Get to Know Your Admin: Jeanette Grimsley
Student Information System Director, Student Services and Pre-K Program Director
With 30 years of service in Decatur County Schools, Jeanette Grimsley brings a deep well of experience and a heart for service to her multifaceted role. Originally from Bridgeton, New Jersey, Grimsley began her journey at Potter Street Elementary and now serves as the SIS Director, Student Services and Pre-K Program Director—ensuring accuracy, access, and excellence across the system.
In her current role, Grimsley oversees the Student Information System (Infinite Campus) for the entire district. She ensures student records are accurate, secure, and in full compliance with state and federal regulations. Her work directly supports student enrollment, attendance, scheduling, grades, transcripts, and critical reporting functions for the Georgia Department of Education.
A lifelong believer in the power of education, Grimsley was drawn to the field after witnessing the impact of dedicated educators throughout her own school years. “Every role in education plays a part in helping students succeed,” she explains. “I’m proud to contribute by ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and accessibility of student information.”
For Grimsley, the most rewarding part of her job is helping others—whether that’s assisting school staff, supporting data entry, or answering the many questions that ensure daily operations run smoothly. She also sees accurate data as vital to securing funding, meeting compliance standards, and delivering services that benefit every student.
Her goals include improving data accuracy, streamlining state reporting, and helping schools and the district use data more strategically. “I enjoy helping others and want all Decatur County students to receive the same educational opportunities,” she says.
Grimsley’s dedication to the school system runs deep. After receiving the Kirbo Educational Scholarship in 1991, she returned to her hometown to begin her career in education. “I feel honored to have worked in the Decatur County School System. The Decatur County Board of Education is committed to ensuring that students receive the BEST education possible while also addressing the needs of both staff and students.”
A Bit More About Jeanette:
Hometown: Attapulgus, GA
Hobbies: Shopping, organizing, spending time with my grandson-Jace, and sometimes watching TV.
Fun Fact: She’s a twin and LOVES coffee
Favorite Book, Movie, or Song: Top Gun (movie) and Lord Keep Me Day by Day (song)
Grimsley reflects, “Supporting students may look different from my side of the desk, but I know the work we do behind the scenes matters. I’m grateful to be part of a team that values every student and every staff member. Decatur County is my home, and I’m proud to serve it.”
Thank you, Jeanette, for your commitment to excellence, accuracy, and always lending a helping hand—with a Bearcat heart!
✅ Step 1: Log in to Infinite Campus
✅ Step 2: Click the “Fees” tab on the left side of your screen
Paying online is quick, simple, and convenient! 💳
Login to the Parent Portal (Infinite Campus) through the link below:
https://campus.dcboe.com/campus/portal/decaturco.jsp
#BearcatTech #ParentPortal #InfiniteCampus #StayConnected #BearcatFamily
The OPENGATE Security System is an advanced, walk-through weapons detection system designed to enhance school safety while maintaining a smooth flow of student entry. Unlike traditional metal detectors, OPENGATE uses advanced sensors to detect weapons and prohibited items without requiring students to stop, empty their pockets, or remove backpacks. This allows for efficient and non-intrusive screening, ideal for high-traffic areas such as school entrances.
Decatur County Schools has implemented OPENGATE to provide an added layer of protection for students and staff. The system is portable, quick to set up, and built to detect a wide range of threats while minimizing false alarms. With its modern design and cutting-edge technology, OPENGATE supports the district’s commitment to creating a safe and nurturing learning environment. We encourage all parents to emphasize to their children the importance of school safety and helping the Bearcat Family stay safe on every campus each day!
See how OPENGATE is making a difference in some of the largest school districts in the country, like Brevard County:
https://youtu.be/0_bNqaGNh9g
🌧️ Rainy days ahead for the first week of school!
Make sure your Bearcats come prepared with raincoats, boots, and umbrellas to stay cozy and dry! ☔️
#FirstWeekForecast #RainyDayReady #BearcatWeather
🎟️ Admission: 1 container of Oxi-Clean laundry detergent
Let’s pack the stands and show our Bearcat pride! 💜💛 #TheBearcatWay #FanDay2025
ThankYouFPCB #TeacherOfTheYear #CommunitySupport
Bainbridge High School Principal
With 17 years of service, Christopher Bryant brings leadership and a student-first mindset to his role as Principal of Bainbridge High School. A proud graduate of Decatur County Schools himself, Bryant’s journey began at John Johnson and has taken him through West Bainbridge Elementary, Pathways, Hutto Middle, and now BHS—where he leads with purpose and heart.
As principal, Bryant is responsible for the full scope of school operations. From student achievement and instructional leadership to safety, staff supervision, and community engagement—he works daily to ensure every student is supported and prepared for life beyond high school.
Bryant’s career in education began on the field as a coach, where he discovered an enthusiasm for guiding young people. That experience, paired with time spent supporting students with exceptional needs, inspired him to pursue educational leadership. “Over time, that passion to help young people reach their full potential turned into a lifelong commitment to education and leadership,” he shares.
For Bryant, the most rewarding part of the job is watching students rise—whether it’s overcoming challenges, achieving their goals, or walking across the graduation stage with a plan for the future. He’s also quick to highlight the strong, unified team at BHS. “What makes this job so special is the great team we have at BHS. We’ve got an awesome group of people who all work toward the same goals, and we have fun doing it. Being part of a team like that makes a big difference and makes coming to work every day something I truly enjoy.”
Bryant is committed to growing as a leader, supporting his staff, and creating meaningful opportunities for students. His vision is clear, "I want Bainbridge High School to be a place where every student and staff member feels supported, challenged, and prepared for whatever comes next. Long term, I want to keep learning and growing so I can make an even bigger impact."
A Bit More About Christopher:
Hometown: Bainbridge, Georgia
Hobbies: Spending time with family, hunting, fishing, and attending BHS extracurricular events
Fun Fact: Loves playing guitar and woodworking
Favorite Book, Movie, or Song: The Greatest Generation by Tom Brokaw, Top Gun (movie), and too many favorite songs to name!
Bryant reflects, “I’m proud to work for Decatur County Schools because I’m a product of this system. I know firsthand the impact our schools and teachers can have on a student’s life. It means a lot to be able to give back to the same community that poured so much into me. Decatur County is home, and I’m proud to be part of a team that’s committed to making a difference for our kids every day.”
Thank you, Christopher, for leading with pride, purpose, and a Bearcat heart!
Director of Teacher Induction & Evaluation Programs
Family Engagement Coordinator
With 25 years of service, Crycynthia Gardner brings dedication, heart, and vision to her dual role in Decatur County Schools. A proud product of the school system herself, Gardner began her career at Lillian E. Williams and later served at Jones Wheat Elementary and Hutto Middle/Elementary. Today, she works from the Central Office supporting both new teachers and family-school partnerships.
In her current position, Gardner leads the district’s induction program for new teachers and oversees the teacher evaluation process. She also serves as a bridge between families, schools, and community partners—working to ensure that student achievement is supported on every front.
Her journey into education began with an emotional encounter. While visiting her child at school, she struck up a conversation with a student who was waiting to see the Principal. That moment sparked something powerful. “I left thinking, I want to make a difference. I want to teach!” And she’s been doing just that—on a broad and meaningful scale—for the past two and a half decades.
Gardner says the most rewarding part of her work is helping new teachers, families, and the community come together in ways that lead to student success. “My work helps build sustainability for our community. By working closely with new teachers, families, and community stakeholders, my job is a bridge to connect schools, families and communities to promote lasting relationships. ”
Her vision for Decatur County Schools is clear: remaining a top - tier school system where students reach their full potential, families are connected to resources, and educators feel supported and inspired to grow.
A Bit More About Crycynthia:
Hometown: Bainbridge, Georgia
Hobbies: Listening to jazz music, attending sporting events, going to the movies, spending time with family
Fun Fact: She’s the unrecognized coach of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders!
Favorite Movie/Books: The Guardian and the Scott Pratt series
Gardner reflects, “I am a product of Decatur County Schools, I am proud to see our students go off and represent our system, their families, and themselves well in whatever career path they decide. I am equally proud of our students who remain and make Bainbridge their home, add to our workforce, help to build strong families, and contribute to a thriving community.”
Thank you, Crycynthia, for mentoring teachers, connecting families, and helping to shape the future of Decatur County!
Planning ahead just got easier — especially when it comes to vacations. Be sure to schedule trips during student holidays because every day of learning matters and attendance is key to success!
You can also find the calendar on our website — just click the District Calendars button on the homepage at www.dcboe.com.
#BearcatPride #DecaturCountySchools #SchoolCalendar #PlanAhead #AttendanceMatters
📅 Saturday, August 2nd | ⏰ 8:30 AM
📍 Meet at the front of any Decatur County school
Come together to pray for our students, teachers, and staff as they begin a new school year. This event is organized by the Bowen Baptist Association. All are welcome to participate! 💜
#TheBearcatWay #PrayerWalk #CommunitySupport
Let’s Inspire, Influence, and Ignite — The Bearcat Way!
Attendees enjoyed a dynamic session led by Chef Rachel from the Georgia Department of Education, focused on enhancing quality school meals, line design, food presentation, and customer service. We also benefited from an inspiring team player session with Mrs. Janet Mitchell, along with other essential annual training topics.
A special thank you to Catering by JLo and The BCC for a delicious lunch, and to Integrity Foods for providing breakfast and always going above and beyond. We also appreciate Pepsi of Bainbridge for generously donating drinks!
We are grateful for the opportunity to come together, learn, and grow in our mission to serve students with excellence, The Bearcat Way!
If your child requires medication during the school day, please stop by the nurse’s booth at Open House on Thursday, July 31 to:
▪️Sign the REQUIRED annual medication paperwork (must be completed by the child’s legal guardian)
▪️Discuss your child’s specific medication needs with the school nurse
▪️Optional: You may bring your child’s first month’s supply of medication to check in at that time
Reminder: Medications cannot be distributed at school without properly signed paperwork on file. Thank you for helping us keep your child safe and healthy!
Community partnerships like this are a powerful example of The Bearcat Way—coming together to support and invest in our students.
A big thank you to the Lions Club for your continued support of public education in Decatur County.
#Community #TheBearcatWay #DecaturCountySchools #DCBOE #BHS #Baseball
