A Night for the Class of 2026 There’s something special about seeing a room full of seniors, families, educators, and community partners gathered for one reason: to celebrate what students have worked so hard to become. Last week, Baldwin High School honored the Class of 2026 during its Annual Senior Awards Banquet, recognizing students for academic achievement, leadership, service, career readiness, and the many quiet, steady efforts that brought them to this milestone. Scholarships Show the Power of Community One of the most meaningful parts of the evening was the presentation of scholarships, made possible by local businesses, civic groups, families, alumni, and community organizations who continue to invest in Baldwin students. Scholarships included the Mr. Michael Blom Mathematics Scholarship, Breaux & Associates Architects, Cornerstone for Success, Baldwin County Chapter Fort Valley State Alumnae, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Exchange Bank, Georgia College Nursing, GMC Baldwin County Graduate, Helen Littman, the Je’Mazin Teshan Roberts Scholarship, Lanoir Social and Civic Club, MidSouth Federal Credit Union, Planters EMC, REACH, Robins Federal Credit Union, the Sharon Driskell Education Fund, and the Cline O’Connor Florencourt Scholars. Celebrating Every Kind of Excellence Each scholarship represented more than financial assistance. It represented someone saying, We see you. We believe in you. We want to help you take the next step. For students preparing for college, career training, military service, or other postsecondary paths, that kind of support can make a lasting difference. Throughout the evening, Baldwin High School also recognized seniors for their accomplishments in academics, student leadership, career pathways, school organizations, and service. The program reflected the many ways students have grown during their time at Baldwin High School, not only through grades and awards, but through responsibility, perseverance, school spirit, and a commitment to finishing strong. A Proud Moment for Baldwin As graduation approaches, the Annual Senior Awards Banquet offered a meaningful reminder of what makes Baldwin special: students with bright futures, families who cheer them on, educators who pour into them, and a community that keeps showing up. Baldwin High School congratulates the Class of 2026 and thanks every scholarship sponsor, staff member, and community partner who helped make the evening possible. Full Photo Gallery:

Baldwin County School District was honored to have Superintendent Dr. Kristina Brooks invited to Georgia Military College to deliver a special Mother’s Day message celebrating mothers, families, students, and the power of community. Speaking to cadets, families, local leaders, and guests, Dr. Brooks reflected on the lessons she learned from her own mother, the importance of gathering around the table, and the role mothers play in shaping not only their children’s lives, but the culture of an entire community. “For me as a mother and as the superintendent of our schools, being together is important,” Dr. Brooks shared. Dr. Brooks encouraged young people to choose “connection over competition,” challenging students from different schools, backgrounds, and experiences to see one another not as rivals, but as partners in building a stronger future and helping to make Baldwin the premier community that we all know it can be. “If we really desire for Baldwin County to be a place where everyone thrives, it is going to take all of us working together and moving in the same direction,” she said. “Every time we teach our children to lead with compassion, to show kindness, and to work together, we are building a better Baldwin,” Dr. Brooks said. She was awarded afterward with a sabre as a gift of appreciation by the GMC community. Baldwin County School District is proud to celebrate Dr. Brooks’ leadership and grateful to Georgia Military College for inviting her to share such a meaningful message in honor of Mother’s Day.

At Baldwin High School, the Freshman Academy is creating meaningful opportunities for students to grow not just academically, but personally and socially as well. Recently, that mission came to life during a dynamic Women’s Empowerment Session held in the Fine Arts Theater, where students and community leaders came together for a morning rooted in connection, reflection, and real-world learning. Student Voice Takes Center Stage The session, organized in partnership with the BHS Student Council and co-sponsor Ms. Jataya Simmons, was intentionally designed to elevate student voice. The program featured three student-led skits that tackled relevant and sometimes challenging topics, including social media influence, self-respect, and personal presentation. These performances opened the door for honest conversations. Students explored real-life scenarios they encounter daily, setting the tone for deeper discussion and reflection. Real Conversations with Real Leaders Following the skits, a panel of accomplished local women leaders engaged directly with students in an open forum. Panelists included Camellia Hurt, Brittany Redden, Keeta Ingram, Ericka Trawick, Crystal Grable, Valencia Barksdale, Christalyn Lewis, KiQuonja Dixon, Linnesia Latimore, Morgan Harris-Please, Skye Gess, and Abby Wolf. Together, they offered thoughtful feedback, shared personal stories, and answered student questions with authenticity and care. Conversations centered around topics students identified as most important; self-care, personal decision-making, adolescent development, and navigating life’s challenges with confidence and purpose. Mentorship That Matters One of the most impactful aspects of the session was the opportunity for students to hear firsthand from women who have navigated many of the same challenges they now face. Panelists shared their career journeys, life lessons, and practical advice for success beyond high school, helping students see both the possibilities ahead of them and the pathways to get there. Moments like these remind students that success isn’t one-size-fits-all—and that resilience, confidence, and support systems play a critical role in shaping their future. Building Confidence Through Community Events like the Women’s Empowerment Session reflect a broader commitment within the Baldwin County School District to support the whole student. By fostering spaces where students feel seen, heard, and encouraged, Baldwin High continues to strengthen its culture of empowerment and belonging. School leaders expressed deep appreciation to the panelists for investing their time and voices into the lives of students. Their willingness to show up, speak honestly, and mentor the next generation made a lasting impression—one that will continue to resonate far beyond the walls of the Fine Arts Theater.

On April 23, 2026, Baldwin High School once again hosted its annual Golden Apple Awards in the Fine Arts Atrium, bringing together students, educators, and families for a meaningful morning centered on gratitude, recognition, and connection. Now in its fourth year, the Golden Apple Awards have become one of the most anticipated traditions within the Baldwin County School District, celebrating the powerful relationships that shape student success. A Tradition Rooted in Gratitude The Golden Apple Awards began in 2022 through the vision of the late Academic Coach Shelton Brown alongside then-Principal Jason Flanders. What started as a small, heartfelt gathering has grown into a defining event for Baldwin High School, one that continues to honor the legacy of recognizing educators who make a lasting difference. Under the leadership of Principal Markeeta Clayton, the ceremony has expanded to include the school’s honors seniors, while maintaining the personal, reflective spirit that makes the event so impactful. Students Honoring Those Who Shaped Them At the heart of the Golden Apple Awards is a simple but powerful tradition: each graduating honors student selects a teacher who has influenced their academic journey and personal growth. During the ceremony, students present their chosen educator with a Golden Apple trophy, often accompanied by heartfelt remarks that highlight moments of encouragement, guidance, and belief. These tributes serve as a reminder that the impact of great teaching extends far beyond the classroom. As reflected in this year’s program, the award celebrates educators who “inspire curiosity, nurture confidence, and make a lasting impact on the lives of their students” a mission that continues to define Baldwin High School’s culture. Continuing a Legacy of Excellence Events like the Golden Apple Awards are a shining example of the Baldwin County School District’s commitment to recognizing excellence and celebrating the people who make it possible every day.

At the April meeting, the Baldwin County School District Board of Education approved performance services for a new athletic complex at Oak Hill Middle School, marking a significant investment in student opportunities and campus growth. The Board also celebrated a wide range of student and staff achievements, recognizing honors in academics, athletics, and the arts, including DECA competitors, Stock Market Game winners, regional and state champions, and standout programs such as Project SEARCH, along with district recognitions for National Library Week, Assistant Principals Week, and Exceptional Children’s Week. 1. DECA State Competitors 2. School District Stock Market Game Winners 3. GA River of Words Art State Winner 4. Civics Bee 5. Project Search interns 6. BHS 2026 BLAZE Student/Teacher Award 7. OHMS Boys Soccer Team 8. Girls Basketball Regional Champions 9. BHS Varsity Boys Basketball AAA Elite 8 Award Winners 10. Region Basketball Coach of the Year: Benjamin Smith 11. National Library Week, April 19-25, 2026 12. National Assistant Principals Week, April 6-10, 2026 13. Exceptional Children's Week, April 12-18 2026 14. Pursuit of Excellence

At the Baldwin County School District, student voice and creativity are always worth celebrating, and at Lakeview Primary, that celebration takes on a particularly special form each year. Through the Young Georgia Authors (YGA) competition and the school’s cherished Author’s Tea, students are recognized not just for their writing skills, but for the stories they bravely share with the world. A Statewide Tradition, Rooted in Baldwin The Young Georgia Authors competition is a statewide initiative that begins right in the classroom. As Lakeview Primary Media Specialist Brenda Brown explains,“It starts at the building level. School-wide winners move to the district competition. One district winner is chosen from each grade level. They move on to compete within the region through RESA. Any region winners move on to state competition.” By January, each class submits its top three anonymous writing samples, ensuring that every piece is judged purely on its merit. From there, grade-level teams select first, second, and third place winners, who advance to the district level, joining peers across Baldwin County in a celebration of excellence in writing. From Classroom to Celebration “The Author’s Tea is actually one of my favorite things that I do each year,” Brown shares. “I love celebrating our students. I love watching them interact with their families and getting to meet the families. I love listening to their stories… It is always a special event!” With more than three decades in education and over ten years coordinating Young Georgia Authors, Brenda Brown has helped shape a culture where writing is both valued and celebrated. “I plan to continue to do the Author’s Tea each year while I am here,” she says. “I think it works well as we do it now, but I am always open to suggestions for improvement.” Celebrating the Power of Student Voice From the first draft written in a classroom to the final piece shared with proud families, Lakeview Primary’s young authors are learning that their words matter and that their stories deserve to be told. And in Baldwin County, that’s something worth celebrating.

By Team Reports Apr 16, 2026, 7:51pm Baldwin barely beat Howard the last time the pair played, but that sure wasn't the case this time around. The Braves' defense stepped up to hand the Huskies a 7-0 shutout on Thursday. Baldwin's defense has been rock solid lately; the team hasn't given up a goal in their last three matches. They hit Howard with a four-pronged attack, as the team got scores from Greisy Juarez (2), Addison Whidby (2), Rahina Biyogmam (2), and Sarai Moss. Baldwin pushed their record up to 9-9 with the win, which was their third straight at home. Those home victories came thanks in part to their offensive performance across that stretch, as they scored 28 goals over those three matchups. As for Howard, they have traveled a rocky road recently, having lost three of their last four contests. That's put a noticeable dent in their 5-12 record this season. Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps Boys' Give Their All Against Howard By Team Reports Apr 16, 2026, 11:24pm The matchup between Baldwin and Howard on Thursday hardly resembled the 1-0 effort from their previous meeting. The Braves came up short against the Huskies, falling 8-3. Things were pretty much settled by the half as Baldwin were already down 6-0. Baldwin's defeat dropped their record down to 5-12. As for Howard, they are on a roll lately: they've won four of their last five matches. That's provided a massive bump to their 10-7 record this season. Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps

At Midway Hills Academy, preparing students for success is about, not just academics, but also equipping them with the tools they need to navigate the real world with confidence, safety, and strong decision-making skills. That mission was on full display this week as fifth-grade students proudly celebrated their graduation from the C.H.A.M.P.S. program. What is C.H.A.M.P.S.? C.H.A.M.P.S. short for, Choosing Healthy Activities and Methods Promoting Safety , is a statewide initiative developed by the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association to help young students build the knowledge and character needed to make positive life choices. Designed specifically for fifth graders, the program is taught by certified deputy sheriffs and focuses on real-world topics that today’s students face every day topics that require not just awareness, but confidence and critical thinking. Over the course of the program, Midway Hills students engaged in weekly lessons covering a wide range of important topics, including: Internet safety and social media awareness Peer pressure and decision-making Bullying prevention Drug and alcohol education Stress management Personal safety and violence prevention Learning from Real-World Leaders One of the most impactful elements of the program is the connection students build with the deputy sheriffs who serve as instructors. These mentors bring authenticity and experience into the classroom, helping students see safety, responsibility, and leadership not as abstract ideas but as lived values. Investing in the Future Programs like C.H.A.M.P.S. reflect the Baldwin County School District’s ongoing commitment to educating the whole child. By partnering with community organizations and law enforcement, our schools are creating meaningful experiences that prepare students not just for the next grade level, but for life. At Midway Hills Academy, that investment is already paying off in the form of students who are informed, empowered, and ready to lead.

In the Baldwin County School District, learning doesn’t stop when the final bell rings and neither does our commitment to student well-being. At Baldwin High School, that commitment comes to life each evening through the district’s Supper Program, formally known as 'Dinner Dash', a powerful initiative ensuring students have access to nutritious meals long after the school day ends. Meeting a Real Need in Baldwin County For many students, the school day extends well into the evening with athletics, after-school programs, and academic support. Some students don’t arrive home until 7:00 PM or later. That’s where the Supper Program steps in. “Our supper program is sponsored by DECAL , but it’s a federal USDA food program,” explained Director of Nutrition Susan Nelson. “We’re able to operate after the school day ends and serve a balanced, nutritious meal in the evenings.” Because Baldwin County qualifies as an at-risk area, these meals are provided at no cost to students, removing barriers and ensuring every child has access to healthy food when they need it most. More Than a Meal—A Support System for Families The impact of the program extends beyond students. It directly supports working families across the community. “I think it’s important to the parents as well as the students,” said Baldwin High School Nutrition Manager Fatima Pryor. “When they’re here late, parents know their child is getting a hearty meal and it takes that pressure off.” With approximately 400–500 meals served each evening across the district, the program has become a vital piece of Baldwin County’s support system. A Program Built on Care and High Standards While it might seem like an extension of the school lunch program, the Supper Program is actually a completely separate operation, with its own staff, inventory, and regulations. “It’s like running two separate programs,” Nelson said. “Around 4:00 every day, I put on a different hat.” And from the beginning, the district made a clear decision: quality would never be compromised. “If we’re going to do this, we’re going to do it right,” Nelson added. “I want them to have a good, hearty meal, meat, vegetables, rolls, something substantial.” That means students aren’t just getting a quick snack, they’re receiving thoughtfully prepared meals designed to sustain them through long evenings. Fast-Paced, Student-Focused Service At Baldwin High School, the supper program operates with precision and urgency. “It’s more fast-paced,” Pryor explained. “We’ve got about an hour and a half to get meals out because students are finishing after-school activities and getting ready to go home.” Meals are prepared, packaged, and delivered efficiently so students have time to sit, eat, and recharge before heading home. And those meals are designed with students in mind. “In the evening, we give them heartier meals, like chicken Alfredo or spaghetti, because by that time, they’re hungry again,” Pryor said. Supporting Learning, Energy, and Engagement The benefits of the program are clear not just in full stomachs, but in improved learning. Teachers have reported that students are more alert, more engaged, and better able to focus after receiving an evening meal. “They learn better and participate more,” Nelson noted. “It’s been a win-win.” A Team Effort Across Schools While Baldwin High School serves as the hub for meal preparation, the program reaches students across the district, including schools like Oak Hill Middle School. Nutrition teams, including leaders like Sameerah Cummings, play a key role in ensuring meals are distributed efficiently and students are served with care each evening. Behind every meal is a coordinated effort of dedicated staff, drivers, and school-based teams working together to make sure no student is left behind. At its heart, the Supper Program reflects what makes the Baldwin County School District special: a deep commitment to meeting students where they are and supporting the whole child. “What I like about this program is being able to feed the kids, and put a smile on their faces,” said Cummings. The Baldwin County School District's unique Supper Program is about care, dignity, and creating an environment where students can thrive.

On March 12th, when severe weather swept through Baldwin County, bringing heavy rain, powerful winds, and fear to many of our youngest students, a small group of chickens found themselves at the center of a much larger story. And at the heart of it all was Mrs. Linda Kadian. Trusting Instinct in the Midst of the Storm Prior to the storm, the National Weather Service hadn't held its early detection weather briefing, leading to many Middle Georgia school districts with little notice before the storms hit. Many, such as Baldwin County, were forced to shelter-in-place or delay opening. As the storm rolled in and  students arrived, staff moved swiftly to keep children safe. Kadian recalled, “The wind was horrible.” Outside, another decision had to be made. Mrs. Kadian's quick thinking saved her chickens from being demolished in the storm Mrs. Kadian, who oversees the school’s agriculture program, made the call to release the chickens from their enclosure, trusting that their natural instincts would give them a better chance of finding shelter than remaining confined. It was a simple decision. But it made all the difference. “I knew that because the storm was coming, I was not going to leave them in an area that they couldn’t keep themselves safe,” she said. The Story of Percy and Crumb In the aftermath of the storm, the chickens’ stories began to unfold. Crumb, one of the younger hens, was found injured, unable to stand, sitting quietly in the dirt. What may have happened remains uncertain, but in the chaos of the storm, something had struck her leg. “It broke my heart,” Kadian said. Without hesitation, she made sure Crumb received the care she needed, arranging for her to be taken to a safe place where she could rest and heal properly. With time and care, there is every hope she will return. Tori Dominy, Baldwin County's Student Information Coordinator, also runs a small chicken farm and was able to adopt Crumb for the time being to address her wounded leg. Tori and her husband, Chris Dominy, also donated a new coop for the chickens. Percy, getting used to her new digs. Another hen, Percy, had followed her instincts even further, leaving campus entirely and making her way nearly a mile away to Baldwin High School, which happened to be hosting MHP's theatre run of "Press Start", as she was found by MHP staff roaming the parking lot after the play let out. MHP Principal Tara Burney quipped, "Apparently one of our chickens wanted to see our play!" A Classroom Built on Care For Mrs. Kadian, moments like this are not separate from her teaching. They are the teaching. Now in her second year leading agriculture classes, she brings hands-on learning to life for students across grade levels. Whether students are exploring Georgia’s soil types or caring for animals, her classroom is rooted in experience, curiosity, and responsibility. That passion has been shaped by a journey through Baldwin County Schools that reflects both dedication and adaptability. Over the past seven years, she has served as an administrative assistant, P.E. instructor, fourth grade teacher, and math and science educator, with each step leading her closer to the work she loves most. “I love the children," she said, "and I love teaching.” And through it all, one thing has remained constant: her love for students and her commitment to doing what’s right for them. A Legacy That Extends Beyond the Classroom As Mrs. Kadian prepares to retire this year, her impact can be seen not only in lesson plans or classrooms, but in moments like this one. Where care, instinct, and quick thinking come together in service of others. She has created an environment where students learn more than academic standards. They learn compassion.

There’s something powerful that happens when students step outside the classroom and into a challenge. For a group of Lakeview Academy’s student ambassadors, that moment came recently at Georgia College & State University , where they participated in an immersive outdoor leadership experience designed to strengthen teamwork, resilience, and confidence. As part of the Baldwin County School District’s ongoing commitment to developing student leaders, Lakeview Academy’s Ambassador program continues to create opportunities that go beyond academics, focusing on character, service, and real-world application. A Program Built on Leadership At Lakeview Academy, the Student Ambassador Program , created by art teacher Joel Respess, selects fifth-grade students who demonstrate strong character and leadership potential. These students serve as role models within the school, helping younger students and representing their peers with pride. Arianna Myles and Carmila Corzo Perela at GCSU's Lake Laurel “This is our sixth year, and students are handpicked,” Respess shared. “They’re at the top of our school. They have to be role models, and they have to make it easy for their teachers to teach and easy for their classmates to learn.” For many students, the program is about responsibility and it’s about belonging and purpose. “My favorite thing about being an ambassador is representing the school and helping the kids littler than me understand how you’re supposed to be,” said Student Ambassador and LVA Fifth Grader Arianna Myles. Learning Through Challenge at Georgia College The highlight of this year’s experience was a visit to Georgia College’s Outdoor Education Program, led by Dr. Liz Speelman. There, approximately 40 student Ambassadors participated in a three-hour low ropes course designed to push them outside their comfort zones.The course featured a series of physical and mental challenges that required students to work together, communicate effectively, and think creatively. “We’re going through challenge courses that teach team building and working together and not giving up, encouraging each other, not quitting,” Respess explained. For students, the experience was both exciting and transformative. Growth Beyond the Classroom Experiences like the low ropes course are intentionally designed to place students in unfamiliar environments where growth happens naturally. “It takes them out of the classroom,” Respess noted. “It puts them in a totally new environment and introduces them to things they’ve never thought of.” In that space, students learn to trust one another, solve problems collaboratively, and persevere through challenges, skills that translate directly back into the classroom and their everyday lives. Representing Something Bigger This year, the Ambassador Program has taken on an even greater sense of purpose. With the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Kristina Brooks, students are being encouraged to see themselves not just as leaders within their school, but as representatives of the entire district. “We’ve decided to take on a larger role," said Respess, "and really think of ourselves as ambassadors for Baldwin County Schools.” That shift reflects a broader vision, one where students understand their ability to influence culture, support their peers, and carry the values of their school community into the world. Building the Leaders of Tomorrow The Lakeview Academy Student Ambassador Program is a strong example of how Baldwin County schools are preparing students not just for academic success, but for life. Through experiences like the Georgia College low ropes course, students are learning what it means to lead, to serve, and to support one another. And perhaps most importantly, they’re learning that leadership isn’t about standing above others. It’s about lifting others up.

In Fall of 2025, Midway Hills Primary's commitment to family engagement was recognized in a big way as the school earned top honors for their Fall 2025 Family Engagement Video Contest, celebrating their outstanding efforts to bring families and schools closer together. Telling the Story of a Community The winning video captures something special happening at Midway Hills Primary: a school community rooted in relationships, shared experiences, and meaningful moments. The goal behind the project was simple; to bridge the gap between school and home by sharing the joy and learning that took place throughout the semester. A Season of Engagement To create the video, the team thoughtfully revisited each major event from the fall, highlighting the moments that brought families into the heart of the school: Grandparents Breakfast Thanksgiving Lunch Literacy Night Veterans Day Celebration Each event served as a reminder that learning extends far beyond the classroom, and that family involvement plays a critical role in student success. Bringing Purpose to Every Moment What sets this video apart is its intentional storytelling. Through guided narration, viewers aren’t just seeing snapshots, they’re understanding the purpose behind each event and the impact it had on students and their families. The visual storytelling brings the entire experience to life. By digging into their archives and selecting the most meaningful photos, the team created a vibrant collection of “action shots” that highlight what matters most: smiling faces, shared laughter, and a community fully engaged in the life of the school. Congratulations to Midway Hills Primary on this well-deserved honor. Your work continues to set the standard for family engagement across Baldwin County. See their award winning video below!