A Year of Unstoppable Achievements
Each year, our dedicated team works tirelessly to enhance our educational programs, foster community partnerships, and support student success. From innovative initiatives to distinguished awards and recognitions, we are proud to share the highlights of our collective accomplishments. Join us as we reflect on a year of growth, resilience, and excellence.
#strongerglynn
Connect Glynn Externship Grows in Local, Neighboring Districts
In collaboration with the Golden Isles College & Career Academy and the Brunswick-Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce, we have, once again, partnered together to support an educator externship program that offers a unique professional development opportunity for teachers to explore in-demand careers in our community and apply what they learned to their lesson plans. 
The Connect Glynn Educator Externship Academy is designed for educators to observe and interact with local companies while gaining real-world industry experience from a number of the major employers in Glynn County. Approximately 30 educators – two of whom work in McIntosh County Schools – took part in the three full working days onsite in a Golden Isles area local business this past fall.
The Connect Glynn Educator Externship Academy is designed for educators to observe and interact with local companies while gaining real-world industry experience from a number of the major employers in Glynn County. Approximately 30 educators – two of whom work in McIntosh County Schools – took part in the three full working days onsite in a Golden Isles area local business this past fall.
Glynn Academy and Brunswick High Junior ROTCs Unite for First Combined Military Ball
The combined junior ROTCs from Glynn Academy and Brunswick High got together at Epworth by the Sea in December 2023 for the two schools’ first-ever combined military ball. 
More than 80 cadets – dressed in formal uniforms – were among the crowd of 100 that enjoyed dinner and dancing at Epworth by the Sea. A combined Marine and Navy junior ROTC color guard presented the colors. Charles “Buck” Bennett, a retired lieutenant colonel in the Georgia National Guard, delivered the address to the cadets.
Maj. Clint Houchins, who leads the Marine Junior ROTC at Glynn Academy, and Navy Master Chief Petty Officer Mahendra Jatindranath, who leads the Navy cadets at Brunswick High, provided this opportunity to students.
GCSS Superintendent Wins 2024 GSSA President’s Award
Superintendent Scott Spence was honored with the 2024 Georgia School Superintendents Association (GSSA) President’s Award for his exceptional leadership.
This award, recognizing outstanding leadership in both the school system and the community, was presented to Dr. Spence at the GSSA Spring Bootstrap Conference in Savannah in April.
Community Champion Raises $70,000 for Glynn County Schools
Since 2022, Satilla Grocery has been a steadfast supporter of Glynn County Schools through their monthly Round-Up for Education campaign, raising nearly $70,000 to date.
In June and July, they generously donated 7,020 Powerades to Brunswick High and Glynn Academy. Their generosity and support have made a significant impact on our school system.
Glynn County Selected for Prestigious Economic Development Partnership Designation
The Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) and the Georgia Economic Developers Association (GEDA) have selected Glynn County as one of three districts to pursue the Economic Development Partnership (EDP) designation for 2024-2025. This designation highlights strong collaborations between schools, local economic authorities, and businesses. 
The EDP program enhances school systems’ roles in business recruitment and talent development. For students, it boosts Work-Based Learning, Youth Apprenticeship opportunities, and career-relevant classroom content. Dr. Barbara Wall, Deputy Superintendent of Career and Technical Education for GaDOE, announced Glynn County’s selection as an EDP finalist on June 10 at the GACTE annual conference in Duluth, GA.
Glynn County Schools Receives Leading Edge Award for Mariner Life Program
In December, Glynn County Schools was named one of the recipients of the Georgia School Board Association’s Leading Edge Award for its Mariner Life Program. This program – previously called REACH (or the Reaching Educational and Career Heights Program) – is designed for Glynn County students who have completed four years of high school, participated in at least three years of job readiness training, and are between 18 and 21 years old with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities. 
With the help of the College of Coastal Georgia, students are equipped with the necessary tools to transition from school to a work environment and are afforded the opportunity to experience college campus life.
Glynn County Schools: 2023 Disabilities Employer of the Year
Each October, in celebration of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, the Brunswick Glynn County Council on Disabilities honors a local employer for their significant impact on the community. This year, Glynn County Schools was named the 2023 Disabilities Employer of the Year for its outstanding efforts in promoting the employment and inclusion of people with disabilities. 
Notably, this is the second consecutive year that our school system has received this prestigious recognition from the council.
Water Safety and Swimming Skills Program for Elementary Schools
Thanks to the Golden Isles YMCA, second-graders at Altama and Burroughs-Molette elementary schools had the invaluable opportunity to participate in a two-week-long class focused on personal water safety and life-saving swimming skills.
During this program, students practiced various stroke techniques, equipping them with essential skills for their safety and well-being.
Glynn Academy Terrors Triumph in Annual Battle Between the Bricks
In September, the Glynn Academy Terrors and the Brunswick High Pirates clashed in the highly anticipated Annual Battle Between the Bricks City Championship.
The Terrors rallied to secure a thrilling 22-15 overtime victory, ending the Pirates’ three-year championship streak. This remarkable win marks Glynn Academy’s seventh City Championship title.
This Girl Can Program Empowers Middle School Girls
In collaboration with Coastal Pines Technical College and the Golden Isles Development Authority, Golden Isles College & Career Academy hosted its fourth annual This Girl Can program. This year saw the largest group to date, with 24 middle school girls participating.
The three-day workshop provides these young students with the opportunity to explore non-traditional careers in fields such as welding, machining, engineering, and the culinary arts.
Distinguished Schools Recognition
In October, State School Superintendent Richard Woods announced the 2022-2023 lists of Distinguished and Reward Schools, celebrating some of the top public schools in Georgia. Among the honored schools, C.B. Greer Elementary, St. Simons Elementary, and Glynn Middle were recognized as Distinguished Schools for their significant academic achievements. 
This prestigious designation is awarded to the highest-performing 5% of Title I Schoolwide and Title I Targeted Assistance schools, based on the combined English Language Arts (ELA) and math content mastery scores from the most recent statewide assessments.
High Schools Celebrate Graduating Seniors Pursuing Teaching Careers
In May, Brunswick High and Glynn Academy held Future Educator Signing ceremonies for their graduating seniors who have completed the “Teaching as a Profession” pathway and announced their plans to pursue careers in education. The students who participated in the ceremonies include: 
Brunswick High
- Michell Martinez Lopez, College of Coastal Georgia
- Daya Alford, Undecided
- Gracelynn Ward, College of Coastal Georgia
- Molly Forsyth, Kennesaw State University
- Layla Hughes, College of Coastal Georgia
Glynn Academy
- Za'Naria Williams, Clark Atlanta University
- Blakelee Boatright, Georgia Southern University
- Jasmine Gaines, ColAlege of Coastal Georgia
- Shelby Galuszek, Indian River State College
- Brennen Hayes Monroe, Georgia Southern University
- Abby Hogan, College of Coastal Georgia
- Mayra Lopez, Undecided
- Payton Parker, Georgia Southern University
- Karol Salazar, Undecided
- Kate Shinske, Georgia Southern University
Inspiring Success at Annual STEAMFest and Literacy Fair
Our STEAMFest and Literacy Fair was a tremendous success, thanks to the efforts of over 30 booth hosts and the participation of more than 1,000 students and families. This annual event aims to inspire the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and creative thinkers by showcasing the excitement and potential of these subjects. 
It was truly heartwarming to see our community come together to ignite a passion for learning. We are confident that every student left the event eager to explore more and continue their educational journey with enthusiasm.
Honoring Long-Serving Staff Members
At the regular meeting in May, held on May 14, Glynn County Schools had the distinct privilege of recognizing our full-time staff members who have dedicated 35 or more years of service.
They include:
- Lorraine (Edith) Dixon, Transportation Department, 35 Years
- Gail Francis, Transportation Department, 35 Years
- Angela Houston, Transportation Department, 35 Years
- Rosa Wilson, Burroughs-Molette Elementary School, 35 Years
- Lisa Tecca-Miller, C.B. Greer Elementary School, 36 Years
- Leon Burns, Warehouse Department, 37 Years
- Ruby Jackson, Transportation Department, 37 Years
- Cheri Tillman, Brunswick High School, 38 Years
- Virginia Hall, Transportation Department, 40 Years
- Johnnie Hardy, Maintenance Department, 40 Years
- Nagene Thomas, Jane Macon Middle School, 42 Years
- Percy McCaster, Transportation Department, 43 Years
- Linda Brown, Glyndale Elementary School, 49 Years
- Vernita Atkinson, Brunswick High School, 50 Years
Collectively, these remarkable individuals have contributed an astounding 552 years of service, leaving an indelible mark on our students and the community. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for their unwavering commitment, which truly embodies the spirit of “Staying Power.”
In honor of their dedication, the School Nutrition Department, The Gude Group, and Brookwood Farms hosted a special reception. Additionally, their photographs are proudly displayed in the Board of Education lobby.
Golden Isles College and Career Academy Secures $150,000 Grant for EV Integration
The Golden Isles College and Career Academy (GICCA) has been awarded a $150,000 grant from the Georgia Department of Education to enhance its Engineering Program with electric vehicle (EV) technology. This funding will be used to purchase two Switch EV kits, each valued at $75,000. 
The Switch EV, as described by Switch Vehicles Inc., is designed for assembly, testing, driving, and disassembly, allowing repeated use by successive classes. Powered by a 96-volt lithium-ion battery, the Switch boasts 108 horsepower, can reach speeds up to 85 mph, and has a range of 40 miles on a single charge. The grant also includes a comprehensive curriculum where students will study the EV industry, learn about EV components, and assemble the vehicles within a semester.
Contrary to expectations, this new curriculum will be part of the Engineering Pathway rather than the Automotive Pathway. GICCA revamped its Engineering Pathway three years ago under the leadership of Greg Smith, focusing primarily on programmable logic controllers (PLCs) used in manufacturing. The new EV curriculum will complement this training, offering students diverse career opportunities.
Golden Isles Government Immersion Day: A Student-Led Initiative
In March, a Glynn Academy student, in collaboration with the City of Brunswick, successfully conceptualized, developed, and executed the school’s inaugural Golden Isles Government Immersion Day.
This innovative program provided students with the unique opportunity to shadow both city and county officials, offering invaluable insights into careers within local government.
Glynn Middle School Students Tackle Marine Debris with NOAA Support
With support from NOAA Planet Stewards, the University of Georgia Marine Extension, and Georgia Sea Grant, Glynn Middle School students are actively working to remove potential marine debris from a sensitive salt marsh habitat along a heavily traveled highway.
The project aims to prevent the degradation of 18 acres of salt marsh habitat by removing at least 2,000 pieces of marine debris from the school’s property and the surrounding marsh, as well as at least 1,000 pieces of marine debris from a 160-acre area of the larger Brunswick community and coastal environment.
Beyond debris removal, the program educates students on plastic consumption and introduces creative ways to reduce plastic use and waste, recycle and upcycle plastics, and lessen their impact on the marine ecosystem.
High Schools Recognized for AP Excellence
Brunswick High and Glynn Academy have been honored statewide for their outstanding achievements in student success. Both schools are among 99 across Georgia to be named 2024 Advanced Placement (AP) Honor Schools. 
Brunswick High received recognition as an AP Access and Support School, AP STEM School, and AP Expansion School, reflecting significant growth in AP student participation.
Glynn Academy earned accolades as an AP Humanities School, AP Humanities Achievement School, AP School of Distinction, AP STEM School, and AP STEM Achievement School. These distinctions highlight the school’s comprehensive AP program and high performance in various subjects.
The Georgia Department of Education’s annual list includes eight categories based on the results of 2021 AP courses and exams: AP Access and Support Schools, AP Challenge Schools, AP Schools of Distinction, AP Expansion Schools, AP Humanities Schools, AP Humanities Achievement Schools, AP STEM Schools, and AP STEM Achievement Schools.
Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Center for the Arts
In April, the College of Coastal Georgia (CCGA) celebrated a significant milestone with the groundbreaking ceremony for the Center for the Arts. This new facility, located at 3 Mariner Way on the Brunswick campus, represents a collaborative effort between the Glynn County Board of Education and CCGA. 
Board Chairwoman Eaddy Sams highlighted the importance of the arts in her remarks: “The arts are a vital part of a thriving community. In Glynn County, we are fortunate that the arts are making a profound impact on the quality of life for our residents. As a Board member, I am proud Glynn County Schools values the influence that arts programs and activities have on the education of our students. I am hopeful this facility will expand the arts experience for those in our area.”
The community eagerly anticipates the positive impact this new center will have on enriching the arts and culture in Glynn County.
GICCA FFA Students Excel in National Competition
Thirteen members of the Golden Isles College and Career Academy (GICCA) Future Farmers of America (FFA) collaborated with the Land Trust to plant 81 live oak saplings at Cannon’s Point Preserve. The acorns, collected from Cannon’s Point and a large live oak at GICCA, were germinated and grown in the school’s horticulture greenhouse under the guidance of Dr. Owen Burney (New Mexico State University) and Dr. Douglass Jacobs (Purdue University). 
This project was showcased at the 96th annual FFA National Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana, where it placed in the top ten projects nationwide—a distinction earned by only 0.1% of FFA clubs.
Golden Isles Elementary Recognized as a 2022-2023 Literacy Leader
Golden Isles Elementary School has been honored by the Georgia Department of Education as one of 155 schools recognized statewide as a 2022-2023 Literacy Leader. This recognition is awarded for exceptional growth in third-grade reading, with schools achieving a 15% or higher increase from 2021-22 to 2022-23.
In the 2022-2023 academic year, our third graders demonstrated remarkable progress, with an increase of 16.2 points in their reading scores on the state-mandated Milestones exam.
The Literacy Leader qualifications are based on the Georgia Milestones Reading Status indicator, which utilizes the Lexile scores derived from students’ performance on a subset of questions in the ELA assessment.
Business Buddies Program Brings Books, Mentorship to Altama Elementary
In September, local businesses and organizations came together to present books to first-graders at Altama Elementary School, marking the launch of the new Business Buddies program. 
Supported by the Brunswick-Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce, Rich Products, King & Prince Seafood, MAP International, Golden Isles, Southeast Georgia Health System, Golden Isles Development Authority, and the Marshes of Glynn Libraries, this initiative aims to provide weekly virtual mentorship and online tutoring to help first-grade students enhance their literacy skills.
During the kickoff event, students had the opportunity to meet their mentors, receive books, and build new relationships.
REACH Scholars Honored
In October, four middle school students were recognized as REACH Scholars. This needs-based mentorship and scholarship program honored Nicole Gonzalez-Hernandez (Glynn Middle School), Yissel Zavala-Hernandez (Jane Macon Middle School), Judah Wilcox (Needwood Middle School), and Amber Houston (Risley Middle School). 
REACH, which stands for Realizing Educational Achievement Can Happen,
aims to support academic success and provide higher education opportunities for Georgia’s low-income, academically promising students.
Each REACH Scholar will receive a $10,000 scholarship to be used at a Georgia university, technical college, or private postsecondary institution.
ESOL Family Night: Celebrating Community and Learning
Our ESOL Family Night in November proved to be a tremendous success, with over 200 family members in attendance. The event was filled with engaging activities, including fun games for children and literacy exercises that captivated everyone. 
Attendees also had the chance to learn about our Title III resources and meet with teachers to discuss their questions regarding Infinite Campus, Google Classroom, and our online English Learner programs such as Lexia, RAZ Kids, and Duolingo. The evening was a wonderful opportunity for families to connect, learn, and support their children’s educational journey.
PAES Lab Students Volunteer for Habitat for Humanity
In February, the PAES (Pathway Assessment Exploration System) Lab at Golden Isles College & Career Academy volunteered to renovate Habitat for Humanity’s newest home build, Century Place—the organization’s first self-contained community. 
From painting and sweeping floors to removing caulk, our students were enthusiastic and ready to work. Once the builds are complete, they will also help landscape around the exterior of the homes and along the driveways. This initiative provides a fantastic opportunity for our students to practice their new skills and give back to the community.
Educator Named 2024 Media Specialist of the Year
In April, Kasey Smith, the media specialist at Jane Macon Middle School, was honored as the 2024 Media Specialist of the Year for her significant contributions to our school system.
Mrs. Smith is often celebrated for the supportive connections she fosters within her school. She consistently goes above and beyond for her students and colleagues, offering assistance whenever needed and sharing valuable knowledge with media specialists across the district.
Glynn County Wrestlers Shine with Four State Champions
Four wrestlers brought state championships back to Glynn County this year, with one defending champion and three new titleholders.
Anthony Lowe, a senior at Brunswick High School (BHS), has secured his place in history as a back-to-back champion in the 190-pound division of Class 6A. Last season, Anthony became the third wrestler in the county to win a state championship, finishing with a flawless 50-0 record.
Marigona Lau, a sophomore at Glynn Academy (GA), made history as Glynn County’s first female state wrestling champion, dominating the 125-pound weight class.
Hunter Kegley, a senior at GA, claimed the state title in the 126-pound division of Class 6A, while Clayton Hicks, a junior at BHS, emerged victorious in the 120-pound weight class.
Overall, BHS and GA had an impressive showing with 10 All-State wrestlers competing and placing at the Traditional Wrestling State Championships.
Glynn County Schools Honored with Social Studies Program of Excellence Award
In September, the Georgia Council for Social Studies Board of Trustees Awards Committee honored the Glynn County Schools History Happens Here! Team, led by Ms. Marie Feazel and Mrs. Cathy Pittman, with the 2023 Georgia Social Studies Program of Excellence Award.
This prestigious accolade recognizes their exceptional contribution to quality social studies instruction.
Altama’s Beta Club Shines at Georgia State Elementary Beta Convention
Keian Sams, an Altama Elementary School student and the first student from Glynn County to serve as the vice president of the Georgia State Jr. Beta Club, concluded his term at the Georgia State Elementary Beta Convention in Savannah in December.
At the convention, Altama’s Beta Club joined over 1,000 Betas from across the state and earned several awards, including 2nd place in Spanish, 4th place in the Marketing and Communications Campaign, and 4th place in Musicology.
STAR Recognition Luncheon Honors Outstanding Students and Teachers
In February, the GFWC Brunswick Woman’s Club hosted its Annual STAR Recognition Luncheon at the Heritage Oaks Golf Club. The event honored Thomas Clay, a senior at Brunswick High, and Cash Roberson, a senior at Glynn Academy, as STAR Students. 
The Student Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) program celebrates Georgia’s top high school seniors and the teachers who have significantly contributed to their academic success. To be nominated, students must achieve the highest SAT score on a single test date and rank in the top 10 percent or top 10 students of their class.
Each STAR Student selects a STAR Teacher who has been instrumental in their academic journey. This year, BHS teacher Ms. Linda Rooks and GA teacher Mr. Jason Chasse-Fernald were honored.
Both students and teachers received certificates recognizing their dedication and hard work.
Nutrition Staff Shine at Annual Conference
At the Georgia School Nutrition Association Annual Conference in April, several GCSS nutrition staff members were recognized for their outstanding contributions. 
Shannon Martin from Needwood Middle was honored as the 2024 Golden Leaf School Nutrition Employee of the Year. Ae Mills from Risley Middle earned recognition as the third runner-up for the 2024 Nutrition Manager of the Year. Additionally, Kristina Monks from C.B. Greer Elementary achieved first place in the District 8 Culinary Competition and second place in the State Culinary Competition.
These leaders were among many award recipients at this year’s conference, showcasing the exceptional dedication and talent within Glynn County School Nutrition.
Glynn County Schools Earns Silver Award for Website Redesign
GCSS has been honored with the Silver Award of Excellence for its website redesign by the Georgia School Public Relations Association (GSPRA) at the 2023 Fall Conference.
This marks the third consecutive year that the district has received recognition from GSPRA, following a Gold Award for the 2021 Annual Report and a Silver Award for the 2022 Annual Report.
