SPECIAL BCSS MESSAGE: Due to a winter storm watch and the potential for hazardous road conditions, the Bartow County School System will be closed for all students and staff tomorrow, January 10, 2025. All weekend extracurricular activities are also canceled to ensure the safety of our students, staff, and families.
Please stay safe and enjoy a restful day at home tomorrow. We look forward to welcoming everyone back on Monday, January 13.
SPECIAL BCSS MESSAGE: With a winter storm event in the forecast for Friday, January 10, 2025, we are closely monitoring the weather, collaborating with emergency management officials, and considering all factors to ensure the safety of our students, staff, and families.
A decision regarding Friday school operations and weekend extracurricular activities will be made tomorrow, January 9, 2025, before 1 p.m.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate this winter weather event. Please stay tuned for tomorrow's update. Announcements will be communicated by phone, email, app, website, and social media.
SHOP WITH A HERO: Bartow County schools were challenged to raise $2,000 for the Shop with a Hero Program, but with the collective efforts of our AMAZING students and staff, guess how much was raised? $15,243.70!!!
The highest contributors and winners of the HERO CUP TROPHY are:
* Hamilton Crossing Elementary School - $2,800.34
* Red Top Middle School - $1,550.00
* Adairsville High School - $1,221.00
WHAT BETTER TIME THAN NOW: Download our App and never miss an update!
SHOP WITH A HERO: What an outpouring of love and support in our community! Not only did our Police Chief, Billy Henson, spearhead an effort within our schools to raise more than $15,000 for the Shop with a Hero Program, but so many of our school community came together last month to make sure hundreds of Cartersville-Bartow County students had the best holiday EVER -- food, toys, and even a police-escorted ride around town!
SCHOOL CHOICE PROCEDURES: Starting February 3rd, our School Choice application window will be open for the upcoming academic year! Details below!
WOW: Christmas came early for Bartow County School Bus Driver Jimmy Chappell! He won a $500 cash prize at our Transportation luncheon from our partners in education -- Carla Fowler with Caldwell Banker Kinard Reality! Wonderful surprise for a dedicated member of Team Bartow! #HappyHolidays2024
ENJOY YOUR BREAK: Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays from the Bartow County School System! Make sure you pick up your phone tonight to hear a special message from Superintendent Terza! Enjoy some rest and relaxation, and we'll see our students back on January 7, 2025!
FESTIVE FINALE: What better way for Cass Middle school to end a half day than with a festive Christmas Pep Rally! Cheers could be heard from the Cass Middle School parking lot as students, teachers, and even cafeteria staff battled it out in the gym for bragging rights in holiday-themed games. A flash mob ensued; and Deputy Superintendent Christian Suttle was there with a smile on his face to see it all! #betterinbartow #peprallyfun #magic #weloveourkids
FOND FAREWELL: We are delighted to announce the retirement of our beloved Mrs. Vicky Wade, who has dedicated an incredible 27 years to the Bartow County School System! Throughout her remarkable career, Vicky has worn many hats, including serving as a bookkeeper at Emerson and Taylorsville Elementary Schools, and as an assistant to the assistant principal at Woodland High School. Her contributions have also been invaluable in the Curriculum, Technology, and School Nutrition Departments. Vicky's unwavering commitment and versatile skills have made a lasting impact on our community. We wish her all the best in her well-deserved retirement!
CENTRAL OFFICE CELEBRATIONS: When you work in a school system and community like this, you have a lot to celebrate!
This month, we proudly celebrate and honor David VanHook, our Director of Maintenance and Construction. If you want something done quickly and efficiently, you go directly to Mr. VanHook! His knowledge is vast, and his timeliness and response to questions or concerns is unmatched. He's an asset to our System and we're glad to have him!
ELF FINDER 2024: We'd like to report an Elf on the Shelf sighting at 116 Hamilton Crossing Road👀 Wait, is that an Elf or HCES Principal Lindsay Perry?!! #betterinbartow #holidaycheer #magic #weloveourstudents
REMINDER: Tomorrow, December 20, will be an Early Release Day! Elementary schools dismiss at 11:30 a.m. and middle/high schools dismiss at 12:30 p.m. Lunch will be served, and buses will run on an early dismissal schedule. After School programs will continue to operate.
CASS CAROLERS: Spreading holiday cheer for all to hear...at Central Office! These Cass Carolers, also known as the 8th Grade Cass Middle School Chorus, delivered an outstanding performance of our favorite holiday songs under the direction of Chorus Teacher Tiffany Hunt! You might have even caught Superintendent Terza joining in for a rendition of "Jingle Bells"! 🎼
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT: Vivian Reyes, Adairsville High School Senior
Vivian is once again making history as the first student from Bartow County to be selected for the prestigious United States Senate Youth Program!
USSYPis a distinguished, merit-based initiative that selects two high school juniors or seniors from each state, the District of Columbia, and the Department of Defense Education Activity. These students participate in an intensive, week-long program in Washington, D.C., where they engage in an in-depth study of the federal government. Delegates have the opportunity to meet with key leaders, including senators, the president, Cabinet secretaries, Supreme Court justices, and senior members of the national media. These events feature detailed, closed-door Q&A sessions, inspiring students to make a difference in their communities and beyond. Each delegate receives a $10,000 undergraduate college scholarship in the name of the U.S. Senate, encouraging further studies in history, government, and public affairs.
Funded and administered by The Hearst Foundations since its inception, the program operates without government funding. Military officers, selected competitively by the Office of the Secretary of Defense, serve as elite chaperones and mentors during the program.
WILDCATS' WINTER WONDERLAND: More than 120 spirited Woodland High School students transformed into holiday heroes, giving 49 future Wildcats an unforgettable Christmas adventure during the 4th annual Shop with a Wildcat event! The day was brimming with joy and laughter as they indulged in face painting, crafted festive masterpieces, created heartfelt cards, and, of course, SHOPPED! ☃️❄️🎅🎁
LET THE GAMES BEGIN: What an incredible GHSA State Championship event at our very own Esports Arena!
Our students worked alongside the professionals, learning and participating in shout casting the games, running production, and supporting technology in so many ways! Our Esports coaches were able to coach alongside state finalist schools and learn firsthand what it takes to be competitive enough to WIN at the championship games! #betterinbartow
EXEMPLARY SCHOOL BOARD RECOGNITION: The Bartow County School System is proud to announce that its Board of Education has earned the Georgia School Boards Association's (GSBA) 2024 Exemplary School Board recognition!
This recognition highlights the board’s commitment to continuous improvement, transparency, and collaboration, all of which play a key role in enhancing educational opportunities for every student in the district. The GSBA honors school boards that demonstrate strong governance, helping to create a positive educational culture that supports student learning and achievement.
The Bartow County Board of Education exceeded the criteria set forth by GSBA to earn the honor of a 2024 Exemplary Board.
Congratulations: Chairman Tony Ross (District 1), Vice Chairman Butch Emerson (District 4), Matt Shultz (District 3), Anna Sullivan (District 5), and Darla Williams (District 2).
The GSBA Board recognition program is a three-tiered program. For more information on the GSBA award categories, click the link below.
https://gsba.com/awards/
IT'S A MATCH: Congratulations to Cass High School Senior Stephanie Johnson! We are thrilled to announce her full-tuition scholarship to the University of Southern California through QuestBridge!
“Starting the QuestBridge application many months ago was something that was both terrifying and exhilarating," said Stephanie. "I knew how challenging the application process was going to be and how selective the scholarship award committee was, but I also knew I would be doing myself a disservice if I didn’t just try — so I did. I am so thankful I took the leap of faith! Matching with USC is such an honor.”
Stephanie plans to begin her studies at USC next fall, pursuing a double major in International Affairs and Political Science.
A proud Colonel All-Star, Stephanie has made an indelible mark during her four years at CHS. As Senior Class President and a leader in the International Studies Magnet program, she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to service and leadership. Her involvement in Model UN, Beta Club, the National Spanish Honor Society, and the cheerleading team reflects her well-rounded dedication to academic excellence, teamwork, and community engagement.
The QuestBridge Scholarship is a respected program designed to connect high-achieving high school seniors with full four-year scholarships to some of the nation's top colleges. It covers tuition, room and board, and additional fees, ensuring that students can focus on their education without financial worries.
PARTNERING UP: We're collaborating with Georgia Tech! This time to discuss K-12 student and teacher success resources with Rick Clark, Executive Director of Strategic Student Success, and Dr. Sirocus Barnes, Director of Expanded Learning Programs!
