✨🍔 Grillin’ for the Greatest 🌭✨
Shout out to our amazing friends at First National Bank for their continued support of all our educators and staff across Decatur County Schools! 💛

We were proud to celebrate New Beginnings Learning Center educators during Grillin’ for the Greatest, made possible by First National Bank. Their team went above and beyond—showing up early to grill hamburgers and serve the meal—making our staff feel truly appreciated.

Support like this means so much, and we are grateful for community partners who consistently invest in the people who pour into our students every day. 🐾💜

#GrillinForTheGreatest #ThankYouFirstNationalBank #NBLC #TeacherAppreciation #CommunitySupport #TheBearcatWay
3 months ago, Decatur County Schools
Four First National Bank staff members stand behind a table with food containers and a “Grillin’ for the Greatest” banner, supporting educators at New Beginnings Learning Center.
📌 Flu Season Health & Safety Reminder for Families
Flu season is upon us and here are a few reminders to help keep our schools healthy :

🦠 Wash hands often with soap and water
🦠 Cover coughs and sneezes
🦠 Keep students home if they have a fever or flu-like symptoms
🦠Students must be fever free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medications before returning to school
🦠Consider talking with your child’s health care provider about the flu vaccination

🚨🤒When to keep your child home:
If your child has a fever, vomiting, diarrhea, severe cough, or feels unwell please keep them home and allow time to recover before returning to school.

💜 Thank you for partnering with us to keep our students, staff, and schools healthy throughout flu season.
3 months ago, Decatur County Schools
Flu season reminder graphic listing ways to keep schools healthy, including handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, keeping sick students home, being fever-free for 24 hours before returning to school, and considering flu vaccination, with an illustration of a coughing child and virus icons.
Congratulations, New Beginnings Learning Center!

Decatur County Schools is proud to recognize New Beginnings Learning Center for being named a CSI Progress School by the Georgia Department of Education.

This recognition honors schools that are making meaningful progress on their improvement plans and student performance. New Beginnings Learning Center demonstrated a 5% increase in the CCRPI Content Mastery score from 2024 to 2025 and earned a score of 80 or higher in another CCRPI component—an outstanding achievement that reflects the dedication of students, educators, and staff.

Out of schools across the state, only 43 CSI schools earned this distinction this year. We are proud that New Beginnings Learning Center is among them.

Congratulations to the entire New Beginnings Learning Center community for this well-deserved recognition and for exemplifying The Bearcat Way.

#BearcatPride #TheBearcatWay #StudentSuccess #CSIProgressSchool #ProudTraditionPromisingFuture
4 months ago, Decatur County Schools
Purple and gold Bearcat head logo with mouth open and teeth visible.
☀️ Biscuits for the Best at New Beginnings Learning Center!

Recently, NBLC educators were greeted with a sunny surprise as our District leadership team and our friends at SunStop Stores provided a delicious breakfast!🎉
“Biscuits for the Best” remains one of our favorite ways to show appreciation for the dedicated educators who pour their hearts into our students each day. A warm breakfast and a friendly smile are small tokens, but they carry a big message: you are valued, you are supported, and you are the BEST!!!

Thank you to every educator at NBLC—you make a difference every single day.

#BiscuitsForTheBest #ThankYouEducators #SunStopStores #CommunitySupport #TheBearcatWay
4 months ago, Decatur County Schools
A group of nine school staff members stand behind a table filled with wrapped breakfast biscuits, juices, and water bottles in a breakroom setting.
A staff member wearing an NBLC hoodie picks up a foil-wrapped biscuit while another staff member arranges more breakfast items on the table beside her.
A staff member in a red top selects a foil-wrapped biscuit from a table of breakfast items while another staff member stands nearby smiling with arms crossed.
Two staff members greet each other with a friendly fist bump in a breakroom while others smile and observe in the background.
A staff member wearing a purple jacket and holding a biscuit and orange juice smiles while standing near a classroom door and informational posters.
Four staff members stand together and smile during a breakfast event, with a table of juices and water bottles visible in the foreground.
A police officer stands at a table with breakfast items, speaking to three smiling staff members in a breakroom. Another person is preparing food in the background.
🎄 Decatur County Schools Holiday Schedule 🎄
Here’s a quick look at important dates as we head into the holiday season!

📆 Thursday, December 18, 2025
➡️ Early Release (More details on early release times for individual schools to follow.)

📆 Friday, December 19, 2025
➡️ Teacher In-Service — Professional Development Day

📆 Monday, December 22, 2025 – Friday, January 2, 2026
➡️ Christmas Break — Student Holiday

📆 Monday, January 5, 2026 – Tuesday, January 6, 2026
➡️ Teacher In-Service — Professional Development Days

📆 Wednesday, January 7, 2026
➡️ First Day Back for Students

We hope everyone has a safe, restful, and joyful holiday season! 🎁✨
4 months ago, Decatur County Schools
Decatur County Schools Holiday Schedule graphic with red, green, and white holiday-themed design. The schedule lists: Early Release on Thursday, December 18, 2025; Teacher In-Service Professional Development Day on Friday, December 19, 2025; Christmas Break and student holiday from Monday, December 22, 2025 through Friday, January 2, 2026; Teacher In-Service Professional Development Days on Monday, January 5, 2026 and Tuesday, January 6, 2026; and Wednesday, January 7, 2026 as the first day back for students. A Bearcat mascot wearing a Santa hat appears in the bottom left corner.

🎓 Progress Reports Coming Soon! 🎓
Decatur County Schools students’ progress reports will be released on November 20th.
📊 Don’t wait to stay informed!
Parents and guardians can check grades, attendance, and more anytime through the Parent Portal (Infinite Campus):
👉 https://campus.dcboe.com/campus/portal/decaturco.jsp
#BearcatPride #DecaturCountySchools #TheBearcatWay

5 months ago, Decatur County Schools
Graphic announcing Decatur County Schools student progress reports will be sent home on November 20th, featuring a roaring Bearcat logo with a graduation cap and bold text reading 'Progress Reports'
🦃🍂 Decatur County Schools Thanksgiving Holidays:
Schools will be closed Friday, Nov. 21 – Friday, Nov. 28.
(Teacher Professional Development Day – Nov. 21)

We hope everyone enjoys a safe and restful Thanksgiving break!
5 months ago, Decatur County Schools
Graphic announcing Decatur County Schools Thanksgiving Holidays from Friday, November 21 to Friday, November 28, with a Teacher Professional Development Day on November 21. Includes fall decorations and the Bearcat Way logo.

The Power of Choice: Tie Tuesday at New Beginnings Learning Center

At New Beginnings Learning Center, a recent Tie Tuesday event brought a powerful message to life about the importance of the choices we make and the paths we take.

The young men of the Tie Tuesday Gentlemen’s Club participated in the barbershop-style gathering, which created a welcoming space for open and honest conversations. As students received free haircuts, they engaged in meaningful discussions about life, choices, and character with mentors from the community.

This program is designed to build confidence and connection, reminding students that their voices matter and that the choices they make today shape their futures.

Decatur County Schools extends sincere appreciation to the community members who volunteered their time to pour into our youth and offer encouragement and guidance.

Building trust, creating connections, and investing in our students is what it means to live The Bearcat Way.

#TheBearcatWay #BearcatPride #DecaturCountySchools #Leadership #Mentorship #NBLC

5 months ago, Decatur County Schools
A barber gives a student a haircut as others watch and listen during the Cuts and Convos session.
Two men share a warm hug in a school library setting, surrounded by bookshelves and signs reading “Everyone Belongs” and “Everyone Is Welcome.”
A police officer helps a student in a purple hoodie adjust his tie in a school hallway.
A group of students and mentors sit attentively in a library setting during a Tie Tuesday Gentlemen’s Club meeting.
A young man in a light purple shirt and tie listens intently during the Cuts and Convos discussion.
A close-up of a student receiving a lineup haircut during the Cuts and Convos event.
A mentor and student pose together in the library, smiling after the Cuts and Convos session.
Group photo of the Tie Tuesday Gentlemen’s Club, community members, and mentors at New Beginnings Learning Center.
On October 16th, students at New Beginnings Learning Center had an incredible opportunity to connect with local businesses during the Student Job Fair — a true example of community collaboration in action!
We are so grateful for the many organizations and employers who showed up to invest in our students’ futures, sharing advice, encouragement, and real-world opportunities. And a heartfelt thank you to the amazing NBLC staff for their dedication and hard work in organizing such a meaningful event.
💼👏 Because when our community comes together, our students build a Promising Future! 💜💛
#CommunityStrong #TheBearcatWay #NBLC #StudentSuccess #PromisingFuture
5 months ago, Decatur County Schools
A U.S. Army recruiter speaks with a group of students wearing purple shirts at a career fair table.
A smiling Subway employee stands beside a woman in a red blazer and polka-dot blouse at the event.
A Home Depot representative smiles at a career fair booth decorated with orange balloons, bottled drinks, and giveaway items.
A man at a Dupont Construction booth displays a poster listing career opportunities such as roofer, plumber, and electrician.
Two staff members from the Bainbridge-Decatur County Recreation Authority pose together in matching purple and gray uniforms.
A Home Depot representative talks with two students at a career fair while others explore booths in the background.
A man in a navy suit shakes hands with a woman in a red blazer outside the school building, greeting attendees.
A trucking professional explains engine components to two students beside a large truck.
Students line up outside to view the City of Bainbridge Engine 3 fire truck during a hands-on learning event.
Firefighters and students engage in conversation near a fire truck during a career exploration activity.
Decatur County Schools will be closed from 10/8/25 - 10/10/25 for Fall Break.
#FallBreak #Holiday #DCBOE #TheBearcatWay
6 months ago, Decatur County Schools
Fall Break announcement with autumn leaves background. Text reads: Fall Break 10/8–10/10. No school for students Wednesday, October 8th – Friday, October 10th. Teacher in service Wednesday, October 8th

Safety Awareness Month Message:

September is recognized across the state of Georgia as Safety Awareness Month. During this time, we are conducting intruder, lockdown and other safety drills on our school campuses. In Decatur County Schools, we take this opportunity to educate and equip our students to respond quickly and safely to any and all emergency situations. Safety is and will always be our number one priority in Decatur County Schools.

6 months ago, Decatur County Schools
purple background with dcboe logo and grapic that reads, " safety awareness month message"  and website, dcboe.com
Flu Vaccine Interest Form
Deadline to submit: September 19

The Decatur County Health Department can provide Flu Clinic packets for students who are interested in receiving the flu shot at school this year.
👉 Please complete this form: https://bit.ly/BearcatFLUshot

📌 A separate form must be completed for each child in your family for whom you would like to receive the flu shot paperwork.
📷 Scan the QR code below
7 months ago, Decatur County Schools
qr code with bearcat in the middle and virus vaccine
Get to Know Your Admin: Stephanie Green
Principal, New Beginnings Learning Center

With 27 years of service, Stephanie Green leads New Beginnings Learning Center with dedication, vision, and a commitment to supporting every student. Originally from Phenix City, Alabama, Green’s career path has taken her through Lillian E. Williams, Hutto Middle School, and Bainbridge High School, before stepping into her role at New Beginnings.

At New Beginnings, Green ensures students stay focused on the ABC’s of school: Attendance, Behavior, and Credits. The center serves students recommended from Bainbridge High and Middle Schools for additional support in behavior, academics, and attendance.

Her inspiration to enter education comes from a love of working with students, no matter their background or history. “It takes a village to raise a child, and I pour into the whole child,” Green shares. Watching students progress and ultimately graduate remains the most rewarding part of her career.

Looking ahead, Green’s professional goals are to continue being a lifelong learner and to inspire her students to give back to the community. She describes Decatur County Schools as a progressive system that embraces challenges and is deeply committed to both student success and technological growth.

A Bit More About Stephanie:
Hometown: Phenix City, Alabama
Hobbies: Spending time with family, attending sporting events, traveling, and attending church
Fun Fact: She loves to line dance, watch action movies, and is a proud sorority girl
Favorite Book: The Color Purple
Favorite Movie: Jesus Loves Me

Thank you, Stephanie, for your leadership, dedication, and Bearcat pride!
7 months ago, Decatur County Schools
Close-up photo of Stephanie Green with text overlay introducing her as the New Beginnings Learning Center Principal for Decatur County Schools. The design includes the school logo and the phrase “Get to Know Your Admin.”
📱 Keeping Our Students Safe Online – The Bearcat Way
A new Georgia law requires schools to teach students about digital citizenship and provide parents with the same tools to use at home.

Decatur County Schools remains committed to promoting digital citizenship and online safety, now offering parents additional resources to support these efforts at home.

Parent ProTech is a free, video-based resource designed to help you:
🔹Set healthy screen-time limits
🔹Protect your child’s privacy
🔹Navigate social media safely

✨ Start the school year with clear screen-time boundaries that help your child thrive online.
🔗Learn more and sign up here: https://app.parentprotech.com/952/decatur-county/en/signup?source=admin

#TheBearcatWay #ProudTraditionPromisingFuture #ParentProTech #OnlineSafety
8 months ago, Decatur County Schools
Decatur County Schools Parent ProTech sign-up graphic with computer and phone icons, promoting online safety resources for families.
Thank you, Bearcats, for an incredible first week of school!
Your energy, enthusiasm, and commitment to excellence have set the tone for a phenomenal year ahead. We can’t wait to see all the growth, achievements, and memories we’ll create together. Let’s keep Inspiring, Influencing, and Igniting—the Bearcat Way!

https://youtu.be/28JeqOrd-qs
8 months ago, Decatur County Schools
🚍 SHIFT GEARS TO BEARCAT SUCCESS- GET PAID TO TRAIN, RIDE, & DRIVE!🚍

MUST BE 21 Years Old
💰 Great Retirement Supplement
🏥 BENEFITS AVAILABLE!

Why Drive With Us?
✅ Pay – Earn while making a difference!
✅ Flexible Hours – Perfect for retirees & those seeking extra income!
✅ Paid Training – No experience? No problem! We’ll train you!
✅ Health & Retirement Benefits – Secure your future!

🚦 Join Our Team & Be the Driver of Change! 🚦
🔴 APPLY TODAY – YOUR SEAT IS WAITING! 🔴
📞 Call: 229.248.2204 🌐 Apply Online: https://sites.google.com/dcboe.com/dcboe-apply/home

#ShiftGearsToSuccess #GetPaidToDrive #JoinOurTeam #BearcatPride #DriveWithUs #HiringNow #PaidTraining #FlexibleHours #RetirementSupplement #BenefitsAvailable #MakeADifference #DriveForDCBOE #SecureYourFuture #ApplyToday
8 months ago, Decatur County Schools
Recruitment flyer for Decatur County Schools bus drivers. Text reads: 'Shift Gears to Bearcat Success. Get Paid to Train, Ride & Drive!' Includes contact info for the DCBOE Transportation Department, phone number 229-248-2200, and email scaulder@dcboe.com. Features a yellow school bus and the Decatur County Schools logo
💻 Did you know? Chromebook fees can be paid easily through your Parent Portal account!

✅ Step 1: Log in to Infinite Campus
✅ Step 2: Click the “Fees” tab on the left side of your screen

Paying online is quick, simple, and convenient! 💳

Login to the Parent Portal (Infinite Campus) through the link below:
https://campus.dcboe.com/campus/portal/decaturco.jsp

#BearcatTech #ParentPortal #InfiniteCampus #StayConnected #BearcatFamily
8 months ago, Decatur County Schools
Graphic explaining how to pay Chromebook fees through Infinite Campus. Step 1: Log into Infinite Campus. Step 2: Select the 'Fees' tab on the left side of the screen
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
8 months ago, Decatur County Schools
A graphic titled "Decatur County Board of Education Safety Update" announces the introduction of OPENGATE Security Systems. The graphic features two students smiling and walking through the OPENGATE walk-through weapons detection system. A message states that beginning in the 2025–2026 school year, Decatur County Schools will implement the system to help keep campuses weapon-free. The district encourages parents to talk with their children about the importance of school safety. The Bearcat Way logo and the school district’s purple color scheme are also included.

🌧️ 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

8 months ago, Decatur County Schools
Child in raincoat with umbrella; text reminds students to bring rain gear for a rainy first week of school
📅 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
8 months ago, Decatur County Schools
Decatur County Schools 2025–2026 calendar listing key dates including the first day of school (August 4, 2025), holidays, progress reports, breaks, and the last day for students (May 20, 2026)