YOUNG LITERARY LEGENDS: Drumroll, please! 🥁 The winners of the Young Georgia Authors (YGA) Writing Competition are announced below! Next stop: the regional level! The YGA competition aims to inspire students to develop a passion for writing, celebrate their literary achievements, and acknowledge their excellence in both the arts and academics. Kindergarten - Zariya Grice, Allatoona Elementary 1st Grade - Amy Macedo Munoz, Allatoona Elementary 2nd Grade - Jackson Yohe, Taylorsville Elementary 3rd Grade - Sophie Mason, Taylorsville Elementary 4th Grade - Dylan Ayala-Mendoza, Allatoona Elementary 5th Grade - Emmett Schilling, Pine Log Elementary 6th Grade - Madalie Furey, Adairsville Middle 7th Grade - William Teasley, Red Top Middle 8th Grade - Josephine Rae Williamson, Woodland Middle XXX 10th Grade - Keira Woodside, Bartow County College and Career Academy 11th Grade - Ava Alston, Bartow County College and Career Academy 12th Grade - Keeghan Bevars, Woodland High School
2 months ago, Alisha Evans
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The Bartow County Board of Education votes to postpone the called meeting originally scheduled for February 3, 2025, to vote on HB 581. This extension will enable the Board to conduct thorough due diligence in investigating the following areas before making a decision to opt into or out of HB 581: Current legislation has been proposed to extend the deadline for making a decision from March 1, 2025, to May 1, 2025. The extension could provide legislators with additional time to amend the Bill, particularly by incorporating a sunset clause. A sunset clause is a provision in a law, contract, or regulation that sets an expiration date for certain terms or conditions, after which the terms or the entire agreement become void unless extended. This would render the Bill non-permanent. The extension may also allow for the Bill to be classified as a state exemption, which would result in a smaller impact on local fair share and less money taken by the state from local school systems. To ensure clarity, local fair share refers to the portion of funding or resources that a local government or entity is responsible for contributing, based on its capacity and needs. This concept ensures that each locality pays its equitable share towards a larger regional or state initiative. In summary, we appreciate the efforts of our local legislators as they consider the aforementioned bill amendments to create a mutually beneficial outcome for our taxpayers and public education.
2 months ago, Alisha Evans
ROBOT RUMBLE: Cloverleaf Elementary buzzed with excitement as twenty-six robotics teams clashed in the Chattanooga North Georgia Qualifier event. Bartow County elementary schools made a strong showing, with half of the teams hailing from the area. The lineup included: 306 Pride: Aquabots from Adairsville Elementary ALES Autobots from Allatoona Elementary Team Blaze from Clear Creek Elementary CLES LEGO Legends from Cloverleaf Elementary Emerson Encoders from Emerson Elementary Meca Cats from Euharlee Elementary Robo-Knights from Hamilton Crossing Elementary Mechanical Eagles from Kingston Elementary MRES Robocats from Mission Road Elementary PLES Logology Bots from Pine Log Elementary Tiger Tech from Taylorsville Elementary WES Black Dragon Warriors from White Elementary WES Warrior Sharks from White Elementary AWARDS: Robot Design: MRES Robocats, Mission Road Elementary Core Values Award: Emerson Encoders, Emerson Elementary Robot Game: Team Blaze, Clear Creek Elementary Champions Award: Team Blaze, Clear Creek Elementary Advancing to the Regional Championship at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga on February 8: Team Blaze, Clear Creek Elementary Emerson Encoders, Emerson Elementary Mecha Cats, Euharlee Elementary Robo-Knights, Hamilton Crossing Elementary MRES Robocats, Mission Road Elementary WES Warrior Sharks, White Elementary A HUGE thank you to Cloverleaf Elementary for hosting this exciting competition!
2 months ago, Alisha Evans
Team Blaze at Robotics Competition
RIGHT WORK: Let's recognize our new Ms. Dot STAR Award winners for going above and beyond in their line of work. Their impact can truly be felt districtwide! CONGRATULATIONS: Brittany Mitchell, Administrative Assistant, Bartow County College and Career Academy Regina Breed, Kindergarten Paraprofessional, Taylorsville Elementary School Kyra Burch, Behavior Specialist, Bartow County Central Office
2 months ago, Alisha Evans
Kyra Burch and Tania Amerson
EXCEPTIONAL EDUCATION NOTICE: The Bartow County School System (BCSS) has announced that all Special Education records for students born in the year 2002 will be destroyed this summer, as per district policy and state guidelines. The records will be securely destroyed in order to maintain compliance with legal retention requirements. To ensure that all parents or guardians who wish to retain a final hard copy of their child’s Special Education records have an opportunity to do so, BCSS is advising that all requests for copies be submitted by April 31, 2025, by the close of business. After this deadline, records will be permanently destroyed. Parents or guardians who would like to request these records must contact the BCSS Special Education Department at 770-606-5800 EXT: 2021 or email kathy.smith@bartow.k12.ga.us. Requests can also be submitted in person at the district office located at 65 Gilreath Road, Cartersville, GA 30121. It is important that all requests are made prior to the specified deadline to guarantee that records are preserved for personal use. The Bartow County School System is committed to maintaining the confidentiality and security of student records and encourages families to take advantage of this opportunity to secure their documents before they are destroyed. For more information, please contact the BCSS Special Education Department. Contact: Kathy Smith 770-606-5800 EXT:2021
2 months ago, Alisha Evans
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CENTRAL OFFICE CELEBRATIONS: When you work in a school system and community like this, you have a lot to celebrate! This month, we are thrilled to celebrate and honor Billy Pruitt, our exceptional School Nutrition Warehouse Manager. Billy consistently enhances our food deliveries to local schools, ensuring everything runs smoothly. His dedication goes above and beyond, as he is always available after normal business hours and during every break. Billy is truly irreplaceable, and we are incredibly proud to have him as a member of our BCSS Family!
3 months ago, Alisha Evans
Billy Pruitt accepting an award at Central Office
TOUCH DOWNS AT THE DOUG: Georgia Head Football Coach Kirby Smart and several other head coaches landed their helicopter at The Doug and visited with the Cass High School Football Program! Here are the pictures we promised! 📸 #betterinbartow #FireTheCannon
3 months ago, Alisha Evans
Kirby Smart with Cass High football players
OPPORTUNITIES AWAIT: This NACAC College Fair is one you do not want to miss! Details below!
3 months ago, Alisha Evans
NACAC National College Fair in Atlanta is Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025 from 1-4 p.m. Can the QR code below to register
NEW: Pre-K registration and lottery information has just been finalized, so we are passing it along to you! Please note that White Elementary Pre-K classes will continue to be housed at Pine Log Elementary due to capacity limitations at WES.
3 months ago, Alisha Evans
2025 Pre-K Registration February 24-28, 2025 Virtual Lottery Drawing March 21, 2025 @ 9:00 am All children who will have their fourth (4th) birthday on or before September 1, 2025 will be eligible for the 2025-2026 school year. **REGISTRATION PACKETS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT ALL ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS BEGINNING FEBURARY 24TH. ***If you are interested in the Career Academy, please notate that on your registration packet*** All White Elementary School Pre-K classes will be housed at Pine Log Elementary School due to capacity limitations. Additional information provided at www.bartow.k12.ga.us Registration Locations: Adairsville Elementary Emerson Elementary Mission Road Elementary Allatoona Elementary Euharlee Elementary Pine Log Elementary Clear Creek Elementary Hamilton Crossing Elementary Taylorsville Elementary Cloverleaf Elementary Kingston Elementary White Elementary REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR STUDENT REGISTRATION -Birth Certificate -Parent or Guardian Photo ID -Custody Documents (if applicable) -Social Security Card or Waiver -Two Current Proofs of Residence: - Home Ownership Paperwork - Lease/Rental Agreement - Power - Water/Sewer - Cable/Internet - Trash Service - Hotel/Motel Receipt NOTE: If living with someone else, both parties must complete an AFFIDAVIT OF RESIDENCE and submit the two proofs in that person’s name. Affidavit can be obtained at the school or on our website. -Immunization – GA Form 3231 or GA form 2208 (Religious Objection) NAME MUST MATCH BIRTH CERTIFICATE. -Hearing, Vision, Dental & Nutrition Certificate – GA Form 3300. NAME MUST MATCH BIRTH CERTIFICATE. DOCUMENTS THAT MAY BE PROVISIONED -Proof of Government Assistance/Services ***MUST PROVIDE COPY OF PROOF OF SERVICES*** - Childcare & Parent Services (CAPS)-Childcare subsidy Program - Social Security Income Statement - Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) - Medicaid Benefits Card
The Bartow County School System will operate on a two-hour delay tomorrow, January 22, 2025. This extra time will ensure our buses and facilities are fully operational and warm. For those who ride a bus, please add two hours to your usual pick-up time in the morning. Stay safe and warm! We look forward to seeing you tomorrow!
3 months ago, Alisha Evans
Two-hour delay on Jan. 22, 2025
REMINDER: The Bartow County School System will be closed tomorrow, January 20, 2025, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. We are also closely monitoring weather conditions and working with local emergency management officials to prepare for potential inclement weather this week. Thank you for your continued support of the BCSS. We look forward to keeping you informed with timely updates.
3 months ago, Alisha Evans
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CHALLENGE ACCEPTED: Our Pine Log Powerhouse, Miss Brooklyn Grace, will be competing in the Regional Braille Challenge in Macon on February 27th! Of course, one of her most impactful teachers and biggest cheerleader, Ms. Ashlee Oxford, will be rooting her on from the sidelines. Let's celebrate with them! Hit that "love" button! 🎉 #blindkidscan #betterinbartow
3 months ago, Alisha Evans
Brooklyn Grace
NEW: Check out these key facts about House Bill 581 and its impact on Bartow County Schools.
3 months ago, Alisha Evans
HB 581 provides a statewidPotential Effect on BCSS Revenue The BCSS can expect a decrease in local and state funding. If HB 581 was enacted over the past five years, the BCSS would have lost more than $31.6 million.e homestead exemption that limits annual property tax assessment increases to the rate of inflation, as determined by the Consumer Price Index (CPI) from the State of Georgia. This is a permanent exemption. What is House Bill 581? Opting In Could Result in... Reduction or elimination of services or staff positions Reduction in contracted days Salary reductions Use of bonds for new construction Millage rate increase Eliminating current homestead exemptions · Current Exemptions & Tax Relief Homestead Exemption increased from $5,000 to $15,000 in 2025, resulting in a $3 million annual savings to taxpayers Extended Senior Tax Exemption, resulting in a $7.5 million annual savings to taxpayers Consistent millage rate reduction - 19.4 in 2015 to an all-time low of 17.43 now Bottom Line The BCSS is dedicated to balancing the needs of our schools with the best interests of our citizens, ensuring fair and sustainable tax policies that benefit the entire community. This commitment includes the consideration of future exemptions and millage rate reductions. HB 581 Hearing Dates 65 Gilreath Rd., Cartersville Public Participation Sign-In Required Before Meeting January 13, 2025, 5:30 p.m. January 21, 2025, 11:30 a.m.
TRUE INSPIRATION: We are thrilled to announce that Tina O'Shields, our intellectual disabilities specialist, has been honored as a 2025 Chick-fil-A True Inspiration Awards grant recipient! She just received a $30,000 grant to support the Special Olympics of Georgia - Bartow County. This year, only 56 recipients across the Nation were selected for this prestigious award. To be nominated, organizations must address a critical community issue that aligns with Chick-fil-A’s corporate social responsibility priorities: Caring for People, Caring for Others through Food, Caring for Our Communities, and Caring for Our Planet. "I dream of sending athletes to the State Games, where they can continue to develop physical fitness, joy, courage, and a sense of community with other athletes and their families," said O'Shields. "This award is incredible for our athletes and the community. I am deeply grateful to Scott Sangrey and his team at Chick-fil-A!"
3 months ago, Alisha Evans
Bartow County superintendents with Tina O'Shields accepting 30,000 dollar check
SAVE & SHARE: Early kindergarten registration information is below! https://www.bartow.k12.ga.us/page/central-registration
3 months ago, Alisha Evans
EARLY KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION FOR SY25-26 WILL BE FROM FEBRUARY 3RD TO MARCH 7TH 2025 Kindergarten registration for school year 2025-2026 will be held at the Central Registration Office. Please bring the required documents printed out at the time of registration. You can find more information about registration at bartow.k12.ga.us under the Registration link. Currently enrolled Pre-K students will receive an intent form from their school to satisfy Kindergarten Registration. This form must be returned to remain enrolled for SY 2025-2026. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO TAKE AN ENROLLMENT PACKET HOME WITH YOU TO FILL OUT, WE WILL HAVE THEM AVAILABLE TO PICK UP AT THE FRONT DOOR. REQUIRED DOCUMENTS FOR STUDENT REGISTRATION 1. Birth Certificate. Child must be 5 years old on or before September 1, 2025, to be eligible for kindergarten. 2. Social Security Card or Waiver (Available at Central Registration) 3. Two (2) Printed Proofs of Residency. Acceptable documents are: -Home Ownership paperwork -Current Lease/Rental Agreement -Any Utility Bill -Current Income Statement or Pay Stub -Hotel/Motel Receipt or Shelter Letter NOTE: If you are living with someone else, you must submit a Notarized Affidavit of Residency (Available at Central Registration), plus 2 printed proofs of residency in that person’s name. For your convenience, complementary Notary services are available at Central Registration. Both parties must be present to sign the affidavit, and have a valid photo ID. 4. Parent or Legal Guardian Driver’s License or other Government Issued Identification. If you are not the parent, you may be required to provide legal custody or guardianship paperwork. 5. Certificate of Immunization – Form 3231. Obtained from family physician or local health department. Required within 30 days. 6. Certificate of Hearing, Vision, Dental and Nutrition – Form 3300. Obtained from family physician or local health department. Required within 30 days. 7. Previous School Records or Special Education Records, if applicable
HOT OFF THE PRESS: Who opened the cover of the Chamber's 2025 Community Guide and Business Directory and saw this! 😮 It's always #betterinbartow 🎉
3 months ago, Alisha Evans
Bartow County Schools Chamber ad in magazine
STEM CERTIFIED: Join us in celebrating Woodland High School's achievement of District STEM Certification! We proudly presented their banner, marking them as the 18th school in our System to receive this honor! This certification recognizes the school's dedication to high-quality STEM education through enhanced curriculum, professional development for educators, and innovative teaching methods. Next up, State STEM Certification! “Achieving STEM certification is a proud milestone for Woodland High School and a testament to the hard work of our students, staff, and community,” said WHS Principal Melinda Wilder. “This certification highlights our commitment to fostering curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking, while also preparing students for future success in a rapidly changing world. It underscores our dedication to excellence in education and our mission to provide innovative and meaningful learning experiences for every student. This initiative was largely driven by our student STEM Ambassadors, whose passion, leadership, and dedication played a pivotal role in helping us achieve this certification.”
3 months ago, Alisha Evans
Woodland High School District STEM certification award presentation
APPRECIATION POST: Honoring Bartow County School Board Member Tony Ross for his exceptional leadership and dedicated service as Chairman of the Board of Education from 2023 to 2024.
3 months ago, Alisha Evans
Tony Ross receiving an award from Superintendent Terza
ON EAGLES WINGS: It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ms. Madonna Harris, a true hero, idol, and cornerstone of Emerson Elementary School. For 34 years, Ms. Harris, a quiet powerhouse, transformed the lives of her first and second grade students. "For countless struggling readers, she was their guiding light," said EES colleague Dee Smith. "Ms. Harris had an uncanny ability to pinpoint exactly what each student needed, often creating resources herself. She didn’t need the latest tools to help students succeed—she was the tool they needed. Her impact was profound, instilling hope and belief in students who once doubted themselves." Teachers revered her as "The Madonna Harris, a true reading guru." She served on the EES Guiding Coalition, was a first-grade team lead, and was honored as Teacher of the Year. "She was an incredible mentor and role model to every staff member," added EES Assistant Principal Kerry Hammond. "She taught us to see the potential in every student, to teach with compassion, and to never give up. Working alongside her was an honor and a privilege. Madonna wasn’t just an amazing teacher—she was a cornerstone of our school and an irreplaceable presence. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her." Teacher, mentor, and friend—a pillar on which many leaned. "She listened, supported, and always offered a kind word," said Smith. "She was selfless, never boastful, and made everyone feel valued. Her motto, ‘What’s mine is yours,’ was evident in everything she did. She poured her heart, time, and resources into her students and colleagues alike." A celebration of life service will be held today. Extensive support and resources will be provided at EES through our crisis response team. Please keep friends and family close as we remember our remarkable, one-of-a-kind Eagle, now soaring high.
3 months ago, Alisha Evans
Madonna Harris
NEW: We will be operating on our regular schedule tomorrow, January 13, 2025, and are looking forward to an exciting week of learning. Just a reminder, the BCSS will be closed January 20, 2025, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
3 months ago, Alisha Evans
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