VALDOSTA — Five schools from Lowndes County have been recognized as Math Leaders by the Georgia Department of Education. The honored schools include Hahira Elementary School, Hahira Middle School, Lowndes Middle School, Pine Grove Middle School and Westside Elementary School.

This recognition highlights the role of mathematics in students’ education and future careers. The criteria for the Math Leaders Awards, a new title based on growth and performance under the updated math standards, emphasize numeracy skills in fifth and eighth grades, as well as at the high school level. Awarded schools have demonstrated exceptional achievement and growth in the percentage of students scoring at the Proficient Learner level or above in mathematics, showcasing the dedication of our students, teachers, and families to excel in this essential skill.

“We are incredibly proud of our schools for being named Math Leaders,” said Lowndes County Schools Superintendent Sandra Wilcher. “All of the pieces fit together. We couldn’t have done this without the impact of everyone in this room,” she acknowledged, referring to system leaders, principals, math teachers, and representatives from the Georgia Department of Education present.

“The guidance and leadership we receive from the Georgia Department of Education flows into our central office and is then directed to our schools as a unified One Lowndes system, helping us perform equitably across the district. All of the pieces fit together seamlessly,” she said.

Lowndes County Schools welcomed State Superintendent Richard Woods to award the five schools personally. Awards were accepted by principals Mitchell Donahoo, Bill Haskin, Beth Lind, Kevin Maxwell and Neil Wilkes, along with Superintendent Sandra Wilcher and other system and school leaders.

“Congratulations to our first-ever Math Leader schools,” said State School Superintendent Richard Woods. “The skill of numeracy is essential as students progress through their K-12 education and into their futures. These schools, along with their educators, students, families, and communities, have worked diligently to implement the new K-12 Mathematics Standards and prepare all students for life. I commend them on their outstanding work.”

Georgia’s new K-12 Mathematics Standards were adopted in 2021 and first implemented in classrooms during the 2023-24 school year.