Paulding County — Superintendent Barnett and staff used the Dec. 9 board meeting to recognize staff and report on a longstanding holiday fundraiser. Doctor Alan Dolls described the history of Pennies for Paulding (begun by a women's group more than 40 years ago) and said the district partnered with Westridge Church to run Hope for Christmas, which provides meals and gifts to families in need.

"So this year, we raised a little over $68,000," Doctor Dolls said, and the district recognized school- and level-level winners, including Dallas Elementary ($6,357), Shelton Elementary ($6,327), Crossroads Middle School (about $5,600), Paulding County High School (around $1,600) and Panter Elementary ($7,382), the top district fundraiser. Superintendent Barnett thanked staff and volunteers and encouraged families to participate in Hope for Christmas activities.

The board also recognized a new look for the district’s Star Staff awards and announced winners across eight categories, including Champion for Children (Deanna Allen, Hiram Elementary), Customer Service (Elizabeth Sindeas, Roberts Elementary) and Outstanding Leadership (Jeffrey Pittman, PDA in New Hope).