Titan Times - April 2026

Dear Turner County Families and Community,

As we close the month of April, we are proud to reflect on the continued progress and accomplishments taking place across Turner County Schools. Our elementary and middle school students have successfully completed state testing, and we commend both students and staff for their hard work, focus, and perseverance throughout this important time. At the high school level, students have completed End of Pathway testing and are now preparing to finish the year strong, with finals and End of Course (EOC) assessments scheduled for the week of May 11th. This time of year is always busy, but it is also a meaningful opportunity to celebrate growth and recognize the efforts that have been put in all year long.

In this month’s newsletter, you will see highlights that showcase the dedication, creativity, and success of our students and staff. From hands-on learning experiences and academic achievements to extracurricular activities and community partnerships, these moments reflect the well-rounded opportunities we strive to provide. As we enter the final month of the school year, we remain focused on finishing strong and supporting every student as they reach their goals. Thank you for your continued support and partnership in making Turner County Schools a place where students can learn, grow, and thrive.

Go Titans!

Warm regards,

Christy Wray
Superintendent

It is with heartfelt gratitude and deep respect that we honor the life and legacy of Mr. Rodrick, affectionately known as Mr. Rod, who faithfully served as a custodian at Turner Elementary School since July 2005. For nearly two decades, Mr. Rod was a steady and caring presence in our school community. Described by many as a “gentle giant,” he carried himself with humility, kindness, and quiet strength. Whether in the halls of the school or out in the community, he was known for his warm smile and his ability to make others feel seen and valued. His soft-spoken nature spoke volumes, as his actions consistently reflected a genuine care for others. Those who worked closely with him often shared that while he was a man of few words, once you built a connection with him, his warmth and friendship were undeniable.

Mr. Rod was dedicated to Turner County, his family, and the students he served each day. He took pride in his work and quietly demonstrated what it meant to be dependable and hardworking. His commitment was evident in all that he did. While he often worked behind the scenes, his impact was felt by everyone who crossed his path. He had a special way with students, especially in the lunchroom, where he would gently guide them with a calm and respectful tone, reminding them to make good choices and do what was right. His presence brought a sense of order; a sense of care and consistency that students responded to.

Those who knew Mr. Rod will remember him as kind, helpful, and quietly supportive. He looked out for others, offered encouragement when needed, and built meaningful connections through simple, genuine interactions. Whether sharing lighthearted moments, a friendly exchange, or simply offering a smile, he had a way of making people feel at ease. He was reliable, trustworthy, and willing to give whatever he could to help others. His love for his Florida Gators, his faith, and his genuine joy in making others smile were just a few of the many qualities that made him so special. As one colleague beautifully shared, “God chose a precious flower from His garden, a gentle and humble giant.” Mr. Rod’s presence is deeply missed in our hallways and throughout our school community. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched and the example he set for us all. He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten!

Turner County Schools is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of both our students and staff through a recent district recognition event led by Superintendent Wray and our school principals. A total of 83 students across the district were recognized for achieving perfect attendance while also maintaining passing grades in all subjects, an impressive accomplishment that reflects dedication, responsibility, and a strong commitment to learning. These students were honored with an ice cream social and received certificates in recognition of their achievement. We are incredibly proud of their hard work and the positive example they set for their peers.

In addition to student recognition, Superintendent Wray, along with principals Laberton Sims (TCES), John West (TCMS), and Jason Clark (TCHS), celebrated outstanding teachers across the district. At the elementary level, the 95% Crew included Nikki Johnson, Andrea Kelly, Deborah Lane, Phoebe Law, Suzi Mathis, Leigh McCard, Shelley McRae, Jessica Mitchell, Melissa Pate, Eilene Perry, Marie Shiver, and Joseph Thompson. At the middle school, the Planning Pro Award recipients were Ashley Purvis, Melissa Goulden, and Kendel Purvis. At the high school, the Attendance All-Star Award was presented to Lisa Greene and Gayle Green. These recognitions highlight the dedication and consistency of our educators in supporting student success each day. Congratulations to all who were recognized, your commitment to excellence makes Turner County Schools stronger!

Each year, Turner County Schools proudly recognizes outstanding individuals across our elementary, middle, and high schools through the Teacher of the Year and Titan of the Year awards. These honors are both prestigious and highly respected, celebrating those who go above and beyond in their roles to positively impact students, staff, and the school community. Selected by their peers, Titan of the Year recipients represent our classified staff who consistently demonstrate hard work, dedication, reliability, and a willingness to support others. Their contributions are essential to the daily success of our schools, and this recognition highlights the important role they play in creating a positive learning environment.

Teacher of the Year recipients are exemplary educators who demonstrate a deep commitment to student success and the teaching profession. These individuals are skilled, knowledgeable, and dedicated classroom teachers who foster growth for all students, regardless of background or ability. They build strong relationships with students, families, and colleagues, contributing to a culture of collaboration and excellence within their schools. These recipients continuously seek opportunities to grow as educators and leaders, often incorporating innovative practices to enhance learning experiences.

We are proud to celebrate this year’s recipients at each school and recognize the meaningful impact they have on Turner County Schools. Their dedication, passion, and commitment to excellence make a lasting difference in the lives of our students and our community.

2025–2026 Teacher of the Year & Titan of the Year Honorees

Turner County Elementary School
Teacher of the Year: Marie Shiver. Titan of the Year: Catrice Warthen

Turner County Middle School
Teacher of the Year: Melissa Goulden. Titan of the Year: Virginia Hicks

Turner County High School
Teacher of the Year: Mallory Holley. Titan of the Year: John King

Turner County School District

Titan of the Year: Jennifer Felton

Leading into Spring Break, the Turner County Schools wellness team brought a fun and engaging activity to staff by distributing “Adventure Ducks” across the district. Staff were encouraged to take their ducks along on their travels, snap a picture, and submit it through their school email for a chance to be featured on social media. This creative initiative added a lighthearted element to the break while promoting wellness and connection among staff.

Teachers fully embraced the activity, taking their Adventure Ducks along on a variety of trips and outings. From simple moments to exciting destinations, the ducks made appearances all over, bringing smiles and a shared sense of fun. This initiative not only encouraged staff to enjoy their time away, but also created a memorable experience that brought everyone together!

Students in PreK through 5th grade at Turner County Elementary School had an exciting opportunity to explore the world of agriculture during the second annual Ag Day, led by TCES Ag teacher Kaylee Walls. Ag Day 2026 was a tremendous success, providing students with hands-on experiences and real-world connections to the many areas of agriculture. Throughout the day, students were able to get up close and personal with a variety of animals, including chickens, ducks, cows, and goats. They also explored agricultural equipment and careers, learning about tractors, lawn equipment, welding, drone irrigation, and even fire and forestry protection. The event created an engaging environment where students could see, touch, and experience agriculture in meaningful ways.

We truly appreciate our community partners and vendors who made this event possible by sharing their time, knowledge, and resources with our students. Partners included Falicity Gordon, Eric Eidenire, Sharon Boyett, the Georgia Peanut Commission, Andy and Kristen Carter, the Georgia Forestry Commission, Turner County 4-H, Turner County Farm Bureau, TCES Nutritionist, TCHS CTAE, TCHS Ag Department, TCMS Ag Department, Flint Ag & Turf, and UGA Tifton. A special thank you goes to Raymond Poore for sponsoring Keith-A-Que to provide meals for all volunteers. Ag Day continues to be a valuable experience for our students, connecting classroom learning to real-world applications and showcasing the importance of agriculture in our community.

Approximately 350 Turner County Elementary School students recently had the opportunity to travel to the Empire Performing Arts Studio in Cordele to watch a live performance of Cinderella, bringing a familiar story to life in an exciting new way. Seeing the characters, costumes, and scenes unfold on stage provided a unique and engaging experience that went beyond the pages of a book or a screen. Students were able to connect what they know about the story to a real-world performance, deepening their understanding and appreciation for storytelling.

For many students, this was their first time experiencing live theater, making the trip even more meaningful. Opportunities like this are not always common, and we are grateful our students were able to witness the energy and creativity of a live production. This experience not only supported literacy and the arts, but also created lasting memories as students saw a beloved story come to life right before their eyes.

TCES recently partnered with the Dental Team of Help a Child Smile to provide essential dental services to students through our on-site Dental Clinic. During this visit, 77 students received high-quality dental care, helping to address important oral health needs in a convenient and supportive environment. Access to these services during the school day not only supports student health, but also minimizes time away from instruction and ensures that more students receive the care they need.

This impactful initiative is led by Patricia B. Harris, Executive Director of the Family Connection of Turner County, whose dedication continues to bring valuable resources directly to our students and families. We are grateful for the continued partnership and commitment to student wellness. Opportunities like this play a vital role in supporting the overall well-being and success of our students, and we encourage families to take advantage of these services when available.

Students in 3rd through 5th grade recently participated in an engaging Math-a-Thon designed to help them practice and prepare for the upcoming GMAS state assessment. Each grade level worked through a variety of standards-based problems that reflected the skills they have been developing throughout the school year. This interactive event provided students with a meaningful opportunity to apply their knowledge in a fun, yet focused environment while reinforcing key math concepts.

To add an element of excitement, all students began the Math-a-Thon with the same number of tokens. As they worked through each problem, tokens were lost based on accuracy, which created a friendly and motivating competition. Each problem also had varied time allotment, keeping students engaged and encouraging quick thinking. In the end, the student with the last remaining token was celebrated by their peers, making for an exciting and rewarding experience. The Math-a-Thon not only supported academic preparation, but also fostered confidence, perseverance, and a positive attitude toward learning.

TCES is proud to recognize the following students for their outstanding performance during the Math-a-Thon:

Third Grade: 1st Place-Charles Larson, 2nd Place-Thai Peacock, 3rd Place-Eden Brown

Fourth Grade: 1st Place-Makayla Thompson, 2nd Place-Jackson Gates, 3rd Place-Taylar Stafford

Fifth Grade: 1st Place-Emily Kubik, 2nd Place-John Beasley, 3rd Place-Abel Dixon

Turner County Elementary School recently hosted its Pre-K Registration kickoff event, welcoming families eager to enroll their children for the upcoming school year. The event provided an opportunity for parents to submit required documents, complete applications, and learn more about the nurturing and engaging environment our Pre-K program offers.

Pre-K registration will remain open until all 60 limited spots are filled. Families are encouraged to complete the process as soon as possible to secure placement, as remaining openings may fill quickly. If you were unable to attend the kickoff event, you may still register by dropping off the necessary documentation to the TCES front office. We look forward to welcoming our newest little learners to the TCES family!

In order to welcome your child into our Pre-K family, where they’ll learn, grow, and explore in a nurturing and engaging environment. Please bring required documentation:

• Birth Certificate
• Proof of Residency (examples: water bill, tag receipt, or landline phone bill with street address)
• Medicaid/Peachcare Card (if applicable)
• Copy of Social Security Card
• Immunization Records (form #3231)
• EEDN (form #3300 - Pediatrician/Health Dept)

Register today at TCES to give your child a great start to their educational journey!

Students throughout Turner County Elementary School recently had a unique opportunity to witness life science in action as they observed day-old chicks shortly after hatching. Under the guidance of Ag teacher Mrs. Walls, the chicks were carefully incubated in her classroom, allowing students to learn about the hatching process firsthand. The day after the chicks hatched, Mrs. Walls visited classrooms across the school, giving students the chance to see and experience this exciting moment up close. This engaging experience brought learning to life, sparking curiosity and providing a meaningful connection to science and agriculture.

During GMAS review sessions, 4th grade students are building confidence and strengthening their math skills through targeted small group instruction. In one session, Mr. Jonathan Williams worked closely with a group of students on multi-digit decimal operations, providing support and guidance tailored to their needs. This focused approach allows students to ask questions, receive immediate feedback, and deepen their understanding of key concepts. Students were actively engaged in meaningful mathematical discussions, explaining the rules of the standard algorithm and why those guidelines are important. By encouraging students to talk through their thinking and justify their reasoning, Mr. Williams is helping them develop both accuracy and confidence as they prepare for the upcoming assessment.

Kindergarten students have been actively engaged in learning about patterns through hands-on math activities. Using a variety of materials and interactive strategies, students explored creating, extending, and identifying patterns, building a strong foundation in early math skills. This engaging approach allows students to learn by doing, encouraging critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration while making math both meaningful and fun. Activities like these also help strengthen early reasoning skills and set the stage for future success in mathematics.

TCES kindergarten students recently enjoyed an exciting field trip to A&M Farms, where learning and fun went hand in hand. Students spent the day participating in a variety of engaging outdoor activities, creating lasting memories with their classmates. From high-energy attractions to hands-on experiences, the trip provided a perfect opportunity for students to explore, play, and enjoy time together outside of the classroom. A special thank you goes to A&M Farms for providing such a wonderful experience. Their hospitality helped make the day both enjoyable and memorable for our students and staff. Field trips like this offer meaningful experiences that support social development, build connections, and create joyful moments our students will remember.

Three outstanding 8th grade students, Addison Caton, Tristan Chatfield, and Annabelle Geiger, have taken on an exciting academic challenge by submitting essays for the American Legion Essay or Poem Writing Contest. This year’s prompt, “Why is it Important to Be an American?”, encourages students to reflect on the values of citizenship, democracy, and community. The contest also invites participants to consider what we value as Americans, including freedom, equality, and opportunity, while expressing their ideas through thoughtful and well-crafted writing.

We are proud of Addison, Tristan, and Annabelle for representing our school with excellence and for engaging in meaningful, real-world writing. Their willingness to participate highlights both their academic dedication and their ability to think critically about important civic topics. We wish them the best of luck as entries are reviewed, and we commend them for their hard work and commitment to making their voices heard.

Turner County Middle School recently hosted a successful plant sale, offering a beautiful variety of plants to the community. From herbs such as basil, parsley, cilantro, and sage to ferns, annuals, and perennials, there was something for everyone. All proceeds from the sale went toward supporting student programs, making this event both meaningful and impactful for the school.

Students played an active role in the success of the plant sale by helping care for the plants, watering them, and assisting with sales during Ag class. This hands-on experience provided valuable lessons in responsibility, plant care, and basic business skills. The event took place under the instruction of Ms. Shelby Wilkerson, TCMS Agriculture teacher, whose guidance helped make the plant sale a great success.

Each year, Turner County High School Senior Superlatives are selected by staff and faculty to recognize students who consistently exemplify outstanding character, strong school pride, and a willingness to support others. These students stand out not only for their achievements, but for the positive impact they have on our school community. Whether through leadership, kindness, or simply lending a helping hand when it’s needed most, they represent the very best of the Class of 2026.

We are proud to honor this year’s Senior Superlatives and celebrate the example they set for others. Their contributions help create a supportive and encouraging environment for all students. Please join us in recognizing the following students for their exceptional qualities and dedication:

Girls (from L to R): Maya Martinez, Tamoiyre Peacock, Asia Norris, Laniyah Fulton, Amber Jackson, Jaida Caldwell. Boys (back from L to R): Javier Olguin, Chris Hernandez. Boys (front from L to R): Imerriun Carridine, Jaden Capies, Sabin Lavender. Not Pictured: Ka'moni Smith and Destiny Tomblin

Prom 2026 was a memorable evening filled with excitement, laughter, and celebration. Students enjoyed a night of dancing, music, and making lasting memories with their classmates. The energy on the dance floor was contagious as friends came together to celebrate the end of the school year in style. It was clear that everyone was having a great time, truly dancing the night away.

Teachers and staff also shared in the joy of the evening, expressing how special it was to see students enjoying such an important milestone. The senior walk was a highlight of the night, offering a meaningful moment to recognize the Class of 2026. The crowning of Prom King and Queen brought even more excitement, as students cheered on their peers during this special tradition. Prom 2026 captured everything this moment should be—celebration, connection, and a well-earned night for our students to shine.

This year’s Prom King and Queen, Ky’reese Jackson and Sanaa Rushin, were honored for the pride and character they represent within Turner County Schools. Their selection reflects the respect and admiration they have earned from their peers, as well as the positive impact they have made throughout their time at TCHS. Both students carry themselves with confidence and demonstrate a strong sense of responsibility and school pride.

Ky’reese and Sanaa exemplify the qualities of leadership, kindness, and integrity that make a difference in our school community. Their recognition goes beyond a single evening, highlighting the example they set for others each day. They continue to serve as role models for their peers through their actions and involvement, consistently demonstrating what it means to lead with character. Their positive influence is evident in both the classroom and school activities. We are proud of the way they represent Turner County Schools and congratulate them on this well-deserved honor.

GaTutor, powered by Georgia Virtual Learning, provides free, one-on-one tutoring for all public high school students in the state. Sessions are led by Georgia certified educators with expertise in online teaching and includes key courses from the core content areas of math, science, language arts, and social studies.

• All sessions take place after school hours.
• Students select the dates and times that work best for them, ensuring they receive the support they need, when they need it. GaTutor is making academic success more accessible and achievable than ever before.
• Students login through Infinite Campus and select the dates and times that work best for them!

This innovative program is making academic success more accessible than ever! Best of all, it's entirely free! Here is the link: https://www.gavirtuallearning.org/gatutor

Turner County High School students enrolled in the Southern Regional Technical College dual-enrollment Nurse Aide (CNA) program recently completed a week of clinicals at PruittHealth in Ashburn. Under the instruction of Ashlee Cushion, RN, Nursing teacher at TCHS, students gained valuable, hands-on experience working alongside certified nursing assistants and learning the day-to-day responsibilities of patient care. This opportunity provided meaningful, real-world exposure to the healthcare field.

During their time at PruittHealth, students participated in a variety of learning experiences, including virtual dementia training, networking with staff, and exploring different career pathways within the healthcare system. They were also welcomed by department managers, further enhancing their understanding of the profession. This experience not only strengthened their skills, but also reinforced their interest in pursuing careers in healthcare, with all participating seniors expressing plans to continue in the field.

Students John Brown and Daidyn Hasty have been working diligently on their CTI competition project, a creatively designed chain chair. The idea, originally suggested by John, quickly became a collaborative effort as both students demonstrated strong creativity and problem-solving skills throughout the process. They took initiative in sourcing materials, utilizing mostly scrap items already available, with the exception of the chain, to bring their vision to life. Throughout the project, they showed persistence, adaptability, and a willingness to problem-solve.

Their project is a great example of innovation, resourcefulness, and hands-on learning in action. Under the instruction of Caitlin Wells, Welding CTAE teacher, John and Daidyn’s dedication and teamwork are evident in the final product, and we are proud of the way their project turned out. Their work reflects the real-world skills and creativity that CTI programs are designed to foster, preparing them for future success beyond the classroom. Projects like this also highlight the value of career pathways that allow students to apply their learning in meaningful, practical ways.

Turner County High School senior Julian McCarver recently earned a Top 10 finish in the Video Production Competition at the CTI State Conference held at Rock Eagle 4-H Center. Competing against 25 talented students from across Georgia, Julian stood out for his creativity, vision, and powerful storytelling. His work brought this year’s theme, “Challenge the Impossible,” to life, showcasing both his technical skills and his ability to connect with an audience through meaningful content. Julian has developed these skills under the instruction of Caleb Jordan, Audio Visual CTAE teacher, whose guidance has supported his growth in this field.

This achievement reflects Julian’s hard work, dedication, and passion for his craft. We are incredibly proud to see Turner County represented at such a high level and celebrate this outstanding accomplishment. Julian’s success is a great example of what our students can achieve, and we look forward to seeing what he accomplishes next.

Students in Mr. Williams’ automotive class recently engaged in meaningful, hands-on learning by working in the auto shop to diagnose and repair a vehicle’s air conditioning system. This project provided students with the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills they have been developing in class to a real-world situation. From identifying the issue to working through the repair process, students were actively involved in problem-solving and critical thinking while gaining practical experience in automotive maintenance.

Experiences like this are essential for students in the automotive pathway, as they bridge the gap between classroom instruction and real-world application. By working with actual vehicles and tools, students build confidence, develop technical skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the field. Opportunities like this not only prepare students for future careers, but also reinforce the value of hands-on, career-focused learning that equips them for success beyond the classroom.

Floriculture students have been actively engaged in hands-on learning as they explored floral preparation and design by creating corsages for the Easter season. Through this process, students learned proper techniques for handling flowers, assembling arrangements, and developing an eye for detail and presentation. These real-world skills not only strengthen their understanding of floral design, but also provide valuable experience that can be applied in both personal and professional settings. Students also gained an appreciation for the precision and creativity required in the floral industry.

In addition to design work, students have been studying and identifying ornamental and tropical plant species from the state curriculum list under the instruction of Josh Rogers, Agriculture teacher at TCHS. This foundational knowledge helps students recognize a wide variety of plants, understand their characteristics, and apply this learning to future careers in agriculture and horticulture. Together, these experiences provide a well-rounded approach to floriculture, blending creativity with content knowledge. This combination of skills prepares students for continued growth and success within agricultural pathways.

Select welding students recently had the opportunity to attend the Jones Welding Supply 50th Anniversary Celebration in Albany, Georgia. During the event, students were able to network with local employers and suppliers while participating in hands-on demonstrations. They explored some of the newest tools, equipment, and consumables in the welding industry, gaining valuable exposure to current technology and practices. Students also had the chance to weld, plasma cut, and operate a variety of hand tools, while speaking directly with company representatives about their products and career opportunities.

This event, hosted by Jones Welding Supply in Albany, provided an incredible real-world learning experience for our students. Opportunities like this allow students to connect classroom learning to industry expectations while building excitement for future careers in the trades. Experiences beyond the classroom, such as attending industry events, help spark motivation and give students a clearer vision of their future pathways.

The Turner County Titans will take the field on Friday, May 15th at 7:00 p.m. as they face the Atkinson County Rebels in a spring scrimmage matchup. The evening will begin at 5:00 p.m. with a middle school intersquad scrimmage, giving younger players the opportunity to showcase their skills and kick off an exciting night of football.

Following the middle school game, the varsity team will compete for the first three quarters, with the junior varsity team taking the field in the fourth quarter. This event provides a great opportunity for players at all levels to gain valuable experience and for the community to get an early look at Titan football. We encourage everyone to come out and support our Titans as they prepare for the upcoming season!

The Turner County School District proudly celebrates District Athletic Director Christopher E. Raymond Sr. on earning his Certified Athletic Administrator (CAA) designation through the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association. The CAA is a nationally recognized credential that signifies a high level of professional knowledge, leadership, and commitment to excellence in interscholastic athletics. To earn this certification, candidates must complete rigorous coursework, demonstrate experience in athletic administration, and pass a comprehensive exam covering areas such as program management, student-athlete development, leadership, and legal/ethical responsibilities. This accomplishment places Mr. Raymond among a distinguished group of athletic leaders who have demonstrated a strong commitment to professional growth and excellence in their field.

Mr. Raymond’s achievement reflects his dedication to providing well-organized, educationally sound athletic programs that support student success both on and off the field, and it highlights the district’s ongoing commitment to excellence in all aspects of student development. His leadership continues to positively impact student-athletes, coaches, and the overall athletic culture within Turner County Schools. We are proud to recognize this milestone and commend Mr. Raymond for his hard work and dedication to our district!

Turner County Head Football Coach Demario Barber recently received a generous $100 donation from the Turner County Farm Bureau in support of the Titan football program. This contribution will go toward providing essential resources for student-athletes, including equipment, meals, and other team needs that help ensure a positive and successful experience both on and off the field.

We are grateful for the continued support of our community partners, whose generosity plays a vital role in strengthening our programs and supporting our students. Partnerships like this reflect a shared commitment to investing in our student-athletes and providing them with the tools they need to succeed.

• Class A D2 Sectionals: Bryan County - May 2nd - @Away TBD
• Class A D2 Championship: UGA, Athens - May 11th - @Away TBD

• Spring Scrimmage, Atkinson County - May 15th @Home 7pm