Decatur County Schools
est. 1871
Today is the last day! (7/22) — Don’t miss out on our final Summer Feeding Program distribution!
We’ll be handing out 5-day breakfast & lunch meal packs from 11 AM – 1 PM, available on a first come, first served basis.
👉 Children must be present to receive meals, unless a parent pickup form was previously submitted to the school.
We’re grateful for our partnership with Second Harvest and thank you for your support and patience throughout the summer.
💡 If your preferred site runs out of meals, feel free to check another location nearby.
Let’s finish strong and make sure every child is fed this summer! ☀️🥪
#SummerFeeding #SecondHarvest #CommunitySupport
We’ll be handing out 5-day breakfast & lunch meal packs from 11 AM – 1 PM, available on a first come, first served basis.
👉 Children must be present to receive meals, unless a parent pickup form was previously submitted to the school.
We’re grateful for our partnership with Second Harvest and thank you for your support and patience throughout the summer.
💡 If your preferred site runs out of meals, feel free to check another location nearby.
Let’s finish strong and make sure every child is fed this summer! ☀️🥪
#SummerFeeding #SecondHarvest #CommunitySupport
Welcome to the Bearcat Family!
A huge thank you to First Port City Bank for sponsoring our New Teacher Orientation Luncheon! Your generous support helped us welcome our newest educators with open arms. Thank you for putting people first — the Bearcat Way! 🐾🍎
#TheBearcat Way #CommunityPartners #PuttingPeopleFirst #FPCB
#TheBearcat Way #CommunityPartners #PuttingPeopleFirst #FPCB
The Second Annual Bearcat Blitz was a huge success! 🎉
A heartfelt THANK YOU to our incredible community for showing up and showing out with school supplies, household goods, and endless support for the students of Decatur County Schools. 💜🐾
Your generosity is helping to prepare our kids for a strong start to the new school year, and we couldn’t have done it without each and every one of you:
📚 Bainbridge High
📚 Southern Regional Technical College
📚 Decatur County MLK Committee
📚 City of Bainbridge
📚 First Port City Bank
📚 Bank OZK
📚 Bainbridge Middle School
📚 Events and Moore (Household Supplies)
📚 First National Bank
📚 United Methodist Church
📚Heritage Foundation
📚 First Baptist Church
📚 Hutto Elementary
📚 Mt. Moriah II MB Church
📚 Jones-Wheat Primary
📚 The Vashti Center
📚 Envision Credit Union
📚 Anointed Eats & Catering
📚 Bainbridge Public Safety
📚 St. John's Episcopal Church
📚 Georgia Pines APEX Team
📚 New Beginning Learning Center
📚 Parent & Family Engagement
📚 West Bainbridge Primary
📚5 Star Credit Union
Together, we are building a stronger, better-prepared community. Here's to an amazing school year ahead! ✏️📓
#BearcatBlitz #CommunityStrong #DecaturCountyProud #BackToSchool
Get to Know Your Admin: Christy Cox
Director of Curriculum and Instruction
With 20 years of service in Decatur County Schools, Christy Cox brings a deep commitment to excellence and equity in education. As Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Cox plays a pivotal role in shaping the learning experiences of students across the district.
Her work focuses on ensuring that all students have access to high-quality instruction aligned with state standards. Through collaboration with teachers, principals, and district leaders, Cox helps implement effective curricula, leads professional development, and analyzes student data to support achievement and continuous improvement.
What led her to education? “I knew I wanted to work in a profession that made a difference,” says Cox. “But it wasn’t until I spent time in a classroom that I truly understood where my heart belonged.” It’s the meaningful connections with students and the chance to walk alongside them in their learning journey that first drew her in—and continue to inspire her every day.
Her favorite moments? Those “light bulb” moments when a student finally grasps a challenging concept. “That spark in a student’s eyes, that boost in their confidence, and the pride they feel when they finally ‘get it’—those moments are what continue to inspire me every day.”
Cox describes the most rewarding part of her current role as being present in classrooms. “Watching teachers engage students, apply strategies we've discussed, and create meaningful learning experiences,” she shares.
Looking ahead, she’s committed to staying on the cutting edge of education. A lifelong learner herself, Cox seeks to grow her expertise in curriculum design and instructional best practices so she can better serve educators and students throughout the district.
What drives her every day is a belief in students’ potential. “Education is more than just teaching standards; it’s about inspiring, nurturing, and empowering young minds.”
A Bit More About Mrs. Cox:
Hometown: Bainbridge, Georgia
Hobbies: Spending time with family and her dog, Merle; antiquing and discovering unique treasures from the past
Fun Fact: She couldn’t think of one… modesty at its finest!
Favorite Song: Goodness of God
Cox shares, “I am incredibly proud to work for the Decatur County School System because this is the very system that shaped and educated me. Growing up here, I experienced firsthand the dedication of our teachers, the strength of our community, and the impact a supportive school environment can have on a student’s life. Now, as an educator and leader, it’s an honor to give back to the district that gave so much to me. I’m committed to continuing the tradition of excellence and working to ensure that today’s students receive the same high-quality education and opportunities that helped me succeed.”
Her devotion to students, educators, and the community ensures that Bearcat learners are supported, challenged, and inspired every day. Thank you, Christy!
Director of Curriculum and Instruction
With 20 years of service in Decatur County Schools, Christy Cox brings a deep commitment to excellence and equity in education. As Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Cox plays a pivotal role in shaping the learning experiences of students across the district.
Her work focuses on ensuring that all students have access to high-quality instruction aligned with state standards. Through collaboration with teachers, principals, and district leaders, Cox helps implement effective curricula, leads professional development, and analyzes student data to support achievement and continuous improvement.
What led her to education? “I knew I wanted to work in a profession that made a difference,” says Cox. “But it wasn’t until I spent time in a classroom that I truly understood where my heart belonged.” It’s the meaningful connections with students and the chance to walk alongside them in their learning journey that first drew her in—and continue to inspire her every day.
Her favorite moments? Those “light bulb” moments when a student finally grasps a challenging concept. “That spark in a student’s eyes, that boost in their confidence, and the pride they feel when they finally ‘get it’—those moments are what continue to inspire me every day.”
Cox describes the most rewarding part of her current role as being present in classrooms. “Watching teachers engage students, apply strategies we've discussed, and create meaningful learning experiences,” she shares.
Looking ahead, she’s committed to staying on the cutting edge of education. A lifelong learner herself, Cox seeks to grow her expertise in curriculum design and instructional best practices so she can better serve educators and students throughout the district.
What drives her every day is a belief in students’ potential. “Education is more than just teaching standards; it’s about inspiring, nurturing, and empowering young minds.”
A Bit More About Mrs. Cox:
Hometown: Bainbridge, Georgia
Hobbies: Spending time with family and her dog, Merle; antiquing and discovering unique treasures from the past
Fun Fact: She couldn’t think of one… modesty at its finest!
Favorite Song: Goodness of God
Cox shares, “I am incredibly proud to work for the Decatur County School System because this is the very system that shaped and educated me. Growing up here, I experienced firsthand the dedication of our teachers, the strength of our community, and the impact a supportive school environment can have on a student’s life. Now, as an educator and leader, it’s an honor to give back to the district that gave so much to me. I’m committed to continuing the tradition of excellence and working to ensure that today’s students receive the same high-quality education and opportunities that helped me succeed.”
Her devotion to students, educators, and the community ensures that Bearcat learners are supported, challenged, and inspired every day. Thank you, Christy!
📣 Please join us in welcoming the Decatur County Schools New Hire Class of 2025–2026! 🍎✏️
These incredible individuals are ready to inspire, influence, and ignite — The Bearcat Way.
We’re proud to have them join our team as we continue our Proud Tradition and and work towards a Promising Future.
Welcome to the Bearcat Family! 💜🐾
#DCS #DecaturCountySchools #Inspire #Influence #ignite #TheBearcatWay #NewHireClass2025
These incredible individuals are ready to inspire, influence, and ignite — The Bearcat Way.
We’re proud to have them join our team as we continue our Proud Tradition and and work towards a Promising Future.
Welcome to the Bearcat Family! 💜🐾
#DCS #DecaturCountySchools #Inspire #Influence #ignite #TheBearcatWay #NewHireClass2025
Decatur County Schools is proud to share that Dr. Tracy Champagne has been named the GVATA Teacher Mentor of the Year!
GVATA, the Georgia Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association, honors outstanding agricultural educators across the state. This award recognizes Dr. Champagne’s exceptional mentorship, leadership, and dedication to supporting fellow teachers in agricultural education. Dr. Champagne’s passion, commitment, and steadfast support for her peers truly exemplify the values we hold dear. We are honored to have her on the Bainbridge High School team, where she continues to inspire both students and staff alike.
Please join us in celebrating this well-deserved achievement!
#TheBearcatWay #Excellence #TeacherMentorOfTheYear #GVATA #DecaturCountySchools
GVATA, the Georgia Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association, honors outstanding agricultural educators across the state. This award recognizes Dr. Champagne’s exceptional mentorship, leadership, and dedication to supporting fellow teachers in agricultural education. Dr. Champagne’s passion, commitment, and steadfast support for her peers truly exemplify the values we hold dear. We are honored to have her on the Bainbridge High School team, where she continues to inspire both students and staff alike.
Please join us in celebrating this well-deserved achievement!
#TheBearcatWay #Excellence #TeacherMentorOfTheYear #GVATA #DecaturCountySchools
Get to Know Your Admin: Amy Zock
Director of Instructional Technology, Digital Learning, and STEM
With 6 years of service in Decatur County Schools, Amy Zock leads with innovation and a drive to empower students and educators alike. As Director of Instructional Technology, Digital Learning, and STEM, Zock bridges the gap between classroom innovation and technical integration.
In her role, she supports teachers, students, and administrators by managing digital ecosystems, coordinating professional development, and leading initiatives like the WOZ ED partnership and GaTECH collaboration. Whether it’s troubleshooting apps, organizing tech rallies, or building robotics programs, Zock ensures technology enhances learning and supports strategic district goals.
Her path into education was inspired by a desire to make a lasting impact, both through transformative moments and the small, meaningful interactions that shape lives. “Each day I spend away from my family is made meaningful by the opportunity to serve, support, and uplift people from all walks of life,” she shares.
What brings her the most joy? “Seeing the spark of excitement when students and educators become truly engaged in learning,” says Zock. Watching students unlock their creativity and confidence through access to the right tools fuels her passion daily.
Her professional goals are bold and far-reaching. Zock aims to leave a legacy that inspires future generations to push the boundaries of innovation. She leads with purpose, advocating for instructional practices that create meaningful, positive change. For Zock, every classroom should be a space where curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning thrive.
She adds, “ We have powerful tools and opportunities at our fingertips—tools that can truly change the future for our students. My hope is that every student and family feels empowered to take full advantage of what’s available and to dream boldly about what’s possible.”
A Bit More About Mrs. Zock:
Hometown: Born on a Navy base in Pensacola, Florida; raised in Chicago, Illinois
Hobbies: She loves art, music, theater, everything NASA and LEGOS!
Fun Fact: Her whole family loves to sing!
Favorite Book/Movie Series: Amy is a huge fan of the Harry Potter series!
Zock shares, "I'm incredibly proud to work for Decatur County Schools because this community truly feels like a family. The dedication, work ethic, and passion of my colleagues inspire me every day and remind me that we’re all working together toward something greater. Our students are talented, creative, and capable of amazing things, and I’m honored to play a role in their journey. As leaders in our region, our state, and beyond, I’m proud to be part of a district with such a strong legacy of excellence and innovation.”
Her commitment to uplifting and empowering others continues to inspire Bearcat students every day. Thank you, Amy!
Director of Instructional Technology, Digital Learning, and STEM
With 6 years of service in Decatur County Schools, Amy Zock leads with innovation and a drive to empower students and educators alike. As Director of Instructional Technology, Digital Learning, and STEM, Zock bridges the gap between classroom innovation and technical integration.
In her role, she supports teachers, students, and administrators by managing digital ecosystems, coordinating professional development, and leading initiatives like the WOZ ED partnership and GaTECH collaboration. Whether it’s troubleshooting apps, organizing tech rallies, or building robotics programs, Zock ensures technology enhances learning and supports strategic district goals.
Her path into education was inspired by a desire to make a lasting impact, both through transformative moments and the small, meaningful interactions that shape lives. “Each day I spend away from my family is made meaningful by the opportunity to serve, support, and uplift people from all walks of life,” she shares.
What brings her the most joy? “Seeing the spark of excitement when students and educators become truly engaged in learning,” says Zock. Watching students unlock their creativity and confidence through access to the right tools fuels her passion daily.
Her professional goals are bold and far-reaching. Zock aims to leave a legacy that inspires future generations to push the boundaries of innovation. She leads with purpose, advocating for instructional practices that create meaningful, positive change. For Zock, every classroom should be a space where curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning thrive.
She adds, “ We have powerful tools and opportunities at our fingertips—tools that can truly change the future for our students. My hope is that every student and family feels empowered to take full advantage of what’s available and to dream boldly about what’s possible.”
A Bit More About Mrs. Zock:
Hometown: Born on a Navy base in Pensacola, Florida; raised in Chicago, Illinois
Hobbies: She loves art, music, theater, everything NASA and LEGOS!
Fun Fact: Her whole family loves to sing!
Favorite Book/Movie Series: Amy is a huge fan of the Harry Potter series!
Zock shares, "I'm incredibly proud to work for Decatur County Schools because this community truly feels like a family. The dedication, work ethic, and passion of my colleagues inspire me every day and remind me that we’re all working together toward something greater. Our students are talented, creative, and capable of amazing things, and I’m honored to play a role in their journey. As leaders in our region, our state, and beyond, I’m proud to be part of a district with such a strong legacy of excellence and innovation.”
Her commitment to uplifting and empowering others continues to inspire Bearcat students every day. Thank you, Amy!
🎧 Back-to-School Headphone Reminder! 🎧
Parents, as you shop for school supplies, please keep these headphone guidelines in mind:
✅ Aux adapter (not USB)
✅ Over-the-head headphones
❌ No Bluetooth or wireless headphones
📚 K–5 students will leave their headphones in a designated place at school for daily use.
🎒 6–12 students are responsible for keeping up with and bringing their headphones to class.
Thank you for helping us stay prepared for a great school year! #BearcatReady #BackToSchool #TheBearcatWay
Parents, as you shop for school supplies, please keep these headphone guidelines in mind:
✅ Aux adapter (not USB)
✅ Over-the-head headphones
❌ No Bluetooth or wireless headphones
📚 K–5 students will leave their headphones in a designated place at school for daily use.
🎒 6–12 students are responsible for keeping up with and bringing their headphones to class.
Thank you for helping us stay prepared for a great school year! #BearcatReady #BackToSchool #TheBearcatWay
🎉📚 A New Year is Almost Here! 📚🎉
We’re counting down the days to the first day of school on August 4, 2025 — and we couldn’t be more excited to Inspire. Influence. Ignite. another incredible year of learning, growth, and success! 🚀✨
🛑 IMPORTANT NOTE FOR PARENTS:
To ensure a safe and smooth start, parents will be allowed inside the building for drop-off only from August 4–6.
Beginning August 7, we’ll resume normal drop-off procedures.
Thank you for your understanding, cooperation, and continued support as we work together to make this year one of the best yet! 💜💛
Let’s make 2025–2026 unforgettable! 💫
#InspireInfluenceIgnite #BackToSchool #WeAreReady #SafeStartStrongStart
We’re counting down the days to the first day of school on August 4, 2025 — and we couldn’t be more excited to Inspire. Influence. Ignite. another incredible year of learning, growth, and success! 🚀✨
🛑 IMPORTANT NOTE FOR PARENTS:
To ensure a safe and smooth start, parents will be allowed inside the building for drop-off only from August 4–6.
Beginning August 7, we’ll resume normal drop-off procedures.
Thank you for your understanding, cooperation, and continued support as we work together to make this year one of the best yet! 💜💛
Let’s make 2025–2026 unforgettable! 💫
#InspireInfluenceIgnite #BackToSchool #WeAreReady #SafeStartStrongStart
📢 Attention Parents! 📢
As we prepare for the new school year, please remember that ALL rising Kindergarten, 7th Grade, and 11th Grade students are required to have an updated Form 3231 (Georgia Immunization Certificate) on file — if not already obtained.
✅ Please review your child’s vaccination record to ensure they are up to date and ready to start school on time.
Questions? Contact your child’s healthcare provider or local health department for assistance.
📅 Let’s start the school year healthy and ready to go!
#BackToSchool #ImmunizationReminder #Form3231 #HealthyStart
As we prepare for the new school year, please remember that ALL rising Kindergarten, 7th Grade, and 11th Grade students are required to have an updated Form 3231 (Georgia Immunization Certificate) on file — if not already obtained.
✅ Please review your child’s vaccination record to ensure they are up to date and ready to start school on time.
Questions? Contact your child’s healthcare provider or local health department for assistance.
📅 Let’s start the school year healthy and ready to go!
#BackToSchool #ImmunizationReminder #Form3231 #HealthyStart
🚫 No Summer Meal Pick-Up at Bainbridge High School Today (July 1)
Please note: There will be no meal distribution at BHS today.
✅ Meals are still available at other locations on a first come, first served basis while supplies last. Thank you for your understanding!
🚀 Standing Room Only!
Decatur County Schools showed out in the best way during a recent presentation at GLMA! 🎉
Leaders in Technology, Amy Zock and Samantha Palmer, shared powerful ideas for transforming Media Centers into hubs of multimodal learning. Their session highlighted:
📚 Literacy choice boards
🎯 Reading incentives
🌍 Global literacy themes
🎤 Media experiences tied to read-alouds
🎓 Opportunities for student literacy leadership
The energy was high, the room was full, and the presentation was amazing. We’re proud to see Decatur County leading the way in innovative literacy and media redesign! 💜📖
#TheBearcatWay #ProudTraditionPromisingFuture #GLMA #LiteracyInnovation #EdTechLeadership #DCBOE #DCS
Decatur County Schools showed out in the best way during a recent presentation at GLMA! 🎉
Leaders in Technology, Amy Zock and Samantha Palmer, shared powerful ideas for transforming Media Centers into hubs of multimodal learning. Their session highlighted:
📚 Literacy choice boards
🎯 Reading incentives
🌍 Global literacy themes
🎤 Media experiences tied to read-alouds
🎓 Opportunities for student literacy leadership
The energy was high, the room was full, and the presentation was amazing. We’re proud to see Decatur County leading the way in innovative literacy and media redesign! 💜📖
#TheBearcatWay #ProudTraditionPromisingFuture #GLMA #LiteracyInnovation #EdTechLeadership #DCBOE #DCS
🌟 Last week, Bainbridge High School's Gymnastics Summer Camp, “Twirling Through a Million Dreams,” brought energy and excitement to Potter Street Gym!
Led by Misty Vickers, the camp gave young gymnasts a fun and engaging way to develop skills, build confidence, and get involved in the community. What a fantastic week of movement, memories, and dreams in motion! 🤸♀️✨
#TheBearcatWay #BHSGymnastics #SummerCamp #Community
📢 We’re Hiring: ECE Retiree or Current Educator
Decatur County Schools is hiring a dedicated Elementary School Teacher to create a nurturing, engaging learning environment, implement curriculum standards, and inspire a love of learning in young students.
👉 Visit www.dcboe.com or call 229-248-2200 to learn more.
#TheBearcatWay #Jobs #Apply #NowHirting #DCBOE #DCS
What a fantastic week at STEM Camp! We wrapped up with thrilling activities, including a visit from a CYBER TRUCK and delicious CRUMBLE cookies! Thanks to a special visit from Mr Austin Stinson.
1st-4th graders were amazed by Mr. Kelly's sound wave demonstration when he actually lit sound waves on FIRE to show frequency, amplitude and wavelength. It was LIT! while the 5th-8th graders battled it out in a mini Lego robotics tournament, cheering on their robot teams, showing off their new team SWAG freshly produced in our Makerspace, and scoring points on the mission board.
STEM is all about discovery, creativity, teamwork, problem solving, innovation and FUN! And when done right STEM can make a BIG IMPACT improving our world every day.
Huge shoutout to Ms. Hill, Ms. Cay, Mr. Kelly, Ms. Palmer, and Mr. Davidson for making an impact on each of these campers! We can't wait for next year!
Check out our highlights at https://youtu.be/mOYh34yqjFA
#STEMCamp2025over&out!
Bainbridge High School Head Baseball Coach Ryan Riles wrapped up his Future Bearcat Baseball Camp with a perfect mix of fundamentals and fun. Campers started the day with stretching and hitting drills, then cooled off with a game of wiffle ball in the sprinklers!
Coach Riles knows that the youth of today are the Bearcats of tomorrow, and his hands-on involvement ensures these young athletes are building skills, confidence, and Bearcat pride from the very beginning.
https://youtu.be/fZ0Zs-aYB50
What an exciting Day 2 at Summer STEM Camp!
Our 1st-4th graders enjoyed delicious s'mores made in their solar ovens, created lung models to learn about the respiratory system, and engineered amazing structures with Legos and 3D pens! They even discovered how to code their Spheros!
Meanwhile, our 5th-8th graders dove into robotics, planned their "Mission attack" on the mission field tables, and explored logistics and marine engineering through VR!
See more https://youtu.be/ORsK1aqi404
Exciting Day 1 at Decatur County Schools Summer STEM Camp!
In Grades 1-4, students dissected owl pellets to learn about food chains and built solar ovens to roast marshmallows tomorrow! They also explored how different things get energy from the sun!
Meanwhile, Grades 5-8 were busy engineering LEGO robots, coding them to move exactly as planned--using their math know how! Collaboration and teamwork were in full swing!
Check out these students in action at the link below!
https://youtu.be/caoVzf8AgPg
#STEMCamp #DecaturCounty
Thank you to the Bainbridge-Decatur County Recreation Authority for their willingness to help with our athletic camps, games, and facility changes. Your partnership makes a lasting impact on our student-athletes and our community!
#CommunitySupport #Teamwork #SummerCamp #DCBOE #Athletics
