District Awards Honor Coaches Students and New Teachers

In a vibrant celebration of achievement and dedication, the Clayton County Board of Education held a special meeting on May 5, 2025, honoring students, teachers, and community members who have made significant contributions to the district. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as awards were presented, recognizing both team and individual accomplishments.

The evening began with heartfelt acknowledgments for the members of the local academic team, led by Coach Ernest Jolley. Each team member, including Athena Lake and Daniel Lopez Meja, received a cash award of $300, while Coach Jolley was honored with a $150 gift. The recognition didn’t stop there; individual awards highlighted exceptional talent among students. Ebony Armstrong from Mundy’s Mill High School was named the top prize winner for coaches, receiving $150, while Zamir People from Munizville High School took home first place among students, also awarded $300.

The ceremony continued with the recognition of artistic talent, as ninth grader Peter Spence from Lovejoy High School was celebrated for designing the DSA button, a project that embodies the theme "Building Futures" for 2025. Meanwhile, Nita Day, a sophomore at Stillwell School of the Arts, was honored as a National Scholastic Art and Writing Awards gold medalist for her photography entry, "The Silent Watcher." Her achievement places her among the top in a competition that saw nearly 100,000 entries, and she will showcase her work at Carnegie Hall in June.

The meeting also welcomed 77 new teachers into the district through the Georgia Teacher Academy for Preparation and Pedagogy (TAP), a program designed to equip individuals with the skills necessary for successful teaching careers. This initiative reflects the district's commitment to enhancing educational quality and supporting new educators.

In addition to these recognitions, the board celebrated the success of the recent Girls Conference held during National Women's History Month, honoring various contributors who made the event possible. The evening concluded with a special acknowledgment of the MD Roberts Junior Beta Club, whose members excelled at their state conference, showcasing the district's commitment to fostering student leadership and achievement.

As the meeting wrapped up, the sense of community and pride in the accomplishments of students and educators alike was palpable, leaving attendees inspired and eager for the future. The board's commitment to recognizing excellence and supporting educational initiatives continues to shine brightly in Clayton County.