WE ACHIEVE TOGETHER – From Pickens County School System

JASPER, Ga. — On Wednesday, August 9, 2017, Pickens Family Connection Collaborative hosted approximately 50 participants from local and state agencies gathered to learn about the progress and future of Pickens County Board of Education from Dr. Carlton Wilson, Superintendent of Pickens County Schools.

Dr. Wilson captivated the crowd in true educator style with his opening presentation in which he read “14 Cows to America” written by Carmen Agra Deedy. The book is a heart breaking tale about international compassion after the fall of the Twin Towers on September 11, 2001. He then provided outstanding information about the school system.

Statistics at a Glance

100% debt free!

The largest employer in Pickens County with over 600 employees. 350 plus certified and an additional 75% hold advanced degrees.

4,476 students in 350 Classrooms.

94.2% graduation rate.  14th best in the state of Georgia!

18 sports with 154 teams.

Over 3,000 miles driven by buses each day.  

Cafeteria served over 65 pounds of chicken, 200,000 pounds of fruit and 675,000 half pint milks last year.

Dr. Wilson believes that education is more than teaching lessons. “We are in the business of raising children.  I want the community involved and connected.” Pickens is a busy county!  For Dr. Wilson, this includes not only academics, but each child’s overall welfare.  The county was awarded a planning grant for the inclusion of mini-clinics within each school that will serve as primary healthcare for students and staff.  A partnership has also been established with Highlands River to provide on campus behavioral assistance to our students.  The goals of the Board of Education extend beyond employees.  The school system is always looking for passionate volunteers and mentors.  Our children deserve your support!   Contact Pickens County Board of Education at (706) 253-1700 to find out how you can volunteer.  Dr. Wilson would also like to remind parents that “School’s In! Don’t Be Out!”

Our Family Connection collaborative brings community partners together to develop, implement, and evaluate plans that address the serious challenges facing Georgia’s children and families.  Our success is our partners’ success – we bring them together, they develop and implement the strategies. Our most important partners are the families whose children are being served.

 

The next Pickens Family Connection Collaborative meeting will be held at 8:30 a.m.  September 13, 2017, at the Pickens County Government Offices.  To learn more about PFC, contact Jacque Elwarner, Coordinator, at 706-253-2319 or visit our website. We look forward to seeing you in September!