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Dr. Bradley says Newton County Schools posted academic gains, staff pay increases and plans five‑year strategic plan
Summary
In a recorded message to Newton County Schools, Dr. Bradley credited improved academic outcomes, a graduation rate above 90%, expanded AP and dual‑enrollment participation, salary increases across job families, consecutive clean audits and two millage reductions, and invited the community to shape a new five‑year strategic plan.
Dr. Bradley, speaking in a recorded message to Newton County Schools, said the district's graduation rate remains above 90% and that academic outcomes have improved “across nearly every content area.”
The speaker told staff and the school community that the district has reached historic numbers of Advanced Placement scholars and dual‑enrollment participants and is advancing a workforce development framework. Dr. Bradley said the district's recent accreditation results exceeded national averages.
On personnel and operations, Dr. Bradley said the board has implemented salary increases “across every job family,” which the speaker said has improved staff retention. New recognition programs now include classified employees such as bus drivers, counselors and social workers, the message said.
Dr. Bradley also credited community funding and fiscal stewardship. The message cited support from SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) as having allowed improvements to facilities, safety and infrastructure. The speaker said the district produced consecutive clean audits with zero findings and lowered the millage rate twice to historic lows.
Acknowledging broader financial pressure, Dr. Bradley said shifting policies, limited revenues and growing costs are affecting school districts statewide. The speaker said the district is using transparency tools such as an eSpas tracker, quarterly reports, refined board agendas and board notes to keep the public informed.
Looking ahead, Dr. Bradley said the district will develop a new, community‑inspired five‑year strategic plan and invited stakeholders to participate. "I want to see you and hear from you," the speaker said, announcing a series of community conversations and meetings with business and civic groups to collect input for the plan.
The message closed with an invitation for continued engagement as the district works on the strategic plan and other priorities.
