
Welcome to the Bearcat Family!


🌟✨ The halls of West Bainbridge Primary were shining bright yesterday as the school celebrated their i-Ready STARS! 💫
Students who reached incredible milestones got to strut the halls in style — earning their moment in the spotlight by:
⭐ Passing 20 or more Reading and/or Math i-Ready lessons
⭐ Scoring ten perfect 100s on i-Ready Reading or Math lessons
https://youtube.com/shorts/rfBITXmFU6g?feature=share
The Decatur County School District is proud of these bright young learners for their hard work and dedication. Keep shining, WBP STARS! 💛🌠
#WBP #iReadyStars #BearcatPride #ShiningBright
Students who reached incredible milestones got to strut the halls in style — earning their moment in the spotlight by:
⭐ Passing 20 or more Reading and/or Math i-Ready lessons
⭐ Scoring ten perfect 100s on i-Ready Reading or Math lessons
https://youtube.com/shorts/rfBITXmFU6g?feature=share
The Decatur County School District is proud of these bright young learners for their hard work and dedication. Keep shining, WBP STARS! 💛🌠
#WBP #iReadyStars #BearcatPride #ShiningBright

🎓 What is a PD Day?
A PD (Professional Development) Day is a valuable day dedicated to training, collaboration, and growth for our teachers and staff. 🧑🏫✨
These days are set aside to enhance instructional skills, share best practices, and learn new strategies to better serve our students! Although students don’t attend school on PD Days, these sessions are all about making our classrooms more engaging and effective for every learner. 📚💡
Thank you for supporting our teachers as they invest in continuous learning!
#ProfessionalDevelopment #TheBearcatWay #ProudTraditionPromisingFuture
A PD (Professional Development) Day is a valuable day dedicated to training, collaboration, and growth for our teachers and staff. 🧑🏫✨
These days are set aside to enhance instructional skills, share best practices, and learn new strategies to better serve our students! Although students don’t attend school on PD Days, these sessions are all about making our classrooms more engaging and effective for every learner. 📚💡
Thank you for supporting our teachers as they invest in continuous learning!
#ProfessionalDevelopment #TheBearcatWay #ProudTraditionPromisingFuture

💡 JWP Students Got to GLOW CRAZY! 💡
Jones Wheat Primary students were finally able to “GLOW CRAZY” after showing their best behavior! 🌟
Coach Kim Barthel, JWP’s PE teacher, hosted her famous Good Behavior Glow Party — a special celebration open only to students who have demonstrated great behavior throughout the nine weeks. ✨ Students could only have one strike to earn their invitation!
This exciting event reminds students that great behavior glows from the inside out! 💛
https://youtu.be/ij7ZvL2WbfM
#JWPShines #GlowCrazy #GoodBehaviorGlowParty #BearcatPride
Jones Wheat Primary students were finally able to “GLOW CRAZY” after showing their best behavior! 🌟
Coach Kim Barthel, JWP’s PE teacher, hosted her famous Good Behavior Glow Party — a special celebration open only to students who have demonstrated great behavior throughout the nine weeks. ✨ Students could only have one strike to earn their invitation!
This exciting event reminds students that great behavior glows from the inside out! 💛
https://youtu.be/ij7ZvL2WbfM
#JWPShines #GlowCrazy #GoodBehaviorGlowParty #BearcatPride

Get to Know Your Admin: Scott A. Morehouse
Principal, Hutto Elementary School
With 12 years of dedicated service in Decatur County Schools, Scott A. Morehouse leads Hutto Elementary with a deep commitment to student success, safety, and growth. As principal, he oversees the school’s operations and works closely with teachers to ensure high-quality instruction, data-driven decision-making, and an environment where every child can thrive. His leadership extends beyond academics—he builds strong relationships with families and the community to create a culture of support and achievement.
Mr. Morehouse was inspired to enter education by a calling to lead, serve, and make a lasting impact on students’ lives. His journey began teaching Air Force JROTC and coaching wrestling, where he instilled discipline, leadership, and perseverance in his students. Later, he led CTAE, Fine Arts, and Guidance, helping students discover their passions and prepare for their future. Now, as an elementary principal, he takes pride in building strong foundations and empowering teachers and students alike.
For Mr. Morehouse, the most rewarding part of his work is witnessing the growth of students—academically, socially, and emotionally. “Watching students gain confidence, overcome challenges, and celebrate their successes is incredibly fulfilling,” he shares. He also finds great joy in supporting and motivating his staff to reach their full potential.
His leadership philosophy centers on ensuring every decision serves students first. "We prioritize strong foundations in academics, while also nurturing social and emotional development. I’m proud to lead a dedicated team and believe that true success comes from working closely with families and the community,” Morehouse explains. “I’m proud to work for Decatur County Schools because our district is deeply committed to Excellence, Engagement, and Accountability for All. We believe in setting high expectations, building strong relationships, and making sure every student has the support they need to succeed. Working in a system that values both academic growth and character development allows me to lead with purpose and integrity. At Hutto Elementary and across the district, we live “The Bearcat Way,” by working hard, showing respect, and always doing what’s right for our students, staff, and community. It’s an honor to be part of a team that truly puts children first.”
A Bit More About Scott:
Hometown: Festus, Missouri
Hobbies: Spending time with family, fishing, hunting, and camping
Fun Fact: He loves to fix things.
Favorite Movie: It’s a Wonderful Life
Thank you, Mr. Morehouse, for your leadership, dedication, and commitment to the Bearcat community!
Principal, Hutto Elementary School
With 12 years of dedicated service in Decatur County Schools, Scott A. Morehouse leads Hutto Elementary with a deep commitment to student success, safety, and growth. As principal, he oversees the school’s operations and works closely with teachers to ensure high-quality instruction, data-driven decision-making, and an environment where every child can thrive. His leadership extends beyond academics—he builds strong relationships with families and the community to create a culture of support and achievement.
Mr. Morehouse was inspired to enter education by a calling to lead, serve, and make a lasting impact on students’ lives. His journey began teaching Air Force JROTC and coaching wrestling, where he instilled discipline, leadership, and perseverance in his students. Later, he led CTAE, Fine Arts, and Guidance, helping students discover their passions and prepare for their future. Now, as an elementary principal, he takes pride in building strong foundations and empowering teachers and students alike.
For Mr. Morehouse, the most rewarding part of his work is witnessing the growth of students—academically, socially, and emotionally. “Watching students gain confidence, overcome challenges, and celebrate their successes is incredibly fulfilling,” he shares. He also finds great joy in supporting and motivating his staff to reach their full potential.
His leadership philosophy centers on ensuring every decision serves students first. "We prioritize strong foundations in academics, while also nurturing social and emotional development. I’m proud to lead a dedicated team and believe that true success comes from working closely with families and the community,” Morehouse explains. “I’m proud to work for Decatur County Schools because our district is deeply committed to Excellence, Engagement, and Accountability for All. We believe in setting high expectations, building strong relationships, and making sure every student has the support they need to succeed. Working in a system that values both academic growth and character development allows me to lead with purpose and integrity. At Hutto Elementary and across the district, we live “The Bearcat Way,” by working hard, showing respect, and always doing what’s right for our students, staff, and community. It’s an honor to be part of a team that truly puts children first.”
A Bit More About Scott:
Hometown: Festus, Missouri
Hobbies: Spending time with family, fishing, hunting, and camping
Fun Fact: He loves to fix things.
Favorite Movie: It’s a Wonderful Life
Thank you, Mr. Morehouse, for your leadership, dedication, and commitment to the Bearcat community!


Welcome to the Bearcat Family


Now Hiring: Head Football Coach & Teacher
Decatur County Schools seeks a dedicated, experienced individual to join our team as the Head High School Football Coach and Teacher. This
position will lead and manage all aspects of the football program while also fulfilling teaching duties within the school.
See link for more details:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vSnbyBwdBGk3uEH3L2Oa8211Ilp2sDqabEZrTRU0UBNaS3GwfUhB9EljaX-8UZewgwMVkOpfAhEmDTm/pub
#DCBOE #Hiring #Football #Coach #Teacher #TheBearcatWay #DecaturCountySchools
Decatur County Schools seeks a dedicated, experienced individual to join our team as the Head High School Football Coach and Teacher. This
position will lead and manage all aspects of the football program while also fulfilling teaching duties within the school.
See link for more details:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vSnbyBwdBGk3uEH3L2Oa8211Ilp2sDqabEZrTRU0UBNaS3GwfUhB9EljaX-8UZewgwMVkOpfAhEmDTm/pub
#DCBOE #Hiring #Football #Coach #Teacher #TheBearcatWay #DecaturCountySchools


Welcome to the Bearcat Family!


🎉 Happy Instructional Coach Appreciation Day! 🎉
Today we celebrate our incredible Instructional Coaches, who guide, support, and inspire our teachers every day! 💡🍎
Their work behind the scenes—modeling lessons, offering feedback, and helping teachers grow—has a lasting impact on student success. 🙌
Thank you for your dedication, encouragement, and leadership in helping our classrooms shine brighter each day. 🌟
#InstructionalCoach #Appreciation #TheBearcatWay #Education #DecaturCountySchools
Today we celebrate our incredible Instructional Coaches, who guide, support, and inspire our teachers every day! 💡🍎
Their work behind the scenes—modeling lessons, offering feedback, and helping teachers grow—has a lasting impact on student success. 🙌
Thank you for your dedication, encouragement, and leadership in helping our classrooms shine brighter each day. 🌟
#InstructionalCoach #Appreciation #TheBearcatWay #Education #DecaturCountySchools


Community Service, The Bearcat Way!
Bainbridge high school art students and teacher Rebecca Cole spent their Thursday evening offering free face painting to our community members as they entered the Flint river fair!
#community #bhs #fair
#thebearcatway




✨ Thinking Outside the Box… but Stepping Into It! ✨
BMS students are diving into their Latin American unit in the most engaging way possible—through our Interactive Floor activity! 🌎💃
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, students are stepping into a dynamic learning experience that highlights Latin American culture, geography, and traditions. With each step, they explore history and heritage in a hands-on, movement-filled way that brings lessons to life.
This innovative approach combines fun, collaboration, and cultural awareness—all while honoring the diverse stories and traditions of Hispanic and Latin American communities. 🌟
📦➡️ Who knew “stepping into the box” could be so much fun?
BMS students are diving into their Latin American unit in the most engaging way possible—through our Interactive Floor activity! 🌎💃
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, students are stepping into a dynamic learning experience that highlights Latin American culture, geography, and traditions. With each step, they explore history and heritage in a hands-on, movement-filled way that brings lessons to life.
This innovative approach combines fun, collaboration, and cultural awareness—all while honoring the diverse stories and traditions of Hispanic and Latin American communities. 🌟
📦➡️ Who knew “stepping into the box” could be so much fun?



✨🍔 Grillin’ for the Greatest 🌭✨
We recently had the privilege of celebrating our West Bainbridge Primary educators at Grillin’ for the Greatest! 💛
A huge thank you to First National Bank for sponsoring the event and going above and beyond by coming out early to grill hamburgers and serve the meal. Your support helped us honor the hard work and dedication our teachers and staff bring to students every single day.
Our WBP educators truly are the “Greatest,” and this event was a wonderful way to show our appreciation for all they do. 🐾💜
#GrillinForTheGreatest #ThankYouFirstNationalBank #WBP #TeacherAppreciation #Community #TheBearcatWay
We recently had the privilege of celebrating our West Bainbridge Primary educators at Grillin’ for the Greatest! 💛
A huge thank you to First National Bank for sponsoring the event and going above and beyond by coming out early to grill hamburgers and serve the meal. Your support helped us honor the hard work and dedication our teachers and staff bring to students every single day.
Our WBP educators truly are the “Greatest,” and this event was a wonderful way to show our appreciation for all they do. 🐾💜
#GrillinForTheGreatest #ThankYouFirstNationalBank #WBP #TeacherAppreciation #Community #TheBearcatWay

✨ What a magical night full of Bearcat Spirit at the fair! ✨
Our Decatur County School Superintendent, Directors, Principals, Football cheerleaders, and players — along with our very own Buddy the Bearcat— greeted guests as they arrived.
The smiles, energy, and excitement made it an unforgettable evening celebrating our Bearcat community. 🐾💛💜
Our Decatur County School Superintendent, Directors, Principals, Football cheerleaders, and players — along with our very own Buddy the Bearcat— greeted guests as they arrived.
The smiles, energy, and excitement made it an unforgettable evening celebrating our Bearcat community. 🐾💛💜







🚨 Substitute Training🚨
Friday, October 17th at 9:00 AM at the Decatur County BOE
📍 1417 Dothan Rd, Bainbridge, GA
✅ Don’t miss this important session if you plan to substitute this school year!
#DecaturCountySchools #SubstituteTraining #ProudTraditionPromisingFuture
Friday, October 17th at 9:00 AM at the Decatur County BOE
📍 1417 Dothan Rd, Bainbridge, GA
✅ Don’t miss this important session if you plan to substitute this school year!
#DecaturCountySchools #SubstituteTraining #ProudTraditionPromisingFuture


✨📚 Small Group Instruction in Action! 📚✨
Our teachers are providing targeted small group instruction during reading to support students’ specific literacy skills. By using knowledge-based and decodable texts, students are becoming confident readers who can apply phonics skills and strengthen comprehension.
We’re so proud of the hard work happening each day to help every student succeed! 💜🐾
#TheBearcatWay #ProudTraditionPromisingFuture #LiteracyMatters #StudentSuccess
Our teachers are providing targeted small group instruction during reading to support students’ specific literacy skills. By using knowledge-based and decodable texts, students are becoming confident readers who can apply phonics skills and strengthen comprehension.
We’re so proud of the hard work happening each day to help every student succeed! 💜🐾
#TheBearcatWay #ProudTraditionPromisingFuture #LiteracyMatters #StudentSuccess


Students in Mrs. Holley’s class have been hard at work exploring encoding patterns as they practice spelling their words with the Long i sound. Through hands-on activity, they are building strong encoding and phonics skills that will support them in all areas of reading and writing.
We are so proud of their focus, effort, and excitement for learning!
We are so proud of their focus, effort, and excitement for learning!


Primary QUEST students had a great Fall QUEST Rally this morning at the Cloud Livestock Facility led by Mrs. Teresa (UGA Extension/4-H), Miss Lilly, and Mrs. Melinda. Students continued their study on Advancement by building rockets, creating origami, learning about farm animals, and so much more!











🌟✨ Happy Custodian Appreciation Day! ✨🌟
Today we celebrate Mr. Dwight and Ms. Peewee for the hard work, dedication, and care they bring to the Central Office each day. 🧹🧼💙
We’d truly be a MESS without you guys! Thank you for keeping our spaces clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone. 🙌💜
#CustodianAppreciationDay #ThankYou #BearcatFamily
Today we celebrate Mr. Dwight and Ms. Peewee for the hard work, dedication, and care they bring to the Central Office each day. 🧹🧼💙
We’d truly be a MESS without you guys! Thank you for keeping our spaces clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone. 🙌💜
#CustodianAppreciationDay #ThankYou #BearcatFamily


It's all about MANUFACTURING at Hutto Elementary this week as students dig deeper into the Engineering Design Process and how things are made. From design and prototypes to testing and iterations, these students are hands on every day in their WOZ ED STEM PATHWAYS.
4th & 5th grade students have been practicing the design process by creating blueprints of robotic inventions and then testing them in the testing zone to identify enhancements and improve their prototypes.
3rd Grade students have been researching plants and animals from different biomes and designing 3D models of them in Tinkercad to print on the Flash Forg 3D printer.



Congratulations to Mrs. Tia Lewis, Decatur County Schools 2026–2027 Teacher of the Year! Your dedication, passion, and commitment to students inspire us all. 🍎✨
#InspireInfluenceIgnite #TheBearcatWay #TeacherOfTheYear #DecaturCountySchools #ProudTraditionPromisingFuture
#InspireInfluenceIgnite #TheBearcatWay #TeacherOfTheYear #DecaturCountySchools #ProudTraditionPromisingFuture