The start of a new school year is always an exciting time, especially for educators who return with enthusiasm and dedication to shape the minds of the future. In Baldwin County, this enthusiasm was palpable at our 2023 Convocation, on Wednesday, July 25th, a special event that welcomes back all the teachers and support staff to the district. A number of noteworthy speakers addressed the crowd, including Baldwin County Board of Commissioners Chair Emily Davis, City of Milledgeville Mayor Mary Parham-Copelan, Colonel Floyd Griffin, Board of Education Chair Gloria Wicker, Baldwin High School Graduate Braylen Howell, Deputy Superintendent Matt Adams, and Superintendent Dr. Noris Price.
This year's Convocation was nothing short of extraordinary, with breakfast, prizes, and the highly anticipated announcement of the School Teachers of the Year. The event was made even more memorable by the presence of a motivational speaker and author, Willie Spears, who left a lasting impact on everyone in attendance.
Spears' main message to the teachers was to give their best because they are receiving the best from parents and families who entrust their children to them. He used the acronym "BEST" to emphasize the core principles that every teacher should uphold:
Believe in every student
Educate every student
Serve every student
Touch every student
His illustration of passing the baton in a relay race resonated deeply. Some people in a student's life may have "dropped the baton," but teachers must never let go, for their students depend on them to lead them towards success.
Convocation ignites the spark among our BCSD teachers, filling them with motivation and a renewed sense of purpose. The event celebrates not only the district's achievements but also our dedication and passion to exceptional teaching. As we embark on this new academic year, armed with the inspiring words of Willie Spears, there's no doubt that Baldwin County's educators will continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of their students, making a real difference in the world. Go Braves, and here's to an incredible year ahead!
