Effingham August September 2016

September/August 2016

Ebenezer ALIVE! Educational Program

Back To School Issue

can see their heart’s “ You in their work.

“

—JERRY HOGAN

Working on the farm with his grandson, Jerry suffered a severe head trauma. He was on blood thinners and started bleeding excessively.

Jerry recalls being reassured by the confidence and professionalism of Effingham Hospital’s Emergency Room staff.

THE NEWLY REDESIGNED EMERGENCY ROOM is staffed by emergency medicine physicians with experience working for major trauma centers. Access to the hospital’s new Surgery Center meant Jerry’s head wound was treated from start to finish at Effingham Hospital.

912-754-6451 | EffinghamHealth.org

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S TA F F

CONTRIBUTORS Katrice Williams

is a married mother of two. She graduated from Georgia Southern University with a Business Administration Degree. Interestingly enough, at the time, she also had an interest in writing. She and her family moved to Pooler in 2003 from the Atlanta Metro Area. She later decided to pursue her writing interests. Katrice appreciates The Lord Jesus Christ and the many blessings that He has bestowed upon her. She loves spending time with her family.

Jeff Whitten

David Pena was a Language Arts teacher in the Georgia public school system for over twenty years. Also a professional musician on the weekends, he enjoys writing about local happenings and the interesting, diverse mix of cultures that make up the Southeast. He loves to spend time with his son Carter, golf and play tennis.

Tonya Chester Perry is a married mother of two children.

She is a full time photographer with a studio based in Rincon. She graduated from college with a degree in business. She is originally from Louisiana, after living in different states, she now resides in Effingham County. She is a Maternity, Newborn, Child, High School Senior and Wedding Photographer. When not working she enjoys spending her time with her husband & kids.

Cindy Burbage

is a native of Richmond Hill. She began writing in college and took a hiatus to raise her four beautiful children. Cindy enjoys traveling and is always ready for a road trip. She believes that faith is greater than fear.

Lea Allen

Lane Leopard

Luke Smith is a full time photographer and single father based out of

Rincon. Having grown up in Cajun country in Louisiana, Luke feels right at home on the Georgia coast and has for the last 10 years. When he’s not doing freelance photography for commercial clients, Luke is spending time with his son.

Natalie McAllister is a life long Effingham resident. She has a great love of photography. Taking photos of family and friends sparked Natalie’s desire to become a professional photographer. Since then, her passion has grown to child and newborn photography. She is a wife and mother of two.

She volunteers her time weekly to a local food bank. Natalie is also an Avon representative.

04 August/Seprember 2016 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

Marsha Stewart

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A portion of all Coldwell Banker Intercoastal Realty proceeds are donated to local charities.

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06 August/Seprember 2016 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

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In Rincon call: (912) 826-4233 Locations in: Rincon, &| August/Seprember Hinesville. www.EGlennville ffingham Magazine.com 2016 07

in this issue August/September 2016

features

10 16 22 26 28 31

Ebenezer ALIVE! The Hills Are Alive With The Sound of Learning

Connie Carter Valiant Educator, Humble Leader, Heart of Love

Randy Shearouse An Inspiring Vision Today, Incredible Hope for Tomorrow

City of Rincon Kelly Heads Up City’s Planning and Development

4th Annual Back2School Blowout

EFFINGHAM COUNTY STEM ACADEMY

departments

09 34

Publisher’s Page

Let’s Do Business Vortex Industrial Hose and Hydraulic Servicest

specials

39

Meet Your Assistant Principals

10

08 August/Seprember 2016 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

PUBLISHER’S Thoughts

It’s Back To School Time!

Julie Hales owner/publisher julie@idpmagazines.com Jeff Whitten editor jeff@idpmagazines.com Lane Leopard graphic designer lane@idpmagazines.com Lea Allen administrative assistant/circulation lea@idpmagazines.com Marsha Stewart account executive marsha@idpmagazines.com

Effingham Magazine is proudly produced by:

108 International Drive P.O. Box 1742 Rincon, GA 3126 (912) 826-2760

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Write to us and tell us what you think. Effingham Magazine welcomes all letters to the editor.

Please send all letters via email to Julie Hales at julie@idpmagazines.com, or mail letters to P.O. Box 1742, Rincon, GA 31326. Letters to the editor must have a phone number and name of contact. Phone numbers will not be published.

ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS Effingham Magazine welcomes story ideas from our readers. If you have a story idea, or photo essay you would like to share, please submit ideas and material by emailing JJulie Hales at julie@ idpmagazines.com Stories or ideas for stories must be submitted by email. Only feature stories and photo essays about people, places or things in Effingham.

CIRCULATION: Effingham Magazine is publlished bi-monthly (six issues a year), printing 10,000 copies and distributed to over 180 locations.

Reproduction in whole or in part in any manner without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited.

Summer vacation for our administrators, teachers and students is now over and the official 2016-2107 school year has begun!

This is our 2nd annual “Back To School” issue.

This was a very well received issue last year, and we think this year is no different. Education is such an important part of our community, and our nation.

The Effingham County Board of Education does a superb job. Under the leadership of Superintendent Randy Shearouse, our school administrators and teachers are some of the best in the state. Effingham County boasts one of the best school systems in Georgia. We are very fortunate that our children are growing up and receiving an education in Effingham County.

Not only are we blessed to live in a community where our youth are learning in our classrooms, we also have other avenues where they can get education.

Ebenezer ALIVE! Educational Program is beginJulie Hales, PUBLISHER ning its 16th year in Effingham County. This program was designed as an extension of the classroom, a place where our students can come and learn about history, characters and nature. It’s a place where students can get “hands-on” experiences and really feel a part of history.

The Ebenezer ALIVE! Educational Program provides an enriching educational program for our students and makes an impact on their lives.

Read our cover story to learn more about this program and the wonderful people who make it happen.

We also have some information about this school year form Superintendent Shearouse along with this year’s school calendar. This will be a handy tool to use in this school term.

We have some other special stories on our pages this issue...make sure to read them all.

To all of our Effingham County students, we, at Effingham Magazine, hope you have a great, productive school year. And, we pray for your safety in your daily travels, as well as the opportunities you have before you. Make every day count!

September/August 2016

ABOUT THE COVER Read all about this great program and the people who make it happen.

Thanks Beth Epling for all your hard work and dedication through the years at the Ebenezer ALIVE! Educational Program.

Photo by Tonya Chester Perry

Ebenezer ALIVE! Educational Program

Back To School Issue

www.Effingham

Magazine.com | August/Seprember 2016 09

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The Hills are Alive WITH THE SOUND OF LEARNING The Ebenezer Alive! Educational Program provides a hands-on approach to learning that brings education to life in vivid and memorable ways.

W

story by david pena

photos by tonya chester perry

hen she retired in 1999 from the University of Georgia Extension Service, Beth Epling was looking forward to living a quiet life of leisure. Days filled with shopping, visits to historical sites and home improvement projects awaited her after 28 years in a successful career with the service.

However, that all came to an abrupt end when, in the fall of that year, she received a call from the New Ebenezer Retreat Center.

“They wanted to begin a new educational program on weekdays.

While they had a good deal of summertime and weekend business, they were usually wide open during the school year, so they wanted to bring in more visitors during that time,” Epling recalls.

Originally from Athens, Beth and her husband Jerry, who are both University of Georgia graduates, have been residents of Effingham County for 41 years. Since the center already had wonderful facilities in place, along with comfortable cottages for guests, they simply needed someone with Epling’s experience to spearhead the new program. “They knew a little about my background as head of the 4-H program along with other things I’ve been involved in,” she says. “Plus I lived in the area and was very familiar with it, so I seemed like a good fit. I also just love people, and I love putting programs together.”

Coming on board in January of 2000 as the Educational Coordinator, Beth claims that, at the outset, the resources available to her were a bit scarce, to put it mildly. “When I started, I had a room, one chair, a stapler and a phone,” she laughs. And while the idea of starting an overnight program for school-aged children was up and running, the actual curriculum for the program had yet to be decided; in fact, it didn’t even have a name. “I wanted to bring things ‘alive’ around here, like the history of the region, and we wanted to have lots of activities, so we ended up naming it the Ebenezer ALIVE! Educational Program.” The program was ultimately designed to be an extension of the classroom, while providing a customized, “hands-on” learning experience for students.

Epling explains, “Students learn best by doing, by getting their hands dirty. So, I wanted a program that would encourage teachers and students to think outside of the box and experience things that they couldn’t necessarily experience inside of a classroom setting.” The curriculum that was ultimately decided upon had three main components to it: the History and Heritage of Georgia, Character Education, and Nature/Environmental Sciences.

Instead of learning about the three core components from a textbook or traditional lecture, students and teachers can actually experience the sights, sounds and smells of each with daily trips

and activities designed to engage their minds while stirring their senses. Lessons about American Revolution come “alive” through costumed storytellers, archaeological digs, artifacts’ education, Indian lore and a troop encampment. In addition, there are trips to Old Fort Jackson, Wormsloe Plantation and historic Savannah to supplement the activities. The Environmental Sciences program teaches students to develop a deeper appreciation for the Earth while strolling through a forest, exploring farmland and wetlands, measuring water quality, fishing in a pond, and becoming more acquainted with Georgia wildlife. Additionally, there are off-site visits to such places as Sapelo Island, Tybee’s Marine Science Center as well as Jekyll Island. Students can even look forward to a “Puddle Shuttle” on the Ebenezer Creek in an eighteen passenger boat! However, as a former Home Economics major, the Character Development portion of the program is near and dear to Epling’s heart. “Character education was a big topic during my time as a Home Ec/Family Consumer major, so I feel that instilling respect for one’s self as well as others should be a key component to the Ebenezer ALIVE! Program.” From citizenship and proper manners to family values and The Creator, the character educational component of the program is designed to help students become better citizens and individuals by modeling effective, positive traits that they can carry with them for the rest of their lives. Other activities such as carriage tours, hay rides, folk dances, campfire storytellers and movies serve to round out the programs as well.

Epling is the only full-time instructional facilitator, but she has enlisted the help of two former teachers, Susan Zoller and Angie Murphey. “I really wanted to pick instructors who have a passion for what they do, and I’m very lucky to have my staff, which also includes Pat Kennedy, as part of our instructional team. We all love what we do,” she says. “Plus we have the dedication and support of the NERC Board of Directors, instructors, and all of our volunteers who have helped New Ebenezer Retreat Center become the amazing place that it is.” The program’s success is a testament to the passion and effectiveness of Epling and her staff. For the past fifteen years, the Ebenezer ALIVE! Educational Program has welcomed school groups from Georgia, Florida, Alabama, and North and South Carolina. Each visiting school group is provided with a customized program which is designed to provide many opportunities both on-site and around the region, while still centering around the three key components. The cost per person includes lodging, meals, instruction and educational packet, while trips off-site from the retreat pose additional costs. Each visiting www.Effingham

Magazine.com | August/Seprember 2016 11

group is required to provide transportation to off-center sites, which include Tybee, Sapelo, Jekyll Island and historic Savannah. “Most of the groups opt for a 3 day/2 nights stay, we’ve had some stay for a week or longer, and most of the groups love it so much that they return the next school year,” Epling says with pride. “We serve students from around 30 schools ranging from 4th to 8th grades and even older, and everything is customized to their needs.

The teachers are provided with a check sheet, and we construct each program based on what they’ve chosen.” Epling says that while her staff and program facilitators are responsible for teaching and guiding the students through tours and instruction, they always encourage supervision and participation from teachers and parents. “We want everyone who comes to become involved in the program,” Epling says. “Plus, it’s always inspiring to

witness the students getting to see their teacher outside of the classroom as a real person, and it really helps to break down barriers. The administrators and teachers in Effingham county have been incredibly supportive, and we’ve been blessed to have their students come every year since the program began.”

Epling says there are countless examples of how the Ebenezer ALIVE! Program makes an impact on its visitors, but she recalls one from about four years ago. “We were holding our program, and I was in costume, as were the other instructors. I did a brief slide show, and then we had basket weaving and cane grinding, followed by a museum search at the Georgia Salzburger Museum. After we listened to a pastor speak (in costume) from the nearby Historical Jerusalem Lutheran Church and the group was walking back, I asked one of the eighth grade boys if he enjoyed it. He

12 August/Seprember 2016 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

said, ‘You know, Ms. Beth, history is really real; it’s not just words in a book.’ And that’s when a light went off; you learn by doing and through experience, and that’s what our program is all about.”

Located on the banks of the beautiful Savannah River near Rincon, GA, the Retreat Center is about a half hour’s drive from downtown Savannah. Now poised to enter their sixteenth year, the Ebenezer ALIVE! Educational Program continues to provide an enriching educational program for students that promises to make an impact not only on the lives of the students, but on the lives of the teachers and visiting adults as well.

For more information, visit www. newebenezer.org or contact Beth Epling, Education Coordinator at (912) 754-9242 or fax (912) 754-7781 or email at beth@ newebenezer.org.

7TH ANNUAL EFFINGHAM OKTOBERFEST 2016 Brought To You By The Effingham Chamber of Commerce

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Join us for this great family celebration of all things German featuring great food and beverage, a huge children’s area, a large car show, tethered hot air balloon rides, a military static display area, great music both days, and arts and crafts vendors for your early Christmas shopping.

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Magazine.com | August/Seprember 2016 13

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14 August/Seprember | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

We are now Compassion Christian Church

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Savannah Christian Church is now Compassion Christian. Come to church with us, and then join us in being the church all week long.

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Magazine.com | August/Seprember 2016 15

16 August/Seprember | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

Connie Carter:

C

Valiant Educator, Humble Leader, Heart of Love story by katrice williams photos by tonya chester perry

onnie Carter, a Macon native, has spent most of her life in Effingham, along with her husband David, who is from Hazlehurst. The couple fell in love their freshman year at Georgia Southern University. In fact, they met in a college math class.

“I noticed that the guy sitting behind me had the most gorgeous blue eyes that I’d ever seen,” Connie recalls. The two married in 1976.

Connie had aspired to teach for a long time.

“I was meant to be a teacher. I could feel it in my bones from second grade. There was never any other option. In college, when I was more mature, I understood that it was God telling me: ‘This is where I want you to go; this is the path I want you to choose,’ and it was such a natural choice for me, and it was such a blessing,” Connie affirms.

She later adds, “At the time, I didn’t realize what an impact that decision would be on my later years. God was preparing me all these years without me realizing it—giving me the gift of the love of these kids, giving me the gift to be able to teach them and love them back. In 2004, we lost our only child, David “Ryan” Carter.

It was devastating, and it still is, but those children were the medicine that got me to smile.”

Ryan, who was 21 when he passed away, was a true blessing to Connie and David, who both love him with all of their hearts.

Through it all, Connie’s faith did not dwindle, as she knew that God still had a beautiful plan for her life.

Connie began her career as a sixth grade teacher in 1976 at Marlow Elementary School, where she stayed for 10 years under the leadership of Principal Harris Hinely. In 1986, she took on another opportunity at South Effingham Elementary School after Mr. Hinely accepted the position as principal there. He was delighted to have Connie on board. Actually, the school was just opening and still under construction.

She remembers teaching her class each day in the gym, where there were five other classes being taught. It served as classroom, lunchroom and P.E. area since the school building was under construction. She talks about how Mr. Hinely initially ushered in the buses each day in a muddy lot because no paved bus ramp had been developed. Moreover, Connie loved the opportunity that the new school allowed for Rincon and Marlow students to unite since the kids were filtered in from both communities. Connie was an educator at South Effingham Elementary School for 10 years. She later went to South Effingham Middle School, where she taught 7th grade math for 18 years before retiring in 2014, after teaching for 38 years in all.

Following retirement, Connie did some substitute teaching.

She was then asked to assume the role of New Teacher Induction Coordinator for Effingham County, allowing her to serve as a

mentoring coordinator for new teachers. What’s more, it would allow her the ability to interact with students.

Connie states, “Kids were my life and I love them…God’s creation. They are our future. Anything we can do to help them grow and become the young men and women of today—it’s our responsibility. I am just blessed that God gave me this gift. Obviously, He does not want me to give it up yet. Now it’s a different role, but it’s one I love dearly.”

Connie further declares, “My favorite aspect about my new role is having the opportunity to see how each school in the county has its own personal touch to add to the overall effectiveness of our system. It is all about teamwork,” Connie notes.

A three-year induction program has been established for new teachers. Connie, the coordinator, visits them periodically throughout the school year to observe them and overall classroom activities. School mentors are “individually assigned to each new protégé,” who strives to emulate their mentors during the first year. Connie, along with the school board’s human resources department, makes sure that the teachers and mentors are “properly paired and work well together.” She meets with them to discuss any concerns, their teaching strategies and their goals. During the second year, teachers are empowered and encouraged to “develop their own style” as they continue to grow in their profession.

Connie continues to meet with the teachers and mentors, while offering her professional acumen and support. During the last year, teachers incorporate their own individual style “with as much guidance as they need and as much freedom as they desire.”

The county takes great efforts to keep their good teachers. The percentage of highly effective teachers leaving the field within “five years of teaching” is increasing at unacceptable rates each year in this country. Connie, “along with a cooperative team of administrators, teachers and central office personnel,” is committed to beat those odds.

Connie has been inspired by several individuals throughout her life and is thankful for them all. She mentions her special treasure—her husband David.

“He is my #1 fan. He always supported my teaching profession and has always said, as I myself feel, that ‘It’s been a calling from God.’ He always promoted my passion for education and for being with children. I just thank him so much for being there for me.”

Connie talks about one of her most memorable mentors, Principal Harris Hinely, who passed away many years ago.

“That man loved his school and his children so much. He just went beyond. He had a huge influence on my educational doctrine and beliefs. Families loved him, the kids loved him and his teachers loved him—he was just magnificent,” she comments. Connie remembers him going the extra mile “stripping and waxing the floors of the new school so that it would be perfect for the kids and www.Effingham

Magazine.com | August/Seprember 2016 17

“It’s all about the heart. The two things that are missing in the world are God and love.”

parents coming in.” Connie recalls his professionalism, drive and humor. She laughs and speaks of a time at Marlow Elementary when he came into her class with “gummi bears hanging from his nose” just to give the kids a good laugh.

Connie appreciates the whole team that she has the honor to work with at the Board of Education-those who share many of her same goals and wants “what’s best for the kids.”

She is very glad to have “such a good leader “in Superintendant Randy Shearouse and knows that his noteworthy experience is a tremendous asset to the team. Connie is grateful for the oppor-

tunity to work with Mrs. Susan Hartzog, Human Resource Director and Mrs. Lori Dasher, Human Resource Coordinator.

Mrs. Hartzog is a former principal and teacher. Connie admires “the vision that she has for the future.”

“We just click. There’s a good balance.

She has so many back experiences to build on. She’s fabulous,” Connie asserts.

Some of Connie’s biggest inspirations have been the children that she has been blessed to teach. She feels that they are the true indicators of an educator’s success.

She states, “They’re the judge of my teaching ability.”

Many of her past students have won-

18 August/Seprember 2016 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

derful things to say about her. One letter in particular was written about four years ago by Gabby Graham, one of Mrs. Carter’s former 7th grade math students. As part of her college admissions requirements, Gabby wrote a heartfelt essay to Furman University concerning “the most influential person in her life.” Her mom, Mrs. Mariella Manhatton, was happy to have found the letter, which was so touching and beautifully written that the admissions counselor mailed Gabby a card stating “how meaningful it was for her to have a chance to come across that essay.” Some excerpts include: Mrs. Connie Carter “taught me as much about living life passionately and faithfully as she did about conquering seventh grade math!” Gabby states that “she [Mrs. Carter] taught math as if it were her true calling, not as if she had come to another day of work and drudgery.” Gabby goes on to mention that Mrs. Carter’s “passion overflowed, but, more importantly, so did her genuine warmth and compassion.”

Gabby says that all of Mrs. Carter’s students “understood that she gave her love and attention freely and unconditionally” and points out that “Mrs. Carter’s positive attitude, passion for life and love for God makes her the most influential person” in her life.

Connie enjoys a few hobbies in her spare time. “I love to work in my yard, and I’m a power-walker—I love to walk.” Connie also has a creative side and loves HGTV. She likes decorating and doing fun projects around the house. Few rooms in her home are without some of her spiffy handiwork.

Connie Carter plans to “look forward to a future that’s bright and filled with God-given gifts.” Connie has a remarkable heart for children and knows that “they are our future.” In her own words, “It’s all about the heart. Two things that are missing in the world are God and love.”

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912.826.0927 Magazine.com | August/Seprember 2016 19

The Best Mexican Food In Town

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20 August/Seprember 2016 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

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Appointments Available In: Springfield, Pooler, Bluffton & Savannah

www.Effingham

Magazine.com | August/Seprember 2016 21

RANDY SHEAROUSE:

An Inspiring Vision Today, Incredible Hope for Tomorrow

R

story by katrice williams photos by tonya chester perry

andy Shearouse is an Effingham native. He and his wife Rhonda have been married for 24 years. The couple has a son Kieffer, 21, and a daughter Annah, 19, who are both students at the University of Georgia. They chose a completely different alma mater than their dad, who is a Georgia Southern University Eagle to the heart.

Randy has been the Superintendant of Effingham County Schools for 12 years. Further, it is actually Randy’s 29th year in the field of education.

Randy started his career in 1988 as a history teacher at Effingham County High School, where he taught for four years. He went on to become the assistant principal at Marlow Elementary School. Later, Randy accepted the position as principal at Sand Hill Elementary School, where he remained for eight years.

Following his tenure there, Randy embraced an opportunity as the Effingham County High School Principal. After two years of service there, Randy applied for the position as Effingham County Superintendant, an opportunity that he felt very “fortunate to get.”

The Effingham County School System is “the largest employer in Effingham County,” having “eight elementary schools, three middle schools, two high schools and one college and career academy.” The school system employs over 1,600 people.

As superintendant, Randy strives to make decisions that will have a positive and meaningful impact on every student in the district. Encompassing a strong leadership style and a sincere heart for education, Randy does not take his role lightly, and he is grateful for the strong team he works with. Randy confirms that their primary philosophy is…kids first.

He insists, “We make sure that every child receives a really good education. Our administrators are very committed to our school district. A lot of them, just like me, have come all the way through the school system. We really care deeply about the success of the school district.”

Most parents and educators alike want children to attain a great education, while developing into healthy and productive members of the community. Randy shares in those feelings. In fact, he’s proud to mention that the Effingham College and Career Academy has incorporated a variety of beneficial programs and a strong curriculum to insure that students have the opportunity to develop noteworthy skills in their areas of interests in order to be abundantly prepared for their academic and career endeavors.

“We need to make sure that our kids are prepared, so they can get in the very best schools. I think we’ve done a really good job of making sure that what we’re providing our students is meeting the needs of the community as well; that’s been very important to us.” he states.

Randy does not take his teachers for granted, nor does he dismiss the opportunity to hire the most dedicated, driven and caring individuals whenever possible, understanding that they are the foundation of education.

“The most important duty that we have as administrators is hiring the right teachers to be in the classroom. We’ve been very fortunate; we have a lot of folks applying to come to Effingham

22 August/Seprember 2016 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

County, which is great. We’re fortunate that we have a great partnership with area colleges; they send a lot of student teachers into schools to intern,” Randy mentions.

As a parent himself, Randy can identify with the feelings that parents have concerning their own children, those who genuinely want the best for their kids— the best educators, academic environments and future opportunities. Knowing the high expectations that he has for his own children, Randy “wants the same opportunities for every child.”

“It’s our community—our kids. We want to make sure that we have high standards,” he proclaims.

Though the school board has implemented a variety of programs and ideas over the years, Randy is looking forward to several things to come. A new STEM Academy (science, technology, engineering and math) that is part of the Effingham College and Career Academy will be in operation beginning this school term.

It will consist of students from Effingham County High School and South Effingham County High School. It will initially enroll 250 ninth and tenth graders, while “adding 125 students per year over the next two years.” Student will have a variety of career paths to choose from, including health care, computer science and engineering, just to name a few.

Moreover, Randy is happy that out of a total of 110 buses, 58 will be equipped with air conditioning this year. As the new concept is phased in, buses with “the longest routes” will have air conditioning first; however, Randy is looking forward to all the buses providing air conditioning for the comfort of the drivers and students.

He remarks, “As we buy new buses and phase the older ones out, they will all have air in the future. I’m really excited about that perk—for the drivers and students to be comfortable.”

Further, Randy talks about another goal that the community is really behind—improvement of the tracks at Effingham County High School and South Effingham High School. There are future plans to replace the old asphalt tracks, which will mean higher quality ones for the students, while giving the schools the ability to host more track meets.

Randy mentions that there are plans to incorporate more safety protocols in each school. He knows that being proactive is a necessity in matters of child safety. New innovations are underway, like “safety vestibules for interior doors.”

“We’re going to continue looking at different safety measures that we may want to put in place over the next several years, because we do feel like that’s very important—to keep our schools safe,” Randy states.

Randy feels privileged to be a part of such an extraordinary school district.

He asserts, “There’s a lot to be proud of in this district. The people are great, the community is great. I’m really proud.”

Randy loves to spend quality time with his wife; they love to travel together. He also enjoys hunting, fishing and jogging alongside his Labrador Retriever.

Randy Shearouse is looking forward to a promising future for the school system and its kids. He, alongside his entire Effingham County School System Team, has no plans to settle for less.

www.Effingham

Magazine.com | August/Seprember 2016 23

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Magazine.com | August/Seprember 2016 25

Kelly Heads Up City’s Planning and Development

E

story by julie hales

ffingham County native, LaMeisha Hunter Kelly, serves as the City Planner/Director of Planning and Development Services for the City of Rincon. In the past, Rincon has had a Planning and Zoning Department. In Kelly’s words, “We have evolved from that, we are now called Planning and Development Services.

She and her staff handle all building and zoning needs, business licenses and special events planning.

Kelly is very excited about the commercial activity we are seeing here in Rincon that she feels will be spurred by the new Kroger project. She says, “This is a very unique project, in that it is the first of its kind in this area. So, now when Kroger goes to places like Statesboro or Hinesville, they will bring people to Rincon to look at the project here. Rincon will be the showcase.”

“In terms of other property in the area, and other people coming to the area, I am excited about those projects and what they are going to do,” Kelly adds.

Kelly also confirmed that Chik-Fil-A is still coming. They put off construction for the Kroger project to be complete. With the new intersection being installed, they have changed their location to be there, and are still coming to the city.

Kroger is currently marketing the outparcels in front of the new Market Place. They also have a 12,000 square foot commercial building already approved by the city that they will be adding to the side backing up to Tractor Supply. Construction on this project should be starting very soon. Again, Kroger’s marketing department will be handling the rental of these units so the city does not know yet what new businesses will be coming in.

When Kelly was asked, what has the new Kroger done for Rincon, she replied, “What hasn’t it done? It has increased traffic.

Most people don’t think the increased traffic is a good thing, but when you want growth, increased traffic is one of the things that comes with it. We do ask our citizens to be patient. We are in process of making our traffic flow easier.”

Kelly adds, ”When people talk about the number of cars and trucks we now have on 21, that’s good news to me. That means activity. That means people are spending money in Rincon and Effingham County. That means sales tax. That means ESPLOST. It’s all money that is coming back to the taxpayers.”

Commercial growth in our city seems to be inevitable. “Rincon is small, but it has big city issues. But, at the same time, it has big city potential,” states Kelly.

“When you have a big company like Kroger coming in, it brings other companies with it. That’s called opportunity. We have a lot of older buildings in Rincon. I am excited to see the next phase, redevelopment. We may see some of the older buildings being torn down and new structures going up. We also have older buildings with good bones and decent sized lots. I see those buildings being refurbished and put back to use. I am very excited about redevelopment in general.”

Residential growth is also something always on the front burner for the Planning and Development Services of the city. “Residential is steady. Even during the recession, we still had permits

26 August/Seprember 2016 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

coming in. The biggest issue we face is the fact that we only have a limited amount of space. So, at the rate of growth, and the buildable lots we have available, we have about five years before we build out,” states Kelly, “We do have numerous lots left inside subdivisions that we are actively recruiting developers for. We want to make sure we always have areas for continued residential growth.”

With an estimated build out in five years, where does the growth come from later? Kelly says, “Annex. Annexation has been on our mind for the last 3-4 years. We have an Annexation Master Plan. We need to know where we are going and how we are going to get there.”

With Kelly in charge of Planning and Development, it is evident that the City of Rincon’s development plans are in good hands.

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Magazine.com | August/Seprember 2016 27

4th Annual

A

Back2School Blowout

story by jeff whitten

photos by jeff whitten and provided by destiny bradshaw

s a former educator who taught in both Chatham and Effingham counties, Destiny Bradshaw knows firsthand that the start of a new school year can be a tough time for those who struggle to make ends meet.

“Many times I watch families shopping excitedly in the stores for new shoes, clothes, book bags, binders and other supplies and I think to myself, there are so many children that are not having this fun, lighthearted back to school experience,” Bradshaw said.

“More than once, I have been asked, ‘Can’t the parents just go to the counselor’s office and ask for school supplies?’ As someone who has experienced both sides of the scenario: an educator working with families in need and a parent experiencing a financial setback, I explained that it isn’t quite that simple.”

Simple, no. But it can be helped.

That’s one of the reasons Bradshaw, the executive director of Effingham County’s Ready2CONNECT, Inc., continues to be the driving force behind the Back2School Blowout, an event that has grown by leaps and bounds since it started in 2012. That year, more than 250 students attended. This July, 818 children were served by 52 volunteers and 38 vendors and barbers.

And like many efforts to make our community a better place, the Back2School Blowout was born out of necessity and involved a number of people who matched kind hearts and good intentions with the work necessary to make it happen. But the Blowout wasn’t something she planned on doing, at least not at first.

“The initial onset of this event was not something that I intentionally set out to orchestrate, “ Bradshaw said. “I was encouraged to host the very first back to school event after the ‘National Night Out’ that was scheduled for that year was rained out and ultimately cancelled. Many of the participating organizations, including ours, had already invested in school supplies to be distributed at Ulmer Park in Springfield.”

At the time, Bradshaw had just been hired by the United Way to set up the Center for Working Families and HELP Program in Effingham County. She wasn’t certain she had the contacts to make a back-to-school event happen, but others were there to help.

“Ms. Dottie Whitfield of Right from the Start Medicaid encouraged me to take on the charge. I immediately told her that no one knew me,” Bradshaw said. “She said she would help and so would many other community members. At this point, we only had two weeks to coordinate the event because agencies were expressing that they needed relief from the school supplies that were taking over every free space in their offices. My first thought was to have the event indoors, just in case we were rained out again, and we were, for the first two years! I’m so grateful for Mr. Clarence Morgan, Director of Effingham County Recreation & Parks for graciously letting us utilize his venue until we were literally bursting

at the seams. We then moved the venue to the Effingham County High School.”

While the location may have changed, the reason for the event remains the same.

“The desire and vision for the Back2School Blowout is that the back to school prep experience should be enjoyable for everyone,” Bradshaw said. “Educating our children should not be a stressful financial burden. While we want the families to have an enjoyable experience, the goal is to create a one-stop shop for parents to be exposed, educated and empowered to access the various community resources available to them. This is truly a community effort.

It has been an amazing journey. We are thankful for the many organizations and businesses that have joined the event to help empower families in our community.”

This is more than just a place for kids to go get free school supplies. It’s also a place for parents to get access to services. A look at the vendors who participated in this year’s Back2School Blowout shows just how important the event has become. The

Group of Kitchen Volunteers

Back2School 2015 Treutlen House-Nick Springer of Treutlen House has been grilling since the second Back2School

Jumping Jacks

Harlem Globetrotter, Eugene “Ice Man” at the Back2School 2012

Cuts by Eric- Owner & Barber Eric Hills

Mr. Petes Cut N Style

Magic Marc at Back2School 2013

vendor list includes Amerigroup, Ameris Bank, Countryside Baptist Church, Dairy Queen, the Georgia Dept. of Juvenile Justice-Effingham CSO, Dewitt Insurance Agency, Effingham County BOE Dept. of Exceptional Children, Effingham County BOE Title I, Effingham County EMS, Effingham County Health Dept., Effingham County BOE Homeless Liaison, Effingham County School Nutrition, Effingham RSM Project, Effingham YMCA, Empowered Life PC, Family Connection, Future Minds Literacy and Adult Education, Habitat for Humanity, Lice Treatment Center, Life Link, Live Oak Public Libraries, Manna House Ministries, Parent University-Effingham, Pregnancy Care Center, Rape Crisis Center of the Coastal Empire, Ready2CONNECT, Inc., Rincon Noon Lions Club, Social Apostolate, Ashley Boyette-State Farm, Teach Right, Treutlen House, Two Rivers Health Clinic, Walgreens and WellCare of Georgia.

What’s more, one of the main attractions has been the barbers and stylists who donate their time and talent to give kids free back to school haircuts. “Since the beginning there have been a select group of shops that have supported the event,” Bradshaw said, naming Cuts by Eric, Joey’s Barbershop, Pete’s Cuts N Styles, Salon J Hair Spa & Salon Navaeh, while noting that Mr. Blade,

Salon Navaeh

Destiny’s dad grilling at the first Back2School

located in Rincon, joined the group this year. Great Clips, Sports Clips and the Savannah Technical College Effingham Campus provided hair cut vouchers.

Knowing a good thing when they see it, Sponsors for the Back2School Blowout include Gulfstream, Burger King, Walmart, Manna House Ministries, United Way Hands On Savannah, Coca Cola, Effingham County Board of Education, Effingham County Recreation Department, Mitsubishi Motors, Cumulus Broadcasting, United Way 211, WellCare and Amerigroup.

And while this year’s Back2School Blowout is out the door, Bradshaw’s work isn’t done. Her agency, Ready2CONNECT, works year round to empower families to achieve career and family success by providing self-development programs, access to community resources, and community partnerships that promote educational, emotional and financial wellness. Ready2CONNECT helps with career readiness, financial and emotional empowerment, GED prep and literacy.

To learn more, volunteer or donate, contact Bradshaw and her team at empoweringlives@r2connect.org or call (912) 826-5300 ext. 115. www.Effingham

Magazine.com | August/Seprember 2016 29

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Effingham County STEM Academy

L

story by jeff whitten

ike many good investments in the future, the Effingham County STEM Academy building is something of a marvel, with energy saving and green technology built into various nooks and crannies across its impressive 46,632 square feet and two stories. But it’s what will be going on inside that matters most in this newest - for now - of all additions to Effingham County Schools.

For the uninitiated, STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math and has been in use in education circles for several years now, a result of studies showing the United States slipping behind other countries in such weighty subjects.

Effingham County Schools’ new STEM Academy seeks to address that deficit in the hard sciences by offering academically and intellectually challenging coursework that will help local students enter those fields of study by their senior - and in some cases junior - years of high school.

The man who led Effingham County School’s effort to form the STEM Academy curriculum is Travis Nesmith, a longtime teacher and former district-wide teacher of the year. He’s spent the last three years of his working life focusing on what the STEM Academy will provide students. At its heart, it’s about opportunity.

“We feel like we have already have a good school system,” Nesmith said. “Just by offering this program, I believe we’ll be able to produce even more graduates who will be able to enter

photos by jeff whitten the STEM field, it will increase our graduates’ chances of going to school in those areas. At the same time, there’s a national shortage of students in the fields of math and science and engineering, and we believe this will help not only the Effingham community, but also the state.”

Effingham’s STEM Academy, modeled somewhat on the Gwinnett School of Science, Technology and Mathematics, is one of only a handful of district-wide programs in the state and reportedly the first outside the sprawling metro of Atlanta. And it is not for the academically faint of heart. Students have to apply, and only the best are accepted. “We really want students to have a love for math and science,” Nesmith said. “If you don’t like those subjects, this is not for you.”

So far, there are 250 high school students enrolled - 125 freshmen and 125 sophomores. Next school year, another 125 freshmen graders will be added. Ultimately, the STEM Academy will hold 500 students in all four grades, though that number could be lower as some students leave after their junior year to start taking college classes.

Students at the STEM Academy, which is part and parcel of the Effingham College and Career Academy on Highway 21 between Rincon and Springfield, will be taught what educators call 21st Century problem solving and reasoning skills. It’s a departure from the old way of doing business, where a teacher stood at the www.Effingham

Magazine.com | August/Seprember 2016 31

head of a class and lectured, students took notes and then were tested to show what they had learned.

The new way is essentially a more collaborative, real-world approach in which students learn through problems they’re given to solve.” It’s a more student centered way of learning, Nesmith said, and includes classes on scientific research.

Students learn how various sciences fit together while they also get opportunities to focus on areas they want to study.

“If they’re interested in solar energy or biomedical science, for example, because maybe they’re going to college to be a forensic science, they can study the forensics here,” Nesmith said.

There are plans to offer what is being called an “energy pathway” because of a need in that field, but no matter what the student’s direction might be, he or she will get immersed in STEM subjects. A look at some of the required courses for incoming ninth graders at the Academy includes honors-level classes in algebra, biology, geometry, scientific research and world history. Students will also be required to take such regular high school courses as English, literature and composition; a foreign language and arts classes.

But they won’t be STEM Academy students, at least not officially. “They’ll still be Rebels or Mustangs,” Nesmith said.

Students, who have to either have their own transportation to the STEM Academy or be able to catch a school-provided shuttle, will be bused back to either Effingham County High School or South Effingham County High School at 2:30 p.m in order to participate in bands or clubs or sports. It’s still high school, after all.

“This is such an excellent opportunity

for the students in this county,” Nesmith said. “I’m very excited about it. It’s just been awesome to work on this the past three years.”

The building If the curriculum itself is the main story, the bricks and mortar which make up STEM Academy itself is something special.

Believed to be the first two-story school building in Effingham County’s history, the STEM Academy was funded after voters approved a SPLOST in November 2015.

Work began on the project, built at a cost of just under $7 million, soon afterward, and effectively doubles the size of the Effingham College and Career Academy, itself only six years old.

Slade Helmly, a former teacher who now works as Executive Director of Administrative Services for Effinghamn County Schools, headed up the STEM Academy building project, one of several for which he’s been responsible over the years. Pope Construction is the contractor, and James W. Buckley and Associates is the architectural firm who designed the STEM Academy. Both firms are well known and respected in school circles.

They’ve put together something special here. The STEM Academy has a kitchen and cafeteria on the first floor, along with six regular classrooms, an aircraft maintenance bay and classroom and a computer lab. The second floor includes seven classrooms, four science labs and a computer lab. The building includes LED lighting throughout and “green” - environmentally friendly - principals have been used throughout the design, whether that’s LED lighting, low VOC paint, a white membrane

32 August/Seprember 2016 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

roof or water-less urinals.

Even the feel inside the rooms, where large windows admit daylight and make for a more cheery atmosphere, makes Helmly feel the STEM Academy will be a 10 as far as local projects go.

“It’s meant to make a better learning environment, you’re not enclosed in some dark, drab place,” Helmly said. “You just feel so much better because of all the daylight that’s in here.”

The STEM Academy is following the same blueprint as Effingham Schools used when it built the ECCA. “We raised the bar when we built (ECCA),” Helmly said. “It’s just a better looking building and to me it’s more environmentally friendly and more people friendly.”

The new STEM Academy, like ECCA, may also end up saving taxpayers money in the long run. The ECCA allowed Effingham Schools to offer technical school classes at the high school level for both Effingham County High School and South Effingham High School without the cost of duplicating services. The STEM Academy will do the same for the sciences, Helmly noted. What he didn’t say was it could delay the need for taxpayers to be asked to fund the construction of a third high school. The 500 students here will free up classroom space for others at both ECHS and SEHS. “Pulling students from both high schools and bringing them here, it brings our students together, first of all, but it also allows us to offer programs in a more economic way,” Helmly said. “Offering automotive classes is expensive. Building labs is expensive. Doing it this way, you get economy of scale and you don’t have to duplicate services at two high schools.”

Nesmith, who has done his part in helping establish the curriculum and has now turned the STEM Academy over to Effingham Career Academy Principal Ashley Kieffer, said he and other school officials looked at STEM programs, which differ from STEM Academies in that they are at a single school but believed from the outset an Academy was the way to go. It will mean more kids in the hard sciences.

“South Forysth is one of those that has a STEM program, and it’s in a separate hallway in the high school. Ours is more designed around doing it for the system, and we think doing it this way just makes us that much more successful in having our graduates going into STEM-related subject areas,” he said. “I think this is a great opportunity for our students. It’s probably the only program like it in South Georgia.

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W

story by jeff whitten

hen it comes to the repair or assembly of hydraulic systems, there can be a lot more than a job riding on the outcome. Your equipment, your reputation, your company, your safety, even your life - any or all of those can be at stake if a system isn’t repaired correctly. Nobody knows that better than Eric Edwards and Nicholas Bogalis, owners of Vortex Industrial Hose and Hydraulic Services in Rincon.

Prior to opening Vortex in February, the two men worked in the corporate and general aviation industry for three decades and spent 25 years working together at Gulfstream, where they were involved in building, repairing, overhauling and inspecting hydraulic systems to comply within the precise specifications required by the Federal Aviation Administration’s for flight safety.

That’s why Edwards, Bogalis and the Vortex staff know that everything depends on getting the job done right the first time. They also know that even the smallest job is important, and that quality craftsmanship matters. It’s what you do that counts.

34 August/Seprember 2016 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

photos by jeff whitten What’s more, both Edwards and Bogalis are Effingham County residents, and Edwards grew up here and Effingham remained his home except during a five-year stint in the Marine Corps. Both he and Bogalis saw a need for a high level hydraulic shop near Savannah that was capable of serving both industrial clients and individuals. Since opening the doors of Vortex Industrial Hose and Hydraulic Services at 169 Commercial Court behind ChooChoo’s off Highway 21 and Goshen Road, their business has grown mostly by word of mouth. Edwards and Bogalis’ clients now routinely include companies and individuals working with the Georgia Department of Transportation and others who depend upon heavy equipment such as backhoes, frontloaders, excavators and cranes. If it’s heavy equipment and it has hydraulics, or even if it’s not heavy equipment but depends upon hydraulics, chances are Vortex can repair it. And that saves folks a trip to Savannah, which in turn saves time and money. It also keeps business revenue right here in Effingham County, helping our community grow stronger.

So what does Vortex specifically do? It’s specialized, but it’s an important specialization. Edwards, Bogalis and Slade Johnson can disassemble, repair and reseal hydraulic cylinders up to 36 feet long and 16 inches in diameter. They are able to verify the seal integrity and functionality of everything they work on. Vortex also provides rapid service, competitive pricing and pickup and delivery to Effingham and Chatham. And, as a relatively new company, they’re adaptable. That means if someone needs a hydraulics-related service that Vortex doesn’t currently offer, call them anyway to see if it’s something they might be willing to try, since Vortex is intent on expanding both its infrastructure and capabilities.

Vortex’s clientele also includes those who might need a hydraulic or industrial hose needed to support their specific need or application. “Anything that’s hydraulic and works in linear motion, we can repair it,” Edwards said. “And the items that actually control the system, as well as the cylinders and valves and pumps, the heart of the system, we take care of those as well. We do all those specific repairs and are always looking for different challenging projects as well.

But Edwards and Bogalis believe in keeping their commitment to honesty and trustworthiness. Because while there’s no job too big, some are too small to be worth your time and money to fix. Take those handjacks you can buy at a retail store. Chances are, that’s not something you can repair without spending more than the jack is worth.

“If we can’t fix it, or if it’s not economically feasible to fix it, we’ll let you know,” Edwards said. “In the aviation industry, your word is your bond. What you say matters, and that follows you around. So we’ve actually sent work elsewhere if we thought it was in the best interest of the customer.”

Though a new company, Vortex has already shown its commitment to Effingham County. Edwards and Bogalis support the Josh Reddick Foundation and other good causes. “We want to pay it forward,” Edwards said. “We want to be a part of the community because we live here, we work here, we do business here. We don’t do it to get attention, we’re just trying to do the right thing. We want to be a part of the foundation here in Rincon and we’re hoping to be here for the long haul.”

Now, let Vortex Industrial Hose and Hydraulic System get to work getting you back to work. Because so much more than just the job can depend on it.

www.Effingham

Magazine.com | August/Seprember 2016 35

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Meet Your ASSISTANT

PRINCIPALS 2016-2017 Effingham County School Administrators

www.Effingham

Magazine.com | June/July 2016 39

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ASSISTANT PRINCIPALS Deidre Ford School: Marlow Elementary Years in education: 18 Degrees: Bachelors in Middle Grades Education, Masters in Educational Leadership, both from Georgia Southern.

What she does: I am the new Assistant Principal at Marlow Elementary School,” Ford said. “I will be in charge of discipline and working with students and teachers.”

Why she likes her job: “I love my job!” Ford said.

“I get to work with students every day.”

What she does to unwind: “I spend time with my family and enjoy going to the beach.”

School: Rincon Elementary Years in Education: 21 Degrees: Bachelor of Fines Arts, University of Georgia, 1989; Master’s in Education, Georgia Southern, 1994; Leadership Certification, University of Georgia, 2004; Education Specialist, Lincoln Memorial University, 2012.

What she does: “As Assistant Principal at Rincon Elementary, I oversee the Response to Intervention program for students in need of additional academic or behavior assistance to be successful. I coordinate the school safety plan and duties for the faculty and staff. I observe and evaluate the performance of certified teachers throughout the year. I handle discipline referrals of certain grade levels and the school’s bus discipline. Other duties include attending special education meetings and 504 Plan meetings in the role of LEA; facilities/grounds management; supervising the arrival and departure of school buses daily; cafeteria seating assignments and scheduling; weekly collaboration with assigned grade levels; attending parent conferences as requested; assisting with testing as directed by the Instructional Supervisor; attending weekly meetings

with the RES administrative team; overseeing the school chapter of the Junior Beta Club.

Why she likes her job: “I have a history with Rincon Elementary School. I attended 1st through 6th grade on this campus during the 1970s. Then, in 1992, I was fortunate enough to return to RES in my 3rd year of teaching and spent the next 10 years here as a 4th/5th grade teacher. I returned to RES 8 years ago as Assistant Principal. It will be bittersweet to say goodbye to this campus when we move to the new campus. I have spent so much of my life on Richland Avenue and consider this my home away from home. I have enjoyed having my son attend school here so that I could watch him grow academically and socially just like all of our other students.”

What she does unwind: “I enjoy travelling with family and friends,” Kieffer said. “ I look forward to setting sail on the next cruise when I am able fit one into my schedule, especially with my son. I enjoy watching my daughter compete in Skeet and Sporting Clays with the Forest City Gun Club Juniors team. Reading for enjoyment has been a lifelong hobby.”

School: Guyton Elementary Years in Education: 34 Degrees: Bachelor of Scien ce in Home Economics, University of Georgia; Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, Education Specialist Degrees in Early Childhood Education and Education Leadership, Georgia Southern.

What she does as an assistant principal: “A little bit of everything and anything Mrs. Connelly needs me to do!” McCormick said. That little bit of everything and anything includes evaluating and supporting teachers, taking care of bus and classroom discipline, facililating Tier 2 invervention meeting, attending Tier 3 and 504 meetings, building community relations with Guyton Elementary and overseeing building safety.

Why she likes her job: “I love the people in which I work with and I especially love the interaction with elementary age students,” McCormick said. “It is the grandest experience to watch children grow academically as well as physically. Their smile makes me smile!”

What she does to unwind: “Spending time with my grandchildren is an awesome way for me to have fun! Whether we are playing on the water slide, squirting each other with water guns, making jelly together, or riding the golf cart on the farm, they always make me happy! I also enjoy a beautiful sunset, sitting on the porch enjoying the sound of rain, fishing, and believe it or not, donning the camo and sitting on a deer stand!”

Tracy Kieffer

Paula McCormick

40 August/Seprember 2016 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

Patricia McDaniel School: South Effingham Elementary Years in Education: 25 Degrees: Bachelor of Science in Education, Masters in Education, Educational Specialist.

What she does: McDaniel handles a number of roles, from coordinating the “Tiers of Intervention” process for students struggling academically and behaviorally to the school’s safety plan and keeping staff up to date on proper procedures. She also organizes management of the cafeteria and its support staff, oversees IEP meetings and evaluates teachers.

In addition, McDaniel handles student discipline, commucates with parents on student progress and helps the principal “in all aspects of school management such as instruction, building and grounds maintenance, and student and parent concerns,” she said. “I see my role as doing all that I can to assist

teachers and maximizing instruction.”

Why she likes her job: “There are so many things! It is amazing to have the opportunity to visit classrooms and see exemplary teaching and learning taking place,” said McDaniel. “Perhaps the most rewarding thing about my job is to help a struggling student to improve and to ‘turn things around,’ whether it is academically or behaviorally. I always say that educators do extraordinary things every day, so they often forget that they are changing lives one day at a time.”

What she does to unwind: “My husband and I love to travel and spend time with our friends and families. I find laughter to be the best stress relief, and when you love what you do, that happens on a regular basis.”

School: Blandford Elementary Years in Education: 16 Degrees: Bachelor of Science in Middle Grades Education, a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership, and an Educational Specialist’s Degree in Educational Leadership. Newkirk attended the University of Georgia and Georgia Southern.

What she does as an assistant principal: “I assist in overseeing the safety of our school and that our students maintain proper conduct while at BES,” Newkirk said. “It is my goal and passion that these young girls and boys continue to receive a superb and sound education that will enable them to embark on flourishing opportunities and eminent careers in the future.”

Why she likes her job: “I truly do love my job, and without question, I love my job because of the people! There are so many stakeholders that unite to take part in our children’s education,” Newkirk said.

“The parents of this terrific community are extremely supportive, encouraging, and are advocates of maintaining a strong instructional foundation and

utilizing best practices at BES and overall in Effingham County Schools. The staff at Blandford Elementary is magnificent, each one holding various areas of expertise, and sharing that knowledge through various forms of instructional techniques so that girls and boys can receive optimal instruction. What an outstanding staff in which to come to school and work with each day! My passion, and among the favorite of them all, are the children. It is the students who are at the helm of this process, and what an important stakeholder they are as we all aspire for them to become productive citizens, making wise decisions as they pursue a desirable and prosperous profession.”

What she does to unwind: “I enjoy spending time with my husband, two young boys, and my extended families. I am also very blessed to have such wonderful friends in which I also love to devote time. Other activities that I immensely enjoy are boating, spending time at the lake and attending UGA football games.”

School: Springfield Elementary Years in Education: 21 Degrees: Education Specialist Degree in Teaching and Learning with Leadership Certification – Georgia Southern University, 2008; Master’s Degree in Middle Grades Education – Armstrong Atlantic State University (2000); Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration/Marketing – Georgia Southern University (1993).

What he does as an assistant principal: Implement and manage programs in accordance with Effingham County and Springfield Elementary mission statements; investigate student data and facilitate academic and behavior intervention programs as needed; facilitate student and overall school safety program; counsel students and implement behavior modification strategies to improve classroom climate; facilitate open communication between students, parents, teachers, support staff, and administration to best meet the individual needs of

each student; anything the students, teachers, and/ or staff need me to do.

Why he likes his job: “I love my job and consider it a blessing to have the opportunity impact young lives each day,” Sikes said. “I really enjoy talking to students, parents, and teachers and seeking solutions. There is no greater feeling than witnessing a struggling student overcome adversity and find success. I also have to stress how blessed I am to work with the teachers, support staff, and administrative team at SES. The professionalism, attitude, energy, and dedication of our staff inspire me each and every day.”

What he does to unwind: “In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Bilinda, and our two sons, Joey (11) and Jordan (9). Our favorite things to do together include trips to the movies and the waterpark, and I also enjoy coaching my sons’ basketball and soccer teams.”

Lori M. Newkirk

Tony Sikes

www.Effingham

Magazine.com | August/Seprember 2016 41

David C. Smith School: Sand Hill Elementary Years in Education: 23 Degrees: Bachelor of Science in Education, 1993, Master of Science in Education, 1999, Education Specialist, 2009 - all from Georgia Southern.

What he does as assistant princpal: “I assist the principal in day to day operations of a Title 1 elementary school with over 625 students and 95 staff members in grades Pre-K through 5th grade, and act on her behalf when she is unavailable,” said Smith, who is also a lieutenent colonel in the Georgia Air National Guard and serves as deputy commander of the 165th Mission Support Group/AIrlift Wing in Savannah. “Our goal is to challenge each student and staff member to achieve the best they can each and every day. We strive to provide a base for formal education, as well as, a base for developing into responsible and caring citizens of our community, state, and nation. “ Smith has also been football and baseball coach in the district as well.

Why he likes his job: “It provides me the opportunity to enhance the lives of all members of our school community - students, staff, parents and the

community at-large. The joy of seeing our students overcome challenges and obstacles they face provide the intrinsic reward that is greater than any extrinsic reward. At this point in my career and the school where I work now, life is making a full circle. I have the privilege of teaching the children of several of my former high school classmates. Additionally, each year I see more of my former students enjoy bringing their children to begin their formative school years. And with each passing year, some of these former students are now fellow staff members and fellow colleagues in teaching and in the Air National Guard with me.”

What he does to unwind: Not sure if I ever get to unwind, but when I do, my most recent activities include sporting clays, golf, DIY projects around the house, spending time with family, and enjoying the lakes and mountains of North Georgia and North Carolina and the beach,” Smith said. “Additionally, I enjoy promoting Boy Scouts of America to my students. We have a strong Scouting movement in Effingham, and I am passionate in promoting the outstanding programs offered for all ages.”

School: Ebenezer Elementary Years in Education: 25 Degrees: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, Master’s in Early Childhood Education, Education Specialist, all from Georgia Southern.

What she does as an assistant principal: “I am willing to do any job that is necessary to help the school be a better place for children to learn,” Wright said. “There are new situations that arise every day that need attention. My job focuses on school improvement and analyzing data, providing intervention plans for students, providing support for teachers and support staff, evaluating teachers,

and student discipline. Our school works together as a team, so we work together to get the job done!”

Why she likes her job: “ I love my job because every day is different. Each day brings new challenges and experiences. I not only love working with young children, but also, love working with teachers.

The Effingham County Board of Education supports their employees and it makes it an enjoyable place to work!”

What she does to unwind: “I like to spend time with family and friends,” Wright said. “I love to travel, and I enjoy going to the beach.”

Dana Wright

Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.

- Nelson Mandela

42 August/Seprember 2016 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

MIDDLE SCHOOL ASSISTANT PRINCIPALS Christy Brown School: South Effingham Middle School Years in Education: 14 Degrees: Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, Master’s in Educational Leadership and Educational Specialist’s Degree in Educational Leadership, all from Georgia Southern.

What she does: “As an assistant principal at SEMS, I work alongside the other administrators to maintain a smooth and operational school,” Brown said. “Together, we ensure that the school is safe and conducive for learning. Some of my individual roles include: student disciplinarian, Response to Inter-

vention coordinator, teacher evaluator and safety coordinator.”

Why she like sher job: “The main reason I enjoy my job is the amazing people I’m surrounded by each day. Also, as an administrator, our day is never the same. It is an exciting job, and you never know what will happen in a given day. Above all, I love children, and I’m honored to be a part of their lives.”

How she unwinds: “I unwind by spending time with my family. We like to travel, take the boat out, and just hang out with each other.”

School: South Effingham Middle School Years in Education: 15 Degrees: Bachelors of Science in Middle Grades Education, Masters of Education in Educational Leadership.

What she does: Dean, who spent 13 years in the classroom as a teacher, is her school’s Special Education Administrator, Gifted and Talented Administrator, STEAM Administrator, Testing Administrator and Hospital Homebound Administrator.

She’s also responsible for 8th grade discipline, bus discipline, student and staff recognition, volunteer training and more.

Why she likes her job: “I like my job because I love working with the students and teachers,” Dean said. “ I want every student to have the best opportunity to become a successful adult.”

What she does to unwind: “I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. My hobbies are cooking and traveling.”

School: Effingham County Middle Years in Education: 11 Degrees: Bachelor of Science in Middle Grades Education, Armstrong Atlantic State; Master of Education in Adult Education and Community Leadership, Armstrong Atlantic State; Education Specialist in Educational Leadership, Valdosta State.

Assistant principal questions: What she does: Jordan is the instructional superviser/assistant principal at EMS. “I design our school’s master schedule, and I am responsible for creating a schedule to utilize our resources effectively to meet the needs of all learners in our school,” she said. “Part of this is working with teachers to implement the state mandated curriculum through proven instructional strategies. Managing the funds

at our school allows me to ensure the teachers have the materials needed to engage the learners in the classroom. “ Why she likes her job: “Putting puzzles together is something I have always enjoyed doing, so this job allows me to do what I love. I collect data and enjoy taking all the small pieces and putting them together to create a big picture of our overall school performance.”

What she does to unwind: “Spending quality time with my family always eases my mind and helps me unwind. We enjoy camping and spending time outdoors. Our favorite thing to do over our summer break is to go boating, deep sea fishing and snorkeling. We always look forward to our annual trip to the Keys.”

Carla Dean

Crystal Jordan

www.Effingham

Magazine.com | June/July 2016 43

Ginger Kessler School: Effingham County Middle Years in Education: 13.5 Degrees: Bachelor of Science in Middle Grades Education, Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership, and an Educational Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership What Kessler does: “My responsibilities as an Assistant Principal as ECMS include overseeing 6th grade discipline and working as the testing coordinator,” she said. “I also assist teachers in helping develop a challenging and innovative learning environment to meet the needs of all students.”

Why she likes her job: “I enjoy being an Assistant Principal because it allows me to continue to work with middle students but also provides an opportunity to make a greater impact at ECMS by supporting teachers and staff.”

What she does to unwind: “I unwind by spending time with family and friends.”

School: Ebenezer Middle Years in Education: 12 Degrees: Bachelor of Arts in Spanish, minor in Sociology, Georgia Southern; Certification in Middle Grades Language Arts and Social Studies, Armstrong State; Master of Education in Educational Leadership, Georgia Southern.

What she does: “As an assistant principal at EMS, I am responsible for the overall safety of our school,” Strickland said. “This includes planning for drills in emergency situations, handling behavioral concerns on school transportation, within the classroom, and during transition periods.”

Why she likes her job: “I’m a problem-solver at heart. So believe it or not, I love discipline because it involves problem-solving,” says Strickland. “Most people laugh when I make that statement, but it’s

easy for me to relate to students that might be dealing with issues at school or at home. Being able to sit down with students one-on-one can be very enlightening. And sometimes if you listen carefully, you can actually gain insight and wisdom from these children. So coming to work every day is really quite easy. We have the best faculty and staff...just like one big happy family. If you love what you do, it’s not a job.”

What she does to unwind: “Since we have 3 active children, it can be a bit difficult to find time to unwind. Sometimes we take golf cart rides down dirt roads or play kick ball in the backyard. Since I’m a planner, what I most love to do in my spare time is plan our next family vacation. We love to travel and visit new places,” Strickland said, “especially via a Disney cruise ship.”

School: Ebenezer Middle Years in education: 23 Degrees: Ed.S in Educational Leadership, Valdosta State; 2016; Masters in Educational Leadership, Georgia Southern, 2002; Bachelor of Science in Education, Georgia Southern, 1992.

What she does: Usher’s responsibilities “center on working with the special programs at school, including those focused on helping all students succeed,” she said. Usher serves as a liaison with Effingham County Board of Education’s Department of Exceptional Students to ensure children with disabilities receive a top-notch education. She also works closely with teachers at Ebenezer to identify struggling learners and provide these students with the support necessary for their academic success. Usher also serves as the school’s Testing Coordinator managing the administration of state-mandated assessments.

Why she likes her job: “As an educator it should

come as no surprise to discover I love learning. My profession has allowed me to be a life-long learner.

I learn from my fellow administrators, the teachers, our parents, and most importantly from our students. Discovering new ways to make learning engaging and meaningful for our children is a daily challenge that pushes me to grow not only as an administrator, but also as simply an adult who has the ability to make a difference in the life of a child.”

What she does to unwind: “Throughout my life I have discovered there is no better companion, teacher, or friend than a good book. Books allow me to travel, learn, and enjoy new experiences without leaving the comfort of my home. I enjoy reading a variety of genres and have strived to foster a love for reading in my own children. Some of my best memories include reading “The Berenstain Bears” or “Clifford the Big Red Dog” when my children were young.”

Heather Strickland

Holly Usher

44 August/Seprember 2016 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

HIGH SCHOOL ASSISTANT PRINCIPALS Dr. Cheryl Cale School: South Effingham High School Years in Education: 37 Degrees: Bachelor of Arts in Education and Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Augusta College; Ed.D in Vocational, Technical, Occupational Education with specialization in Educational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University; Educational Leadership Certification from University of Georgia.

What she does: Cale is CTAE Director and Assistant Principal at SEHS. Why she likes her job: “I love what I do,” Cale

said. “I enjoy working with my teachers to bring career and technical pathway classes to our students.

These classes provide students with the technical and academic skills as well as employability skills and knowledge. This will in turn help them to better pursue postsecondary training or higher education and then enter their chosen career field.”

What she does to unwind: “I love spending time with my family. We love to travel but our favorite place is the beach. It is a place that we can go, unwind and just relax.”

Jeff Faith School: South Effingham High Years in Education: 12 Degrees: Bachelor of Arts in Communications, Master of Arts in Speech Communications, Master of Arts in School Counseling, and Ed.S in Leadership.

What he does: Faith is both an assistant principal and South Effingham’s Athletic Director.

Why he likes his job: I love my job because it allows me to empower others to be the best they can be,” Faith said.

What he does to unwind: “Spend time with my family and play sports.”

April Harvey School: South Effingham High School Years in Education: 7 Degrees: Bachelor of Science in History, Master of Arts in Teaching, Educational Specialist in Educational Leadership, all from Georgia Southern.

What she does: “I am the newest assistant principal on the SEHS administrative team,” Harvey said.

“I will also be serving as the testing coordinator for our school.”

Why she likes her job: “I am an Effingham native, and I am excited to be returning back home in order to work with the amazing staff at South Eff-

ingham High School. I love the family atmosphere of Effingham that fosters collaboration and teamwork.”

What Harvey does to unwind: “I love to travel, spend time with my family, and cross new items off of my bucket-list!”

School: South Effingham High School Years in Education: 14 Degrees: Bachelor of Arts in Health and Physical Exercise from Georgia College and State University.

Master’s in Education Administration from University of Phoenix.

What he does: A longtime baseball coach who led the Mustangs to the Class AAAA Final Four in 2016 before stepping down from coaching, Womack is now assistant principal at South Effingham High.

Why he likes his job: “I enjoy working with kids and seeing the transformation from kids to young

adults,” Womack said.

What he does to relax: Two words. “Play golf.”

Ron Womack

www.Effingham

Magazine.com | August/Seprember 2016 45

Dr. Nate Hayes School: Effingham County High School Years in Education: 30 Degrees: Bachelor of Arts in Education, Georgia Southern; Master’s in Education, Cambridge College, Boston, Mass.; Educational Specialist in Educational Leadership and Educational Doctorate in Educational Leadership, both from Argosy University in Sarasota, Florida.

What he does: Assistant Principal for 10th and 11th grades.

Why he likes his job: “I like working with students and helping them to realize their strengths and embrace their talents,” said Hayes, who is

also a longtime coach. “Coaching has given me the opportunity to mentor children of all ages and be a positive role model in the lives of at-risk students.”

What he does to unwind: “I coach my 10-yearold son,” Hayes said. “He plays recreation football, basketball and baseball. I enjoy reading the newspaper at night, and I am a GRILL MASTER!”

School: Effingham County High School Years in Education: 13 Degrees: Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, University of Georgia; Georgia Teacher Certificate in Secondary English Education, Masters in Educational Leadership, Education Specialist in Teaching and Learning, all from Georgia Southern.

What she does: “I am an assistant principal and the testing coordinator for Effingham County High School.”

Why she likes her job: “As an administrator, I like being an integral part of implementing positive changes in the school,” Morgan said. “I enjoy inter-

acting with teachers. I strive to show them compassion, lend a listening ear, do what I possibly can to make their jobs a little easier, and let them know I appreciate all the hard work they do to help our students be successful. Furthermore, I love getting to know the students and helping them grow to be productive, successful citizens.”

What shes does to unwind: “Unwind? What’s that? I have a 5 year-old son and a 3 year-old daughter. I do not get to unwind until I go to sleep at night,” Morgan said, adding a smiley face after her emailed comment.

Keri Morgan

Jessica Stephenson School: Effingham County High School Years in Education: 8 Degrees: Bachelor of Science in Second ary English Education, Masters in Teaching and Learning, Specialist in Teaching and Learning, all from Georgia Southern.

What she does: 9th grade Assistant Principal Why she likes her job: “I love my job because I am able to work with teachers, students, and community members each day,” Stephenson said.

“Working with the public and helping students and teachers has always been a passion of mine and be-

ing an assistant principal allows me to do that every day. Students and teachers need to know they are supported, and I am glad that I am able to encourage them.”

What she does to unwind: “I love traveling and spending time with my family,” Stephenson said.

“I have a 16 month old son who definitely keeps my husband and I busy.”

School: Effingham College and Career Academy Years in Education: 22 Degrees: Bachelors of Science in Education, Masters of Education, Educational Specialist and Doctorate of Education, all from Georgia Southern University.

What Pevey does: “I help supervise students that are in the STEM program,” she said. “This will be the first year for STEM and I am very excited about this opportunity. At this time, I wear many hats in the building and get to do many different things.

The most important job that I have is working with students, teachers and parents to help them with questions and issues that may arise during the day.”

Why she likes her job: “Being an assistant principal has always been a rewarding job. It is always

a new and different day when you arrive at work with the students and teachers,” Stephenson said.

“Through CTAE and the STEM program, students get to see real world applications of what they are learning. They learn about the various opportunities that are available for them after graduation. I enjoy helping the student and the parent to learn about these opportunities. I also enjoy working with the teachers that make all of this possible for the students.”

What she does unwind: “I enjoy reading, being with friends and family. I also enjoy being on the water, either at the beach or the river.”

Dr. Kathy D. Pevey

46 August/Seprember 2016 | www.Effingham Magazine.Com

It’scomforting comfortingto to know know United United Way Way of It’s of the the Coastal Coastal Empirehas hassuch such strong strong backing! backing! Thank Empire Thank you you Georgia-Pacificfor for giving giving your your time, time, talent, Georgia-Pacific talent, and and resources in producing the 2016 United Way resources in producing the 2016 United Way CampaignVideo: Video: BE BE THE THE ONE. ONE. Your Your generosity Campaign generosity allows us to improve lives in our community. allows us to improve lives in our community.

United Way of the Coastal Empire thanks the Effingham for| August/Seprember donating this ad. www .Effingham Magazine Magazine.com 2016 47 United Way of the Coastal Empire thanks the Effingham Magazine for donating this ad.

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