Eight Richmond County schools have been recognized by the Georgia Department of Education as 2024–2025 “Literacy Leaders” and “Math Leaders” for exceptional achievement and growth in reading and mathematics.
The distinction, announced Nov. 7, honors schools statewide that show strong student progress and proficiency on Georgia Milestones assessments, according to a press release from the Richmond County School System (RCSS).
“It’s wonderful to see our schools recognized for the progress our students are making,” said Shawnda Stovall, president of the Richmond County Board of Education. “Our educators, administrators, and district staff have worked hard to help students grow as readers and thinkers, and to make math something every student can feel confident in.”
The four schools named Literacy Leaders were A.R. Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet School, C.T. Walker Traditional Magnet School, Gracewood Elementary School and Jamestown Elementary School.
The recognition is based on student achievement and growth in “gateway grades” — third, sixth and high school — as well as year-over-year improvement across all grade levels, according to a press release from the RCSS.
Four additional schools earned Math Leader honors: Freedom Park K-8 School, John M. Tutt Middle School, John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School and Warren Road Elementary School.
Math Leaders are identified through performance on Georgia Milestones assessments in key grades, particularly fifth and eighth, where at least 90% of students reached proficiency or schools demonstrated significant annual growth.
District officials said the awards reflect long-term efforts to strengthen reading and math skills across all campuses, according to a press release from the RCSS.
RCSS supports literacy through curriculum initiatives, schoolwide reading challenges and events such as the Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl.
Every student also receives a free library card through a partnership with the Augusta-Richmond County Public Library System.
In mathematics, students participate in the Annual Districtwide Math Competition, while teachers collaborate in professional learning communities to strengthen instruction and support problem-solving skills at every grade level.
