All Within REACH: Baldwin County Celebrates New Scholars

The Oak Hill Middle School cafeteria was filled with excitement and pride on Monday, November 3rd, as Baldwin County Schools hosted the 2025–2026 REACH Georgia Signing Day Ceremony. This annual event celebrates the newest cohort of REACH Scholars, students who have demonstrated strong academic promise, leadership, and character and recognizes the community partners who make their success possible.

The Honorable Floyd Griffin presented each student with a copy of his book.

REACH, which stands for Realizing Educational Achievement Can Happen, is Georgia’s first needs-based mentorship and college scholarship program. Each REACH Scholar receives academic coaching, mentoring, and leadership opportunities throughout high school and earns a $10,000 scholarship upon graduation. These funds may double to $20,000 if they attend a participating REACH partner college or university.

Superintendent Dr. Kristina Brooks opened the ceremony by emphasizing the vital role of community support in shaping the future of these young scholars.

“This community plays a vital role in supporting our REACH Scholars through mentoring, job shadowing, and encouragement as they work toward their college and career goals,” said Dr. Brooks. “Together, we are helping these students see what’s possible, showing them that hard work, dedication, and community support can open doors to a brighter future.”

Baldwin County has now sent four cohorts of REACH Scholars to college, with each student receiving scholarships that help change the trajectory of their lives. This year’s class adds to that proud tradition.

Meet the 2025–2026 REACH Scholars

• Ja’Leah Coverson – A dedicated learner who loves to read and dreams of a career in the medical field.

• Jayven Norman – A math enthusiast who hopes to attend college and one day run his own business.

• Hayven Queen – A science lover with plans to study veterinary technology at Fort Valley State University.

• Tymra Seals – An outgoing student who aspires to become a pediatric nurse.

• Jamie Trippel – A creative and curious scholar whose lifelong dream is to become a paleontologist and work for National Geographic.

These outstanding eighth graders were selected after a detailed application and interview process. The district extends special thanks to this year’s interview panel: Carrie Dietrich (Central Georgia Technical College), Greg Tyson (Georgia Power Company), and Dr. Veronica Womack (Georgia College & State University).

During the ceremony, Mr. Manzie Broxton, Dr. Oliver Griffeth, and Mrs. Amy Taylor, Oak Hill’s 8th-grade counselor and REACH Coordinator, led the program alongside elected officials and community partners. The event included special presentations from U.S. Representative Austin Scott’s Office, State Representative Floyd Griffin, and the Baldwin County Charter System Foundation of Excellence, represented by Treasurer Willie Davis.

Following the formal signing, students, parents, mentors, and community members joined in reciting the REACH charge, pledging to uphold high academic and personal standards, maintain strong attendance, and stay drug- and crime-free throughout high school.

“I challenge our scholars to set their goals high, work hard, and never give up,” said Mr. Broxton in closing. “Because it is all within REACH.”

As families and guests gathered for photos and a reception in the Discovery Center, one thing was clear: the future of Baldwin County is bright, and it’s in good hands.