The Lion Report

LSHS's very own John Matlock, Jr., 11th gr., is the only high school student in the Douglas County School System to make a perfect score of 820 on the Biology End of Course (EOC) assessment of the Georgia Milestones Assessment System (GMAS) during the 2022-2023 school year when it was given in May 2023. John was recognized by Superintendent Trent North and the DCSS Board of Educators at Monday night's board meeting. With humility and grace, John accepted his award. Currently John, who is also in MJROTC, has a rigorous schedule that includes honor courses and he has an "A" average in all of his classes. Above, he shows off his medallion that he received from the DCSS Board of Education and below he shows off his gift card he received from the LSHS administrative team. Way to go John! We are proud of you. Keep striving for greatness!

I have heard of a day party, but partying at 6:00 A.M. is on a whole other level!! 🤣😂🤣😂 But what can you expect from the LSHS Senior Class of 2024 😍🤩.

🔊SHOUT OUT TO THE SENIOR SPONSORS: Mrs. Kimberly Benford, Mrs. Stephanie Carr, Mrs. Anna Swango & Ms. Tina Fortney!! Kudos to you for honoring this request from the Senior Class of 2024!!

Senior Sponsors: Mrs. Kimberly Benford, Ms. Tina Fortney & Mrs. Anna Swango. Yearbook Sponsor, Ms. Tonya Clemons. Shout out to Ms. Elaine Boyer, curriculum secretary pictured in the above video, for getting up early in the morning and supporting the C/O 2024. KUDOS TO YOU LADIES FOR MAKING THIS EVENT A SUCCESS!

LSHS students celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. From left, Valeria Ticse, Maria Jimenez, Kaily Ixmay, Jose Padron, and Jennifer Virto celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at LSHS.

LSHS Staff celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month. From left, Mr. Darius Owens, Mr. Antoine Philidor, Ms. Felicia Jones, Mr. Kerry Hood & Mr. James Smith

It's Jersey Day! Feliz HHM!! Mr. Cortes and Alexis Armenta, 11th grader. Alexis is sporting the National Mexican Team Jersey! Y'all got school spirit!!

We see you Sra. Haynes!! You got school spirit!!

American Literature Teacher, Ms. Audrey McLaughlin participates in the festivities! Looking good Ms. McLaughlin! You got school spirit!!

The Douglas County School System has many former students and alumni who return as teachers or staff members in various roles each year. This year, Lithia Springs High School has an abundance of loyal lions who are passionate about creating a positive educational experience for today’s students. Currently, LSHS has nine alumni on staff who share similar stories about their desire to perpetuate the influence and impact that helped shape their lives.

Assistant Principal Payton Millinor expressed her excitement about two of her former students, LSHS STEM graduates Naomi Douglas (Class of 2018) and Bryanna Jordan-Pettit (Class of 2016), who have returned as science teachers. “I taught both of these extraordinary young ladies. Working alongside two amazing teachers who once sat in my classroom is a dream. I am thrilled to have them back on campus, and I know that they will have a lasting impact on their students,” Millinor said.

Student Resource Officer Chris Billingslea graduated from LSHS in 2004. He said, "being able to work in law enforcement at the school I attended is a dream come true. I can brag because I played in the first ever game in the "new" gym 20 years ago and had a triple-double (25 points, 14 rebounds, 11 blocks). It's an honor to be able to work with the next generation of Lions!"

Candice Cooke graduated in 1988 and is now a science teacher. "Returning to the Lion's Den as a teacher brings back wonderful memories and excitement,” she said. It is a privilege to be part of a school that shaped my journey and to have the opportunity to contribute to the growth and development of new generations."

Nicole Oliver-Wynn graduated in 1991 and now teaches computer science. "I chose to come back to LSHS as a teacher because I felt compelled to contribute to the educational community that had a meaningful impact on my own academic development. The experiences, insights, and mentorship I gained during my time here in high school have given me a distinct outlook that I can now share with the present generation of students," she explained.

Coach Darius Owens is a member of the Class of 2011 and a current PEC (Program for Exceptional Children) teacher. "I enjoyed my time here as a student, and I’m excited to be an educator in a place that helped shape me into the person I am today. I'm excited to be back. Go Lions!"

Scotty "Donald" Parker, Class of 1988, Health and PE Teacher said, "It is always great to give back to what you once received -- once a Lion, always a Lion!"

Zephina Romero graduated in 2013 and is working as a long-term substitute teaching English. “Before last year, I never thought I would come back to teach at Lithia. I had the best time while at Lithia during my four years, and I want these students to have that same experience. So, I’m excited to be back home.”

Jaime Samples, 2003, Social Studies Teacher said, "I am excited to be teaching and coaching at LSHS and have the opportunity to be a positive influence in the lives of my students. So many teachers and staff had a huge impact on the person that I am today, and I hope that I can have that kind of an impact on my students."

Aja Giana is a very hardworking student who always strives for her goals. Her loyalty to her education is inspiring. Her incredible work ethic, unwavering dedication, and constant pursuit of excellence in her studies make her the perfect candidate for student of the month. She's truly an inspiration, always going above and beyond to achieve her goals and to help her peers. Congratulations Aja on being the August Student of the Month!!

Ms. Tonya Clemons, English teacher, regularly goes beyond the call of duty in executing her role. She is a mission-oriented and compassionate educator who demands excellence from her students while making them feel valued. She is an invaluable member of our faculty who works hard all year long behind the scenes to develop the yearbook, to ensure senior portraits and underclassmen pictures are scheduled, and handles all the logistics of the prom. In addition, Mrs. Clemons has been present at every home football game this school year to show her support of the LSHS Varsity Football Team. Thank you Ms. Clemons for all you do and congratulations on being the August Teacher of the Month!

Mrs. Carolyn Horne-Robins has done an exemplary job of managing substitute teachers and handling teacher absences daily. She also covers classes when subs are not available and instructs students. Her dedication to helping staff and students is admirable. Mrs. Robins goes above and beyond in her role to ensure classes are covered each day. Thank you for all you do and congratulations Mrs. Robins on being the classified staff member of the month!

Tuesday, September 19, 2023, was National Voter Registration Day. Students 17.5 years of age and older took the time to become registered voters in the upcoming election! The voter registration drive was held at LSHS by members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Sigma Omega Omega Chapter and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, Douglas-Carroll-Paulding Counties Alumnae Chapter in collaboration with the Board of Elections and Voter Registration of Douglas County registered 33 students. "Our students understand the importance of voting and making sure their voices are heard. I am proud of them for wanting to become registered voters and for understanding that if they want to see positive change in their community, then exercising their right to vote is imperative," said Principal Jones. Thank you to the members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated for their time and service to all mankind.

Pictured from Left: Ryan Samples, Ashley McLaughlin, Ayomide Balogun & Afia Adade

Congratulations to the our students above who will be representing LSHS as a Douglas County Youth Commissioner. The Douglas County Youth Commission is a student leadership and enrichment program for high schoolers in Douglas County. The program runs parallel to the school year and twice a month, Youth Commissioners learn through a county-developed interactive curriculum with Douglas County government and community leaders on government operations, law, the process of community planning, and economic development, community art and creativity, and much more. The Youth Commission will also be developing a community project during their time in the program. This will be the first time LSHS has had representation in the program. We know you all will represent the school and yourselves with grace, dignity and respect. Congratulations Ryan, Ashley, Ayomide & Afia and thank you for answering the call!!

The 47-year-old high school that is known as Lithia Springs Comprehensive High School will be demolished and replaced with a modern upgraded facility.

One of the architects currently working on the new state-of-the-art facility is a Lithia Springs High School graduate, Mrs. Misti Higdon Melara! Mrs. Melara graduated from LSHS in 2006. When asked what does working on this project mean to her, she replied, "I feel humbled to serve Lithia Springs and the community I was raised in. It's a full circle experience being a piece of my alma mater’s journey this long after graduating. The ability to use my experiences at the existing school has given me a unique perspective on this project and I’m excited to see Lithia’s future campus come to life. I am honored to continue Southern A&E's long standing commitment to serving the needs of the Douglas County School System."

LSHS is the second oldest high school in the Douglas County School System. Under a five-year plan drafted by the Georgia Department of Education, the school system will demolish the campus. A new Lithia Springs High School will be rebuilt on the same site in phases.

Douglas County School System Board of Education members approved a resolution to phase out the school. While the Lithia Springs campus has supported the educational needs of generations of Douglas County scholars, architects say the 1975 building has reached its life expectancy. Because of its architectural design, the building can no longer be reconfigured, repaired, or renovated.

Superintendent Trent North says this is an exciting chapter in the school’s history.

“Lithia Springs High School is a tremendous source of pride for our community,” he explains. “Lithia Lions graduate high school prepared to impact their community and the world. We are delighted that future graduates will have the opportunity to continue thriving on a more updated campus.”

Superintendent North says the new facility will meet the needs of students living in a technology-rich world. A planning phase must begin before construction starts on the new Lithia Springs facility. “The two-year strategic planning process involves meeting with principals, staff, and students. Their input will help us assess the present and future needs of our students,” explains Superintendent North.

He says Douglas County Board of Education members have long held a vision for the future of Lithia Springs High. The signed resolution moves the board’s shared vision one step closer to reality. The modern learning facility will soon offer students the added space and resources needed for academic success.

The upcoming transformation also underscores the school system’s commitment to investing in high-quality infrastructure. Regularly evaluating campus facilities ensures the school system makes the best use of resources and ensures every student has a high-quality educational experience.

“We’re celebrating a new beginning for Lithia Springs High School,” says Superintendent North. “Partnering with Southern A & E architects will allow us to embrace modern infrastructure. This new campus will allow students to continue soaring in an updated learning environment.”

Lithia Spring High School’s East County Line Road campus houses 1,470 students. The school is also home to Douglas County’s Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Magnet program.

“Determination, dedication, and a commitment to justice can break barriers and help you achieve your dreams,” said Dalia Racine as she recently paid a special visit to business and science students at Lithia Springs High School. She and her legal dream team shared industry knowledge and valuable insights into their respective roles within the criminal justice system.

The University of Florida alumni was overwhelmed with gratitude for the opportunity to pour her expertise into the future professionals. “We are grateful to Lithia Springs High School for inviting our team to share about our experiences in the criminal justice system. The best part of the day was hearing the thoughtful questions of the students and engaging in a great conversation,” she said. Students experienced a dynamic dialogue about the legal landscape, emphasizing the importance of understanding the law’s role in society and business.

Racine’s passion to motivate the next generation of legal minds and law enforcement professionals during her insightful presentation, demonstrated her unwavering commitment to educate and inspire youth. While sharing her own personal story of struggles and successes, she highlighted the significance of facing adversity and receiving a quality education to achieve her exceptional career milestones.

As the first female to hold the prestigious position of District Attorney in Douglas County, Racine emphasized the importance of exploring every opportunity within the legal field along with embracing diversity and inclusion as essential pillars of a just society. Additionally, her legal team enlightened students about the complexity of collecting evidence, the importance of a strong legal team, and the profound impact of supporting victims through the judicial process.

Racine says the Douglas County District Attorney’s office is dedicated to advocating for those without a voice and are excited to welcome the new generation of intrigued student leaders to help ensure that justice is being served effectively and efficiently to protect our community.

The Douglas County School System is taking a proactive approach to keeping schools and students safe. Students can now use Speak Up for Safety to report any suspicious behavior or activity in their schools anonymously, using text, email, or phone call.

“We wanted to provide our students with a way to provide discreet information when they encountered a situation where they felt either their safety or the safety of another person would be threatened,” explained Douglas County School System Chief of Police, Tracey Whaley. The simplicity of sending a text or email is one benefit of the program along with the anonymity, Whaley added.

The confidential digital tip line can be used for reporting bullying, threats of suicide, self-harm, drug or alcohol abuse, school violence, and other student safety threats. Once the call is placed, a trained 24/7 safety team member immediately evaluates all submitted communication and alerts district level emergency contacts as needed.

To report a concern, students are asked to email speakup@dcssga.org or call/text 770-525-5419.

To access your student's progress report, report cards, attendance, and grades, click the "Infinite Campus Parent Portal Set Up" link above for directions on registering for a Parent Portal account. All progress reports and reports cards will only be accessible via the Parent Portal. Paper copies will not be sent home.

If you need assistance with Parent Portal, contact the Douglas County Help Desk at parent@dcssga.org or (770) 651-2330.

Click link below for Instrucciones del Portal Para Padres de Infinite Campus (Espanol)

September 26: Underclassman Picture Day

September 28: SOAR Parent Meeting @ 5:30 P.M. Media Center

September 30: Homecoming Dance @ 7:00-11:00 P.M.

October 2-6: Spirit Week

October 6: Homecoming: LSHS vs. Tri Cities HS 7:30 P.M.

October 9-13: Fall Break, NO SCHOOL

October 18: Progress Reports viewable in Infinite Campus Parent Portal

October 26: Senior Portraits

October 26: PSAT/SAT Day

November 7: Teacher Workday, NO SCHOOL

November 8: Apply-to-College Day

November 20-24: Thanksgiving Holidays

Students:

All Google Classrooms from the counselors have been set up and you should have received an invite via your school email. If you did not receive the invite via email, no worries, just join using the codes below:

Class of 2024 (Seniors) 4xxs63j

Class of 2025 (Juniors) 34aqeb2

Class of 2026 (Sophomores) tjstxjs

Class of 2027 (Freshmen) wesfy4p

Pertinent information pertaining to your grade level will be placed in these classrooms from the counselors. Special events such as field trips, college fairs, scholarships and community service opportunities will also be placed in the Google Classrooms. You don't want to miss anything so join today!

News from the Counseling Dept!

Are you wondering who your school counselor will be? Well wonder no more! Below is a breakdown by alphabet that will help you in identifying your school counselor:

Lead Counselor: Mitzi Blackstone; mitzi.blackstone@dcssga.org; 770-651-6807

• Off-Campus Programs
• 12th ACTIVITIES

Last Names A, D-J: Shimirrah Rembert; shimirrah.rembert@dcssga.org; 770-651-6774

Last Names B, K-Q: Jonathan Reeves; jonathan.reeves@dcssga.org; 770-651-6862

Last Names C, R-Z: Angel Richmond; angel.richmond@dcssga.org; 770-651-6714

If you need to meet with your counselor, please make an appointment with him or her directly by scanning a QR code that will be posted throughout the school building.

DCSS has a clear bag policy at all sporting events. The policy is similar to policies in place at college and professional stadiums and coliseums.

"The clear bag policy will help us keep dangerous or illegal items, including weapons, out of our venues," said Superintendent Trent North. "By allowing only clear bags, we can monitor what's coming into our stadiums and gyms and keep everyone safer with only minor inconvenience to those in attendance."

The following types of bags will be permitted inside DCSS sporting events:

• Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 12"x6"x12"
• One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags
• Small clutch bags, with or without a handle or strap, that do not exceed 4.5"x6.5"

No outside food or drink will be permitted. Bottled water will be acceptable under special circumstances. Thank you in advance for adhering to this policy.

Students must be at their designated bus stop 5 minutes before their scheduled pick-up time. Bus routes are located at https://edulog.dcssga.org/livewebquery/webquery/

Available to parents of students who are enrolled in the Douglas County School System

• View the real-time location of your child’s bus

• Access the app from your smartphone, tablet or computer

• Receive push notifications or email alerts

• Send your child to the bus stop at just the right time

How to Get Started

1. Download the Here Comes the Bus app or visit herecomesthebus.com

2. Click the sign-up button

3. Enter school code 79003 and click “Next” followed by “Confirm”

4. Complete the “User Profile” box

5. Under “My Student” click “Add.” Enter your child’s last name & student ID#

6. Once you confirm your information, you are ready to begin using Here Comes the Bus!

Email questions, concerns or comments to: herecomesthebus@dcssga.org

See Ms. Bobbie Johnson in the main office.

Bring your driver's license and a copy of your insurance and registration.

Cost is $50 payable online (RevTrak) or by check or money order.

Parents, if your child drives to school, then they must have a parking pass.

Click here for the Student Parking Application and Vehicle Registration Form.

Use our attendance zone maps or web address search tool to know which DCSS school your student will attend. Both tools show which school or schools your address is zoned for in this school year.

Click here and enter your address to access the online web address search tool.

To view the district's attendance zone maps, click the appropriate level listed below.

Elementary School Attendance Zone Map
Middle School Attendance Zone Map
High School Attendance Zone Map

We strive to make the registration process as easy as possible for all families in Douglas County. No matter if your student is new to the Douglas County School System of if they have attended a DCSS school before, you can use this site to find information about enrolling your student into one of our schools.

For all new students, DCSS is currently using an online registration process. Click here to access the online registration portal, or visit the DCSS Enrollment Process page to learn more about the enrollment process.

If online registration is not possible, contact DCSS' Registration Department at 770-651-2083 to schedule for an appointment.

Dear Parents:

As a school we want to get better at improving our school culture and get a pulse on the issues that matter to you. We've signed up for a service that will send you regular, short, anonymous surveys making it quick and easy to get your voice heard. The first survey will be sent around August 17th.

Please click on this link to sign up https://app.satchelpulse.com/parents?country=us

Please use the school ID 229155 when prompted to join the school.

Did you know there are 22 technical colleges in the state of Georgia? The Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) offers technical education, custom business and industry training, and adult education programs. Chattahoochee Technical College is the largest technical college in Georgia with an enrollment that exceeded 14,000 students in the past academic year.

Find out why TCSG may be the right choice for your higher education by clicking this link.

https://www.smore.com/46hz5j Meet the Principal

https://www.smore.com/r8kbsn-welcome-back July 27th

https://www.smore.com/ube8w Aug. 4th

https://www.smore.com/nf9yg (Senior Edition C/O 2024) Aug. 11th

https://www.smore.com/hkt3vhttps://www.smore.com/0z8ej Aug. 25th

https://www.smore.com/syr2u Sept. 1st

https://www.smore.com/15wbx Sept. 8th

https://www.smore.com/q2k4x Sept. 15th