Baldwin High School Celebrates 2025 "Teach for the Peach" Cohort

The Baldwin County School District is proud to celebrate the 2025 "Teach inr the Peach" cohort—five outstanding Baldwin High School students who have committed to pursuing careers in education after graduation.

These future educators were honored last week in a special recognition ceremony that marked a major milestone for Baldwin High School’s CTAE Teaching as a Profession Pathway. This is the largest group yet to complete the program since its inception, and it reflects a growing commitment from students to serve their community through education.

Building the Pipeline: From Baldwin Students to Baldwin Teachers

“This is the first full cohort of this many students wanting to enter teaching as a profession,” said Baldwin High School Principal Markeeta Clayton. “We began this pathway last year to generate a pipeline of future teachers—especially right here in Baldwin County.”

Thanks to the visionary leadership of outgoing Superintendent Dr. Noris Price, the Baldwin County School District established Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with Fort Valley State University, Middle Georgia State University, and Central Georgia Technical College. These agreements guarantee that graduates of the program will be offered interviews with the Baldwin County School District upon earning their degrees.

Driven to Make a Difference

“These students know what they want,” said Teaching Pathway instructor TaQuila Thomas. “They see their futures clearly and are willing to work hard to get there. They’ve already passed key certification benchmarks, including the GACE Paraprofessional exam, and they are deeply motivated to make a difference.”

One student, Tameriana, expressed particular excitement about returning to Baldwin County to teach after college. “She’s already looking forward to that promised interview,” Thomas shared with a smile.

A Lasting Tribute to Dr. Noris Price

The “Teach in the Peach” celebration also served as a heartfelt tribute to Dr. Noris Price, who played a key role in launching the program and establishing its college partnerships. “We wanted to give Dr. Price her flowers—literally and figuratively,” said Thomas. “She fought for this program, and we’re so thankful for everything she did to support our students and our future.”

The Future of Teaching Begins at Home

As these five students prepare to graduate and take their next steps toward college and careers in education, Baldwin County School District beams with pride—and looks forward to the day they return to teach in the same halls that shaped them.