Columbia County Superintendent Steven Flynt announced that the school district has successfully completed its Cognia accreditation process.
Cognia is a nonprofit organization that accredits primary and secondary schools throughout the U.S. The district underwent a five-year evaluation from a review team of educators throughout the state and nation on its strengths and potential for improvement.
This year, 95 stakeholders participated in virtual interviews with the review team to determine the effectiveness of the school district’s improvement process.
“The review team was most impressed with the culture of excellence that permeates all that we do,” said Flynt. “They pointed out that people take great pride in being part of the Columbia County School District.”
Flynt expressed thanks to those who participated in preparing the district for its evaluation over the past five years, singling out Associate Superintendent Michele Sherman and Director of Title I and School Improvement Merrell Garner.
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The school board voted to approve the purchase of 25 portable classrooms for over $1.4 million from modular building manufacturer Modular Technologies.
The portable classrooms would be configured modules, meaning they would be standard classroom size with entry and egress points and equipped with HVAC systems, according to Director of Facilities and Maintenance Operations Cliff Sanders.
Flynt also noted the continuing drop in positive COVID-19 cases reported, with 11 last week and eight so far this week. Because of this, Flynt said, face coverings will remain optional and visitors are allowed on campuses again.
“Our schools have definitely missed the presence of parents in the building,” said Flynit. “And our partners in education who work closely, not only with their own students, but who come in and volunteer their time. We’re very excited to see them back.”
Skyler Q. Andrews is a staff reporter covering Columbia County with The Augusta Press. Reach him at skyler@theaugustapress.com.
