The Habersham County Board of Education recognized educators, students and staff members while approving several major projects during its regular meeting Monday night.
The meeting opened with an invocation from Ethan Carlson, student director at Bethlehem Baptist Church, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Dr. B. J. Addison.
Board members approved the meeting agenda and minutes from recent work sessions and meetings before moving into a series of recognitions highlighting achievements across the school system.
Extra Mile Award Recognizes Teacher Dedication
Tiffany Collins, an eighth-grade Georgia Studies teacher at North Habersham Middle School, received the district’s Extra Mile Award.
School administrators praised Collins for going above and beyond for students, colleagues and the school community. According to the nomination, Collins routinely enhances classroom lessons with special activities and materials she often provides herself. She also volunteers to assist with IEP meetings, mentors new teachers and participates in student events and school activities.
Her colleagues described her as someone who consistently ensures students feel valued and supported both academically and personally.
Woodville Cafeteria Worker Honored for Service
Another Extra Mile Award went to Jackie Bowman, a nutrition assistant at Woodville Elementary School.
Bowman was recognized for managing cafeteria operations for much of the school year while frequently working alone. Administrators said she not only prepares meals but builds relationships with students by learning their names and taking time to interact with them in the cafeteria and hallways.
She also works with a local Boys and Girls Club after-school program, further demonstrating her dedication to serving students.
Students Recognized for All-State Music Honors
The board also celebrated 22 students from grades five through twelve who were selected for Georgia Music Educators Association All-State events.
According to district officials, more than 4,000 Habersham County students currently participate in music programs, highlighting the importance of music education across the system.
The All-State recognitions included students selected for:
- Middle School All-State Chorus
- Middle School All-State Band
- Statewide Sixth Grade Honor Chorus
- Statewide Elementary Honor Chorus
March is nationally recognized as Music in Our Schools Month, an initiative promoted by the National Association for Music Education.
Fairview Paraprofessional Praised for Heroic Action
A special recognition was given to Kelly Gunn, a paraprofessional at Fairview Elementary School, for her quick response during a medical emergency.
While supervising lunch duty, a student began choking on food. Gunn immediately performed the Heimlich maneuver, successfully clearing the airway and preventing the situation from becoming more serious.
School leaders praised her attentiveness and training, calling her actions heroic.
Financial Report Shows Strong Fiscal Position
Finance Director Stacey Newsome reported that the district’s finances remain on track for the current fiscal year.
Through Feb. 28, the school system had received $71.9 million, or 61% of its budgeted revenue, while expenditures totaled $72.6 million, or 68% of the budget.
Newsome also presented results from the district’s annual independent audit conducted by Mauldin & Jenkins.
The district received an unmodified opinion, the highest rating possible, with:
- No internal control findings
- No material weaknesses
- No significant deficiencies
Officials said the audit confirms that taxpayer funds are being managed properly and in compliance with all state and federal requirements.
Superintendent Highlights Board Appreciation Week
Superintendent Patrick Franklin also recognized board members during Board Appreciation Week, thanking them for their leadership and commitment to students.
Franklin said the district currently ranks No. 1 in Northeast Georgia in several academic indicators, including student achievement, attendance, and SAT and ACT scores.
He also encouraged voters to support the upcoming E-SPLOST VII renewal referendum scheduled for May 19, emphasizing that the measure is a continuation of the existing penny sales tax first approved in 1999 and would fund facilities, technology, transportation and other improvements.
Leadership Appointments Announced
The board approved several leadership appointments during the meeting.
- Benji Harrison was named assistant athletic director while continuing to serve as head football coach at Habersham Central High School.
- Kellie Cash was approved as the new principal of Woodville Elementary School.
Cash previously served the district in multiple roles, including paraprofessional, teacher, academic coach and vice principal.
Attendance Awards Presented
Several schools were recognized for strong attendance.
Elementary student attendance leaders:
- Level Grove Elementary School – First Place
- Hazel Grove Elementary School – Second Place
- Demorest Elementary School – Third Place
Secondary student attendance leaders:
- Hilliard Wilbanks Middle School – First Place
- Habersham Ninth Grade Academy – Second Place
- North Habersham Middle School – Third Place
Staff attendance winners included Demorest Elementary and the Habersham Ninth Grade Academy.
Board Approves Major Projects and Purchases
The board approved several significant expenditures using E-SPLOST funds, including:
- $813,349 for new school bus radio equipment to improve countywide communication coverage from roughly 60% to about 95%.
- $445,000 for upgraded lighting at Raider Stadium at Habersham Central High School. Officials hope the project will be completed before graduation.
Board members also approved the 2026 lawn maintenance contract for all 13 campuses.
Superintendent Contract Extended
In another key decision, the board unanimously approved a one-year extension of Superintendent Patrick Franklin’s contract, extending it through March 31, 2029.
Following the votes, the meeting adjourned after a full agenda that highlighted student achievement, employee dedication and continued investment in the school system’s facilities and operations.
