In Decatur County Schools, we are committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment on every campus for our students, faculty and staff. Beginning the 2025 - 2026 school year, Decatur County Schools will implement the use of the OPENGATE Security System as a preventative step to keep our campuses weapon free.
The OPENGATE Security System is an advanced, walk-through weapons detection system designed to enhance school safety while maintaining a smooth flow of student entry. Unlike traditional metal detectors, OPENGATE uses advanced sensors to detect weapons and prohibited items without requiring students to stop, empty their pockets, or remove backpacks. This allows for efficient and non-intrusive screening, ideal for high-traffic areas such as school entrances.
Decatur County Schools has implemented OPENGATE to provide an added layer of protection for students and staff. The system is portable, quick to set up, and built to detect a wide range of threats while minimizing false alarms. With its modern design and cutting-edge technology, OPENGATE supports the district’s commitment to creating a safe and nurturing learning environment. We encourage all parents to emphasize to their children the importance of school safety and helping the Bearcat Family stay safe on every campus each day!
See how OPENGATE is making a difference in some of the largest school districts in the country, like Brevard County:
https://youtu.be/0_bNqaGNh9g
The OPENGATE Security System is an advanced, walk-through weapons detection system designed to enhance school safety while maintaining a smooth flow of student entry. Unlike traditional metal detectors, OPENGATE uses advanced sensors to detect weapons and prohibited items without requiring students to stop, empty their pockets, or remove backpacks. This allows for efficient and non-intrusive screening, ideal for high-traffic areas such as school entrances.
Decatur County Schools has implemented OPENGATE to provide an added layer of protection for students and staff. The system is portable, quick to set up, and built to detect a wide range of threats while minimizing false alarms. With its modern design and cutting-edge technology, OPENGATE supports the district’s commitment to creating a safe and nurturing learning environment. We encourage all parents to emphasize to their children the importance of school safety and helping the Bearcat Family stay safe on every campus each day!
See how OPENGATE is making a difference in some of the largest school districts in the country, like Brevard County:
https://youtu.be/0_bNqaGNh9g
🌧️ Rainy days ahead for the first week of school!
Make sure your Bearcats come prepared with raincoats, boots, and umbrellas to stay cozy and dry! ☔️
#FirstWeekForecast #RainyDayReady #BearcatWeather
Welcome to the Bearcat Family!
📣 Bearcat Fans! Join us for Football Fan Day Tonight (August 1st) at 6:30 PM 🐾🏈
🎟️ Admission: 1 container of Oxi-Clean laundry detergent
Let’s pack the stands and show our Bearcat pride! 💜💛 #TheBearcatWay #FanDay2025
🎟️ Admission: 1 container of Oxi-Clean laundry detergent
Let’s pack the stands and show our Bearcat pride! 💜💛 #TheBearcatWay #FanDay2025
A big thank you to First Port City Bank for sponsoring the Teacher of the Year Lunch! We’re grateful for your continued support of education and for helping us celebrate these incredible educators.
ThankYouFPCB #TeacherOfTheYear #CommunitySupport
ThankYouFPCB #TeacherOfTheYear #CommunitySupport
Welcome to the Bearcat Family!
Get to Know Your Admin: Christopher Bryant
Bainbridge High School Principal
With 17 years of service, Christopher Bryant brings leadership and a student-first mindset to his role as Principal of Bainbridge High School. A proud graduate of Decatur County Schools himself, Bryant’s journey began at John Johnson and has taken him through West Bainbridge Elementary, Pathways, Hutto Middle, and now BHS—where he leads with purpose and heart.
As principal, Bryant is responsible for the full scope of school operations. From student achievement and instructional leadership to safety, staff supervision, and community engagement—he works daily to ensure every student is supported and prepared for life beyond high school.
Bryant’s career in education began on the field as a coach, where he discovered an enthusiasm for guiding young people. That experience, paired with time spent supporting students with exceptional needs, inspired him to pursue educational leadership. “Over time, that passion to help young people reach their full potential turned into a lifelong commitment to education and leadership,” he shares.
For Bryant, the most rewarding part of the job is watching students rise—whether it’s overcoming challenges, achieving their goals, or walking across the graduation stage with a plan for the future. He’s also quick to highlight the strong, unified team at BHS. “What makes this job so special is the great team we have at BHS. We’ve got an awesome group of people who all work toward the same goals, and we have fun doing it. Being part of a team like that makes a big difference and makes coming to work every day something I truly enjoy.”
Bryant is committed to growing as a leader, supporting his staff, and creating meaningful opportunities for students. His vision is clear, "I want Bainbridge High School to be a place where every student and staff member feels supported, challenged, and prepared for whatever comes next. Long term, I want to keep learning and growing so I can make an even bigger impact."
A Bit More About Christopher:
Hometown: Bainbridge, Georgia
Hobbies: Spending time with family, hunting, fishing, and attending BHS extracurricular events
Fun Fact: Loves playing guitar and woodworking
Favorite Book, Movie, or Song: The Greatest Generation by Tom Brokaw, Top Gun (movie), and too many favorite songs to name!
Bryant reflects, “I’m proud to work for Decatur County Schools because I’m a product of this system. I know firsthand the impact our schools and teachers can have on a student’s life. It means a lot to be able to give back to the same community that poured so much into me. Decatur County is home, and I’m proud to be part of a team that’s committed to making a difference for our kids every day.”
Thank you, Christopher, for leading with pride, purpose, and a Bearcat heart!
Bainbridge High School Principal
With 17 years of service, Christopher Bryant brings leadership and a student-first mindset to his role as Principal of Bainbridge High School. A proud graduate of Decatur County Schools himself, Bryant’s journey began at John Johnson and has taken him through West Bainbridge Elementary, Pathways, Hutto Middle, and now BHS—where he leads with purpose and heart.
As principal, Bryant is responsible for the full scope of school operations. From student achievement and instructional leadership to safety, staff supervision, and community engagement—he works daily to ensure every student is supported and prepared for life beyond high school.
Bryant’s career in education began on the field as a coach, where he discovered an enthusiasm for guiding young people. That experience, paired with time spent supporting students with exceptional needs, inspired him to pursue educational leadership. “Over time, that passion to help young people reach their full potential turned into a lifelong commitment to education and leadership,” he shares.
For Bryant, the most rewarding part of the job is watching students rise—whether it’s overcoming challenges, achieving their goals, or walking across the graduation stage with a plan for the future. He’s also quick to highlight the strong, unified team at BHS. “What makes this job so special is the great team we have at BHS. We’ve got an awesome group of people who all work toward the same goals, and we have fun doing it. Being part of a team like that makes a big difference and makes coming to work every day something I truly enjoy.”
Bryant is committed to growing as a leader, supporting his staff, and creating meaningful opportunities for students. His vision is clear, "I want Bainbridge High School to be a place where every student and staff member feels supported, challenged, and prepared for whatever comes next. Long term, I want to keep learning and growing so I can make an even bigger impact."
A Bit More About Christopher:
Hometown: Bainbridge, Georgia
Hobbies: Spending time with family, hunting, fishing, and attending BHS extracurricular events
Fun Fact: Loves playing guitar and woodworking
Favorite Book, Movie, or Song: The Greatest Generation by Tom Brokaw, Top Gun (movie), and too many favorite songs to name!
Bryant reflects, “I’m proud to work for Decatur County Schools because I’m a product of this system. I know firsthand the impact our schools and teachers can have on a student’s life. It means a lot to be able to give back to the same community that poured so much into me. Decatur County is home, and I’m proud to be part of a team that’s committed to making a difference for our kids every day.”
Thank you, Christopher, for leading with pride, purpose, and a Bearcat heart!
Get to Know Your Admin: Crycynthia Gardner
Director of Teacher Induction & Evaluation Programs
Family Engagement Coordinator
With 25 years of service, Crycynthia Gardner brings dedication, heart, and vision to her dual role in Decatur County Schools. A proud product of the school system herself, Gardner began her career at Lillian E. Williams and later served at Jones Wheat Elementary and Hutto Middle/Elementary. Today, she works from the Central Office supporting both new teachers and family-school partnerships.
In her current position, Gardner leads the district’s induction program for new teachers and oversees the teacher evaluation process. She also serves as a bridge between families, schools, and community partners—working to ensure that student achievement is supported on every front.
Her journey into education began with an emotional encounter. While visiting her child at school, she struck up a conversation with a student who was waiting to see the Principal. That moment sparked something powerful. “I left thinking, I want to make a difference. I want to teach!” And she’s been doing just that—on a broad and meaningful scale—for the past two and a half decades.
Gardner says the most rewarding part of her work is helping new teachers, families, and the community come together in ways that lead to student success. “My work helps build sustainability for our community. By working closely with new teachers, families, and community stakeholders, my job is a bridge to connect schools, families and communities to promote lasting relationships. ”
Her vision for Decatur County Schools is clear: remaining a top - tier school system where students reach their full potential, families are connected to resources, and educators feel supported and inspired to grow.
A Bit More About Crycynthia:
Hometown: Bainbridge, Georgia
Hobbies: Listening to jazz music, attending sporting events, going to the movies, spending time with family
Fun Fact: She’s the unrecognized coach of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders!
Favorite Movie/Books: The Guardian and the Scott Pratt series
Gardner reflects, “I am a product of Decatur County Schools, I am proud to see our students go off and represent our system, their families, and themselves well in whatever career path they decide. I am equally proud of our students who remain and make Bainbridge their home, add to our workforce, help to build strong families, and contribute to a thriving community.”
Thank you, Crycynthia, for mentoring teachers, connecting families, and helping to shape the future of Decatur County!
Director of Teacher Induction & Evaluation Programs
Family Engagement Coordinator
With 25 years of service, Crycynthia Gardner brings dedication, heart, and vision to her dual role in Decatur County Schools. A proud product of the school system herself, Gardner began her career at Lillian E. Williams and later served at Jones Wheat Elementary and Hutto Middle/Elementary. Today, she works from the Central Office supporting both new teachers and family-school partnerships.
In her current position, Gardner leads the district’s induction program for new teachers and oversees the teacher evaluation process. She also serves as a bridge between families, schools, and community partners—working to ensure that student achievement is supported on every front.
Her journey into education began with an emotional encounter. While visiting her child at school, she struck up a conversation with a student who was waiting to see the Principal. That moment sparked something powerful. “I left thinking, I want to make a difference. I want to teach!” And she’s been doing just that—on a broad and meaningful scale—for the past two and a half decades.
Gardner says the most rewarding part of her work is helping new teachers, families, and the community come together in ways that lead to student success. “My work helps build sustainability for our community. By working closely with new teachers, families, and community stakeholders, my job is a bridge to connect schools, families and communities to promote lasting relationships. ”
Her vision for Decatur County Schools is clear: remaining a top - tier school system where students reach their full potential, families are connected to resources, and educators feel supported and inspired to grow.
A Bit More About Crycynthia:
Hometown: Bainbridge, Georgia
Hobbies: Listening to jazz music, attending sporting events, going to the movies, spending time with family
Fun Fact: She’s the unrecognized coach of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders!
Favorite Movie/Books: The Guardian and the Scott Pratt series
Gardner reflects, “I am a product of Decatur County Schools, I am proud to see our students go off and represent our system, their families, and themselves well in whatever career path they decide. I am equally proud of our students who remain and make Bainbridge their home, add to our workforce, help to build strong families, and contribute to a thriving community.”
Thank you, Crycynthia, for mentoring teachers, connecting families, and helping to shape the future of Decatur County!
📅 Take a look at the 2025–2026 Decatur County Schools Calendar!
Planning ahead just got easier — especially when it comes to vacations. Be sure to schedule trips during student holidays because every day of learning matters and attendance is key to success!
You can also find the calendar on our website — just click the District Calendars button on the homepage at www.dcboe.com.
#BearcatPride #DecaturCountySchools #SchoolCalendar #PlanAhead #AttendanceMatters
Planning ahead just got easier — especially when it comes to vacations. Be sure to schedule trips during student holidays because every day of learning matters and attendance is key to success!
You can also find the calendar on our website — just click the District Calendars button on the homepage at www.dcboe.com.
#BearcatPride #DecaturCountySchools #SchoolCalendar #PlanAhead #AttendanceMatters
Welcome to the Bearcat Family!
📣 The Bowen Baptist Association invites the community to an All-School Prayer Walk! 🙏
📅 Saturday, August 2nd | ⏰ 8:30 AM
📍 Meet at the front of any Decatur County school
Come together to pray for our students, teachers, and staff as they begin a new school year. This event is organized by the Bowen Baptist Association. All are welcome to participate! 💜
#TheBearcatWay #PrayerWalk #CommunitySupport
📅 Saturday, August 2nd | ⏰ 8:30 AM
📍 Meet at the front of any Decatur County school
Come together to pray for our students, teachers, and staff as they begin a new school year. This event is organized by the Bowen Baptist Association. All are welcome to participate! 💜
#TheBearcatWay #PrayerWalk #CommunitySupport
Welcome back, Teachers!
Let’s Inspire, Influence, and Ignite — The Bearcat Way!
Let’s Inspire, Influence, and Ignite — The Bearcat Way!
Decatur County School Nutrition was proud to host over 400 School Nutrition Professionals representing more than 15 school districts for the annual District 2 PEP Training at Bainbridge High School.
Attendees enjoyed a dynamic session led by Chef Rachel from the Georgia Department of Education, focused on enhancing quality school meals, line design, food presentation, and customer service. We also benefited from an inspiring team player session with Mrs. Janet Mitchell, along with other essential annual training topics.
A special thank you to Catering by JLo and The BCC for a delicious lunch, and to Integrity Foods for providing breakfast and always going above and beyond. We also appreciate Pepsi of Bainbridge for generously donating drinks!
We are grateful for the opportunity to come together, learn, and grow in our mission to serve students with excellence, The Bearcat Way!
Attendees enjoyed a dynamic session led by Chef Rachel from the Georgia Department of Education, focused on enhancing quality school meals, line design, food presentation, and customer service. We also benefited from an inspiring team player session with Mrs. Janet Mitchell, along with other essential annual training topics.
A special thank you to Catering by JLo and The BCC for a delicious lunch, and to Integrity Foods for providing breakfast and always going above and beyond. We also appreciate Pepsi of Bainbridge for generously donating drinks!
We are grateful for the opportunity to come together, learn, and grow in our mission to serve students with excellence, The Bearcat Way!
Attention Parents:
If your child requires medication during the school day, please stop by the nurse’s booth at Open House on Thursday, July 31 to:
▪️Sign the REQUIRED annual medication paperwork (must be completed by the child’s legal guardian)
▪️Discuss your child’s specific medication needs with the school nurse
▪️Optional: You may bring your child’s first month’s supply of medication to check in at that time
Reminder: Medications cannot be distributed at school without properly signed paperwork on file. Thank you for helping us keep your child safe and healthy!
If your child requires medication during the school day, please stop by the nurse’s booth at Open House on Thursday, July 31 to:
▪️Sign the REQUIRED annual medication paperwork (must be completed by the child’s legal guardian)
▪️Discuss your child’s specific medication needs with the school nurse
▪️Optional: You may bring your child’s first month’s supply of medication to check in at that time
Reminder: Medications cannot be distributed at school without properly signed paperwork on file. Thank you for helping us keep your child safe and healthy!
Head Baseball Coach Ryan Riles was honored to be the guest speaker at the Lions Club meeting on July 23rd. He shared insights into the Bainbridge High School baseball program, his coaching philosophy, and how athletics play a vital role in developing student character, leadership, and teamwork.
Community partnerships like this are a powerful example of The Bearcat Way—coming together to support and invest in our students.
A big thank you to the Lions Club for your continued support of public education in Decatur County.
#Community #TheBearcatWay #DecaturCountySchools #DCBOE #BHS #Baseball
Community partnerships like this are a powerful example of The Bearcat Way—coming together to support and invest in our students.
A big thank you to the Lions Club for your continued support of public education in Decatur County.
#Community #TheBearcatWay #DecaturCountySchools #DCBOE #BHS #Baseball
Welcome to the Bearcat Family!
We are proud to announce that Mr. Will Parker, one of our outstanding music educators, has been selected to present at the Georgia Music Educators Association (GMEA) State In-Service Conference in January 2026!
This annual conference is one of the most prestigious events for music educators in the state, bringing together leaders and innovators in music education from across Georgia.
Mr. Parker will represent Bainbridge High School and the Decatur County School System with his powerful session titled:
“Yes, They Are Just as Capable: Creating a Culture of Success Within the Second Ensemble.”
His presentation will shine a light on the importance of providing meaningful, high-quality music education to all students, not just those in top-tier ensembles. By focusing on cultivating excellence, motivation, and pride within the second ensemble, Mr. Parker advocates for a program-wide culture where every student feels valued, challenged, and capable of greatness.
This is an incredible honor and a reflection of Mr. Parker’s passion for inclusive teaching and student growth. We are proud to see him recognized at the state level and thankful for his continued commitment to excellence in music education here at Bainbridge High School.
Attention Bearcat Parents: Haven't set up your Parent Portal account? We got you covered! Follow these instructions to get 24/7 access to your child's grades, assignments, attendance announcements, schedules, fees, and much more. If you have any trouble, please contact your child's school for more information.
📢 We’re Hiring: Self-Contained Special Education Teacher
Decatur County is hiring a passionate Early Childhood Exceptional Child Self-Contained Teacher with expertise in special education and experience teaching young students with multiple exceptionalities.
👉 Visit www.dcboe.com and Select the "Employment Opportunities" Button or call 229-248-2200 to learn more.
#TheBearcatWay #Jobs #Apply #NowHirting #DCBOE #DCS
Decatur County is hiring a passionate Early Childhood Exceptional Child Self-Contained Teacher with expertise in special education and experience teaching young students with multiple exceptionalities.
👉 Visit www.dcboe.com and Select the "Employment Opportunities" Button or call 229-248-2200 to learn more.
#TheBearcatWay #Jobs #Apply #NowHirting #DCBOE #DCS
🎶 Calling all 5th & 6th grade Hutto Band students! 🎷🎺
Don't forget our Band Instrument Rental Nights are coming up!
📅 August 5th & 7th
🕓 4–6 PM
📍 HES Cafeteria
Stop by to get your instrument and be ready to play!
#HuttoElementary #BandLife #TheBearcatWay
Don't forget our Band Instrument Rental Nights are coming up!
📅 August 5th & 7th
🕓 4–6 PM
📍 HES Cafeteria
Stop by to get your instrument and be ready to play!
#HuttoElementary #BandLife #TheBearcatWay
