
This prestigious achievement highlights the Board’s strong commitment to effective governance, continuous improvement, transparency, and collaboration—key principles that foster excellent schools and expand opportunities for every student in Gordon County.
To earn this distinction, the Gordon County Schools Board of Education met and exceeded rigorous standards established by GSBA to recognize boards that demonstrate outstanding leadership and accountability in serving their communities.
The GSBA Board Recognition Program, developed by Georgia superintendents and school board members and based on the State Board of Education’s Standards for Effective Governance, was established in 1998 as one of the first programs in the nation to set clear, measurable expectations for local boards of education.
The program includes three levels of recognition: Quality Board, Distinguished Board, and Exemplary Board. Attaining the Exemplary level represents the highest standard of excellence and service for local school boards across Georgia.
This recognition reflects the Gordon County Schools Board of Education’s dedication to serving students, staff, and the community with integrity and vision. Through strong leadership and a shared commitment to student success, the Board continues to ensure that Gordon County Schools provides extraordinary educational opportunities that prepare every student for a bright and successful future.
Congratulations to two elementary schools for being recognized at the recent Gordon County Schools Board of Education meeting for their outstanding achievements.
W.L. Swain Elementary was honored by the Georgia Department of Education as a 2025 Title I Reward School, placing them among the top 5% of Title I schools in the state for making the most progress in student achievement. This recognition is based on the most recent two years of state testing data in English Language Arts and mathematics. The award reflects the hard work and commitment of Swain’s students, staff, parents, and administration. Accepting the recognition on behalf of W.L. Swain Elementary were Principal Tara Green, Assistant Principal Stacy Calvert, and teachers India Bennett and Monica Nacey
Sonoraville Elementary was also recognized for being named an Apple Distinguished School, an achievement that highlights the school’s innovative use of instructional technology to promote student collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking. Sonoraville Elementary joins Ashworth, Tolbert, Swain, and Fairmount Elementary in earning this distinction, with fewer than 15 schools in Georgia holding this honor. Recognized on behalf of Sonoraville Elementary were Principal Kelly Rampy, Assistant Principal Nicole Burgess, and Instructional Technology Coordinator Whitney Prather, who supported the application and video submission process.
#ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryWLS #ExtraordinarySES
W.L. Swain Elementary was honored by the Georgia Department of Education as a 2025 Title I Reward School, placing them among the top 5% of Title I schools in the state for making the most progress in student achievement. This recognition is based on the most recent two years of state testing data in English Language Arts and mathematics. The award reflects the hard work and commitment of Swain’s students, staff, parents, and administration. Accepting the recognition on behalf of W.L. Swain Elementary were Principal Tara Green, Assistant Principal Stacy Calvert, and teachers India Bennett and Monica Nacey
Sonoraville Elementary was also recognized for being named an Apple Distinguished School, an achievement that highlights the school’s innovative use of instructional technology to promote student collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking. Sonoraville Elementary joins Ashworth, Tolbert, Swain, and Fairmount Elementary in earning this distinction, with fewer than 15 schools in Georgia holding this honor. Recognized on behalf of Sonoraville Elementary were Principal Kelly Rampy, Assistant Principal Nicole Burgess, and Instructional Technology Coordinator Whitney Prather, who supported the application and video submission process.
#ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryWLS #ExtraordinarySES
We are super-excited to welcome everyone back to school for a week of special international menus! National School Lunch Week is Oct 13-17, and you will have the chance to try a different cuisine each day. Get ready to Taste the World in your school cafeteria!
We may be out for fall break, but that doesn't stop us from celebrating Georgia Pre-K Week! Thank you to our teachers and paraprofsssionals who make the first year of school so meaningful to the students! #ExtraordinaryGCS
Gordon County Schools appreciates all of our instructional coaches who make an impact each day working with teachers and staff! #ExtraordinaryGCS
Congratulations to Belwood Elementary for winning September’s Attendance Awareness Month challenge with the highest attendance rate of 96.33%. Executive Director of Student Services Mike Evelti recognized BES principal Matt Fox for this achievement during the district leadership meeting. Way to go, Belwood! #ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryBES
Today is National Custodian Day! Let’s take a moment to recognize the incredible contributions our custodians make every single day. They work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep our schools clean, safe, and welcoming for students, staff, and visitors alike.
Let’s bring their efforts into the spotlight and show them just how much we value and appreciate all they do! #ExtraordinaryGCS
Let’s bring their efforts into the spotlight and show them just how much we value and appreciate all they do! #ExtraordinaryGCS
October is National Principals Month, and Gordon County Schools is proud to celebrate the incredible leaders who guide our schools each day. Our principals work tirelessly to support students, staff, and families while fostering positive learning environments where students can succeed. Thank you to our principals for the difference you make in our schools and community! #ExtraordinaryGCS
Congratulations to our 2024-2025 Gordon County Schools students who exceeded state and national averages on the SAT!
Today’s data release highlights the success of Gordon County Schools students as they prepare for postsecondary opportunities. Both Gordon Central High School and Sonoraville High School posted mean scores above the national averages in every category. Gordon Central earned a total mean score of 1033, including a Reading/Writing mean of 533, exceeding the state averages, while Sonoraville also demonstrated strong performance that contributed to the district’s overall success.
Gordon County Results at a Glance:
Gordon Central High School (GCHS): 1033 total mean (533 Reading and Writing / 500 Math)
Sonoraville High School (SHS): 1016 total mean (524 Evidence-Based Reading and Writing / 492 Math)
District Average: 1021 total mean (527 ERW / 494 Math)
State of Georgia: 1029 total mean (526 ERW / 502 Math)
National Average: 996 total mean (508 ERW / 488 Math)
For the eighth consecutive year, Georgia’s public-school students outperformed the nation’s public-school average on the SAT. Georgia’s class of 2025 recorded a mean score of 1029, which is 33 points higher than the national average of 996.
Georgia’s students earned a 526 mean in Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (ERW) and a 502 mean in Math, compared to 508 ERW and 488 Math for students nationwide.
Participation in Georgia increased this year, with 55% of Georgia’s class of 2025 taking the SAT at some point during high school, compared to 52% for the class of 2024 and 50% for the class of 2023. This expanded participation sometimes leads to slight decreases in overall averages.
Gordon County Schools celebrates these results as a reflection of the district’s dedication to preparing students for success beyond high school. Thank you to our dedicated teachers, supportive families, and community stakeholders who partner with us from the very first day of kindergarten through graduation.
Today’s data release highlights the success of Gordon County Schools students as they prepare for postsecondary opportunities. Both Gordon Central High School and Sonoraville High School posted mean scores above the national averages in every category. Gordon Central earned a total mean score of 1033, including a Reading/Writing mean of 533, exceeding the state averages, while Sonoraville also demonstrated strong performance that contributed to the district’s overall success.
Gordon County Results at a Glance:
Gordon Central High School (GCHS): 1033 total mean (533 Reading and Writing / 500 Math)
Sonoraville High School (SHS): 1016 total mean (524 Evidence-Based Reading and Writing / 492 Math)
District Average: 1021 total mean (527 ERW / 494 Math)
State of Georgia: 1029 total mean (526 ERW / 502 Math)
National Average: 996 total mean (508 ERW / 488 Math)
For the eighth consecutive year, Georgia’s public-school students outperformed the nation’s public-school average on the SAT. Georgia’s class of 2025 recorded a mean score of 1029, which is 33 points higher than the national average of 996.
Georgia’s students earned a 526 mean in Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (ERW) and a 502 mean in Math, compared to 508 ERW and 488 Math for students nationwide.
Participation in Georgia increased this year, with 55% of Georgia’s class of 2025 taking the SAT at some point during high school, compared to 52% for the class of 2024 and 50% for the class of 2023. This expanded participation sometimes leads to slight decreases in overall averages.
Gordon County Schools celebrates these results as a reflection of the district’s dedication to preparing students for success beyond high school. Thank you to our dedicated teachers, supportive families, and community stakeholders who partner with us from the very first day of kindergarten through graduation.
Belwood Elementary 5th grade teacher Katherine Montelongo guided her students today in learning how to cite evidence in their writing. Students discussed supporting and defending claims with strong evidence, building important skills as thoughtful writers and critical thinkers. #ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryBES
W.L. Swain Elementary 4th grade teacher Laura Hall was working with her students on long division today. Her class practiced problem-solving strategies and showed great effort as they built confidence in their math skills. #ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryWLS
Today, Detective Cody Jones and the Gordon County Sheriff’s Department visited Tolbert Elementary to announce the official name of their new canine. Tolbert Elementary won the naming contest, and the bloodhound will now proudly be called Max.
Max was rescued after being abandoned and will now serve the Gordon County community by helping protect and support law enforcement. Students at Tolbert Elementary were excited to greet Max, named in honor of Max V. Tolbert, and celebrate his new job with the GCSD. Superintendent Alice Mashburn, principal Dr. Rebecca Owen, teachers, and staff joined in welcoming the Sheriff’s Department for this special occasion. #ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryTES
Max was rescued after being abandoned and will now serve the Gordon County community by helping protect and support law enforcement. Students at Tolbert Elementary were excited to greet Max, named in honor of Max V. Tolbert, and celebrate his new job with the GCSD. Superintendent Alice Mashburn, principal Dr. Rebecca Owen, teachers, and staff joined in welcoming the Sheriff’s Department for this special occasion. #ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinaryTES
Gordon County Schools is proud to announce an extraordinary graduation rate for the Class of 2025, with 95.5% of students earning their diplomas. Sonoraville High School reported a graduation rate of 96%, and Gordon Central High School reported a graduation rate of 94.8%. The College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI) graduation rate measures the percentage of students who graduate from high school with a regular diploma in four or five years.
Gordon County Schools’ four-year graduation rate of 94.53% significantly exceeds Georgia’s 2025 state average of 87.2%, surpassing it by 7.3 percentage points. This milestone is based on the most recent report released by the Georgia Department of Education, which calculates graduation rates using a four-year cohort method in compliance with federal law.
The four-year cohort method follows a group of students from the start of ninth grade, adjusting for transfers in and out over the following three years. The graduation rate is then determined by dividing the number of students who graduate with a regular high school diploma by the total number of students in the adjusted cohort. For more than a decade, Gordon County Schools has consistently exceeded state averages.
Superintendent Alice Mashburn stated, “Congratulations to the Class of 2025. Their achievement reflects the strength of an entire community united with one purpose: student success. Teachers, staff, administrators, parents, and community partners have all played a vital role in preparing these graduates for the future. We will continue inspiring, supporting, and preparing every student for lifelong success and prosperity."
Gordon County Schools continues to demonstrate that student success is built on a foundation of rigorous academics, supportive educators, and engaged families. These graduation rates represent the district’s unwavering commitment to ensuring students are empowered to reach their full potential.
#ExtraordinaryGCS
Gordon County Schools will be on Fall Break from October 6 through October 10. We hope all of our students, staff, and families enjoy a safe and relaxing break! #ExtraordinaryGCS
Sonoraville High School Construction teacher and SkillsUSA Advisor Bo Dooley has his students preparing through a mock competition for upcoming region and state events. Mr. Dooley’s program has a strong record of competing at both the state and national levels, and students are working hard in areas such as masonry, carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and more as they aim for another championship.
SkillsUSA competitions give students the opportunity to demonstrate their technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and hands-on abilities while competing against peers from across the state and nation. These events provide real-world experiences that prepare students for success in their future careers. #ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinarySHS
SkillsUSA competitions give students the opportunity to demonstrate their technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and hands-on abilities while competing against peers from across the state and nation. These events provide real-world experiences that prepare students for success in their future careers. #ExtraordinaryGCS #ExtraordinarySHS
