SR3 Parent Connection

As we approach winter break, I have been reflecting on what has made this first semester at SR3 feel so solid. It has not been one single achievement or moment. It has been the consistency. Students showing up ready to learn. Teachers and staff showing up for students day after day. Families and community members showing up in ways that matter, often without much spotlight.

That steady commitment shows up across our district. Our new Performing Arts Center has quickly become a hub for learning, creativity, and community, giving students space to perform, collaborate, and grow. At the same time, students continue to excel in hands-on learning as we prepare to begin our 41st home build in the Building Trades program’s 50-year history. Whether on stage, in the classroom, or on a job site, our students continue to show what is possible when consistency meets opportunity.

Our new programs are already making a meaningful impact across the district. The addition of JROTC has provided students with leadership development, structure, and a strong sense of service, while strengthening connections between our schools and the community. At the same time, the SR3 Graduate Program has proven to be a valuable investment in our staff by supporting professional growth and helping us attract and retain high-quality teachers. Together, these initiatives reflect our commitment to student success and long-term stability for the district.

We have also remained focused on safety as a shared responsibility. This semester marked our first with School Resource Officers, and we have been intentional about building strong, positive relationships between students, staff, and law enforcement. Alongside that work, we continue to prioritize digital safety, clear communication, and proactive planning to support student well-being and learning environments.

Strong schools do not exist in isolation. They are built when communities are engaged, not just as spectators, but as partners and leaders. There are many ways to be involved at SR3, whether through your school’s PTA or by considering a leadership role on the Board of Education. These opportunities help ensure decisions remain thoughtful, grounded, and focused on what is best for students.

As we head into the break, I hope our students, families, and staff take time to rest and reflect on the good work being done across our district. Our teachers and support staff have earned this pause, and we are grateful for the care and commitment they bring to SR3 every day.

Thank you for being part of a community that shows up and for helping make SR3 a place we can all be proud of.

Strong schools are guided by strong community leadership. The Savannah R3 Board of Education helps set district priorities, oversees finances, and ensures decisions are made with students at the center.

Board Filing is currently open for the April 2026 school board election, with three seats available, each serving a three-year term. Filing is open during regular business hours this week, with the final opportunity to file on Tuesday, December 30, from noon to 5:00 p.m. The district will be closed for Christmas break beginning next week.

Serving on the Board of Education is one way community members can have a direct hand in the direction of SR3. Board members work closely with district leadership, ask thoughtful questions, and help ensure long-term decisions reflect the needs and values of the community.

No background in education is required. Board members must be at least 24 years old, a resident of the district, and a registered voter. A willingness to learn, collaborate, and serve all students is essential.

More information about where and how to file is available on the district website.

Coaching is about far more than wins and losses. It’s about mentorship, consistency, and helping students grow through teamwork and perseverance. This fall, several Savannah R3 coaches were recognized as MEC Coaches of the Year, reflecting both competitive success and the impact they have on students every day.

Brant Melvin – Girls Golf
Led the team to an MEC Championship and coached two State qualifiers, Riley Rosenbaum and Zaylin Vega.

Kelly Jones – Girls Tennis
Guided the program to its third straight MEC title, a District Championship, and a second-place finish at State.

Sara Schussler – Cross Country
Coached a standout season highlighted by an MEC Championship for the girls team and three State qualifiers: Rayden Phillips, Tinley Byergo, and Casey Adwell.

Miranda Mizera – Volleyball
Led the program to its third straight District Championship, continuing a strong run of postseason success.

Jeff O’Neal – Boys Soccer
Guided the team to a winning record, an MEC runner-up finish, and a home playoff win—marking the program’s strongest season in years.

Anthony Hays – Football
Led the Savages to the MEC title during a season defined by tough competition and strong team performance.

Thank you to these coaches for the time, energy, and leadership they invest in our students—and for helping make the SR3 Family something to be proud of.

This is a quick reminder about bus ridership procedures outlined in the student handbooks and transportation agreements signed at the beginning of the year.

If a student does not ride the bus for three consecutive school days and Durham is not notified, the student is automatically removed from the route.

We know life gets busy, but when plans change, a quick call to Durham at 324-1400 helps keep your rider active and prevents delays, as it can take up to three days to add a student back to a route.

Thank you for helping us keep routes accurate and transportation running smoothly for all students.

Strong schools rely on strong communication. When families and staff share clear, consistent information, students are better supported both at school and at home.

Savannah R-III is proud to recognize Breanne Preston of Minnie Cline Elementary as our District-Wide Star Communicator for her outstanding use of School Status Connect, the district’s primary communication platform for families.

Breanne consistently shares timely classroom updates and important information with families, helping build trust and keep parents connected to their child’s learning. She was also the top School Status Connect user district-wide, demonstrating a strong commitment to open, two-way communication.

☕ Thank You to Scooter’s Coffee of Savannah

We extend a sincere thank-you to Scooter’s Coffee of Savannah for donating $10 gift cards to recognize staff across all campuses and a special prize for our overall district honoree. Their support helps us celebrate the educators who go the extra mile to keep families informed.

• Winter Weather Communication

If weather impacts school, families will be notified through phone calls, text messages, social media, and the district website. Please make sure your contact information is up to date.

District offices will be closed during winter break. We look forward to welcoming students and staff back in the new year.

Our Performing Arts Center continues to host a variety of student performances and community events. Thank you for supporting our students and programs.

PTAs play an important role in supporting students and staff throughout the year. Families interested in getting involved can reach out to their school’s office for more information.

The Parent Connection, district website, and social media channels remain the best ways to stay informed throughout the school year.

There's a lot of information in this newsletter, but there's even more on the Back to School section of our website. And if you still can't find what you are looking for, give us a call! All of our campuses are open during regular school hours.