Group photo of Decatur County Schools honorees standing and seated with certificates, including members of the Aspiring Administrative Cohort and award recipients, posed against a black backdrop with the Bearcat logo.

Decatur County Board of Education Highlights Outstanding Achievements at November Meeting

Decatur County Schools

December 5, 2025

A smiling award recipient holds a framed certificate and bouquet while standing beside another woman during a recognition at a board meeting.

At the November Board of Education meeting, Decatur County Schools proudly celebrated several exceptional individuals whose dedication, leadership, and innovation continue to elevate our district.

A man in a light blue blazer smiles while holding a certificate during a recognition at a board meeting.

The evening began with a special recognition of the 2024–2025 Aspiring Administrative Cohort participants. These emerging leaders have demonstrated a strong commitment to professional growth and to serving the students and staff of Decatur County Schools. Their willingness to develop their skills and step forward as future administrators reflects the strength and promise within our district.

Three individuals stand in front of a Decatur County Schools backdrop, with two holding certificates of achievement and smiling.

Pictured Above (LtoR): BHS Principal Christopher Bryant, Aspiring Leader's Academy Graduates Tonya Welch and Monica Close

Five individuals stand in front of a Decatur County Schools backdrop, with four holding certificates of achievement.

Pictured Above (LtoR): Aspiring Leader's Academy Graduates Naisha Rambeau and Mary Jo Boutwell, BMS Acting Principal Trish Taunton, Aspiring Leader's Academy Graduates Michelle Hufstetler and Larry Lowe.

Two women stand in front of a Decatur County Schools backdrop, each holding a certificate of achievement and smiling.

Pictured Above (LtoR): Aspiring Leader's Academy Graduates, Georgette McNelson and Jennifer Willis.

Two women stand in front of a Decatur County Schools backdrop, each holding a certificate of achievement and smiling.

Pictured Above (LtoR): Aspiring Leader's Academy Graduates, Misty Vickers and Makeesha Kegler.

Two women stand in front of a Decatur County Schools backdrop, each holding a certificate of achievement and smiling.

Pictured Above (LtoR): WBP Principal Ortega Butler, Aspiring Leader's Academy Graduate Tiffany Hall.

Board members also honored this year’s GaETC Rising Star Award recipient—an educator who has shown remarkable initiative in leveraging technology to inspire students and enrich the learning experience. This award highlights the innovative spirit that drives our classrooms forward.

Two women stand in front of a Decatur County Schools backdrop; one holds a framed certificate and bouquet while both smile.

Pictured Above (LtoR): GaETC Rising Star Award Winner Samantha Palmer and Director of Instructional Technology, Amy Zock.

In addition, a GaDOE Computer Science Award was presented to celebrate outstanding work in advancing computer science education. This recognition underscores our district’s commitment to preparing students for the future by fostering problem-solving skills, creativity, and digital literacy.

Two women stand in front of a Decatur County Schools backdrop; one holds a framed certificate and bouquet while both smile.

Pictured Above (LtoR): GaDOE Computer Science Award Winner, Liz Hill and BMS Acting Principal, Trish Taunton.

Decatur County Schools is incredibly proud of each honoree. Their achievements exemplify the passion, talent, and dedication that define our district. We look forward to the continued impact these individuals will make as they help shape a Proud Tradition and Promising Future for all students.