Greetings GCSS Team,

Here we are, just 62 hours away from Day One of the new school year! I have visited each school this week, and I have felt your energy and enthusiasm.

I know that many of us are still dealing with the effects of trauma and loss resulting from the pandemic. Remember that our Care Solace Staff Wellness Program is available 24/7/365. If you ever need to talk to someone, please use this concierge-style service to get connected to care by calling 888-515-0595 or by visiting www.caresolace.com/greene. Now, more than ever, mental health is a top priority, and it is always okay to ask for help.

Let’s continue to actively find ways to support each other and our students this year, especially by attending athletic events, academic competitions, performances, parent nights, and other family engagement events. Our students need to know we support them in every area of their lives, inside and outside the classroom, and we all need a place to plug in.

As I mentioned at the Welcome Breakfast, we recently received a positive report on our May 2022 Georgia Milestones scores. We have completely closed the COVID gap at the elementary level, and our students scored even higher than prior to the pandemic. At the middle and high school levels, we have made tremendous progress toward closing the COVID gap and expect to have fully done so before the end of this school year. Although we are pleased with these results, let’s not remain satisfied, but carry this momentum into the new year!

Thank you in advance for what I know is going to be a strong start to the 2022-2023 school year. I'm proud to have each of you on the Greene County team. Go Tigers!