We’re proud to spotlight the outstanding teachers who attended the Robotics SPIKE professional learning session at the Coca‑Cola Space & Science Center. Organized by Rontra Brown, STEM/STEAM Program Specialist for Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education at the Georgia Department of Education, and facilitated by the NASA education team from the Coca‑Cola Space & Science Center (an education extension of Columbus State University), this workshop gave middle and high school educators a hands‑on introduction to SPIKE Prime robotics.
Educators learned how SPIKE Prime can spark creativity, problem‑solving, and collaboration while supporting STEM and 21st‑century skills across all learning areas all while . building. programming, and testing their skills through new robotics challenges designed to be classroom‑ready and adaptable across disciplines.
Representing Decatur County:
🤖Melissa Brock, Media Specialist & Instructional Technology (Bainbridge High School)
🤖Mary Jo Boutwell, STEM & WOZ ED Instructor and Instructional Technology Coach (Bainbridge Middle School)
🤖Amy Zock, Director of Instructional and Innovative Technology (Bainbridge High School)
Now our Decatur County educators will develop integrated lesson plans that incorporate SPIKE Prime robotics for grades 6–12, aligning projects to specific content standards so teachers across subject areas can use robotics to deepen learning. These will be shared with the Coca Cola Space and Science Center and other educators across Southwest Georgia to facilitate increased use of robotics in all content areas as an engaging way to prepare students for the future while developing essential problem solving skills.
Thank you to Rontra Brown, the Coca‑Cola Space & Science Center team, and all participating teachers for investing in high‑quality professional learning. We’re excited to see the innovative, standards‑aligned classroom experiences that follow
Educators learned how SPIKE Prime can spark creativity, problem‑solving, and collaboration while supporting STEM and 21st‑century skills across all learning areas all while . building. programming, and testing their skills through new robotics challenges designed to be classroom‑ready and adaptable across disciplines.
Representing Decatur County:
🤖Melissa Brock, Media Specialist & Instructional Technology (Bainbridge High School)
🤖Mary Jo Boutwell, STEM & WOZ ED Instructor and Instructional Technology Coach (Bainbridge Middle School)
🤖Amy Zock, Director of Instructional and Innovative Technology (Bainbridge High School)
Now our Decatur County educators will develop integrated lesson plans that incorporate SPIKE Prime robotics for grades 6–12, aligning projects to specific content standards so teachers across subject areas can use robotics to deepen learning. These will be shared with the Coca Cola Space and Science Center and other educators across Southwest Georgia to facilitate increased use of robotics in all content areas as an engaging way to prepare students for the future while developing essential problem solving skills.
Thank you to Rontra Brown, the Coca‑Cola Space & Science Center team, and all participating teachers for investing in high‑quality professional learning. We’re excited to see the innovative, standards‑aligned classroom experiences that follow
🎓 Progress Reports Coming Soon! 🎓
Decatur County Schools students’ progress reports will be released on November 20th.
📊 Don’t wait to stay informed!
Parents and guardians can check grades, attendance, and more anytime through the Parent Portal (Infinite Campus):
👉 https://campus.dcboe.com/campus/portal/decaturco.jsp
#BearcatPride #DecaturCountySchools #TheBearcatWay
(Part 2) BMS QUEST students had a second full day in St. Augustine visiting the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse, the Oldest House (Gonzalez-Alvarez House), and the Spanish Military Hospital. They then finished their evening with some bowling fun!
(Part 1) BMS QUEST students had a second full day in St. Augustine visiting the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse, the Oldest House (Gonzalez-Alvarez House), and the Spanish Military Hospital. They then finished their evening with some bowling fun!
🦃🍂 Decatur County Schools Thanksgiving Holidays:
Schools will be closed Friday, Nov. 21 – Friday, Nov. 28.
(Teacher Professional Development Day – Nov. 21)
We hope everyone enjoys a safe and restful Thanksgiving break!
Schools will be closed Friday, Nov. 21 – Friday, Nov. 28.
(Teacher Professional Development Day – Nov. 21)
We hope everyone enjoys a safe and restful Thanksgiving break!
BMS QUEST students enjoyed their first day in the oldest city in the USA by exploring the Old Jail and learning about how inventions have advanced through the years at the Old Store. Students then visited the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park for blacksmith and cannon demonstrations and so much more!
"STEM learning in Decatur County is not a special event or an occasional project — it’s part of the weekly rhythm for every student. In grades K–5, students participate in two hours of Woz ED instruction each week, split between STEM and digital literacy courses. "
Read More Here:
https://wozed.com/newsletter/innovation-in-action-how-decatur-county-schools-are-leading-the-way-in-stem-education-in-georgia/
Read More Here:
https://wozed.com/newsletter/innovation-in-action-how-decatur-county-schools-are-leading-the-way-in-stem-education-in-georgia/
🐾 Bearcat Ambassadors Join Community Task Force 🐾
Last Friday, student representatives from Bainbridge High School’s Bearcat Ambassador Student Advisory Program and Principal Bryant joined community leaders at the Decatur County Schools Community Task Force meeting, hosted by Superintendent Dr. Boyd English, at the DCBOE.
These ambassadors, representing each grade level, shared valuable student insight as the group worked to strengthen communication and collaboration between Decatur County Schools and our community.
We’re proud of these Bearcats for stepping up, sharing their voices, and helping build a stronger connection between our schools and the people we serve.
Last Friday, student representatives from Bainbridge High School’s Bearcat Ambassador Student Advisory Program and Principal Bryant joined community leaders at the Decatur County Schools Community Task Force meeting, hosted by Superintendent Dr. Boyd English, at the DCBOE.
These ambassadors, representing each grade level, shared valuable student insight as the group worked to strengthen communication and collaboration between Decatur County Schools and our community.
We’re proud of these Bearcats for stepping up, sharing their voices, and helping build a stronger connection between our schools and the people we serve.
Community Service in Action! 🐶
Under the guidance of Ms Heidi Chambers, Bainbridge High School’ Anchor Club helps out with the Humane Society Adoption Event at Rural King.
Way to go Bearcats 💜💛
#thebearcatway #community #AnchorClub
DEADLINE TOMORROW - Friday, November 14.
Let’s finish strong, Bearcats! 💜💛
Let’s come together as a community to make a difference for local families this holiday season. 🛒 Every can counts!
Here’s what to donate:
✅ Nutritious Non-Perishables – Think canned tuna, beans, whole grains (brown rice, pasta), and low-sodium soups
✅ Pop-Top Lids – Easy-open cans for convenience
✅ Kid-Friendly Options – Peanut butter, granola bars, and other healthy, shelf-stable snacks
✅ Cooking Basics – Olive oil, spices, and seasonings
Let’s show what it means to live The Bearcat Way — caring, giving, and serving our community. 💜💛
#BearcatsCAN #EndHunger #TheBearcatWay #CommunityStrong
Let’s finish strong, Bearcats! 💜💛
Let’s come together as a community to make a difference for local families this holiday season. 🛒 Every can counts!
Here’s what to donate:
✅ Nutritious Non-Perishables – Think canned tuna, beans, whole grains (brown rice, pasta), and low-sodium soups
✅ Pop-Top Lids – Easy-open cans for convenience
✅ Kid-Friendly Options – Peanut butter, granola bars, and other healthy, shelf-stable snacks
✅ Cooking Basics – Olive oil, spices, and seasonings
Let’s show what it means to live The Bearcat Way — caring, giving, and serving our community. 💜💛
#BearcatsCAN #EndHunger #TheBearcatWay #CommunityStrong
Tomorrow is World Diabetes Day! (11/14)
Decatur County Schools encourages everyone to wear blue to show support for students and staff living with diabetes. Let’s fill our schools with blue! 💙
Decatur County Schools encourages everyone to wear blue to show support for students and staff living with diabetes. Let’s fill our schools with blue! 💙
DEADLINE TOMORROW - Friday, November 14.
Let’s finish strong, Bearcats! 💜💛
Let’s come together as a community to make a difference for local families this holiday season. 🛒 Every can counts!
Here’s what to donate:
✅ Nutritious Non-Perishables – Think canned tuna, beans, whole grains (brown rice, pasta), and low-sodium soups
✅ Pop-Top Lids – Easy-open cans for convenience
✅ Kid-Friendly Options – Peanut butter, granola bars, and other healthy, shelf-stable snacks
✅ Cooking Basics – Olive oil, spices, and seasonings
Let’s show what it means to live The Bearcat Way — caring, giving, and serving our community. 💜💛
#BearcatsCAN #EndHunger #TheBearcatWay #CommunityStrong
Let’s finish strong, Bearcats! 💜💛
Let’s come together as a community to make a difference for local families this holiday season. 🛒 Every can counts!
Here’s what to donate:
✅ Nutritious Non-Perishables – Think canned tuna, beans, whole grains (brown rice, pasta), and low-sodium soups
✅ Pop-Top Lids – Easy-open cans for convenience
✅ Kid-Friendly Options – Peanut butter, granola bars, and other healthy, shelf-stable snacks
✅ Cooking Basics – Olive oil, spices, and seasonings
Let’s show what it means to live The Bearcat Way — caring, giving, and serving our community. 💜💛
#BearcatsCAN #EndHunger #TheBearcatWay #CommunityStrong
JWP 1st and 2nd grade QUEST students showcased their hard work today by presenting their Genius Hour projects which featured biomes, robot design, fashion, infant innovations, and more!
DEADLINE TOMORROW - Friday, November 14.
Let’s finish strong, Bearcats! 💜💛
Let’s come together as a community to make a difference for local families this holiday season. 🛒 Every can counts!
Here’s what to donate:
✅ Nutritious Non-Perishables – Think canned tuna, beans, whole grains (brown rice, pasta), and low-sodium soups
✅ Pop-Top Lids – Easy-open cans for convenience
✅ Kid-Friendly Options – Peanut butter, granola bars, and other healthy, shelf-stable snacks
✅ Cooking Basics – Olive oil, spices, and seasonings
Let’s show what it means to live The Bearcat Way — caring, giving, and serving our community. 💜💛
#BearcatsCAN #EndHunger #TheBearcatWay #CommunityStrong
Let’s finish strong, Bearcats! 💜💛
Let’s come together as a community to make a difference for local families this holiday season. 🛒 Every can counts!
Here’s what to donate:
✅ Nutritious Non-Perishables – Think canned tuna, beans, whole grains (brown rice, pasta), and low-sodium soups
✅ Pop-Top Lids – Easy-open cans for convenience
✅ Kid-Friendly Options – Peanut butter, granola bars, and other healthy, shelf-stable snacks
✅ Cooking Basics – Olive oil, spices, and seasonings
Let’s show what it means to live The Bearcat Way — caring, giving, and serving our community. 💜💛
#BearcatsCAN #EndHunger #TheBearcatWay #CommunityStrong
DEADLINE TOMORROW - Friday, November 14.
Let’s finish strong, Bearcats! 💜💛
Let’s come together as a community to make a difference for local families this holiday season. 🛒 Every can counts!
Here’s what to donate:
✅ Nutritious Non-Perishables – Think canned tuna, beans, whole grains (brown rice, pasta), and low-sodium soups
✅ Pop-Top Lids – Easy-open cans for convenience
✅ Kid-Friendly Options – Peanut butter, granola bars, and other healthy, shelf-stable snacks
✅ Cooking Basics – Olive oil, spices, and seasonings
Let’s show what it means to live The Bearcat Way — caring, giving, and serving our community. 💜💛
#BearcatsCAN #EndHunger #TheBearcatWay #CommunityStrong
Let’s finish strong, Bearcats! 💜💛
Let’s come together as a community to make a difference for local families this holiday season. 🛒 Every can counts!
Here’s what to donate:
✅ Nutritious Non-Perishables – Think canned tuna, beans, whole grains (brown rice, pasta), and low-sodium soups
✅ Pop-Top Lids – Easy-open cans for convenience
✅ Kid-Friendly Options – Peanut butter, granola bars, and other healthy, shelf-stable snacks
✅ Cooking Basics – Olive oil, spices, and seasonings
Let’s show what it means to live The Bearcat Way — caring, giving, and serving our community. 💜💛
#BearcatsCAN #EndHunger #TheBearcatWay #CommunityStrong
DEADLINE TOMORROW - Friday, November 14.
Let’s finish strong, Bearcats! 💜💛
Let’s come together as a community to make a difference for local families this holiday season. 🛒 Every can counts!
Here’s what to donate:
✅ Nutritious Non-Perishables – Think canned tuna, beans, whole grains (brown rice, pasta), and low-sodium soups
✅ Pop-Top Lids – Easy-open cans for convenience
✅ Kid-Friendly Options – Peanut butter, granola bars, and other healthy, shelf-stable snacks
✅ Cooking Basics – Olive oil, spices, and seasonings
Let’s show what it means to live The Bearcat Way — caring, giving, and serving our community. 💜💛
#BearcatsCAN #EndHunger #TheBearcatWay #CommunityStrong
Let’s finish strong, Bearcats! 💜💛
Let’s come together as a community to make a difference for local families this holiday season. 🛒 Every can counts!
Here’s what to donate:
✅ Nutritious Non-Perishables – Think canned tuna, beans, whole grains (brown rice, pasta), and low-sodium soups
✅ Pop-Top Lids – Easy-open cans for convenience
✅ Kid-Friendly Options – Peanut butter, granola bars, and other healthy, shelf-stable snacks
✅ Cooking Basics – Olive oil, spices, and seasonings
Let’s show what it means to live The Bearcat Way — caring, giving, and serving our community. 💜💛
#BearcatsCAN #EndHunger #TheBearcatWay #CommunityStrong
WBP 1st and 2nd grade QUEST students presented their first semester Genius Hour projects today! Topics included chemistry, fashion, the Everglades, big cats, and game design.
Our DCBOE Central Office Food Drive donations are looking great. Thank you to everyone who has already contributed!
There’s still time to help make a difference. Please bring in your non-perishable food items by Friday, November 14.
Let’s finish strong, Bearcats! 💜💛
Let’s come together as a community to make a difference for local families this holiday season. 🛒 Every can counts!
Here’s what to donate:
✅ Nutritious Non-Perishables – Think canned tuna, beans, whole grains (brown rice, pasta), and low-sodium soups
✅ Pop-Top Lids – Easy-open cans for convenience
✅ Kid-Friendly Options – Peanut butter, granola bars, and other healthy, shelf-stable snacks
✅ Cooking Basics – Olive oil, spices, and seasonings
Let’s show what it means to live The Bearcat Way — caring, giving, and serving our community. 💜💛
#BearcatsCAN #EndHunger #TheBearcatWay #CommunityStrong
There’s still time to help make a difference. Please bring in your non-perishable food items by Friday, November 14.
Let’s finish strong, Bearcats! 💜💛
Let’s come together as a community to make a difference for local families this holiday season. 🛒 Every can counts!
Here’s what to donate:
✅ Nutritious Non-Perishables – Think canned tuna, beans, whole grains (brown rice, pasta), and low-sodium soups
✅ Pop-Top Lids – Easy-open cans for convenience
✅ Kid-Friendly Options – Peanut butter, granola bars, and other healthy, shelf-stable snacks
✅ Cooking Basics – Olive oil, spices, and seasonings
Let’s show what it means to live The Bearcat Way — caring, giving, and serving our community. 💜💛
#BearcatsCAN #EndHunger #TheBearcatWay #CommunityStrong
📚✨ Meet our Rising Star — Samantha Palmer!
We’re proud to celebrate Samantha Palmer, Media Specialist & Instructional Technology Coach at Hutto Elementary School, who has been recognized as a 2025 GaETC Rising Star! 🌟
In her recent podcast interview, Samantha shares how she’s transforming the media center into a vibrant hub of learning — blending literacy, technology, and student choice to spark curiosity and creativity among students.
🎙️ Samantha also recently presented at the Georgia Educational Technology Conference (GaETC), showcasing her innovative approach to integrating technology and literacy in the classroom. Her passion for student engagement and instructional excellence is a shining example of the talent and dedication she brings to our system.
🎧 Listen to her inspiring story here: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/gaetc25-rising-star-samantha-palmer--68229669
Samantha’s recognition and leadership highlight what it means to live The Bearcat Way -- Way to Go Mrs. Palmer! 💜💛
#BearcatWay #BearcatPride #DCBOE #GaETC25 #RisingStar #EducationInnovation #MediaSpecialist #HuttoElementary
We’re proud to celebrate Samantha Palmer, Media Specialist & Instructional Technology Coach at Hutto Elementary School, who has been recognized as a 2025 GaETC Rising Star! 🌟
In her recent podcast interview, Samantha shares how she’s transforming the media center into a vibrant hub of learning — blending literacy, technology, and student choice to spark curiosity and creativity among students.
🎙️ Samantha also recently presented at the Georgia Educational Technology Conference (GaETC), showcasing her innovative approach to integrating technology and literacy in the classroom. Her passion for student engagement and instructional excellence is a shining example of the talent and dedication she brings to our system.
🎧 Listen to her inspiring story here: https://www.spreaker.com/episode/gaetc25-rising-star-samantha-palmer--68229669
Samantha’s recognition and leadership highlight what it means to live The Bearcat Way -- Way to Go Mrs. Palmer! 💜💛
#BearcatWay #BearcatPride #DCBOE #GaETC25 #RisingStar #EducationInnovation #MediaSpecialist #HuttoElementary
4th Grade QUEST students are putting on the finishing touches and practicing for DPA this Saturday at Hutto Elementary. We are so proud of their hard work and can’t wait to cheer them on this weekend!
