The Board Brief

The Board Brief newsletter is a summary of the information presented and actions taken at Bibb County Board of Education meetings for Bibb County School District in Macon, Ga. Review meeting agendas, district policies, Board member contact information and more on Simbli at https://simbli.eboardsolutions.com/Index.aspx?S=4013.

Personnel Items Approved

Board members approved various personnel items, including an administrative appointment. To view personnel items, click here.

(Note: Some items may be delayed in posting. Return soon for updates.)

FY 2026 General Fund Budget Amendment #3 Approved

Board members approved FY 2026 General Fund Budget Amendment #3. The General Fund Budget should be updated whenever new information arrives from federal, state, or local agencies so that it accurately reflects both expected and confirmed changes in revenue and expenses. A budget amendment is necessary at this time to account for the Georgia school district supplemental payment awarded to districts this year, the subsequent expense associated with the payment to BCSD staff, the mid-term QBE adjustment, to account for FY26 security grant expenditures, and other minor amendments. For more information, click here.

Renewal of Step Up to Writing Approved

Board members authorized the District to renew a contract for Step Up to Writing, a systematic and explicit writing program that supports students through clearly sequenced instruction from foundational to advanced writing skills. K–5 student writing performance has steadily improved, with grades 3–5 demonstrating 10% growth in ELA Milestones Informational Writing and 8% growth in Opinion Writing during the 2025–2026 school year. For more information, click here.

Installation of Building Automation System for SOAR Academy Authorized

Board members approved the installation of a Direct Digital Control (DDC) Building Automation System utilizing Carrier I-Vu controls at SOAR Academy to provide centralized building control, equipment performance monitoring, and energy management capabilities. For more information, click here.

Revisions of FY 25 Capital Outlay Funding Applications, Howard High and Howard Middle

Board members approved the revision of the FY 2025 Capital Outlay Funding Application to remove all kitchen equipment, and car and bus canopies from the Howard High School Capital Outlay Application. Also, Board members approved the revision of the FY 2025 Capital Outlay Funding Application to remove car and bus canopies, dishwasher, serving lines and exhaust hood from the Howard Middle School Capital Outlay Application. For more information on both actions, click here.

Board OKs ESPLOST 2021 Budget Amendment

Board members approved ESPLOST 2021 Budget Amendment #7, revising Technology from $15,426,531 to $16,426,531 to provide for data server technology costs and the reduction of the Contingency amount from $1,000,000 to $.00. ESPLOST is an Education Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax, which is a one percent tax approved by voters. For more information, click here.

NextGen Security VuWall Management System Approved

Board members approved a purchase order to Nextgen Security for a VuWall Management System for enhanced security solutions. This project will be funded with 2021 ESPLOST. For more information, click here.

Data Center Server Refresh to be Funded by ESPLOST

Board members approved the purchase of a new data center server solution to fully replace the existing server cluster by issuing a purchase order under the Carahsoft Purchasing agreement to SureLock Technology. The funding source is 2021 ESPLOST. For more information, click here.

Microsoft License Renewal Authorized

Board members authorized a purchase order to Dell for the District’s FY27 licensing of Microsoft EDU Office 365 Pro Plus products. For more information, click here.

Board Reviews Policies

Board members reviewed various policies for first or second reading. Policies must be read twice before they may be voted on for final action. To review the policies, click here.

• Policy IKBB – Divisive Concepts Complaint Resolution Process (ACTION - Second Reading)
• Policy BD - Policy Development - R(1) (INFORMATION - First Reading)
• Policy BDG - Administration in Policy Absence (INFORMATION - First Reading)
• Policy BDF - Review of Administrative Rules (INFORMATION - First Reading)
• Policy EBL - Environmental Programs (INFORMATION - First Reading)

Stakeholders are encouraged to review policies posted after first reading and make public comment via Simbli before the proposed policies are brought back before the Board for action the following month. Simbli may be accessed through the District’s website, www.bcsdk12.net, under “About Us” and “Simbli.” On Simbli, “Pending Policies” will appear on the right side of the screen.

Board Reviews FY27 Budget Update

Eric Bush, Chief Financial Officer, presented continued updates on the FY2027 General Fund Budget. This update provided Board members with an updated look at projected revenues, expenditures, and strategic priorities as the District prepares for tentative budget adoption. The Superintendent’s Fiscal Year 2027 Recommended Budget includes support of the identified Budget Priorities of Recruitment & Retention, Staff Efficiency, Future Readiness, and Leader/Teacher Quality. To view the presentation, click here. To read additional budget updates provided throughout the spring, click here.

Olena Stadnik- Floore, Executive Director of Elementary Services, presented to Board members about gifted education in elementary schools. Recently, the Georgia Department of Education eliminated one gifted service model. This presentation shows the continuity of services for all gifted students while transitioning to a more equitable, school-based gifted model. To view the presentation, click here.

Where Teaching Meets Success: Highlights of Student Achievement

The Teaching and Learning Department presented to Board members about how intentional, rigorous instruction is extended through authentic academic opportunities, resulting in measurable student achievement across disciplines. Students are challenged well beyond daily classroom expectations through sustained preparation, revision, and external evaluation. To view the presentation, click here.

Communities in Schools of Central Georgia Serving Students, Schools

Taryn Collinsworth presented Board members with an update on how Communities in Schools of Central Georgia supports the District by providing valuable mentorship and other supports to students. To view the presentation, click here.

ARTWORK BY SOUTHFIELD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: This month’s featured artwork is by Southfield Elementary students, led by art teacher Marlon Thompson. At Southfield Elementary, students are introduced to a variety of art forms that encourage exploration, experimentation, and creativity across all grade levels. They are given opportunities to develop their artistic abilities to their fullest potential while collaborating with peers, building meaningful relationships, and feeling consistently motivated and supported. This collection of artwork, titled Feelings, reflects many of these experiences. Each young artist has demonstrated remarkable growth, not only in their creative style but also in their overall approach to artmaking. Through their work, students explore themes of identity, race, motivation, courage, personal growth, and the emotions associated with being a young girl. The quality of their work, intricate use of materials, diverse concepts, and thoughtful interpretations collectively capture the spirit of what it means to be a “Stallion” at Southfield Elementary.

CELEBRATIONS & APPRECIATION: Thank you to schools and departments throughout the District for bringing recognition and awareness to these events this month: Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, Mental Health Awareness Month, School Principal’s Day, School Lunch Hero Day, National Teacher Appreciation Week, National School Nurse Day, National Interpreter Appreciation Day, School Communicators Day, National Police Week, and National Speech Pathologist Day.

DISTRICT CELEBRATES 15 ELECTRIC BUSES: The District joined with partners Highland Electric Fleets and Blue Bird Corporation to celebrate the ribbon-cutting for 15 electric school buses and the associated charging stations. These buses are part of a growing transition for the District, which also has 71 propane-powered buses. We are thankful for these partnerships that help create a safer environment for our students!

POETRY SLAM: SILENT NO MORE: During the Griffith Foundation’s 6th annual Poetry Slam, high school students from across the District – and a few staff members – performed their original poems based on the theme “Social Justice: Silent No More.” Seniors earned a total of $30,000 in scholarships during this outstanding event.

4TH ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT: We had a great time at River North Country Club during the 4th Annual Bibb County Education Foundation Golf Tournament, sponsored by ICB Construction Group! Over the last four years, this event has raised more than $50,000 for Bibb County students and classrooms.

WALKING SCHOOL BUS: DAYS OF GIVING: Thank you to Georgia School Boards Association and United Way of Central Georgia Community Schools United for hosting a service project event, Walking School Bus: Days of Giving, at L.H. Williams Elementary! Guests, including Bibb County Board of Education members, provided encouragement to students and staff as they prepared for a successful day of Georgia Milestones testing.

VETERANS DANCERS AT PAN AFRICAN FESTIVAL: The Veterans Elementary Dancing HEROES, led by instructor Terra Hitchcock, did an amazing job performing at the Pan African Festival and the AmStar Movie Theatre for the Michael opening weekend. They truly represented our district with excellence, confidence, and pride!

STUDENT ATHLETES HONORED AT BIBBSPYS: Our athletic department held its fourth annual BIBBSPY Award Ceremony to recognize athletes, coaches and teams across the District. In addition to overall athletes of the year, awards were also given for each varsity sport, scholar-athletes and for the first time, middle school boys’ and girls’ athletes of the year were also named. These recognitions highlight the importance of academic success alongside athletic achievement, promoting positive habits that enhance future career opportunities and overall personal well-being.

COX INSPIRATIONAL HEROES: Congratulations to the 2026 Cox Inspirational Student Heroes! Twenty-seven students were chosen by a committee of leaders at their school to honor their resilience in the face of adversity. Whether they have overcome the loss of a family member, medical issue, difficult family situation or other hardship, they did so with a positive attitude while continuing to encourage and inspire others around them. They are true examples of student leadership in our district!

HOWARD MIDDLE TEACHING KINDNESS: Congratulations to Howard Middle School for earning the 2025-2026 Kind School Designation from Teach Kindness! Howard Middle is one of 32 schools nationwide recognized for building a culture of kindness into daily school life. Howard Middle was also selected as Best Buddies Georgia’s Outstanding Elementary Chapter of the Year! This recognition is a beautiful reflection of the inclusive, welcoming, and joyful community cultivated for students.

GEAR UP STUDENTS PREPARE FOR DUAL ENROLLMENT: GEAR UP, in partnership with Central Georgia Technical College, continues to expand dual enrollment opportunities for students and families across the district. Eighth graders have worked diligently to prepare for the Accuplacer assessment, demonstrating commitment and determination toward their future goals. As a result of recent testing administrations, 46 GEAR UP students will enroll in dual enrollment courses through CGTC this summer. These students are already taking important steps toward earning an associate degree as members of the Class of 2030.

AP HONOR SCHOOLS RECOGNIZED: Congratulations to Howard High School, Central High School, and Northeast High School for being named a Georgia AP Honor School by the Georgia Department of Education! Recognitions: Howard High School earned designations for AP Access and Support School & AP STEM School; Central High School earned designations for AP Access and Support School & AP Expansion School; and Northeast High School earned designations for AP Expansion School. This is an amazing accomplishment for these schools!

BIBB CTAE FOCUSED ON FUTURE: Out CTAE students and staff have been busy this spring! Here are a few highlights from the Certified Nursing Assistant – or CNA – Pinning Ceremony with Central Georgia Technical College; the Joint Military Signing Ceremony encouraging future service members as they prepare to take the next step in serving our nation with courage, leadership, and commitment; the Future Educators’ Signing Day where students going into a career of education celebrated teachers who inspired them; the 15th Annual CTAE Scholarship Banquet, held at the Tubman Museum, honoring our outstanding CTAE students and awarding scholarships that will help propel their future success; and the Georgia FLEX Competition where this year’s winning student entrepreneur team from Northeast High, The Cozy Wick, pitched their growing business in front of leaders across the state! Outstanding success and achievements by all involved!

ON THE HORIZON: GRADUATION CEREMONIES: The District is preparing to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2026 with spring graduation ceremonies next week on May 19-21. All ceremonies will be held at the Macon Coliseum. As in previous years, each of the graduation ceremonies will be streamed live at www.bcsdk12.net. We look forward to honoring this milestone with our scholars!

Partnership Impact Award — Kelly Education

Each month, the District recognizes a partner whose commitment and collaboration have made a meaningful impact on our students, staff, and families. We are honored to recognize Kelly Education for their outstanding partnership and continued dedication to serving the District and its educators. Kelly Education’s core purpose is to enrich the lives of students, families, and communities while ensuring our schools are not just supported — but positioned to thrive in today’s ever‑changing educational landscape. Through their intentional recruitment, hiring, and training efforts, Kelly Education has helped build a strong, reliable workforce aligned with our District’s commitment to being #Built4BIBB. For four consecutive years, Kelly Education has maintained a robust substitute pool of more than 600 professionals, ensuring continuity of learning across our schools. Their impact extends well beyond the classroom. Kelly Education collaborates with departments, such as Social Services to help support families’ needs, and partners with PBIS to provide meaningful opportunities for substitutes to give back through district and community events. These include the Back-to-School Bash, Meet Me at the Mall, Teacher Recruitment Fairs, and the State of the District.

Math 24 Competition

The Math 24 Competition tests students’ speed and accuracy with basic math operations, as well as challenging their creativity. Students compete to secure points by finding a combination of numbers on a card that reach a final total of 24. Each year, a District winner is crowned for fourth and fifth grade. Congratulations to these students!

Shrihan Chappa, Springdale Elementary School, 1st Place – 4th grade

Ryder Le, Vineville Academy of the Arts, 1st Place – 5th grade

Math Team Competition

The Math Team Competition allows students to showcase their mathematics capabilities in multiple ways. Winners are crowned for a larger team event, as well as a speed round and an individual test to help cover a variety of math skills. Congratulations!

Aaima Lughmani, Jessie Jiang; Carter Elementary, 1st Place – Speed Round

Emmanuel Ademola, Alexander II Magnet School, 1st Place – 4th grade Individual

Isaac Altman, Alexander II Magnet School, 1st Place – 5th grade Individual

Aaima Lughmani, Tessa Smith, Jessie Jiang, Luis Vazquez, Aarav Patel, Sofia Chang; Carter Elementary, 1st Place Team

Quiz Bowl First Place Winners

Each year, our students compete in Quiz Bowl, which seeks to showcase their academic prowess and quick-thinking skills. These teams answer questions from a variety of disciplines and topics under time constraints as they compete for the District crown. Congratulations!

Heard Elementary – Noah Bender, McKenzie Burton, Jace Garling, Brianna Hamilton, King Hooker, Kaylee Jackson, Charlie Nguyen, Charlie Williams, Christopher Wilson

Coaches – Ashlynn Kirkland and Dawn Burgess-Cox

Stock Market Game First Place Winners

The Stock Market Game, hosted by the Georgia Council on Economic Education, allows students to hone and demonstrate their knowledge of our economic system by managing and investing imaginary funds based on the movement of the real-world stock market. Through events in both the fall and spring, teams compete at various levels to showcase their knowledge in this area. Congratulations to these students!

Andrea Pacheco, Ja’ziah Bell; John R. Lewis Elementary School

Erica Dennis, Ayana Foster, Jamarion Mason, Kayla Bender, Serenity Peebles; Miller Magnet Middle School

Anihyah Davis, Harmoni Elliott, McKenzie Hall, Jihanna Redding; Howard High School

Aspiring Athletic Directors Cohort

Athletic directors play an important role in our schools, both serving as coaches and leaders for other coaches. This role also requires dedication to the health and well-being of our student-athletes and supporters, as well as the fiscal responsibility of athletic programs. The District’s Athletics Department, led by AD Kevin Grooms, began hosting an Aspiring Athletic Directors Cohort for the last few years to educate and prepare interested coaches for stepping into that role. This year’s cohort is the fourth group to complete the award-winning program.

Nicholas Hargrove, Appling Middle School

Raven Dolphus, Howard Middle School

Alexis Rutherford, Howard High School

Samuel Mike, Weaver Middle School

Charles Gordon, Rutland High School

Tori Hagins, Southwest High School

Retirees with 25+ Years of Service in Bibb Schools

Our District is greatly improved by the multitude of educators who have committed their professional lives to educating young people. Every year, we like to recognize the individuals who are headed to a deserved retirement with at least 25 years of service in Bibb County. This year, that group includes 28 individuals who have contributed a total of more than 800 years of service to Bibb County students! Congratulations to these amazing retirees!

Kenneth Brundage, Custodian, Vineville Academy

Judith Caldwell, Teacher, Rosa Taylor Elementary

Donald Crafter, Nutrition Assistant, Miller MMS

Chiquita Dinkins, Assistant Principal, Howard High School

Angela Dyer, Nutrition Manager, Northeast High School

Emanuel Frazier, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources

Charlie Fuller, Warehouse Foreman, Procurement

Anita Hall, Registrar, John R. Lewis Elementary

Jacqueline Hubbard, Teacher, Vineville Academy of the Arts

Barbara Leggett-Hughes, ESOL Coordinator, Teaching & Learning

Jennifer Hulgan, At-Risk Coach, Howard High School

Pamela Ingram, VIP Academy

Valencia Jackson, Paraprofessional, Skyview Elementary

Pamela Johnson, Registrar, Miller Magnet Middle School

Katherine Jones, Teacher, Union Elementary School

Norma Lawrence, Instructional Coach, Skyview Elementary School

Susan McCallum, Media Clerk, Vineville Academy

Steven Nowacki, PC Network Tech III, Technology-Central Office

Terri Hart-Parker, Teacher, Weaver Middle School

Carolyn Rainey, Teacher, Williams Elementary School

Linda Richardson, Teacher, John R. Lewis Elementary School

Fred Rogers, Teacher, Southwest High School

Dorothy Singleton, Paraprofessional, Bruce Elementary School

Quintella Starr, SPED Teacher, Weaver Middle School

Phyllis Stokes, Teacher, Skyview Elementary School

Tammy Toth, Teacher, Springdale Elementary School

Suzanne Wade, Teacher, Springdale Elementary School

Traci Wright, School Psychologist, Psychological Services

The following Board Members were present at this meeting:

Mr. Daryl J. Morton, At-Large, Post 7 - President

Dr. Sundra M. Woodford, District 5 - Vice President

Mrs. Kristin C. Hanlon, District 3 - Treasurer

Ms. Myrtice C. Johnson, District 1

Dr. Henry C. Ficklin, District 2

Mr. Barney T. Hester, District 4

Mr. James M. Freeman, District 6

Dr. Lisa W. Garrett-Boyd, At-Large, Post 8

To learn more about Bibb County Board of Education members, click here.