At Lakeview Academy, March doesn’t just mean basketball. It means math, competition, and a whole lot of excitement. This year, students are diving into “Multiplication Madness,” a schoolwide initiative that turns foundational math skills into a high-energy, bracket-style tournament inspired by March Madness. Designed by instructional coach Joshua Prentice, the event blends academic rigor with school spirit in a way that’s engaging students across grade levels. What Is Multiplication Madness? Multiplication Madness is exactly what it sounds like: a fast-paced, competitive math tournament where students face off using their knowledge of multiplication facts. Modeled after the NCAA bracket system, the competition features: Bracket-style matchups displayed throughout the school Cross-grade competition (third, fourth, and fifth graders competing together) Timed rounds focused on speed and accuracy A championship showdown before spring break Students compete in teams carefully designed to reflect a range of skill levels—from those mastering basic facts to those who have already built strong fluency. Building Teams That Challenge Every Learner One of the most thoughtful aspects of Multiplication Madness is how teams are formed. Teachers intentionally create balanced teams. This structure ensures that every student participates, contributes, and grows while also keeping the competition fair and engaging. Even more exciting? Grade level doesn’t guarantee victory. “We’ve had fourth grade teams beat fifth grade teams, it just depends on how fast they get it,” Prentice shared. A Schoolwide Event That Builds Momentum Multiplication Madness isn’t a one-day event, but unfolds throughout the month, building anticipation with each round. And for the grand finale, the championship will be broadcast schoolwide, allowing students and teachers to tune in and cheer on their classmates. Of course, no championship would be complete without rewards. Winning teams can look forward to custom championship t-shirts, a celebratory pizza party, and schoolwide recognition. But beyond the prizes, the real win is the growth students experience. Why It Matters Multiplication fluency is a critical building block for future math success. By turning practice into competition, Lakeview Academy is helping students develop speed and accuracy, build confidence in math, collaborate with peers, as well as experiencing the joy of learning in a new way. A New Tradition in the Making From buzzing hallways filled with bracket updates to classrooms energized by friendly competition, Multiplication Madness has quickly become a highlight of the school year. And if the excitement is any indication, this may just be the beginning of a new Lakeview Academy tradition. Because at Lakeview, even math can bring a little March Madness.

Baldwin County School District proudly celebrates Baldwin High School STAR Student Saitalea Riner and STAR Teacher Amy Zipperer, recognized at this year’s Baldwin County STAR Student Luncheon. Held at The Club at Lake Sinclair and hosted by the Milledgeville-Baldwin County Chamber of Commerce, the annual STAR (Student Teacher Achievement Recognition) program honors the highest-achieving seniors across Baldwin County along with the teachers who have made a lasting impact on their success. While Georgia Military College Prep’s Joyce Chow was named the overall Baldwin County STAR Student and will advance to regional competition, the moment also spotlighted the incredible work happening across all three local schools, including right here at Baldwin. A Recognition That Starts with a Student The STAR program begins with academic excellence. Students who earn the highest SAT score at their school on a single test date, but what makes this recognition especially meaningful is what comes next. Each STAR Student selects a STAR Teacher. That choice says everything. For Baldwin High senior Saitalea Riner, that teacher is Amy Zipperer. The Impact of a Teacher Who Shows Up Amy Zipperer directed Saitalea Riner in the Fall award-winning production of 'Medea'. If you’ve spent any time around Baldwin High School, you know Amy Zipperer. You’ve seen it in the way students talk about her. You’ve felt it in the energy of a performance. You’ve watched it unfold on stage. As Baldwin High’s theater director, Zipperer has led students to back-to-back Region One-Act Play championships, an achievement that reflects not just talent, but discipline, trust, and a shared commitment to excellence. But awards only tell part of the story. What matters most is what happens in the everyday moments, when a student is pushed to take a risk, to find their voice, to believe they’re capable of more than they thought. That’s the kind of teaching students remember. And that’s the kind of teaching students choose. A Student Who Represents Baldwin High with Excellence Saitalea Riner stands among the top students in Baldwin County, representing Baldwin High School with focus, integrity, and drive. Her recognition as a STAR Student finalist reflects not only academic achievement, but also the kind of dedication that defines the Baldwin High community. Together, Saitalea and Ms. Zipperer represent something we value deeply in Baldwin County School District: the connection between student success and meaningful mentorship. The Heart of Baldwin County School District At its core, the STAR program is a celebration of more than test scores. It’s about relationships. It’s about impact. It’s about the people who help shape who our students become. We are incredibly proud of Saitalea Riner and Amy Zipperer for representing Baldwin County School District with such distinction. And we extend our congratulations to all of this year’s STAR Students and Teachers, along with best wishes to Joyce Chow as she advances to the regional competition.

Special Blog Post by Oak Hill Middle Biotech Teacher Sharon Reeves The OHMS FFA Chapter is excited to invite the Baldwin community to our annual Spring Plant Sale , happening March 30 through April 3 from 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM . Come support our students and bring home beautiful, greenhouse-grown plants for your home or garden! Spring plant sales are one of the most important activities for FFA chapters. Through this hands-on project, students grow and care for a variety of plants, from germination all the way to marketing and sales. Along the way, they develop real-world skills in plant science, greenhouse management, and agribusiness. Why the Plant Sale Matters: • Hands-On Learning: Students gain practical experience growing flowers, vegetables, herbs, and hanging baskets while learning about soil health, irrigation, and pest management. • Student Leadership & Career Skills: Members work together to manage inventory, price products, and market their plants—building teamwork, responsibility, and communication skills. • Supporting Agricultural Education: The plant sale is one of our largest fundraisers, helping support student travel to leadership conferences, competitions, and FFA events. • Community Connection: It’s a wonderful way for our community to purchase high-quality, locally grown plants while supporting local students and agricultural education. Event Details: Dates: March 30 – April 3 Time: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Location: OHMS Greenhouse Appointments Available: To schedule a visit outside regular sale flow, please email sharon.reeves@baldwin.k12.ga.us By purchasing plants from our sale, you are directly investing in the growth, leadership, and future careers of our FFA members. Thank you for supporting agricultural education and helping our students live out the FFA motto: “Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, and Living to Serve.”

Now in its fourth year, the annual Baldwin County School District's Distinguished Alumni Gala continues to honor the rich history of Baldwin County Schools by celebrating graduates whose lives and work reflect excellence across a wide range of professions; from law, medicine, education, military service, higher education, public leadership, and the arts. Melvin "Fish Scales" Adams with Justice Hugh Thompson and his kindergarten Speech Therapist, Jane Thompson This year’s event was especially rich with meaningful reunions and many full-circle moments. One of the most memorable came when Grammy-nominated hip-hop artist Melvin “Fish Scales” Adams was reunited with his kindergarten speech therapist, Jane Thompson, a connection that surprised many in attendance and added an especially personal note to the evening. Mrs. Thompson is also the wife of fellow Distinguished Alumni Class of 2026 honoree, Chief Justice Hugh Thompson , making the moment an unexpected bridge between two very different but equally remarkable Baldwin stories. Throughout the evening, honorees repeatedly returned to the people who shaped them early. Many offered heartfelt thanks to educators and mentors who helped open doors long before their careers took shape. Dr. Kristy Cuthbert spoke movingly about the encouragement she received from former biology teacher Cathy Grimes, whose belief in her helped shift the course of her life as a first-generation college student. Dr. LaMario Primas , Associate Vice President for Student Financial Services at Morehouse College, also recognized one of Baldwin’s own educational leaders, Dr. Runee Sallad, noting the strength of their ongoing partnership through Georgia College Early College , a program that continues to help local students imagine larger futures for themselves. Dr. LaMario Primas A Spirit of Mentorship That same spirit of mentorship was visible throughout the room. Early College students, under Dr. Sallad’s leadership, helped decorate and facilitate the evening, adding a meaningful student presence to an event built around legacy and aspiration. Thank you, Georgia College Early College Students! Several alumni also took time to thank longtime Baldwin educators and coaches whose impact has stretched across generations, including Coach Aaron Bentley and the legendary Coach James Lunsford, both of whom were present and warmly recognized throughout the night. The atmosphere itself reflected the elegance and pride of the occasion. Fine Arts Consultant Mr. Jay Wucher and his jazz quartet created a warm musical backdrop for the evening, joined by Baldwin High School’s accomplished band students, whose contributions added both sophistication and a strong reminder that the district’s artistic tradition remains very much alive in the next generation. The evening also reflected the tremendous work happening behind the scenes. Special thanks to Executive Assistant Gina Whitaker, whose organization and leadership helped bring the gala together alongside the Distinguished Alumni Committee. And as Baldwin County Schools continues this now-established tradition, Superintendent Dr. Kristy Brooks has successfully carried the vision forward with grace and energy, building on the foundation established under former Superintendent Dr. Noris Price and guiding the district confidently into 2026. And of course, Baldwin High School's Principal Markeeta Clayton served stunningly as emcee, for the second year in a row. Thank you all! What emerged most clearly throughout the evening was this: Baldwin County School District’s story is not only found in classrooms and campuses, but in the lives of those who carry its influence into courtrooms, clinics, universities, military service, recording studios, and communities across the country and beyond.

From Baldwin Basketball to Higher Education Leadership When Dr. LaMario Primas graduated from Baldwin High School in 2002, two moments stood out: basketball and graduation. “I played basketball in high school," Primas reflected, "and graduation was a very monumental time." Those years shaped both his confidence and his direction. He remembers Baldwin County Schools as a nurturing environment. One where teachers cared deeply and helped students build a strong foundation. “I felt that the faculty members cared. I had a great foundation at Baldwin High School.” Preparing to Succeed One of the most influential voices during his time at Baldwin were his coaches, whose philosophy left a lasting mark. “Failing to prepare is preparing to fail,” Dr. Primas recalled, a lesson he carried into college and beyond. After graduation, he attended Georgia Southern University, earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resources. While college prepared him academically, he made a bold decision after graduation: he joined the United States Navy. “I wanted to overcome a fear that I had,” he said. Dr. Primas served ten years in the U.S. Navy Reserves as a personnel specialist, gaining discipline, consistency, and adaptability, qualities he continues to use today. Advocating for Access Today, Dr. Primas serves as Associate Vice President for Student Financial Services at Morehouse College in Atlanta. In this role, he oversees both Financial Aid and Student Accounts, helping to ensure students have access to the resources they need to succeed. His path into financial aid was deeply personal. “As a college student, I remember sitting in the financial aid office talking about how to fund my college education,” he said. That experience sparked a passion for policy and student advocacy. He now studies how federal regulations impact students from different backgrounds and works to ensure policies support access and opportunity. A Life Rooted in Family and Service Dr. Primas returned to Georgia to be closer to family. He and his wife, who works in cybersecurity, have a four-year-old daughter. Outside of work, he enjoys reading and spending time with his family, often watching Moana on repeat. “I’m a family man at heart,” he said. He encourages students to dream boldly, seek mentors, and think intentionally about their future. “Be bold. Dream bold. Think about what brings you joy and how to materialize that.” Baldwin County School District Distinguished Alumni 2026 From Baldwin High School to Georgia Southern, from the U.S. Navy to Morehouse College leadership, Dr. LaMario Primas’ journey reflects preparation, adaptability, and service. His story represents the strength of Baldwin County Schools and the power of a strong foundation.

From Baldwin High to the World When Dr. Kristy Cuthbert graduated from Baldwin High School in 2001, college did not feel inevitable. “I was a low-income student and a first-generation student. I kind of had it in my mind that college was something people did if they had the money.” But sometimes it only takes one voice to shift a trajectory. In biology class, Cathy Grimes encouraged her to apply for Governor’s Honors, a simple suggestion that opened a new possibility. “It was just so nice to have someone who says they think you can do it.” At the same time, a local business owner who mentored her offered to pay for her SAT, telling her she was “smart enough” to leave town and pursue something bigger. Those nudges changed everything. A Long and Winding Road Dr. Cuthbert earned her undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Georgia. But she soon realized that to fully pursue the field, she would need a doctoral degree. Something that once again felt financially out of reach. So she made a bold decision: she enlisted in the United States Air Force. “I wanted to force myself out of my comfort zone,” she said. Kristy Cuthbert She served four years as a Korean linguist, living overseas and later working with U.S. Joint Special Forces. The experience broadened her world. Literally. “The world felt very small. I wanted it to feel less overwhelming.” After completing military service, she pursued graduate school at Boston University, earning her Ph.D. in 2022. Today, she serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor and Director of the Texas A&M University Psychology Clinic, where she teaches, mentors graduate students, and oversees clinical services. She also maintains a private practice specializing in borderline personality disorder. Mentorship Matters Dr. Cuthbert’s passion for psychology traces back to her grandmother, a psychiatric nurse at Central State Hospital, and to the high school psychology class that first captured her interest. But she is quick to emphasize something else: access. “There were people who really treated me differently because we grew up pretty low income,” she said. That’s why she wants Baldwin students to know what she once didn’t: “If someone tells you that you can’t do something, it’s okay to see that as a challenge.” She now offers herself as a resource to students who feel unsure of their path. “I just wish the students knew that if they have the potential, they can do big things.” A Life of Exploration and Service Dr. Cuthbert lives in Bryan–College Station, Texas, with her husband, Ben, whom she met while both were serving in the military. He retired after 20 years in the U.S. Air Force and now works with GE Aerospace building jet engines. Together, they have traveled to more than 16 countries, with a goal of visiting all seven continents. They also share their home with their dog, Ellie. “I love seeing how other people live,” she said. Kristy Cuthbert Despite her demanding role directing a year-round clinic, she returns to Milledgeville when she can and remains deeply connected to the community that shaped her. Baldwin County School District Distinguished Alumni 2026 Dr. Kristy Cuthbert’s journey from Baldwin High School to international military service to doctoral-level clinical leadership reflects resilience, courage, and mentorship. Her story reminds us that sometimes it only takes one teacher, one mentor, or one moment of belief to open a door and that Baldwin students are capable of walking through it.

From Baldwin Brave to Educational Leader When Derick Austin graduated from Baldwin High School in 1992, he was already deeply invested in his school community. “I was actually the senior class president,” he said. “Very involved in athletics, part of a lot of clubs,  met a lot of great people and had a lot of great role models while I spent my time there.” Austin played football, baseball, and ran track, eventually earning a full athletic scholarship to Georgia Southern University. “Football was kind of who I was and who I became,” he reflected. But while athletics opened doors, it was the people at Baldwin High who shaped his future. The Power of Role Models Austin grew up in a single-parent household and credits Baldwin coaches and mentors for helping shape the man and leader he would become. “There were a lot of people at Baldwin High School that saw good in me," Austin said, "and they saw a need to push me.” He speaks often about the “village concept”, family, coaches, teachers, and community members working together to support young people. “It was truly the village concept of raising me.”  Today, that philosophy remains central to his work in education. Lifting as I Climb After graduating from Georgia Southern in 1996 with a degree in special education, Austin began teaching and coaching, including a return to Baldwin High School as a football and baseball coach and CTE instructor. “I had a soft spot in my heart of always wanting to help and assist kids that needed help,” he said. His guiding principle? “Lifting as I climb," Austin says. That mindset carried him through roles as assistant principal, principal, assistant superintendent, and now Superintendent of Putnam County Schools, a position he has held for the past two years after more than a decade in district leadership. Leading in Putnam County Putnam County is unique,  a community where visible wealth does not always reflect the reality of students’ lives. “Our kids are not living behind the gates,” Austin said, “our kids don’t live in million-dollar homes.” Because of that, he believes schools must stand in the gap. “Our mission is to provide those kids lifelong opportunities and put them in a position to have things and see things that they wouldn’t see if the school system didn’t support it.” Rooted in Family Family has always guided Austin’s decisions. He and his wife, Stephanie Austin, a fourth-grade teacher in Putnam County, have three children. Their daughter, Precious, is a Baldwin High graduate (Class of 2010) and Georgia Southern alumna. Their twin sons earned full scholarships and graduated from Georgia Tech. Derick Austin’s story reflects the enduring impact of Baldwin High School, a place where mentorship matters, athletics builds discipline, and leadership begins early. From senior class president to superintendent, his journey embodies the spirit of Baldwin County School District: strong roots, servant leadership, and a commitment to lifting others along the way.

From Baldwin Classroom to Critical Care When Dr. Anil K. Puri graduated from Baldwin High School in 1997, he carried with him more than strong grades and extracurricular experiences. He carried perspective. After attending private school through eighth grade, Puri entered Baldwin High as a freshman and quickly recognized the gift of learning in a truly diverse environment. “Perhaps the greatest gift that Baldwin gave me was the ability to be in a diverse environment,” he said. He describes interacting daily with classmates from different racial, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds as transformative an experience that would later shape how he practices medicine. “It was absolutely phenomenal,” he recalled. A Foundation in Academics and Leadership While at Baldwin High, Dr. Puri was active in academics, including participation in Beta Club. During his senior year, the Baldwin Beta Club team earned first place at the state convention, qualifying for nationals in New Orleans, an experience that broadened his view of what was possible beyond Milledgeville. “It was really a great experience just getting out of town and being able to see another city,” he said. After graduation, Dr. Puri attended Emory University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. He then completed medical school at the Medical College of Georgia, followed by residency and fellowship training at the University of Florida. By training, Dr. Puri is a pulmonologist, a specialist in lung and respiratory care, with additional expertise in intensive care and sleep medicine. In addition to his medical degree, he later earned a Master of Health Administration from George Washington University to better navigate the evolving healthcare landscape and strengthen his practice. Coming Home to Serve After nearly 15 years away for education and training, Dr. Puri made a decision that speaks to the heart of Baldwin County’s values: he came home. “I always wanted to come home and get a chance to serve the people that I grew up around,” he said. Professionally, the return offered an even deeper opportunity, to practice medicine alongside his father. “I only had one shot to work with my father, and I didn’t want to miss that one shot.” Today, Dr. Puri treats patients in Milledgeville, often caring for individuals he has known since childhood; former teachers, classmates, and community members. He believes that shared experience strengthens care. “Anytime as a physician you can connect with your patients, I think it leads to better care and better outcomes,” he said. A Commitment to Public Education Dr. Puri considers himself a product of Baldwin County’s public school system — and he has chosen to invest back into it.“I always consider myself a product of the public school system,” he said. He and his wife enrolled their daughters in Baldwin County Schools, where they have participated in the SAGE program, science fair, chorus, and student organizations — even launching a tutoring initiative to support middle school students. When discussing school choice, Dr. Puri frames the decision simply: “Sometimes you can either be part of the solution or be part of the problem. We just chose that we would be part of the solution.” Advice for Future Healthcare Leaders For students considering medicine, Dr. Puri emphasizes preparation and persistence. “You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be consistent,” he said. He encourages students to build strong foundations in science, seek exposure by shadowing professionals, and understand that becoming a physician requires endurance as much as intelligence. Baldwin County School District Distinguished Alumni 2026 Dr. Anil K. Puri’s story reflects the long arc of investment — strong public schools, meaningful mentorship, exposure to opportunity, and a decision to return home and serve. From Baldwin High School classrooms to critical care units and back to Milledgeville, his journey embodies the impact of Baldwin County School District: preparing students not only for success, but for service.

In addition to the many recognitions we had at March 10th's Board Meeting, the Board took an official vote on the Midway Hills School Zone Consolidation Project , which was formally passed. Our official Student Representative Board Member, Sarai Moss, gave her first formal report, and Deputy Superintendent Dr. Rodney Tyson introduced the Oak Hill Athletics Complex project. Plus, several formal employment changes were announced. Congratulations to all of those who will be joining the Baldwin County School District family! 1. 2026 Regional and State Technology Competition Winners 2. Young Ga. Author's District Winners 3. 2026 Black History Winners 4. 2026 Oconee RESA Math Competition Winners 5. Baldwin Braves Literary Team, who are the GHSA Region 4 AAA Champions. 6. Youth Art Month and National School Music in our Schools Month. 7. Lakeview Academy Million Word Readers 8. Baldwin High School: Girls Wrestling Team 9. Baldwin High School Boys Wrestling Team 12. School Social Work Week 13. Pursuit of Excellence 14. School Board Appreciation Week

Special Blog Post by Superintendent Dr. Kristina Brooks Community Update: Strategic District Realignment & Athletic Improvements Midway Hills School Configuration Update As part of our commitment to fiscal responsibility and student success, the district is moving forward with a recommendation to the Board of Education members for approval of a strategic realignment of the Midway Hills school zone. Several key changes are planned to streamline operations and enhance educational resources: Consolidated K-5 Campus: Midway Hills Primary (currently K-2) and Midway Hills Academy (currently 3-5) will merge to form a single K-5 school housed at the Midway Hills Academy facility. This move eliminates the mid-elementary transition for students and simplifies logistics for parents. Repurposing Midway Hills Primary: The current Primary building on Blandy Road will be transformed into the Baldwin Success Academy. This facility will serve as a specialized hub for: Alternative school students (returning from virtual to face-to-face instruction). Fifth-year seniors and 8th graders requiring credit assistance. Students receiving therapeutic and behavioral support services. Equitable Resource Distribution: The realignment allows for a more efficient distribution of ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) services. Previously limited to the Lakeview zone, these critical resources will now be available directly at both the Lakeview and Midway campuses. Efficiency & Savings: By maximizing building capacity (addressing current utilization rates of 38–48%), the district anticipates saving over $250,000 in annual transportation and nearly $400,000 in other operational costs. These funds will be reinvested into direct classroom instruction and student support. Project Spotlight: OHMS Athletic Complex We are excited to share that a formal recommendation for approval to the BOE on the Oak Hill Middle School (OHMS) Athletic Complex project will be made at the March meeting. This development is part of our broader initiative to provide premier athletic facilities that match the caliber of our student-athletes. Key Features of the Project Include: New Competition Fields: Construction of a high-quality Baseball and Softball Complex specifically designed for middle school competition. Enhanced Spectator Experience: The project includes the installation of new grandstands, a modern press box, and upgraded concession facilities to better serve our families and fans. Facility Improvements: Upgrades to field lighting and storm drainage systems to ensure a safe, all-weather playing environment. Funding & Timeline: This project is fueled by E-SPLOST funds, the one-penny sales tax approved by Baldwin County voters. This investment ensures that our middle school athletes have access to the same high-standard facilities recently introduced at the high school level. For more detailed project specs and site plans, you can view the official project document HERE . Celebrating Literacy: Read Across America The district recently buzzed with excitement as we celebrated Read Across America, a nationwide initiative designed to foster a lifelong love of reading. Our schools were filled with guest readers, creative costumes, and, most importantly, the magic of storytelling. Local Talent at the ELC A highlight of the week took place at the Early Learning Center (ELC), which saw an incredible outpouring of support from community volunteers. We were especially honored to welcome Milledgeville’s very own local author, KeShawn Harris. ] Harris spent time with our youngest learners, sharing a special reading of his published book, Robbie’s First Haircut. The story, which focuses on overcoming the "big milestone" jitters of a first trip to the barbershop, resonated deeply with the students. Having a local author share their work in person provides a powerful example for our students that they, too, can become the authors and creators of tomorrow. Seeing our community leaders and local creators like Mr. Harris engage with our students reinforces that reading isn't just a school subject, it's a gateway to connection and community.

From Baldwin Brave to Billboard Charts Melvin Adams graduated from Baldwin High School in 1995, but his love for music started long before that. “I fell in love with hip hop at the age of six or seven,” he said. “Run-D.M.C., Kurtis Blow, right away I said, that’s what I want to do.” By nine years old, he was already writing verses in class at Midway Elementary. Years later, while attending Western Kentucky University, Adams joined five other artists to form what would become Nappy Roots , one of the most successful hip-hop groups of the early 2000s. “We’re one of the few groups from our era that is still making music, still doing shows,” he said. More than two decades later, the group continues to tour and record. Carrying Milledgeville With Him Though Nappy Roots became closely associated with Kentucky, Adams made it his mission to represent his hometown. “That’s the one thing that you can do that they can’t do. Speak about Milledgeville, Georgia,” he said. He describes navigating the music industry as both fearless and collaborative. “I have five brothers to do it with. The fear was gone,” he said. For Adams, success was never about going alone, it was about building with a team. Lessons from Baldwin Basketball Before music, there was basketball. “What do I miss most? Basketball,” Adams said. “That’s when I was playing my best basketball.” He credits Baldwin High athletics with shaping his mindset for life and business. “That totally comes from Baldwin Braves basketball, you’ve got to play your position or none of this works.” That philosophy; know your role, trust your team, hold your position, has guided both Nappy Roots and his entrepreneurial ventures. The Teachers Who Stepped In Adams speaks openly about his parents, teachers, and coaches who redirected him when he needed it most. “When I was drifting off, they would step in and say, ‘You’re not that kid. You’re not a bad kid.’ The moment I went to college, it hit me," he said, "now I get what they were trying to tell me.” Their influence, he says, changed his life. From Music to Craft Brewing In 2018, Adams and fellow Nappy Roots member Skinny DeVille began brewing beer in Adams’ garage. “When the pandemic came, we had nothing else to do but make beer,” he said. What started as experimentation became Atlantucky Brewing, now a 6,000-square-foot brewery located one block from Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. After three years in the garage, they were offered the opportunity to expand. “We were not ready for it, but we said, this is a lifetime opportunity.” Today, Atlantucky Brewing combines craft beer with what Adams calls “Atlanta-style pizza”; flatbread, heavy on toppings, with Southern influences like collard greens. For Adams, brewing blends chemistry, business, art, and history, disciplines he first encountered in school. Advice for Baldwin Students Adams encourages students to think creatively and work collaboratively. “Creating things is for everybody,” he said. His biggest advice? “Traveling changed my life more than anything. Getting out of Milledgeville and seeing how big the world is just showed me the possibilities are unlimited.” For aspiring musicians, he offers both realism and encouragement: “Talent is only 10% of what it takes to make it,” he said. “You need a team. You need the work ethic. It is a business.” Adams and his wife have two adult children, whom he has helped raise since they were young. “That’s where my life is now. It’s all about them,” he said. His wife works as a caregiver, and Adams says he admires her ability to care for others and listen to their stories, something he has always valued. Today, while still touring and creating music, Adams travels more for enjoyment, balancing creative passion with family life.

A Founding Graduate of Baldwin High School Hugh Thompson, class of 1961 When Baldwin High School opened in 1956, it marked a major shift in Milledgeville’s educational landscape. Justice Hugh Thompson entered a school still defining its identity and graduated in 1961 as part of the earliest wave of Baldwin Braves. “It was a brand-new school when I was there,” Thompson said. “Our class ring had the year the school started, 1956, and the year we graduated,1961.” The Baldwin Standard: Faculty, Expectations, and Community When Thompson reflects on what Baldwin High School instilled, he doesn’t start with prestige. He starts with people ; the faculty and the students who made excellence feel normal. “We had really good faculty," he recalled, "and excellent teachers,” he recalled. He remembers being surrounded by classmates with drive and ability. “There were a lot of really smart students there… and a lot of successful people who graduated from Baldwin.” The original Baldwin High School, before it was rebuilt in 1988. From Baldwin High School to the Georgia Supreme Court After Baldwin High School, Thompson continued his education at Emory University and ultimately pursued law, launching a career defined by service across multiple levels of Georgia’s judicial system. “I spent about 47 years in the law,” he said. His path included 15 years as a Superior Court Judge and then a long tenure on Georgia’s highest court. On the Supreme Court, Thompson emphasized the importance of the work and the responsibility behind every ruling as each ruling became precedent for Georgia Law. “Every case was important. Every decision mattered." A Message for Students Today: Knowledge Builds Options When asked what advice he would give students, especially those considering law, Thompson comes back to preparation, study habits, and taking school seriously. “High school is a great place to learn how to study, how to prepare, how to commit,” he said, encouraging students to approach learning with purpose. And his most repeatable takeaway is simple, timeless: “Knowledge gives you options. The more knowledge you have, the more opportunities you have.” Beyond his decades of judicial service, Justice Thompson speaks most warmly about his family. He and his wife, Jane, have been married for 58 years, a partnership that began during their time as students at Emory University. Together, they built their life in Milledgeville, raising two sons and welcoming four grandchildren. One son works in financial planning, and the other serves as a physician in internal medicine. Throughout his long career, Thompson remained grounded in Baldwin County, living in the same home for nearly five decades and building a life centered on family, faith, and community. Justice Hugh Thompson’s story reflects what Baldwin County School District believes about education: that strong teaching and strong schools create real momentum that can carry a student from Milledgeville to statewide leadership and long-term service. “It’s been a great life,” Thompson said.