The Richmond County School System would like to remind families and staff of several important dates coming up in February.

• Thursday, February 12 – Early Release Day for Elementary Schools and Freedom Park K–8 (Excludes C.T. Walker)

• Friday, February 13 – Student Holiday

• Monday, February 16, 2026 – President’s Day: All schools and offices will be closed.

• Tuesday, February 17 – In-Person School Day for all students.

Families are encouraged to plan accordingly. For the most up-to-date calendar information, visit rcboe.org/calendars.

(AUGUSTA, GEORGIA) – Three Richmond County School System (RCSS) magnet schools received awards from Magnet Schools of America, the national association for magnet and theme-based schools. A.R. Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet School, C.T. Walker Traditional Magnet School, and John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School were awarded a National Merit School of Distinction Award, the second-highest recognition offered by the organization.

Dr. David Hall, assistant superintendent of high school administrative services, says, “These awards are a testament to the hard work, dedication, and collaborative efforts of our students and staff. We are deeply proud of C.T. Walker, Davidson, and A.R. Johnson for their outstanding achievements and for representing Richmond County and the state of Georgia with excellence.”

C.T. Walker has now received eight merit awards since 2018, while Davidson has a total of 13. Meanwhile, A.R. Johnson celebrates its third consecutive National Merit School of Distinction award.

To qualify for a merit award, Magnet Schools of America members submit a detailed application reviewed by a panel of educators. Schools are evaluated on their ability to raise academic achievement, promote diversity, integrate curricula, and build strong family and community partnerships. Each Richmond County magnet school excels in its unique focus area: C.T. Walker Magnet emphasizes communications; Davidson Magnet specializes in fine arts; and A.R. Johnson Magnet focuses on health sciences and engineering.

The schools will be recognized and receive their awards during a ceremony held at Magnet Schools of America’s National Conference from April 14-17, 2026, in San Diego, CA. 

The “One to Watch” series is a monthly recognition awarded to induction teachers who have demonstrated effective teaching and classroom management practices, established a sense of community in their classrooms, created dynamic learning experiences, and demonstrated high levels of professionalism.

This month's “One to Watch” recipients are:

Wayne Hall, Hephzibah Comprehensive High School 

Wayne Hall is a Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) business teacher at Hephzibah Comprehensive High School, proudly serving our students for the past two years. Before joining the district, Hall spent 25 years with RBW Logistics’ Records Management Center, rising through the ranks to become Operations Manager. 

As a U.S. Navy veteran, Hall noticed over the years that many students were graduating high school without essential soft skills or financial literacy.  This is what led him to the Richmond County School System, to better prepare kids for the graduation stage and the world beyond. 

Hall says some of the most memorable moments unfold when students make real-world connections to what they’ve learned in class. One standout example was when a student observed an interaction between a manager and employee at a local business. After studying the traits of effective leadership, she was quick to recognize what the manager lacked. Excited by the realization, she shared the story with her mother and returned to class eager to discuss the experience. 

Amitabahen Patel, W.S. Hornsby Middle School 

Seventh-grade life science teacher Amitabahen Patel has taught at W.S. Hornsby Middle School for a little over a year. 

Before joining RCSS, Patel spent 20 years as a university professor in India, where she taught, mentored students, and supported academic development within her institution. She joined our school system to expand her impact beyond higher education and contribute her passion for learning to a broader community. 

Patel describes RCSS as an environment where she can continue growing professionally while serving a meaningful purpose. Some of her proudest moments were being named Teacher of the Month at Hornsby Middle and recognized as a “One to Watch” among middle school induction teachers across the county. She says this recognition affirmed her dedication to education and continues to motivate her commitment to excellence in the classroom.

Jordan Brooks, Deer Chase Elementary School 

Deer Chase Elementary School art teacher Jordan Brooks joined our school system just five months ago. Before joining RCSS, Brooks worked as a floral designer, a role that nurtured a natural passion for teaching through educating clients about flowers and the significance of art and design. 

“My passion for teaching grew over time, and when the opportunity arose to become an elementary school art teacher, I couldn’t ignore it,” said Brooks. “I am so grateful for the school I am in and the wonderful staff and students I get to learn with each day.” 

Brooks finds joy in watching students embrace art history through hands-on projects and build confidence in their work. She says that seeing students of all grade levels engage with new concepts and take pride in their accomplishments has made her first year in the classroom especially meaningful.

Carlton Holden, T. Harry Garrett Elementary School

Carlton Holden is a second-grade teacher at T. Harry Garret Elementary School. His experiences as an accomplished local author, substitute teacher, and paraprofessional reaffirmed his belief that the perfect place to express his creativity and love for learning was in a classroom of his own. 

Although early in his teaching journey, Holden says he has already experienced meaningful milestones. One that stands out was completing his first major classroom observation with a state educator and receiving encouraging feedback from both his principal and mentor. The experience boosted his confidence and served as a reminder that RCSS is exactly where he is meant to be. 

Humbled and grateful for the recognition, Holden says it is an honor to be named the January One to Watch for Elementary Cluster 1 and is excited for what the future holds as he continues growing in the profession.

(AUGUSTA, GEORGIA) – A.R. Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet and John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet schools earned a place on the College Board’s AP Honor Roll on Jan. 9. This recognition identifies schools whose AP programs are delivering exceptional results, providing opportunities for students to earn college credits and increasing their school’s college-ready culture.

“The hard work by our schools and AP programs demonstrates their efforts in preparing our students for their future,” said Dr. Malinda Cobb, superintendent of schools. “The skills acquired in AP courses goes well beyond college, it provides students the ability to think more critically and engage with other hardworking students.”

Davidson Fine Arts Magnet earned Platinum status on the honor roll, continued from 2024, and A. R. Johnson Magnet earned a Gold status recognition, up from Bronze in 2024. To qualify for the 2025 AP School Honor Roll and status recognitions, schools must meet or exceed a percentage threshold for students in the graduating class who took an AP exam, who scored a 3+ on any AP exam, and who took 5 or more AP exams during high school.  

Richmond County Technical Career Magnet School  and The Academy of Richmond County, George P. Butler, Cross Creek, Glen Hills, Hephzibah, Westside, and Lucy C. Laney comprehensive high schools also demonstrated high College Culture scores for their percentage of students in their graduating class who took an AP exam at any point in high school.  

(AUGUSTA, GEORGIA) – The Richmond County School System (RCSS) is aware of the possibility of inclement weather in our area this weekend. We are closely monitoring forecasts in collaboration with local emergency management officials and the National Weather Service.  

Updates will be shared through the district’s inclement weather landing page at rcboe.org/weatherupdates, the Infinite Campus Parent Portal, social media channels, and local news outlets.  

Parents and guardians are encouraged to ensure their contact information is up-to-date in the Parent Portal to receive timely updates. Instructions can be found at rcboe.org/parentportal.  

(AUGUSTA, GEORGIA) — The Richmond County Board of Education voted Tuesday to approve three public hearings on the district’s long-range facilities master plan. Beginning in January, residents are invited to attend hearings where district leaders will present proposed school consolidations and future investments aimed at expanding academic and career opportunities for students. 

“This is about creating learning environments that support student success today and into the future,” said Board of Education President Shawnda Stovall. “Consolidating schools helps us ensure equitable access to high-quality programs, extracurricular opportunities, and the strongest staff possible across our system. These decisions allow us to use our resources responsibly while keeping students at the center of every choice.” 

The Board will host a series of public hearings to answer questions and gather feedback from families, staff, and community members. All meetings are open to the public: 

• Jan. 15 — T.W. Josey Comprehensive High School, 1701 15th St., Augusta, GA 30901, 6 p.m. 

• Jan. 26 — Barton Chapel Elementary School, 2329 Barton Chapel Road, Augusta, GA 30906, 6 p.m. 

• Jan. 27 — RCSS Central Office, Board Auditorium, 864 Broad St., Augusta, GA 30901, noon 

The proposed plan also includes the development of a new college and career academy for high school students across the district. The academy would expand access to career pathways, hands-on learning experiences and workforce-aligned programs. District leaders have identified the existing joint campus of T.W. Josey Comprehensive High School and Murphey Middle School as the proposed site, which would require the closure of both schools at the start of the 2026–27 school year to allow for development of the new facility. 

In addition, Barton Chapel Elementary School will close at the end of the 2025–26 school year and consolidate with Glenn Hills Elementary School in anticipation of a new elementary school facility planned for the Barton Chapel campus, expected to open in fall 2028. As part of the broader facilities plan, Jenkins-White Elementary School is also proposed for closure beginning in the 2026–27 school year. 

Community input will remain central as the Long-Range Facilities Master Plan is refined. Feedback from these meetings will help guide final recommendations. No decisions will be made until the conclusion of the final public hearing, when the Board is expected to vote on a finalized plan Feb. 10. 

Additional information and planning updates are available at www.rcboe.org/masterplan. 

Explore the New RCSS Website 

The Richmond County School System (RCSS) is excited to welcome families and community members to our newly redesigned website. 

The updated site was built to make information easier to find and access on any device, whether you’re visiting from a computer, tablet, or phone. With clearer navigation, improved organization, and centralized resources, families can now get where they need to go with fewer clicks. 

To help you get started, we’ve created a short Quick Tour video that walks through the new layout and highlights where to find commonly used information. 

 
🎥 Watch the Quick Tour video here

What’s New 

The new RCSS website includes: 

• Cleaner, easier navigation to key resources 

• A mobile-friendly design for on-the-go access 

• Centralized calendars with school and district events 

• Clear pathways for families, students, and staff 

Finding What You Need 

• Students & Families: Registration, transportation, meals, Parent Portal, tutoring, and family resources 

• Academics & Curriculum: Academic programs, magnet and CTAE options, graduation requirements, and curriculum information 

• News & Events: District and school announcements and upcoming events 

• Community: Family engagement resources, partnerships, and district information 

• Careers: Employment opportunities and Work4RCSS resources 

We encourage families to explore the new site and share any feedback or questions as we continue to improve how we communicate and share information. 

Thank you for your patience during the transition and for partnering with RCSS.

(AUGUSTA, GEORGIA) – The Richmond County School System (RCSS) opened the School Choice application period for the 2026–2027 school year, giving families the opportunity to explore innovative learning options that match their child’s interests, talents, and future goals. In addition, families can apply for their child to attend another school outside of their school zone with capacity through House Bill 251 (HB251).  

Applications for magnet schools and specialized programs are open from Nov. 1, 2025, through Jan. 9, 2026. The HB251 transfer application period remains open through May 1, 2026. Families can explore programs, review eligibility requirements, and apply online at www.rcboe.org/choice 

“We want every family to know that Richmond County has options for every student,” said Brian Hadden, School Choice coordinator. “Whether your child is drawn to the arts, trade skills, or technology, there’s a program designed to help them discover their passion and prepare for what comes next.” 

Through RCSS School Choice, students can apply to one of the school system’s four award-winning magnet schools or more than six specialized programs across the district. In addition, all Richmond County high schools offer access to more than 40 Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) pathways, allowing students to explore career-focused courses in fields such as agriculture, architecture and construction, government and public administration, and more. No application is required for courses offered at their zoned school. 

Admission to magnet schools is competitive and based on academic performance, attendance, and conduct. Four-year-olds applying to kindergarten programs, along with students entering grades K–12, must complete a systemwide reading and math assessment to demonstrate readiness for advanced coursework. Testing sessions will be held in January, with results considered as part of the admissions process. 

For more information or to apply for School Choice and HB251, visit www.rcboe.org/choice or contact the School Options Office at (706) 826-1136. 

(AUGUSTA, GEORGIA) – Forty-one Richmond County School System (RCSS) students showcased their spelling skills in the elementary and middle school spelling bee competitions today, with top students advancing to the regional spelling bee on Dec. 12.   

In the elementary competition, Rory O’Donnell, a fourth-grade student from Blythe Elementary School, claimed first place by correctly spelling the word “emporium”. Runner-up Marleigh Sudduth is a fourth-grade student from Belair Elementary School. O’Donell will represent the Richmond County School System at the regional spelling bee on Feb. 28, 2026.  

In the middle school competition, Eighth-grade student Domani Hill from Freedom Park K-8 School earned first place with the winning word “omniscient”. Peter Bao, a sixth-grade student at John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School, secured second place. Both students will advance to the regional spelling bee.    

(AUGUSTA, GEORGIA) – Six Richmond County School System (RCSS) eighth grade students were selected as 2025-2026 REACH Scholars for their display of academic promise on Nov. 19. Each scholar will receive a minimum $10,000 scholarship to attend a University System of Georgia institution, a Technical College System of Georgia institution, or an eligible private postsecondary institution in Georgia. Scholars will also receive ongoing academic support throughout high school. “Our new REACH Scholars have demonstrated remarkable commitment to their education, and we could not be prouder,” said Dr. Malinda Cobb, superintendent of schools. “This scholarship is one of many steps they will take towards their future with the support of a community that believes in their potential.”

The 2025–2026 RCSS REACH Scholars are:

• John M. Tutt Middle School: Ray Smith and Champeyon Wesley
• Richmond County Technical Career Magnet School: Khyli Fane and Adrianna Simmons
• W.S. Hornsby Middle School: Khiyoni Brame and Jonashia Williams

Students were selected following a competitive application and interview process open to rising eighth-graders across eligible RCSS schools. Applicants are required to demonstrate financial need, maintain at least a 2.5 grade point average in core subjects, and show strong attendance and behavior.

The REACH Georgia program aims to expand access to higher education by pairing financial support with consistent mentorship and academic guidance. Each scholar will meet monthly with an Academic Coach at their school and twice per month with a community mentor throughout their high school years. Funded through contributions from local partners, the program reflects a strong community commitment to providing RCSS students with a clear, achievable pathway to college and long-term success.

(AUGUSTA, GEORGIA) – The Richmond County School System (RCSS) opened the School Choice application period for the 2026–2027 school year, giving families the opportunity to explore innovative learning options that match their child’s interests, talents, and future goals. In addition, families can apply for their child to attend another school outside of their school zone with capacity through House Bill 251 (HB251).  

Applications for magnet schools and specialized programs are open from Nov. 1, 2025, through Jan. 9, 2026. The HB251 transfer application period remains open through May 1, 2026. Families can explore programs, review eligibility requirements, and apply online at www.rcboe.org/choice 

“We want every family to know that Richmond County has options for every student,” said Brian Hadden, School Choice coordinator. “Whether your child is drawn to the arts, trade skills, or technology, there’s a program designed to help them discover their passion and prepare for what comes next.” 

Through RCSS School Choice, students can apply to one of the school system’s four award-winning magnet schools or more than six specialized programs across the district. In addition, all Richmond County high schools offer access to more than 40 Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) pathways, allowing students to explore career-focused courses in fields such as agriculture, architecture and construction, government and public administration, and more. No application is required for courses offered at their zoned school. 

Admission to magnet schools is competitive and based on academic performance, attendance, and conduct. Four-year-olds applying to kindergarten programs, along with students entering grades K–12, must complete a systemwide reading and math assessment to demonstrate readiness for advanced coursework. Testing sessions will be held in January, with results considered as part of the admissions process. 

For more information or to apply for School Choice and HB251, visit www.rcboe.org/choice or contact the School Options Office at (706) 826-1136. 

(AUGUSTA, GEORGIA) – Eight Richmond County School System (RCSS) schools were named "Literacy Leaders" and “Math Leaders” by the Georgia Department of Education for exceptional achievement and growth in reading and mathematics on Nov. 7. The statewide recognition celebrates schools that demonstrate excellent student progress and proficiency.

“It’s wonderful to see our schools recognized for the progress our students are making” said Shawnda Stovall, president of the Richmond County Board of Education. “Our educators, administrators, and district staff have worked hard to help students grow as readers and thinkers, and to make math something every student can feel confident in.”

A.R. Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet School, C.T. Walker Traditional Magnet School, Gracewood Elementary School, Jamestown Elementary School, and John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School were named 2024-2025 Literacy Leaders. Literacy Leader honors were given based on exceptional student achievement and growth on Georgia Milestones assessments, with awards determined by the percentage of students reading or performing at or above grade level in key “gateway grades” (third, sixth, and high school) and by significant year-over-year improvement across all grade levels.

The 2024–2025 Math Leader honorees include Freedom Park K-8 School, John M. Tutt Middle School, John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School, and Warren Road Elementary School. Similar to the literacy recognition, Math Leaders are determined by exceptional performance on Georgia Milestones assessments, particularly in “gateway grades” (fifth and eighth), where at least 90% of students achieved proficiency or higher, or where schools showed significant annual growth in performance.

As part of the school system’s literacy initiative, all RCSS schools work to improve literacy and instill a lifelong love of reading through curriculum, year-long reading challenges, and special events like the Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl. All RCSS students receive a free library card through a partnership with the Augusta-Richmond County Public Library System. In math, students sharpen their skills through the Annual Districtwide Math Competition. At the same time, teachers collaborate in professional learning communities where they share strategies, refine instructional practices, and strengthen students’ problem-solving and reasoning skills across all grade levels.

(AUGUSTA, GEORGIA) – The Richmond County School System (RCSS) named Dr. Tommy T. Welch as its new deputy superintendent of school improvement and strategic initiatives during the Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 21, bringing more than 20 years of educational leadership experience to the district. 

“Dr. Welch will play a critical role in aligning our instructional and organizational improvement efforts across the district,” said Dr. Malinda Cobb, superintendent of schools. “This position was created to ensure we are not only setting ambitious goals for our school system, but also building the systems and accountability structures needed to achieve them. We look forward to working with him as we strengthen how we support schools and measure success.”

Welch joins Richmond County from The Lovett School in Atlanta, where he served as chief culture and community officer. He also worked as a principal coach for Atlanta Public Schools, supporting school leaders to improve instructional practices and student outcomes.

Previously, Welch served as chief equity and compliance officer for Gwinnett County Public Schools, Georgia’s largest school district, and as principal of Meadowcreek High School. Under his leadership, Meadowcreek achieved significant gains in graduation rates, academic performance, and college readiness, earning recognition at the state and national levels.

Welch earned a Doctor of Philosophy in educational leadership from Mercer University, an education specialist degree from Piedmont College, a leadership endorsement from the University of Georgia, and both a Master of Education and Bachelor of Arts from the University at Buffalo. He is also a graduate of Harvard University’s Public Education Leadership Program and the Howard University/AASA Urban Superintendent Academy.

His honors include Georgia Principal of the Year, National Assistant Superintendent of the Year from the Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents, and Education Leader of the Year from the Southern Regional Education Board.

(AUGUSTA, GEORGIA) – The Georgia Department of Education has named John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School and C.T. Walker Traditional Magnet School as 2025 Distinguished Schools, recognizing them among the highest-performing 5% of Title I schools statewide.

“We are incredibly proud of Davidson and C.T. Walker, and look forward to seeing our other Title I schools shine next year,” said Dr. Malinda Cobb, superintendent of schools. “Title I schools receive federal funding to help ensure that every student, regardless of background, has access to a high-quality education. Being recognized among the top 5 percent of these schools means our teachers and students are not only meeting high standards but exceeding them. It’s a testament to the hard work happening in Richmond County classrooms every day.” 

The annual list of Distinguished and Reward Schools honors Title I schools with exceptional academic achievement based on English Language Arts and math content mastery on statewide assessments. To qualify, schools must receive Title I funding and not be currently identified for Comprehensive Support and Improvement (CSI) or Targeted Support and Improvement (TSI).

“We are honored to be recognized as a Distinguished Title 1 School for the third consecutive year, a reflection of our unwavering commitment to academic excellence and equity for all students,” said Dr. Alfreda Howard, principal of C.T. Walker. "This achievement celebrates the dedication of our teachers, families, and students who embody our Wildcat pride and pursuit of greatness each day”.  

John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School, which has a long history of academic excellence, also earned recognition for its consistent student performance.

Dr. Renee Kelly, principal of Davidson, says, “this achievement is a powerful reflection of the passion, perseverance, and excellence that defines our school community. It shows what’s possible when educators, students and families work together with purpose and heart.”

(AUGUSTA, GEORGIA) – Four students from John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School earned recognition in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program for outstanding academic performance on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®). One student will advance to the next stage of the national competition.

Annie Zhang was named a National Merit Semifinalist, placing among the top one percent of high school seniors nationwide. Colette Kriegal, Luka Armstrong, and Anna Harwood earned recognition as National Merit Commended Scholars for demonstrating exceptional academic promise.

Shawnda Stovall, president of the Richmond County Board of Education, says, “Taking the PSAT is an important step for our students to prepare for college applications. It takes several hours of focused study, practice tests, and dedication to master the skills tested, and for our students to advance to semifinalist status or to earn commendation means they not only rose to that rigor but proved they can stand with the top students in the nation.”

To qualify as a semifinalist, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation screens PSAT scores from more than 1.3 million 11th-grade students in about 20,000 high schools to identify the highest-scoring entrants. Commended students do not advance in the competition but are recognized for placing among the top 50,000 students nationwide.
The National Merit Scholarship Program honors academically talented U.S. high school seniors based on their PSAT/NMSQT® performance. Each year, about 16,000 students advance as semifinalists and 34,000 earn commended recognition.

Semifinalists will continue in the competition for $28 million in National Merit Scholarships to be awarded next spring.