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Message SHS State Championship I P6Literacy and Math Leaders I P7School Nutrition Program I P10ESPLOST V Approved by Voters I P12Excellence in Education Gala I PAGE 13In case you missed it, we’ve gathered up some of our most recent stories!
Savannah-Chatham County Public School System208 Bull Street, Savannah, GA 31401S. Denise Watts, Ed.D.Superintendent of SchoolsRoger Moss Board PresidentDenise R. GrabowskiDistrict One Dr. Dionne Hoskins-BrownDistrict Two RepresentativeCornelia H. HallDistrict Three Representative Shawn A. KachmarDistrict Four Representative; Vice President Pro-TemporePaul E. SmithDistrict Five; Vice President Dr. David BringmanDistrict Six RepresentativeStephanie CampbellDistrict Seven RepresentativeDr. Tonia Howard-HallDistrict Eight RepresentativeMISSION: Together, we ignite and foster lifelong learning at the highest levels for allVISION: From school to the world; All students prepared to be successful and productive citizensTABLE OFCONTENTS2 | March 2024Message from the SuperintendentBoard RecapStudent of the MonthSavannah High Takes State!Literacy And Math LeadersAP Honors SchoolsMiller-Fields Honored, Art OpeningSchool Nutrition Program Student ChefsESPLOST VExcellence In Education GalaCharles Ellis Wins Library ContestDid You See That? 34567891011 1213 1415 ON THE COVER: Savannah High charged back to win the state basketball title!
Our website and other channels will help you stay up to date with and actively participate in the many opportunities available to support our students' growth and development. Watch for news on our website and on our social media. Thank you for your continued partnership and support. Together, we can take our schools to new heights and bring out the best in our students and staff! Join us because #togetherwecan!Wishing you a year filled with growth, new opportunities, and continued progress!S. Denise Watts, Ed.D.Superintendent’s MessageMarch 2024 | 3Dear Friends,As winter gives way to spring, we are greeted with longer days, warmer weather, and a renewed sense of energy in our schools. This vibrant season is always an exciting time, filled with important milestones and memorable activities.The festivities of St. Patrick’s Day gave us the perfect opportunity to come together as a community and celebrate with joy and laughter. I enjoyed my second parade and seeing all the smiling faces! Our marching bands gave awesome performances and it was a pleasure to see the Savannah High basketball team marching to the cheers of the crowd for their state title! Of course, spring also marks a significant period of growth and achievement in our schools. As spring testing approaches, I want to extend my encouragement to all our students and staff. Their dedication and preparation reflect their commitment to learning and excellence. Let’s all support them as they strive to reach their goals. And of course we are getting ready for the Class of 2025 to “move those tassels” as graduation approaches. I hope you will take a moment to appreciate the spirit of renewal and optimism that this season represents. If you received this from a friend and want to receive it in your inbox, just reach out to our communications team at communications@sccpss.com.
4| March 2024Video highlights from the March Board Meeting from Public Information Manager Sheila Blanco. CLICK HERE TO WATCH.March Board Meeting RecapNational School Social Workers WeekThe Board proclaimed March 2-8 as National School Social Worker Week to recognize and appreciate the profound impact our School Social Workers have in our school community. School Social Workers provide emotional support, guidance, and resources that enhance our students' academic and personal growth. https://go.boarddocs.com/ga/sccs/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=DDSN5V5E2102National School Nutrition MonthThe Board proclaimed the week of March 3rd – 7th , 2025 as National School Nutrition and School Breakfast Week in the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System and that every citizen join us throughout the entire month of March to recognize the lasting contributions of our school nutrition staff.https://go.boarddocs.com/ga/sccs/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=DDSN5U5E2101School Board Appreciation WeekSavannah-Chatham County Public Schools are joining a statewide celebration to salute the efforts of local school board members this month. The week of March 10-14, 2025 has been proclaimed by the Governor as School Board Appreciation Week. The week-long observance calls attention to the contributions of local Boards of Education thanking those who serve and those who demonstrate a strong commitment to quality public education in our great state.https://go.boarddocs.com/ga/sccs/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=DDSN5S5E20FFUpcoming EventsBoard Meeting Wednesday, April 9, 2025 – Informal - 11:00 a.m.; Regular - 2:00 p.m.Whitney Administrative Complex Capital Improvement Committee MeetingTuesday, April 15, 2025 - 2:00 p.m.Whitney Administrative ComplexFinance Committee Meeting Wednesday, April 16 - 9:00 a.m.Whitney Administrative Complex View the entire board agenda here!Board Budget WorkshopWednesday, April 16 - 10:00 a.m.Whitney Administrative ComplexCelebration of Excellence - Valedictorian and Salutatorian EventTuesday, April 15, 2025 - 6:00 p.m. Davis-Edwards-Harris AuditoriumAudit Committee MeetingThursday, April 24, 2025 - 8:00 a.m.Whitney Administrative Complex
Superintendent’s Student of the Month Elizabeth Pilar-HernandezSchool of Liberal Studies at Savannah HighCongratulations to Elizabeth Pilar-Hernandez, the Superintendent’s Student of the Month for February. Elizabeth is a senior at the School of Liberal Studies at Savannah High. She has been an active participant in her own education as well as an active participant in building a positive culture within the school. She has demonstrated drive, leadership, and determination by continuing to take the most rigorous courses offered at Savannah High School including Honors, Advanced Placement, and Dual Enrollment through Savannah Tech. She has gone above and beyond by taking on multiple pathways, including Cybersecurity, Business, Agriculture, and Law pathways. Through her coursework she has continued to excel and set the example to her fellow students. She has served as a school ambassador on multiple occasions, represented the student body on the Superintendent's Student Senate for Savannah High, and has been recognized by the staff multiple times for her continued effort to improve the organizations for which she is a member.Elizabeth has participated in National Honor Society, the Superintendent’s Student Senate, Gulfstream’s Student Leadership Program, Future Farmers of America, Future Business Leaders of America, Technology Student Association, 3DE Junior Achievement, DECA and Student Council. Throughout high school, she has contributed to various organizations throughout our community including Second Harvest, Kidz Biz, Red Ribbon, and as a Student Mentor. Find out more in this video produced by SCCPSS Videographer Ken Slats. March 2024 | 5“Elizabeth is a model student and a well-rounded individual who is eager to learn; participates in competitive events; and has a sense of humor. When presented with the opportunity to assist or lead, she always succeeds!”Stacie Pottenger. Principal School of Liberal Studies at Savannah High
What a comeback! The Blue Jackets Win State Championship!6| March 2024On Friday, March 7, 2025, the boys basketball team from the School of Liberal Studies at Savannah High faced McIntosh County Academy for the fourth time this season with everything on the line. Savannah High had won two of the previous three games, but this meeting would be held at the Macon Coliseum with a State Championship at stake.The game was competitive throughout the afternoon with each team going on big runs and trading leads. Savannah High trailed by double digits multiple times, once in the third quarter, and then again in the fourth – but this team of eleven seniors never quit. Both times they fought back - to within a few points in the third, and finally went on an 18-2 run for the lead in the fourth.It was a lead they never relinquished. Savannah High won their first State Title in 27 years by a score of 58-52 over the McIntosh County Academy Buccaneers. The last title was in 1998 under long-time Coach Tim Jordan, who was in attendance on Friday to watch this first state title game under his former assistant and Savannah High’s second-year head Coach George Brown.On Thursday, March 13, the school held a pep rally to celebrate the boys basketball win, as well as the Blue Jacket Band achieving a Superior Rating at their recent Large Group Performance Evaluation. The team then traveled to the Savannah City Council meeting to receive a Proclamation in their honor. See photos from the celebration here.See more coverage HERE and HERE
March 2024 | 7State Recognizes SCCPSS Math and Literacy Leaders!Georgia State School Superintendent Mr. Richard Woods visited New Hampstead K-8 on Monday, February 24 to present Leader Banners to the administrators of nineteen Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools. Knowing the fundamental importance of literacy and numeracy, the Georgia Department of Education is recognizing schools with exceptional achievement or growth in reading and mathematics. The 20 recognized schools received banners proclaiming their accomplishment in math, reading or both. LITERACY LEADERS● Butler Elementary School● Coastal Middle School ● Charles Ellis Montessori ● Garrison School for the Arts ● Hodge Elementary School ● Islands High School ● Isle of Hope K8 School ● Marshpoint Elementary School ● New Hampstead K-8 School● Pooler Elementary School● Pulaski Elementary School ● Savannah Arts Academy ● Savannah Classical Academy ● Savannah Early College High School MATH LEADERS:● Charles Ellis Montessori Academy ● Coastal Middle School● Garrison School for the Arts ● Georgetown K8 ● Godley Station K8 ● Islands High School● Oglethorpe Charter School● Rice Creek K8 ● Savannah Classical Academy ● Shuman Elementary ● Woodville-Tompkins Technical & Career High School Read more about the awards HERE.
March 2024 | 8Eight SCCPSS High Schools Named AP Honor Schools for 2025Jenkins High School was named an AP Access and Support School, an AP Expansion School, an AP STEM School and an AP STEM Achievement school.Groves High School was named an AP Access and Support School.New Hampstead High School was named an AP Access and Support school.Savannah Classical Academy was named an AP Access and Support schoolWoodville-Tompkins Technical and Career High School was named an AP Access and Support school and an AP Challenge School.Islands High School was named an AP Challenge School, an AP School of Distinction, an AP STEM School and an AP STEM Achievement School.Savannah Arts Academy was named an AP Challenge School, an AP Humanities School, an AP Humanities Achievement School, an AP STEM School, an AP STEM Achievement School and an AP School of Distinction.The School of Liberal Studies at Savannah High was named an AP Challenge School.”Our district has made remarkable strides in Advanced Placement achievement, with SCCPSS schools earning 19 AP Honor School awards this year—up from 14 awards last year!” says Jennifer Rine, SCCPSS Program Specialist for Gifted, Advanced Content and Supplemental Support Programs. “Even more exciting, we have new schools joining the list of honorees this year – Groves High, Savannah Classical, and Savannah High - showcasing the continued growth and commitment to academic excellence across the district. Read about the different honors HERE.Georgia State School Superintendent Richard Woods has named eight Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools Advanced Placement (AP) Honor Schools for 2025. AP exams are administered by the College Board, which also administers the SAT. AP courses are one of several ways Georgia students can access college-level learning at the high school level; students who receive a 3, 4, or 5 on an AP exam may receive college credit. The 2025 SCCPSS AP Honor Schools are named in eight categories, based on the results of 2024 AP courses and exams. SCCPSS schools receiving recognition include:Educator Fair A Big SuccessSCCPSS took the recruitment show on the road with an Educator Fair at Jenkins High School on March 8. The fair generated nearly 300 applicants, and several jobs were filled on the spot. Look for new billboard art around the market soon!
March 2024 | 9SCCPSS Student Affairs Director Named 2025 Ron Alt Service Award WinnerCongratulations to Dr. Quentina Miller-Fields, Director of Student Affairs for Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools! Dr. Miller-Fields was awarded the prestigious Ron Alt Service Award. Introduced in 2018, the award honors the spirit of selfless service that Ron Alt embodied throughout his life. His work is legendary and this award commemorates his great desire to serve and help foster the well-being of children and youth everywhere. The award is presented each year at the National Youth Advocacy and Resilience Conference. Each year, the Conference Planning Council selects a community member who embodies this same selfless service. The inaugural Ron Alt Service Award was presented to the family of Ron Alt after his passing. The Savannah (GA) Chapter of The Links, Inc. Presents 24th New Beginning Youth Art ExhibitionSavannah’s young artists are showcasing their talents! The New Beginning program fosters the growth of talented young artists and strengthens school art programs. One hundred forty-one (141) of the best student artworks from Savannah Chatham County Public Schools middle and high schools were submitted for the 24th Annual New Beginning Youth Art Exhibition. Eighty one (81) entries were selected for exhibit at the Savannah Cultural Arts Center. This year’s exhibition, a partnership between the Savannah (GA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, SCCPSS, the 36th annual Savannah Black Heritage Festival, and the City of Savannah, will be on display until the end of March. Local professional artists served as judges. An opening reception was held on February 26th at the Savannah Cultural Arts Center. You can see the entire selection of entries in a VIRTUAL TOUR.March 2024 | 9
March 2024 I 10SCCPSS Brings Food Show to Students and StaffWhat could be cookin' in school cafeterias soon was on display at our School Nutrition Program Food Show. "The Future of Food is Now" was held at Savannah Arts Academy on Friday, March 14, 2025. The show featured local and regional food vendors. School Nutrition staff could see and sample what's on the horizon in nutrition, and students were invited to try breakfast and lunch items and offer feedback. "We really wanted the students to participate, so they would have an actual chance to give their opinion," said SCCPSS Menu Management and Marketing Manager, Matthew Kubiak. Media was invited to cover the event, and one student told WJCL-TV, “We look at the food, and if it's not really appealing to our eyes, we're not going to stick it in our mouths. So, for this to have such a vibrant kind of color to it, for it to have such a vibrant thing. It really makes us want to eat it.”WJCL was on hand to bring the story to life!Marshpoint Elementary received top-notch recognition for an appealing entre! A photo of the school's Tray of the Week was recently selected as the Top Tray of the Week for the state of Georgia. Schools around the state submitted pictures to the Georgia School Nutrition Program each week. The top selections were posted on Facebook and school communities were invited to vote for the one they like best. Marshpoint's prize-winning tray featured a personal pepperoni pizza, broccoli with ranch dressing, tomato & okra stew, fresh kiwi with tangerines, and strawberry milk. Prize Winning Pizza Tray Wins Top Honors
March 2024 | 11Stellar Student Chefs The outstanding staff and chefs in our school cafeterias are inspiring the top-notch talent of tomorrow! SCCPSS student chefs scored two of the top three spots in the first GaDOE Student Chef Middle School competition. Teams from across the state submitted student-developed recipes featuring Georgia-grown ingredients. Coastal Middle School took second place in the state with its fruit parfait recipe AND third place with a quiche bites recipe. Keep an eye out for the winning recipes which will be featured on our website, sccpss.com. This competition meets Georgia education standards and provides students with hands on learning opportunities. Many of these student developed recipes will be incorporated into school meals across Georgia.Congratulations Ms. Beecher and your Team of Student Chefs! Thank you too to Mr. Richard Byrd for lending your skills and expertise to this competition. Jenkins Robotics Team Earns Sustainability Award Congratulations to the Jenkins High School Robotics Team which took home the Sustainability Award at a recent competition in Dalton, Georgia, AND qualified for the District competition at Georgia Southern Statesboro campus. The award celebrates and recognizes a team that has developed sustainable practices to have a positive environmental impact and achieve long-term continuity. Jenkins competed with teams from around the Peachtree District in this year's FIRST Robotics Competition March 6 - 8, 2025. High-school student participants call it “the hardest fun you’ll ever have.”
ESPLOST V Approved by VotersMarch 2024 I 12Robin Allison, an educator at Tybee Island Maritime Academy (TIMA), received the 2025 Charter School Teacher of the Year Award during the Georgia Charter Schools Association’s (GCSA) 22nd annual conference on Wednesday, March 12. Ms. Allison empowers her students by creating a dynamic, student-centered learning environment that connects math to real-world applications. Leveraging her engineering background and extensive experience in middle and high school math, she transforms traditional instruction into an engaging, collaborative, and problem-solving experiences. Read more here. On March 18, the voters of Chatham County approved the ESPLOST V referendum with 64% of the vote. This was the third highest approval percentage in the history of Chatham County ESPLOST elections. ESPLOST IV passed with a 74% approval rate in 2021, and ESPLOST II passed with 67% of the vote. Planning can now move forward for the many projects proposed for ESPLOST V. Top priorities include a new K-8 school and the construction of Pooler’s first new high school. Addressing the explosive growth in West Chatham County must be a priority, Dr. Watts stated at a press conference. She said the district will continue to be good stewards of its and the community's resources to ensure students "have quality learning opportunities and facilities to learn in.” the plans also call for, a renovation of the district's Central Office to create space for a student learning center to house a new architectural design and historic preservation CTAE pathway, new facilities for Windsor Forest Elementary and the STEM Academy, along with improvements for the district's charter schools. You can learn more about these projects and many others in the proposed project list on our website. 2025 Charter School Teacher of the Year: Robin Allison
March 2024 I 13Inaugural Excellence in Education Gala Held for Superlative EducatorsSavannah-Chatham County Public School System held the Inaugural Excellence in Education Gala at the Hyatt Regency Savannah. The Hollywood Nights! themed event honored Teachers and Instructional Support personnel representing 56 SCCPSS schools and programs – combining recognitions that were held separately in previous years. One of five finalists in each of those categories was named the 2026 SCCPSS Teacher of the Year and the 2026 SCCPSS Instructional Support Person of the Year. In addition, the district named its first Principal of the Year. A new recognition presented to one of three finalists who exemplifies excellence in educational leadership, a principal of the year nominee represented elementary, middle/k8 and high schools.Each of the Teachers of the Year and Instructional Staff of the Year will represent their school on the Superintendent’s Professional Senate. Teachers and Instructional Support Staff of the Year will represent the entire senate at the board meetings. SCCPSS 2026 Teacher of the Year: Jennifer Hughes, 5th Grade Teacher, Southwest Elementary School. SCCPSS 2026 Instructional Support Person of the Year: Jabari Hymon, School Resource Officer, Windsor Forest High School. SCCPSS 2024-25 Principal of the Year: Mr. Alfred McGuire, Woodville-Tompkins Technical and Career High School.Read more about the Gala here.
March 2024 I 14Charles Ellis Montessori KindergartenClasses Win Pizza PartyCongratulations to Charles Ellis Montessori Academy kindergarteners for achieving the highest percentage of PLAY Card users at Live Oak Public Libraries during a contest for SCCPSS elementary and middle school students during the month of February! The students' love of learning and yearning to read paid off with a Donatos pizza party and celebrity readers from WTOC-TV. With the PLAY Card accounts, students simply use their student ID to access all of Live Oak Public Libraries' free onsite and online resources - worry-free - because PLAY Card accounts are fine-free! It's part of a Read United Day pilot program in partnership with Live Oak Libraries and the United Way of the Coast Empire. The initiative supports our literacy initiatives and promotes family engagement in reading. We are proud of our scholars. What’s Available at Live Oak Public Libraries?Along with books, the PLAY Card provides free or discounted access to:● State Parks & Museums● Telfair Academy● Savannah Children’s Museum● Skidaway Island State Park● Wormsloe State Historic Site Digital Learning Resources ● E-Read Kids: eBooks, audiobooks, and read-alongs● ABCmouse.com: Interactive books, educational games, and activities● TumbleBookLibrary: E-books, talking picture books, and videos in English and Spanish● Hoopla: Audiobooks, eBooks, music, movies, and TV shows● Tutor.com: Free one-on-one tutoring● Mango: Language learningNeed Transportation to the Library?United Way of the Coastal Empire provides roundtrip Lyft passes (up to $26 each way) through the Ride United Transportation Access program to help families get to the library. To request a ride pass, ask your student’s teacher for details.
March 2024 I 15Video Corner: Did you see THAT?Videographer Ken Slats has been busy sharing the successes in our schools and with our staff! Did you see the latest? If not, here are a samples! You can watch all our video work by visiting our YouTube Channel or on our Featured Videos page on sccpss.com.Blue Jackets Celebrate State Championship!Islands High Bank In St. Patrick’s Day ParadeSchool Nutrition Food FairCTAE Leads the Way!Bloomingdale School To Open in FallNew Beginning Art Show