On a typical school day, lunch is often rushed something eaten between bells, emails, and obligations. But tucked inside the cafeteria at Baldwin High School, something different is happening. The Baldwin Bistro feels less like a school lunchroom and more like a neighborhood café. There’s a dedicated dining space, carefully plated food, and students moving with purpose: greeting guests, running dishes, and keeping everything on pace. What was once unused space has become a place where learning, leadership, and hospitality meet. The Bistro launched quietly last semester as part of the school’s Culinary Arts Pathway , but in the Spring Semester of 2026, it has truly found its stride and its audience. “It’s a café environment carved out of the cafeteria,” said Chef Gerard McGale, Baldwin High School’s Culinary Arts instructor. “Students come alive when they have real customers in front of them.” That real-world experience is exactly the point. The Baldwin Bistro is run by students enrolled in Culinary Arts I and II, along with select pathway completers who return to help keep the operation running smoothly. From menu planning and food prep to service and presentation, students are responsible for every step. Erica Fleming, BHS Senior Culinary Arts Pathway Completer Senior Erica Fleming has seen the program evolve firsthand. A Culinary Pathway completer, Erica continues working in the Bistro even after finishing her coursework. “It’s a place where faculty and staff can come and actually sit down and enjoy their lunch,” she said. “No distractions. Just enjoying the food.” That sense of intention shows and people have noticed. Faculty and staff have embraced the Bistro, returning week after week and asking what’s on the menu next. Some dishes have already become favorites, from Southern-inspired plates to creative desserts dreamed up by students. “The ideas really come from them,” McGale said. “We try things. If it works, we build on it.” For students, the experience goes far beyond cooking. The kitchen runs with what Erica describes as “organized chaos,” requiring communication, time management, and teamwork. Those skills translate no matter where students go next. Erica plans to pursue a career in medical diagnostic sonography after graduation, but she sees clear connections between her time in the kitchen and her future in healthcare. “You learn how to stay calm, how to serve people, how to make sure you’re doing things the right way,” she said. “Seeing someone smile because of something you did that matters.” That blend of technical skill and human connection is exactly what Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education is designed to foster. Through the Culinary Pathway, students graduate with industry knowledge, hands-on experience, and credentials they can take directly into the workforce or apply in entirely new fields. As the Bistro continues to grow, so does its impact. More students are expressing interest in the Culinary program after seeing their peers in action. More staff are choosing to spend their lunch period in the Bistro’s dining area. And more conversations are happening over plates prepared by Baldwin students. “Our goal is simple,” McGale said. “Give people a nice, relaxed lunch, even if it’s just 25 minutes, and give students a real challenge they can rise to.” At Baldwin High School, lunch has become something more than a break in the day. It’s a classroom without walls. A proving ground for young professionals. And a reminder that some of the most powerful learning happens when students are trusted to lead.

Photos courtesy of Tiffany Smith Baldwin has gone a perfect 10-0 against Howard recently and they'll look to pad the win column further on Tuesday. The Braves are taking a road trip to square off against the Huskies at 7:30 p.m on February 3rd . The teams are on pretty different trajectories at the moment (Baldwin has five straight wins, Howard has four straight defeats), but none of that matters once you're on the court. HOW TO WATCH: This game will be live streamed on the NFHS Network, the official streaming partner of the GA High School Assn. (GHSA) & Howard High School . Watch Live Stream On Friday, Baldwin was able to grind out a solid victory over Westside, taking the game 73-63. Given the Braves' advantage in MaxPreps' Georgia basketball rankings (they are ranked 27th, while the Patriots are ranked 230th) , the result wasn't entirely unexpected. Meanwhile, Howard was within striking distance but couldn't close the gap on Friday as they fell 40-36 to Richmond Academy. Howard's loss dropped their record down to 8-12. As for Baldwin, their win bumped their record up to 19-3. Everything came up roses for Baldwin against Howard in their previous matchup last Wednesday, as the team secured a 65-31 victory. The rematch might be a little tougher for the Braves since the squad won't have the home-court advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference. Previous Games 01/21/26 - Home 65-31 W 02/04/25 - Home 47-31 W 01/04/25 - Away 62-51 W 01/16/24 - Away 60-35 W 12/08/23 - Home 77-53 W Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps

On the morning of January 29, the Oak Hill Middle School Theater buzzed with anticipation as students from across Baldwin County gathered for the District Spelling Bee. Congratulations to winner, Georgia College Early College's Derrick Hitchcock for taking home the trophy! From the opening practice round to the final spelling showdown, the competition was a celebration of preparation, courage, and a deep love of language. Students from Lakeview Academy, Midway Hills Academy, Oak Hill Middle School, Georgia College Early College, and Early College showcased not only their spelling skills, but also their poise under pressure. A special thank-you goes out to our caller, Curriculum Director Erica Ingram, and judges, Amy Brantley, Amie Caruso, Christy Goforth, and Shonya Mapp, whose steady guidance and encouragement helped make the event such a success. One of the most heartwarming moments of the day came during Speller Recognition and Awards, where each participant was celebrated for their hard work and academic achievement. The Baldwin County Spelling Bee is about much more than winning. It’s about honoring curiosity, discipline, and the confidence that comes from standing up and trying something challenging. Congratulations to all of the students who participated in this year's competition: Lakeview Academy - Zada Mitchell Chase Alexander Midway Hills Academy - Riyan Balkom Mia Davis Oak Hill Middle School - Bryson Dennis Chayse Benjamin Jaleah Coverson Georgia College Early College - Alyssa Bogle Addyson McDade Derrick Hitchcock This was a proud day for our students, our schools, and our community. Congratulations to all of our spellers for an outstanding competition. Baldwin County is proud of you and we can’t wait to see where your words take you next.

Special Blog Post Written by BCSD Superintendent Dr. Kristina Brooks As we move deeper into the new year, January 20 marked an important milestone for Baldwin County Schools: 100 days of learning. While it’s a familiar point on the academic calendar, it represents far more than a number. It reflects 100 days of growth, perseverance, and daily progress for our students and schools. Across our district, students have been challenged, supported, and encouraged to reach new levels of excellence. Behind that progress is a steady commitment to doing what’s best for children; adapting instruction, strengthening systems, and responding thoughtfully to the needs of families and our community. From expanded learning opportunities and targeted support to behind-the-scenes improvements that keep our schools running smoothly, the work happening in Baldwin every day is intentional and deeply rooted in care. The growth we are seeing is no accident. It is the result of strong partnerships, professional expertise, and a shared belief in the potential of every student. As a community, we can take pride in how far our students have come since the first day of school and remain confident in where they are headed. Looking ahead, we are also excited to kick off our 2026 Strategic Planning process. Baldwin County School District recently welcomed partners from the Carl Vinson Institute of Government, along with the Georgia School Board Association, who are working alongside our leadership team and Board of Education to begin conversations about the future of Baldwin County Schools. This collaborative process will help guide long-term priorities and ensure our district continues to grow in ways that serve students, families, and the broader community well. We invite all of Baldwin to the Community Engagement Forum scheduled for February 5th from 6:00-7:30 pm at the Lakeview Academy Cafeteria. This is the time for our parents, employees, and community leaders to share the hopes and dreams for the future of Baldwin County Schools.  We also encourage families and community members to support literacy efforts across the district, including participation in   Malcolm Mitchell’s Read Bowl , which promotes the joy and importance of reading. With several weeks remaining in the challenge, it’s a great opportunity to celebrate reading at home and at school. Parents, please have your child log their reading minutes every day. Teachers are competing in homeroom challenges with the hopes of us having a state winner that will get to visit with Malcom Mitchell at the Georgia Capitol.  As always, we are grateful for the trust our community places in Baldwin County Schools. Thank you for your continued support as we work together to shape a strong, thoughtful future for our students.

Those attending last nights home basketball game got a little something extra, as Baldwin County Schools proudly announced the launch of a new district-wide recognition, the Classified Staff of the Year Award, created to honor outstanding non-academic support employees whose dedication and service play a vital role in student success, school operations, and the strength of the community. The Classified Staff of the Year 2026 Awardees were honored at last night's basketball game to officially launch the award, with Superintendent Dr. Kristina Brooks and Deputy Superintendent Dr. Rodney Tyson on hand to deliver the awards and gifts to the inaugural recipients. The Classified Staff of the Year Award recognizes employees such as administrative assistants, custodians, IT professionals, and other support staff who consistently demonstrate excellence in performance, a strong work ethic, and a positive impact on their schools. These individuals exemplify what it means to be driven to make a difference in student, school, and community success. Recipients were selected by their individual schools, making the honor especially meaningful and reflective of the respect they have earned from their colleagues. Honorees are recognized as leaders among their peers who promote collaboration, innovation, and professionalism while embodying the values of Baldwin County Schools. The inaugural Classified Staff of the Year recipients include: Baldwin Co Early Learning Center: Ms. Dorothy Reeves Lakeview Primary School: Ms. Taquerra Watkins Lakeview Academy: Ms.   Georgia Freeman Midway Hills Primary:   Mr . Marcus Andrews Midway Hills Academy:   Ms . ShaDra Cleveland Georgia College Early College:   Ms. Lucy Brown ,  Oak Hill Middle School: Mr .  Jabori Wright Baldwin High School: Mr.   JT Dudley Baldwin County Schools congratulates these exceptional team members and extends sincere appreciation to all classified staff for their dedication to supporting students, staff, and families across the district.

The Baldwin County School District was honored to join community partners this morning for 'King’s Breakfast 2026' , hosted by the Georgia College & State University's MLK Committee in the Magnolia Ballroom. Centered on the theme Living the Legacy: Justice, Service, and the Beloved Community , the annual gathering offered a powerful reminder that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision continues to live through the voices and actions of today’s students. BCSD Superintendent Dr. Kristina Brooks addressed attendees following the breakfast, emphasizing the central role young people play in shaping the future of Milledgeville and beyond. “It is a privilege to see that our young people are the heartbeat of Milledgeville,” Dr. Brooks said. “Their insights and the unity in which our young people come to us with hopes and dreams are more than words to win a competition. These words by our students should inspire us because they highlight the potential for our future.” The morning also featured a joyful, moving rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” bringing the audience together in shared reflection and celebration. A highlight of the program was the recognition of winners from the county-wide student art and writing contest. BCSD proudly celebrated several students for their outstanding work, including: K–2 Art Winner:  Wade Rich, Lakeview Primary Honorable Mention:  Madison Hurt, Lakeview Primary Grades 3–5 Art Winner:  Annabel Jones, Georgia Military College Prep Middle School Poetry Winner:  Ava King, Georgia College Early College High School Essay Winner:  London Eldridge, Georgia College Early College Ava King and London Eldridge shared readings of their winning pieces, offering thoughtful reflections on justice, service, and what it means to actively build the Beloved Community. Dr. Brooks closed by thanking the planning committee and Georgia College for their continued partnership and commitment, and by affirming the shared responsibility to support Baldwin County’s students. In his essay, Eldridge spoke to the active responsibility of building the Beloved Community, noting that Dr. King’s vision calls us not only to believe in justice, but to live it: “Dr. King left us an ideology that insists on justice and the practice of service, to merge the two, to speak truth to power, and to meet people’s needs,” Eldridge shared. “If we continue Dr. King’s message as a challenge to love our neighbors enough to change the systems that harm them, the Beloved Community becomes something we live out through every act of service.” The celebration concluded with fellowship, conversation, and a delicious breakfast; an uplifting reminder that honoring Dr. King’s legacy means living it out together, every day.

Wes Cummings switches his and Dr. Gloria Wicker's nameplates, symbolizing their reversal of roles on the School Board as Dr. Gloria Wicker becomes the new Board Chair. Election of Board Chair and Board Vice-Chair Dr. Gloria Wicker voted in as the new Board Chair. Mr. John Jackson voted in as Vice Board Chair. Student Representative to the Board of Education: Sarai Moss Student Led Organization Report Lakeview Academy Ambassadors Recognition of the Pursuit of Excellence Winners Recognition of Mr. Wes Cummings for his outstanding service to the Baldwin County Board of Education as Board Chair Recognition of Midway Hills Primary 2025 Family Engagement Showcase Winner for Innovative Practices by the Georgia Department of Education Recognition of Custodian of the Quarter: Dorothy Reeves, Early Learning Center Recognition of the Oconee RESA 4th annual 2D and 3D Art Competition Winners Recognition of OHMS Band Students selected to participate in the 35th Annual University of Georgia Middle School Honor Band Festival In Recognition of Baldwin High School Band Students Tristen Ingram and Presley Anderson for Earning Selection to the Georgia Music Educators Association (GMEA) All-State Band Auditions Recognition of Baldwin High School Band for Earning a spot in the Georgia Music Educators Association District XI Honor Band Recognition of Baldwin High School Band students for earning a spot in the University of Georgia January Music Festival

For years, the Baldwin County Board of Education has talked about the importance of student voice, not just in classrooms, but in the rooms where decisions are made. On Tuesday, January 13, 2026, that vision officially became reality. After a thoughtful and thorough selection process that included multiple interviews and student applications, the Board elected Sarai Moss, a Georgia College Early College program scholar, as Baldwin County’s first-ever Student Board of Education Representative. In the essay that helped inform her selection, Moss wrote about education as something far bigger than grades or assessments. “I truly believe that all the schools in our district are the foundation of everyone’s lives, especially our children,” Moss wrote. “I want to find out ways to make sure everyone receives resources, support, and more importantly, the encouragement they deserve.” That philosophy resonated deeply with district leaders. Superintendent Kristina Brooks echoed those sentiments during the Board meeting. As a Georgia College Early College program scholar in Baldwin High School, Moss brings a unique perspective to the Board, one that bridges multiple learning environments while remaining grounded in the shared experience of being a Baldwin County student. “She is going to be a representative from preschool all the way to 12th grade,” Brooks said, “and a voice for our students and families and why we are here, to serve and to make a difference in the lives of our children.” The creation of this position ensures Baldwin County’s ongoing commitment to growth, reflection, and community partnership. By welcoming a student voice into Board discussions, the district affirms what it has always believed: that students are not just recipients of education, but active participants in shaping its future. We are proud to welcome Sarai Moss to the Baldwin County Board of Education and excited to see where this new chapter leads.

Photos courtesy of Tiffany Smith By Team Reports Baldwin had won four straight games and Karez Demory did his part to make it five on Saturday. It took a bit of extra time, but the Braves secured a 63-62 win against the Cedar Shoals Jaguars in overtime thanks in part to Demory: he dropped a double-double with 21 points and 11 boards. Demory continues to improve, besting his previous point total in each of the last three games he's played. Another player making a difference was Jared Mundie , who shot 56% from the field to rack up 13 points. He is on a roll when it comes to field goal percentage, as he's posted one of at least 50% in the last five games he's played. Baldwin's victory bumped their record up to 13-2. As for Cedar Shoals, their defeat dropped their record down to 10-6. Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Baldwin will square off against Harlem at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday. As for Cedar Shoals, they will look to defend their home court on Tuesday against Eastside at 7:30 p.m. The Jaguars will need to watch out since the Eagles have now posted at least 55 points in their last four contests. Baldwin  extended their home winning streak to seven games dating back to last season thanks to a huge performance from Karez Demory . Everything went the Braves' way against the West Laurens Raiders  on Friday as they made off with a 73-48 victory with plenty of help from Demory, who went 6-for-10 on his way to 18 points along with seven rebounds and five assists. He is also on a roll when it comes to steals, as he's now grabbed two or more in each of the last five games he's played. Article generated by infoSentience  based on data entered on MaxPreps Braves Previous Games (Home) Previous 5 Games 01/10/26 @ Cedar Shoals 63-62 01/09/26 vs West Laurens 73-48 01/06/26 @ Aquinas 63-18 01/05/26 vs Hephzibah 72-36 01/02/26 vs Westside 63-48

Baldwin High School students are gaining hands-on media experience this basketball season thanks to a new partnership that brings live radio broadcasts straight from the court. In collaboration with Seacoast Radio Network , Baldwin High launched its first-ever student-driven sports radio broadcasts last month, airing Braves basketball games live on 89.3 FM  and streaming online for listeners near and far. Rashad Harper with Elices Washington on their first live broadcast at the 2025 Tasha Butts Classic Leading the charge is Senior Rashad Harper, the program’s first student volunteer broadcaster. A lifelong sports fan, Rashad brings energy, analysis, and thoughtful commentary to each game, focusing on the decisions, teamwork, and momentum that shape competition. “Sports has always been my passion,” Harper said. “This gives me a chance to be myself and share how I see the game.” The opportunity was made possible through Seacoast Radio Network, whose mission centers on educating and mentoring future broadcasters. President and Founder of Seacoast Radio Danny Ickes says Baldwin High stood out immediately. “There was already a strong communications foundation here,” Ickes said. “The excitement from students and staff made it clear this was the right place.” Students participating in the program receive real-world experience in broadcasting, media production, and communication, skills that translate far beyond sports and into future college and career pathways. And this is only the beginning. Plans are already underway to expand student broadcasting opportunities beyond athletics in the future. Families and community members can tune in locally on 89.3 FM, or stream games online through Seacoast Radio Network’s website or mobile app. At Baldwin High School, students aren’t just preparing for the future, they’re broadcasting it live.

Pictures courtesy of Tiffany Smith Baldwin is a perfect 10-0 against West Laurens since January of 2021 and they'll have a chance to extend that dominance on Friday. The Braves will host the Raiders at 7:30 p.m. The timing is sure in Baldwin's favor as the team sits on six straight wins at home (dating back to last season) while West Laurens has been banged up by five consecutive losses on the road also dating back to last season. On Tuesday, Baldwin was fully in charge, breezing past Aquinas 63-18. The Braves have made a habit of sweeping their opponents off the court, having now won six matchups by 21 points or more this season. Baldwin's win was a true team effort, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Jared Mundie , who went 5-for-8 on his way to 12 points in addition to seven rebounds and three steals. Mundie is also on a roll when it comes to field goal percentage, as he's posted one of at least 50% in the last three games he's played. Zion Grant was another key player, shooting 45% from the field en route to 14 points. Baldwin was working as a unit and finished the game with ten assists. They are a perfect 10-0 when they've passed the ball that well. Meanwhile, West Laurens suffered their closest loss since January 25, 2025 on Tuesday. They fell just short of Richmond Academy by a score of 44-42. West Laurens' defeat dropped their record down to 3-11. As for Baldwin, their victory bumped their record up to 11-2. Everything came up roses for Baldwin against West Laurens in their previous matchup back in December of 2025, as the squad secured an 86-28 win. In that game, the Braves amassed a halftime lead of 61-18, an impressive feat they'll look to repeat on Friday. Article generated by infoSentience  based on data entered on MaxPreps

It’s fourth period math, and you almost  get it. The numbers are there. The teacher explains it again. You nod. You try the next problem, but it's wrong. Again! Suddenly you’re stuck, not because you didn’t listen, but because you don’t know where  it stopped making sense. Your teacher wants to help, but you're not sure where the disconnect is. What you do  know is this: if someone just a little older, someone who learned this recently, who remembers what it felt like when it didn’t click sat down next to you, maybe it would finally make sense.That’s where Level Up Tutoring comes in. Students Helping Students—Exactly When It Matters Most At Baldwin County School District, we believe powerful learning doesn’t always look like a lecture. Sometimes, it looks like a cafeteria table, a pencil, and a student saying, “Let me show you how I learned this.” Level Up Tutoring is a completely student-run tutoring program founded by Maya Puri and her best friend, Josi Scott. “We both kind of experienced that same underlying fear,” Maya explained. “Once she realized there was a gap we could fill, that was really all it took.” Maya’s sister Veera Puri—a familiar name to many in our community from the   TEDx Talk Veera delivered while she was still a student at Oak Hill Middle School , quickly joined the team. For more than a year, Maya, Veera, and their friends, Zach Ballesteros and Josi Scott, have returned to Oak Hill every Monday after school, not for credit, not for recognition, but because they remember exactly what it feels like to be there. The Idea Started With a Feeling Maya traces the program back to her own middle school experience, “Eighth grade was a little bit difficult for me,” she shared. “I kept thinking that if I had had somebody helping me with a lot of my work, I would have felt more confident going into high school.” Before she even began her freshman year of high school, Maya reached out to Oak Hill with a simple question: What if students came back to help students? What followed became Level Up Tutoring, an effort rooted in empathy and lived experience. “I was hoping that students would not have to experience the fear of going to high school that I experienced,” Maya explained. Why Peer-to-Peer Works Level Up Tutoring operates through the school’s after-school YES Program, meeting Mondays from 3:45–5:00 p.m. The program is advised by Shekita Shinholster, who helped make the partnership possible and provided space for the student-led team to grow. What makes the program especially effective is its peer-to-peer approach. Students often feel more at ease admitting confusion, and asking questions, when the person helping them remembers learning it themselves not long ago. “Peer to peer can be so important,” Maya said. “Students feel a lot more comfortable talking to someone their own age…being able to relate things back to them really helps.” Real Impact, One Student at a Time Since launching, Level Up Tutoring has served 91 unique students and logged more than 119 hours of tutoring, but its impact shows up most clearly in confidence gained and fear eased. “We actually had parents reach out,” Shinholster shared. “One student made great gains in math because her mother specifically wanted her to get additional support. Week after week, they worked with the same students.” For Maya, the most meaningful moments are when the cycle completes itself. “I tutored an eighth grader who later ended up in my class as a freshman,” she said. “Seeing that come full circle, with students who aren’t as scared of that transition, it’s an incredible feeling. That’s really why I do it.” Friendship, Leadership, and Looking Ahead Looking forward, the students hope to keep Level Up growing. “Expanding it to younger grades would be great,” Josi said, “so when students reach middle school, it’s not quite the struggle that we see now.” When learning doesn’t click, and you can’t quite say why, sometimes the best solution is someone who remembers that feeling exactly. Level Up Tutoring is proof that leadership doesn’t always come with a title. Sometimes, it comes back to the cafeteria after school, pulls up a chair, and says, “Let’s try this another way.”