The Putnam County Charter School System (PCCSS) approved routine agenda items, recognized students and staff, and reviewed district initiatives on March 16 and 23, during scheduled bi-monthly meetings.
At both meetings, board members approved the agenda without changes and received no public comments.
On March 16, PCCSS Assistant Superintendent Scott Sauls presented the H.E.A.R.T. Award — Honoring Exceptional and Remarkable Teamwork — to Erica Barksdale and Suzie Davis. Additionally, four students — Jai Hargrove, Abby Mashburn, Cobee Parham, and Jackson Stevenson — were recognized as Superintendent Students of the Month.
The board later approved, without changes, the minutes from three previous meetings in February without changes.
Board members also viewed a highlight video showcasing the district’s Farm-to-Table program at Putnam County High School, led by Nutrition Director Teena Carr. The program began with hydrofarms that grow lettuce and herbs while introducing students to plant science.
It has since expanded to include a district beef cattle program, with cattle raised and processed for school use. Students have been served beef nachos in cafeterias, while others gained hands-on experience in agriculture and animal care.
PCCSS Superintendent Derick Austin later proposed designating March 2026 as “Arts in Our Schools Month,” encouraging schools across the district to support and promote arts programs. The board unanimously approved the proposal.
The board also heard an update on on the 2026 E-Rate, a Universal Service Fund program that helps schools and libraries improve technology services. Putnam County Schools qualify for an 85% discount on eligible technology purchases and installation, and the board is expected to vote on related expenditures at a future meeting.
A presentation was also given on the Putnam Education Foundation, which focuses on addressing issues such as opportunity gaps, mental health, food insecurity, and homelessness. The foundation aims to connect community resources with the needs of students in the Putnam County Charter School System.
In addition to regular business, the March 16 meeting included governance training for board members, provided by the Charter System Foundation.
On March 23, two Georgia College & State University students made a presentation to the PCBOE about their experiences working in Putnam County schools as part of their degree programs.
One student will remain teaching in Putnam County, while the other plans to continue a teaching career elsewhere. Both expressed appreciation for the support and leadership provided to them by the board and the school system.