SoCPS Spotlight Spring 2024

S C HO OL OF C ON T I N U I N G & P ROF E S S I ON A L S T U DI E S

SPOTLIGHT SPRING 2024 NEWSLETTER

Andalusia Interpretive Center Now Open H ISTO R I C M U SEUMS C ELEBR ATES OVE R 1 8 ,0 0 0 V I SI TOR S THI S YEAR.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S WELCOME ANGELA CRISCOE, M.F.A. SCHOOL OF CONTINUING AND PROFESSIONAL STUDIES

Welcome to Georgia College & State University's School of Continuing and Professional Studies!

students and employees of Baldwin County School System and their families.

It's an exciting time to explore lifelong learning. If you are an employer, a professional, a student in a P-12 school district, a retiree, or you have an interest in enriching your life, we have something for you! The School of Continuing and Professional Studies is made up of six units that provide quality, educational programs to support your growth.

Milledgeville, Georgia's history can be explored through the programs offered by Historic Museums which oversees two National Historic Landmarks; Georgia's Old Governor's Mansion and Andalusia, home of famed American author Flannery O’Connor. The Sallie Ellis Davis House also resides within Historic Museums and provides a historical reference through the home of a dedicated and passionate Baldwin County educator.

Continuing and Professional Education is where you will find a plethora of educational programs that will help you acquire skills to advance your knowledge or grow in your career. We are working collaboratively with the four academic colleges at Georgia College to offer online graduate certificate programs, non-credit courses, and customized workforce training to help today's workers upskill and retool for the rapidly changing job market.

Our offices of Afterschool Achievement, Academic Outreach, and Communities in Schools provide support, resources, and educational programs to students in P-12 school districts. Students learn and strengthen their knowledge in science, technology, art, and leadership, while receiving support services to stay in school and seek out opportunities for growth beyond the classroom. Communities in Schools Milledgeville Baldwin County also partners with the Baldwin County School District and Americorp to offer the BeeWell Clinic, a school-based primary care clinic serving

We have expanded Production Services and partner with several institutions within the state to provide theatrical technical support. Georgia College students work closely with trained production professionals to learn and advance their skills in audio, video, and theatrical productions.

I encourage you to explore the journey of lifelong learning through our educational programs, professional development opportunities, and enrichment activities.

You can participate as an employer, a student, an instructor, a volunteer, or a donor.

Feel free to reach out to me to learn how you can enroll, get involved, or partner with our Bobcat family. Your opportunities in the School of Continuing and Professional Studies are endless.

FROM THE EDITORS In this issue we explore the impact our unit has on our community. Our partnership with the Baldwin County School District, summer programs, student enrichment, and new additions are just some of the things we’ll be sharing with you.

The School of Continuing & Professional Studies is a unit within Georgia College & State University. We extend a bridge

of resources, educational programs, audio and video services, enrichment opportunities, lifelong learning experiences, and wrap-around services to Georgia communities and beyond.

We invite you to join us on this bridge in collaboration for the future of Georgia.

CONTENTS

INTERACTIVE DOCUMENT Use this icon to access associated web content.

4 | CONTINUING AND PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION ⊲ Serving ‘Common Ground’

8 | ACADEMIC OUTREACH 12 | AFTERSCHOOL ACHIEVEMENT ⊲ New program coordinator Kenneth Daniels

16 | COMMUNITIES IN SCHOOLS ⊲ Out of dress code, but present ⊲ $21,950 grant will transition Baldwin ninth graders to high school ⊲ Soniya: Finding Support from the Strong Daughters Group

20 | HISTORIC MUSEUM ⊲ GCSU remembers Miss Louise Florencourt ⊲ Andalusia Interpretive Center Now Open

22 | PRODUCTION SERVICES ⊲ The hidden gem our community balances on

26 | COLLABORATIONS AND INTIATIVES 28 | SIGNIFICANT STATS SCHOOL OF CONTINUING & PROFESSIONAL STUDIES

SPOTLIGHT SPRING 2024 NEWSLETTER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ANGELA CRISCOE

PHOTO CREDITS ANNA LEAVITT

EDITORS ANGELA CRISCOE KRISTEN SIMPSON

WRITERS KRISTEN SIMPSON CINDY O‘DONNELL MARGARET BROWN Creative Services | 1/2024

CONTINUING & PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION

DIRECTOR’S WELCOME ANGIE WOODHAM CONTINUING AND PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION

Welcome!

The Department of Continuing and Professional Education is proud of a very successful 2022-2023 academic year! We are fully staffed, implemented a new course registration system, spent the summer serving over 2,800 participants in camps and conferences, and partnered with university departments and community resources to launch three noncredit certificate programs.

Additionally, we brought back Real Estate pre-licensing and continuing education classes, as well as Mortgage Lending Licensing certification into our course offerings. Last, but not least, is the addition of Saturday morning children’s programming with Mini Millys and Zumbini classes.

INTELLECTUAL GROWTH SHOULD COMMENCE AT BIRTH AND CEASE ONLY AT DEATH. - ALBERT EINSTEIN

2024 is shaping up to be just as productive with a strengthened partnership with the Learning and Retirement group, new non-credit certificates, and an adventure tour to Greece! We hope to see you there!

gcsu.edu/cpe

ADVENTURE TOUR: THE WONDERS OF GREECE PERSONAL ENRICHMENT

MAY 31-JUNE 8, 2024 Explore the rich ancient history, archeological structures, Greek cuisine, stunning beaches and crystal-blue water, and Mediterranean culture. Dr. Costas Spirou, Georgia College & State University’s Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, and professor of sociology and public administration grew up in Samos, a Greek island in the eastern Aegean Sea. He will provide a lecture on the culture and his upbringing in Greece.

Join Provost Spirou on 1/9/24 at noon for a discussion on the Wonders of Greece Adventure Tour! Register by using our form

Serving ‘Common Ground’ SUPPORTED BY CONTINUING EDUCATION  Millions of people use coffee to jumpstart their morning every day.

Adults with disabilities at the Life Enrichment Center (LEC) in Milledgeville are using it to jumpstart their careers and futures.

“It’s given our people a renewed purpose and sense of pride and acknowledgement,” said LEC Executive Director Barbara Coleman. “It’s something that they’ve accomplished, and so the world sees them in a different role.”

LEC participants took classes at one of Georgia College & State University’s food safety courses through the School of Continuing and Professional Studies. Then, with help from students in the university's non-profit leadership course, they formed a partnership with Morning Grind—recently voted Best Coffee Shop in Milledgeville.

Through community sponsors, LEC purchased an airconditioned coffee truck. Now its mobile business, "Coffee for a Cause," is open Friday mornings at New City Church at the Mill on North Jefferson Street and will go where needed. They sell a variety of coffees, smoothies, muffins and sweetbreads. Its drip coffee, "Common Ground," is sold by the bag, as well.

Through coffee, the group is bringing people together and promoting tolerance.

“To be able to go to college and say I am a barista, I am a coffee truck worker—anything but I’m a person with a disability—this has enabled us to show the world we’re more alike than different,” Coleman said.

The Coffee for a Cause truck goes to and from various events.

If it wasn't for this campus and the commitment of faculty, staff and students— I'd hate to see what the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in this community would look like. Georgia College has truly helped us rewrite the narrative.

- BARBARA COLEMAN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE LIFE ENRICHMENT CENTER

GCSU Thrive student Josie Cothran readies a smoothie for a customer.

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NON-CREDIT CERTIFICATE PROGRAM

LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENT ESSENTIALS PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT  This four-day certificate program engages new or emerging leaders in the fundamentals of leadership, business practices, and people management. Government employees who successfully complete this certificate program will be able to lead their city operations effectively, and efficiently with purpose, intent, and confidence.

HEALTH AND FITNESS CLASSES

MINI MILLYS AND ZUMBINI PERSONAL ENRICHMENT

SUMMER CAMPS • Kids’ U • Creature Camp (Academic Outreach)

• Teen Theatre Camp (Dept. of Theatre and Dance)

• Makin’ Music Camp (Dept. of Music)

• Youth Athletics

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CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS SUPPORTED BY CPE: Coffee for a Cause: Barista Training and College of Education’s GCThrive

SoCPS NEWSLETTER • SPRING 2024

LEARNING IN RETIREMENT LIFELONG LEARNING  Learning in Retirement is dedicated to meeting the intellectual, educational, physical and social needs of retirement-aged individuals, so join us. Learning in Retirement members run the organization by choosing board members and officers.

All programs are based on the interests and needs of the members. It is your organization!

LICENSING COURSES

REAL ESTATE AND MORTGAGE LENDING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

NEW & IMPROVED

COURSE CATALOG SoCPS NEWSLETTER • SPRING 2024

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ACADEMIC OUTREACH

DIRECTOR’S WELCOME RUTH EILERS ACADEMIC OUTREACH

We’ve got a Thirst for Knowledge in Academic Outreach!

This year, Academic Outreach and our various campus partners offered students of all majors the opportunity to learn about water and water quality through our new program GCSU Thirst for Knowledge.

At an ArtHealthy Festival demonstration of water pH, early childhood education major, Belle, said, “This experience showed me different ways I can appeal to kids through activities that are enjoyable to learn from. It also showed me how to explain different topics so different learners can fully understand what we’re talking about.”

When they participate, GCSU students learn about local waterways, water quality, and the importance of water through workshops, training, and community events.

“Science is cool and learning about fun experiments is also cool,” she said. “As a teacher, I need to express this to my students so they can grow up to love learning and being a part of fun activities like this.”

Following their training, students will have a certification in chemical or macroinvertebrate monitoring and can monitor their own stream for one year. This may help with a current research project, coursework, or be an opportunity to make an impact in the community.

Students in the program get to apply their knowledge outside of a classroom setting through working events like the ArtHealthy Festival, Adopt-A-Stream Monitoring, Earthfest, and more.

gcsu.edu/academicoutreach

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Images 1, 3, 6, 7: Wilkinson County Campers; Image 2: Learning Enrichment Center at Lake Laurel Image 4: A student earning their certificate examines a sample; Image 5: A student takes water samples from the creek

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SUMMER PROGRAMS MONITORING DATES • January 12

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Our summer is filled with partnerships. We partner with the Science Education Center to offer Science Camp and Continuing and Professional Education to offer Creature Camp.

SCIENCE CAMP JUNE 3-7, 2024 Science Camp, Jr (rising 3rd-5th graders)

JUNE 10-14, 2024 Science Camp (rising 6th-9th graders)

• February 2 • March 15 • April 12 Monitoring at Champion Creek: 9 - 10 a.m.

Monitoring at Tobler Creek: 10:30 a.m. - Noon

Last year’s campers chose the themes for both Science Camp and Creature Camp. Science Camp 2024 will be the Science of Food! We will explore why we eat, what we eat and how we prepare it all through the lens of science!

CREATURE CAMP JUNE 24-28, 2024 Creature Camp (rising 4th-6th graders) Creature Camp’s theme will be Creatures of the Deep! We will explore aquatic animals that are found in our oceans, deep-water creatures and learn about their habitats!

AQUATIC SCIENCE ACADEMY JULY 8-12, 2024 We will also be assisting the Aquatic Sciences Center in their inaugural Aquatic Science Academy for High School and College students. It will focus on water quality monitoring and research.

SPECIAL EVENTS

AAS Training & Events • January 10 Adopt-a-Stream Chemical

 If we aren’t doing a GCSU Thirst for Knowledge event, we are visiting schools like Midway Hills Academy Wednesdays and Fridays. There, we provide hands-on science activities to complement their curriculum, or we are visited by school groups from places like Lakeview Primary.

Training: 9 a.m. - Noon

• February 14 For the Love of Water: 1 - 3 p.m.

• March 15 Adopt-a-Stream Chemical Training: 2 - 5 p.m.

• March 29 Tanyard Creek Cleanup: 3 - 5 p.m.

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Thunder representing AO at First Friday in Milledgeville with Hannah Hewgley (left) and Maya Lewis (right)).

SoCPS NEWSLETTER • SPRING 2024

We have led field trips to the GCSU campus, Lake Laurel and Andalusia. We have visited a variety of county schools in Baldwin, Putnam and Jones, represented at First Friday events and attended a Georgia CyberAcademy community day in Athens, Georgia.

REGULAR PROGRAMS  Each Tuesday we are visited by two groups from the Life Enrichment Center, where we explore all sorts of hands-on science.

Later in the day we see elementary to high school homeschoolers for whom we provide all sorts of age-appropriate lab experiences. We work with the High Achievers Program Thursdays, offering STEAM activities for their high schoolers. Sometimes we travel to Perry, Georgia to visit the TSA group at Perry Middle School.

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AFTERSCHOOL ACHEIVEMENT

DIRECTOR’S WELCOME SEQUENA MOON STANTON AFTERSCHOOL ACHIEVEMENT

Hello Friends! In Afterschool Achievement, the High Achievers (grades 9-12) and the YES programs (grades 3-5 and 6-8) are off to a great start! Afterschool staff are working diligently to offer fun and educational activities for our students at Lakeview Academy (YES at LVA), Oakhill Middle School (YES at OHMS), Baldwin High and Georgia College Early College (HAP). This year, Afterschool Achievement is looking forward to meeting all program goals and objectives to continue supporting youth in our community. We had a terrific year in all three programs, here are a few FY23 Afterschool Achievement highlights! ★ Afterschool Achievement Director Sequena Stanton, was accepted into the Higher Education Administration Doctoral Program at Georgia Southern University. ★ OHMS YES Program was awarded $25k Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) in supplemental funds to support summer programs. ★ LVA YES Program concludes year five of five with the FY18 Cohort - 21st CCLC LVAgrant and has received full support from the district to submit a proposal to continue services for FY25-FY30. ★ HAP welcomes a new, but veteran coordinator, Mr. Kenneth Daniels.

gcsu.edu/afterschoolacheivement

NEW PROGRAM COORDINATOR

KENNETH DANIELS HIGH ACHIEVERS PROGRAM  Mr. Daniel’s attended Fort Valley State College and GCSU where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a minor in management information systems and computer information systems. Kenneth’s professional career encompasses accounting, sales, and marketing; however, Kenneth has invested most of his professional career and personal time in the field of community-based work. Kenneth is no stranger to the HAP, as he was the community organizer of what was then the “Carrera Model Program” and now the “High Achievers Program” for eight years. Kenneth enjoys community-based projects, meeting new people, watching sports, cooking, and spending time with family and friends.

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YES PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS

HIGH ACHIEVERS PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS

 Each year in YES, participants at Lakeview Academy (LVA) and Oakhill Middle School (OHMS) explore a unique enrichment theme. Beginning in the Fall of 2023, LVA participants are going to “Keep on Rolling” and OHMS participants are surviving as “The Real Students of YES: Survivors Edition.”

 The HAP kicked off with summer cohort participants working with our local community. For the first time ever, students were given the opportunity to participate in community apprenticeship opportunities that included working as camp counselors with the LVA YES Program, support staff with the OHMS YES Program, Insurance Apprenticeships with HC Legacy Insurance, and Marketing Apprenticeships with Tree Top Training.

YES PROGRAM (LVA) PARTICIPANTS  Participants at LVA will “Keep on Rolling” into the vast STEAM-related fields of education. New enrichments include pottery, photography, and a Crime Scene Investigation Unit to enhance the hands-on experiences for our students. YES at LVA will also continue to offer self-care, nutritional skills, physical activity, and culinary lessons as enrichments. We look forward to providing realworld connections and collaborating with our community to act as catalysts in stimulating the minds of our students. Please join us and we will continue to “keep on rolling” toward academic success.

YES PROGRAM (OHMS) PARTICIPANTS  Participants at OHMS will work hard to progress throughout the year as the “Real Survivors of YES,” as students embark on maintaining a healthy balance between academics, enrichments, friends, family, sports, afterschool hobbies, and life. OHMS YES students will survive academics by using integrated learning platforms such as IXL, KHAN Academy, EPIC! Books, Quizzizz and Quizlet, and Progress Learning to support academic success. OHMS YES students will survive the temptation of unhealthy afterschool activities by participating in student choice enrichments such as The Real Music Makers of YES, Beading and Crocheting: Survivors’ Way, The Real Scholars of YES, The Real Brainstormers of YES, The Real Gamers of YES: Survivors Edition; Game Theory Unleashed: Survivors’ Edition; Surviving Pottery, The Real ESPorts Gamers of YES, The Real Tees of YES and The Real Tik Tokers of YES.

Students also participated in several college tour visits and enrichment trips over the summer including Middle Georgia State University, Central Georgia Technical College, Florida A&M, Fort Valley State University, Fernbank Science Center, FunStation, and enjoyed their annual beginning of the year enrichment trip to Six Flaggs Fright Fest in October 2023.

At the start of the school year, Fall HAP participants were greeted with a Week of Welcome August 21st-25th where they met new staff members, practiced public speaking, participated in team building, and explored academic support and wellbeing activities. Students also toured the GCSU campus.

This year, the High Achievers are looking forward to partnering with several GCSU departments and community organizations like Academic Outreach, Provisional Counseling Services, and the City of Milledgeville. All activities are geared toward enriching the lives of our students and providing impactful lessons that enhance leadership skills and encourage civic engagement and civic responsibility.

@high_achievers_gc

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OPEN POSITIONS YES Program: ⊲ OHMS Tutor ⊲ LVA Teacher ⊲ LVA Paraprofessional

YES Afterschool Program: ⊲ Certified Teacher at OHMS ⊲ Certified Paraprofessional at OHMS ⊲ LVA Tutor

FY22-23 AFTERSCHOOL ACHIEVEMENT

SNAPSH Lakeview Academy (Grades 3-5) Coordinator: Dimitra Veal Admin: Keundra Lawrence Admin/Teacher/Paraprofessionals/Substitutes: 25 STUDENT ENROLLMENT & ATTENDANCE:

10 PEC OR SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENTS

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REGISTERED PARTICIPANTS

82% ATTENDANCE RATE

High Achievers Program: ⊲ Group Leader/ Instructor

Oakhill Middle School (Grades 6-8) Coordinator: Desiree King (Fall 2022); Shekita Shinholster (Spring 2023) Admin: Alicia Jenkins Admin/Teacher/Paraprofessionals/Substitutes: 28 STUDENT ENROLLMENT & ATTENDANCE:

11 PEC OR SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENTS

269

REGISTERED PARTICIPANTS

97% ATTENDANCE RATE

High Achievers Program (Grades 9-12) Coordinator: Caroline Cates (Fall 2022); Kenneth Daniels (Spring 2023) Group Leaders: 2 PT STUDENT ENROLLMENT:

36 HAP ENROLLED PARTICIPANTS

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SUMMER COHORT PARTICIPANTS

120 PARTICIPANTS SERVED (INCLUDING SUMMER CAMPS)

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Click on our newsletters to see exclusive highlights from Afterschool Achievement High Achievers and YES Programs.

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COMMUNITIES IN SCHOOL

DIRECTOR’S WELCOME JANET CAVIN COMMUNITIES IN SCHOOLS

Our mission is to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life. We have been fulfilling this mission since 2010 here in Baldwin County.

We reduce as many barriers as possible for students in the Baldwin County School District so they may perform well in the classroom, read on grade level by the third grade, and graduate from high school on time. We are an affiliate of Communities In Schools National and are the only affiliate who is embedded within a university.

Our relationship with GCSU has made it possible for us to fulfill our mission, be highly successful in grant writing, and be one of the conduits between GCSU and the Baldwin County School District. Alongside many additional community partners, CISMBC is working in Baldwin County to provide opportunities for local students and adults to obtain the skills they need to lead rewarding and fulfilling lives. In turn, these individuals benefit the Baldwin County community as they fulfill their hopes and dreams and become successful and responsible in their roles as employees, parents, neighbors, and citizens.

gcsu.edu/communities-in-schools

Out of dress code, but present

By Christalyn Lewis, site coordinator at Baldwin High School  As a site coordinator, no two days are alike. There’s neither time to get bored nor to forget the importance and necessity of this role. Recently, I met two students in need of school uniforms on the same day. In unrelated incidents, they were forced to flee their respective homes.

Neither had the opportunity to pack a bag or grab precious mementos. Despite their similar, yet differing circumstances, both students reported to school, out of dress code, but present. They were outfitted with proper uniform garments, school supplies and headed off to class.

We’re not always privy to the details behind a students’ situations. Fortunately, CIS and our community partners allow us to meet students where they are and provide what we can to meet their needs. Sometimes that need is uniforms, other times it’s a word of encouragement, or a safe place to vent. Either way, I’m grateful to be part of the CIS team as we help students, one day at a time.

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Strong Daughters first annual formal gala

Soniya: Finding support from the Strong Daughters group

By Ronda Dixon, CIS Parent Engagement Specialist

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hen people see Soniya Breazeal, they see a picture of success. A recent high school graduate, Soniya was accepted to 45 colleges, was offered two full scholarships, and is headed to Florida A&M—where she will study healthcare management. During her high school career at Georgia College Early College, she excelled academically and was involved in sports and community organizations.

I TOOK ALL THE OBSTACLES THAT THE WORLD THREW AT ME AND TURNED THEM INTO MOTIVATION TO KEEP GOING

For exceptionally successful students like Soniya, a commitment to hard work is a given. But Soniya’s commitment to success is personal. Her mother passed away when she was just eight years old. Soniya moved in with her grandmother and tried to adapt to her new life.

She struggled at times, especially during the transition from elementary to middle school. But soon, Soniya would become part of a group that would help her reach new heights.

Communities In Schools (CIS) of Milledgeville/Baldwin County sponsors a group called Strong Daughters. Strong Daughters was created by two women in the Baldwin County school system who lost their

own mothers at an early age. Through Strong Daughters, they provide support, encouragement, and resources for students who are grieving the loss of a parent.

When Soniya joined Strong Daughters, there were 11 students participating, from elementary to high school. Soniya not only became a mentor to the younger students in the program, but she was also the first student to graduate from the group.

Soniya’s climb from struggling student to aspiring college graduate has not been an easy one. With the help of Strong Daughters, CIS, and her own internal strength, she is on solid footing.

“I took all the obstacles that the world threw at me and turned them into motivation to keep going,” Soniya said.

Strong Daughters helped Soniya be a big sister and show leadership to the younger members.

Although she lost her mother at a young age, it didn't stop her from being humble and willing to extend a listening ear, guidance, and comfort to the mayor's granddaughters on the recent loss of their mother. She does this with a simple “I'm here,” and weekly check-ins just to let them and others know they are not alone.

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BHS SUMMER BRIDGE PROGRAM

$21,950 grant will transition Baldwin ninth graders to high school

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$21,950 grant from Robins Financial Credit Union will fund two years of the Summer Bridge program at Baldwin High School. The support was offered to Communities In Schools of Milledgeville Baldwin County, a local non-profit embedded within GCSU. The transitional, week-long camp will help rising ninth graders acclimate to high school successfully. Sixty students went to the camp held July 17 – 20.

They participated in whole-group activities and discussions centered around conflict resolution and time management. Students also completed daily journal entries with prompts that encouraged reflection and the opportunity to learn from previous school experiences.

The credit system was explained to make students aware of how grades work in high school versus middle school. These activities will help camp participants to transition more easily to high school.

“High school requires students to have patience with not only their peers but themselves,” said Janet Cavin, Executive Director of Communities In Schools of Milledgeville/Baldwin County.

“Being able to manage time wisely while effectively resolving conflict will lead to a smoother transition. Also, being able to reflect on mistakes in order to grow will also prove effective as they matriculate through high school.”

Many of these students have never been truly held accountable for their academics, so these workshops help rising high schoolers understand the importance of academics.

The Summer Bridge Program was born from the Baldwin High School principal’s and counselor’s ideas to help prepare ninth graders for those new challenges.

“Transitions like moving from middle school to high school are critical in the success of our students,” Cavin said. “If the transition is done well, there’s a greater chance students will stay in school and graduate from high school on time.”

Communities In Schools’ mission is to reduce as many barriers as possible to surround students with a community of support to empower them to stay in school and achieve goals in life.

“The Summer Bridge program is a prime example of how we make this possible,” she said.

ABOUT THE BHS SUMMER BRIDGE PROGRAM

The transitional, week-long camp helps rising ninth graders acclimate to high school successfully.

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HISTORIC MUSEUMS

DIRECTOR’S WELCOME MATTHEW DAVIS DEPARTMENT OF HISTORIC MUSEUMS

Fiscal year 2023 proved to be a year of transitions, changes, and growth for the Department of Historic Museums.

construction of a story-telling court amphitheater, which will assist the museum to expand educational programming.

As tourism, programming, and group tours continued to rebound over the past year, the museums welcomed a Georgia’s Old Governor’s Mansion initiated record number of visitors to our sites, with over 18,000 the next phase in its refurbishment efforts by renovating visiting our various museums in the last fiscal year. This the site’s Education Building. This $35,000 project growth can be attributed to includes replacing HVAC our innovative systems, fresh paint, new VISITO RS LAST FISCAL YEAR interpretations, group tours, furniture, improved lighting, programming, exhibitions, improved audio-visual systems, and special events. and new exhibitions. These improvements are underway, and The museums programmed we hope to have this work another series of successful completed by late 2023. events: the Death After Dark Tours, Mansion Series Other fundraising efforts include Lectures, Christmas at the continued acquisitions of Mansion, Music at the decorative arts, materials, and Mansion, Andalusia’s Front Porch Lecture Series, the artifacts for the museums. We continue to grow the O’Connor’s Birthday Celebration, and the grand opening collection’s endowment, various donor funds, and made of the new Interpretive Center. another successful, annual appeal for Flannery O’Connor’s birthday.

Additionally, the museum supported numerous campus tours, advancement programming, classroom instruction, The Department of Historic Museums continues to and major events for University Advancement and the support our community through public programming Office of the President. and conservation of the collections under our care. We look forward to having you back at the museums soon to In March, the department was proud to open the longsee all our new additions and programs! awaited Interpretive Center at Andalusia. Currently, we are engaged in the second phase of its construction: expanded parking, improved outdoor facilities, and the

GCSU remembers Miss Louise Florencourt ANDALUSIA  Georgia College & State University mourns the loss of its campus neighbor and friend, Miss Louise Florencourt, who passed earlier this year. A cousin of Flannery O’Connor, Miss Florencourt, 97, also served for much of her life as the co-trustee of the Mary Flannery O’Connor Trust, and worked closely with Matt Davis, GCSU’s Director of Historic Museums, on the restoration and curation of Andalusia, and its designation as a National Historic Landmark.

Andalusia

Georgia’s old Governor’s Mansion

Sallie Ellis Davis House

Andalusia Interpretive Center Now Open  Georgia College & State University opened a gift to fans of Flannery O’Connor on the eve of the renowned author’s 98th birthday.

Georgia College, O’Connor’s alma mater, unveiled its new Andalusia Interpretive Center during a ribbon cutting ceremony Friday, March 24.

The opening kicked off two days of birthday celebrations, including author talks, book signings and free tours of Andalusia—O’Connor’s home from 1951 until her death in 1964. On Saturday, March 25, there will be a party featuring cake and singing.

The Andalusia Interpretive Center is a $3.5 million investment in the preservation and interpretation of O’Connor’s life, literary legacy and the history of the Central Georgia region that inspired her writing.

The center encompasses 5,300 square feet of exhibition, artifact storage, retail and conference space. The Center is designed around an openconcept storage facility allowing visitors greater access to the many personal effects stored at Andalusia. Visitors also will be able to view the work of curatorial staff to catalogue and preserve O’Connor’s material legacy.

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PRODUCTION SERVICES

DIRECTOR’S WELCOME KEITH BERGERON PRODUCTION SERVICES

Production Services supports more than 200 on-campus events a year: small and large, any day of the week, in a variety of venues, and at various times of the day. Theatrical performances, speeches, concerts, convocation, commencement, and live streaming with video editing are a few of the events that require lighting, sound, and technical support.

These productions engage with various communities, generate revenue, and demonstrate the importance of our unique liberal arts mission.

Production Services has a director and one full-time event technology specialist. A team of two is unable to support the demand at GCSU, so we employ an entrepreneurial model to generate revenue to pay students as additional Production Services employees.

The students we hire gain experience and advanced knowledge of the technology used to support our campus events. We're developing a certificate program that will recognize each student as they gain the skills learned through employment opportunities with Production Services.

gcsu.edu/production-services

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One stop shop for a complete list of production support: audio, visual, technological

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Access to sophisticated equipment for professional and polished productions

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Special effects and other custom add-ons to personalize a performance for the audience

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Advance setup of all moving parts to ensure a smooth ride for speakers and guests

INTERNAL REQUEST FORM

Production Services, a department in the School of Continuing and Professional Studies, supports the Georgia College & State University campus and surrounding area in terms of event technology and logistical needs in non-classroom settings. Our mission is to provide effective yet efficient support to facilitate events and productions on and off campus while instilling knowledge to users for a more technological and logistically aware future. By involving GCSU students in these services, we aim to prepare and provide them with hands-on training to join the fast-growing entertainment industry.

Working closely with Facility Reservations and the Office of University Events and Protocol, Production Services provides the necessary assistance, support, and/or training for your technological needs. The rates and fees for various requested services are available on the Facility Reservations website in the approved GCSU Campus Fee Schedule.

ON CAMPUS

OFF CAMPUS

GCSU Departments

Services are offered through contract and are event-based.

(Theatre and Dance, Greek Life, Music, Office of the President, and more)

livestreaming lighting sound recording video editing additional services

Our Goals WE PROVIDE OUTREACH AND EDUCATION ON ADVANCED PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY TO BOTH GCSU STUDENTS AND THOSE ENROLLED IN LOCAL SCHOOLS.

Community Partnerships Georgia Military College Baldwin/Putnam high schools Lakeview Elementary/middle school Northridge Church and more

Technical Support/ Production Services lighting sound video editing additional services

Equipment Rentals for microphones and other equipment needed by the community

@gcsuproductionservices

SoCPS NEWSLETTER • SPRING 2024

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SoCPS NEWSLETTER • SPRING 2024

THE HIDDEN GEM OUR COMMUNITY BALANCES ON



Natalie Cardona (left) and Mary Mead (right) mix lights and sound in Russell Auditorium

Musicals, school competitions, speeches and concerts—these live performances have something in common.

It’s a chain of command developed to make sure no one is left behind; the work gets done and everyone learns something.

They each bring our community together in a mutual experience of art and culture. And, as far as Middle Georgia is concerned, many might not exist without the support of Production Services at Georgia College & State University.

This is especially the case for Natalie Cardona, Production Services’ current senior production manager. The theater major started working for them her freshmen year, and now she’s set to graduate in May.

A team of three: Keith Bergeron, Austin Jones and Mary Mead work alongside a small army of student workers to support hundreds of events each year.

As a production manager, she helps organize meetings, schedule events and train new students. She wants to be an audio engineer who produces recordings, adjusts sound, processes audio effects and more.

But they aren’t just serving Georgia College.

Georgia Military College, Baldwin and Putnam County school districts, Northridge Christian Church and the City Springs Theatre Company are just some of the folks they help out.

“In my eyes, what I do here is a good glimpse of what the theater world looks like outside of college,” Cardona said. “I’ve become more confident in myself and if you want it, you have the opportunity to take initiative here.”

If you’ve seen a high school One-Act Play competition, local theater production or school concert, then you know their work.

“And I don’t want to say, ‘prove yourself,’ but I proved myself to myself every day working here,” she said.

“We’re able to provide full event technology services like lighting, sound and streaming,” Bergeron, director of Production Services, said.

Because of her advanced skills, Cardona has already worked in professional theaters in Maine and Utah—where she mixed the sound of the entire show herself.

“We really have a passion for supporting and executing events to their fullest,” he said.

“It was no biggie, because I learned how to do everything at Production Services,” Cardona said.

Production Services supports many small and large events on-and-off campus at a variety of venues throughout each week, every year. To request their services for a Georgia College event, a form should be filled out online.

To do what they do and do it best, Production Services had to get creative.

WE REALLY HAVE A PASSION FOR SUPPORTING AND EXECUTING EVENTS TO THEIR FULLEST. - KEITH BERGERON

They work based on an entrepreneurial model developed by Bergeron. The gist: they accept external contracts with community partners to pay for extra student workers.

Mary Mead, ’23, just graduated from Georgia College’s music program. She worked with Production Services for years, and a recent contract to support GMC’s NewDay USA Center of Leadership paid for her semi full-time position.

“With advance notice, we can put together the best possible production we can,” Mead said.

“That’s how we approach every event. No matter how small—we’re going to make it the best event we can.”

For all external partners, services can be requested by sending an email to production.services@gcsu.edu.

“You can enjoy any level of production, but I feel like what we’ve done makes a more enjoyable experience,” Cardona said. “All aspects of production work to put you into the setting of whatever you’re watching.”

“When it’s really good, you can forget you’re sitting in a chair, and you feel like you’re a part of that world,” she said.

Their small team manages three production managers, one from each class (sophomore, junior and senior). Each student manages firstyear students and other peers. Everyone works together to determine who will do what.

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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S COLLABORATIONS & INITIATIVES As we expand to serve adult learners, alumni, the Milledgeville Community and beyond, Angela Criscoe, Executive Director for the School of Continuing & Professional Studies leads initiatives that promote collaboration, highlight Georgia College & State University’s faculty, and provide lifelong learning opportunities.

LINGER LONGER LIVING REYNOLDS LAKE OCONEE LECTURE SERIES This past year, Georgia College & State University’s School of Continuing & Professional Studies had the honor of contributing to the Linger Longer Living Reynolds Lake Oconee lecture series, which serves as a platform for our distinguished faculty members to share their unique insights and discoveries.

Thank you to our presenters: ⊲ Dr. Nicole DeClouette, “The Unexpected Legacy of Central State Hospital in Milledgeville + GC Thrive” ⊲ Matt Davis, “Andalusia: Home of Flannery O’Connor” ⊲ Janet Cavin, “The Impact You are Making in Your Community” ⊲ Beate Czogalla, “Eye in the Sky, From Hubble to Webb and Beyond” We are looking forward to another year contributing to the Linger Longer Living Reynolds Lake Oconee lecture series.

Dr. Nicole DeClouette

Matt Davis

Janet Cavin

Beate Czogalla

GCSU ALUMNI LIFELONG LEARNING SERIES In collaboration with Nadirah Mayweather, director of The Office of Alumni Relations, and Ruth McMullen, alumni engagement coordinator, we’ve developed a new webinar series offered to Georgia College Alumni. The first GCSU Alumni Lifelong Learning webinar featured Dr. Brent Evans, Associate Professor of Economics in the College of Business & Technology. He shared how to “Develop a Financial Plan.”

MILLEDGEVILLE BALDWIN CHAMBER MEMBERS EDUCATION SERIES Every quarter, the School of Continuing & Professional Studies provides a one-hour workshop for the members of the Milledgeville Baldwin Chamber of Commerce. Thank you to the faculty who participated in this program during 2023. ⊲ Amanda Respess, Social Media 101

⊲ Jan Hoffmann, Strategic Presentation Skills

⊲ Brent Evans, Developing a Financial Plan

⊲ Ward Risvold, AI for Small Businesses

Amanda Respess

Jan Hoffmann

Brent Evans

Ward Risvold

Another collaboration with Kara Lassiter, president and CEO of the Milledgeville Baldwin Chamber of Commerce is the Workforce Readiness Program.

This program is being developed to serve as a workforce pipeline that will train high school students in workforce etiquette skills, proper communication, day-to-day employment basics, and customer service excellence. This program also benefits local businesses who will commit to providing on-the-job training for these select students.

If you own a local business in Milledgeville and are ready to commit to this program, view and complete our form.

Interested in contributing to these initiatives, contact Angela Criscoe at angela.criscoe@gcsu.edu or 478-445-2759.

Donate now to support lifelong learning and opportunities to serve Georgia Communities and beyond!

SoCPS NEWSLETTER • SPRING 2024

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SIGNIFICANT STATS

SoCPS

The School of Continuing and Professional Studies has a significant impact in the amount of people we serve, funds we generate, and grants we attract to serve our schools and communities.

School of Continuing and Professional Studies Fiscal

Total # of

Total # of Participants

Total

Year

Students Served

(includes students, parents, adult groups, and visitors)

Generated Revenue

2019 2020 2021 2022 2023

21,738 17,974 11,373 19,613 20,555

23,847 27,527 23,581 27,716 34,308

Total Grant Funding

$1,507,351 $1,107,364 $128,099 $1,139,270 $1,701,903

$925,000 $1,538,730 $1,826,857 $1,580,177 $1,612,465

Academic Outreach (AO) Fiscal

Total P-12 and

Total

Total Community

Total GCSU

Year

Adult Participants

Programs

Service Hours Reported

Student Facilitators

2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023

7,905 6,325 6,370 2,755 4,356 4,291

210 215 160 59 162 112

3,290.75 3,271 2,232.58 994 1,932 2,133.33

48 66 81 7 68 60

Generated Revenue x x x $4,000 $6,650 $8,158

Afterschool Achievement - Youth Enrichment Services (YES) Fiscal

Total K-12

Total K-12

Year

Participants

Parent Particpants

2019 2020 2021 2022 2023

540 566 463 444 489

388 277 112 400 367

Grant Funding Awarded $700,000 $700,000 $700,000 $700,000 $725,512

Afterschool Achievement - High Achievers Program Fiscal

Total K-12

Total High Achievers

Year

Participants

Participants in Apprenticeship Program (earning $500 or more)

2019 2020 2021 2022 2023

120 120 120 120 120

20 11 10 16 21

Grant Funding Awarded $120,000 $170,000 $170,000 $185,000 $185,000

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Afterschool Achievement - Communities in Schools Milledgeville Baldwin County Fiscal Year

Total # of Students Served

Total # of Parents Served

Total # of Volunteers

2018

5,078

2,538

376

Total Reported Full-Service Community Schools from Volunteer Hours the Federal Department of Education 11,264

x

Other Grants $8,083.68 Literacy for All

$5,000 City of Milledgeville

$25,000 CIS-GA

$40,836 United Way of Central Georgia

$11,766 Community Foundation

2019

5,318

2,116

100+

10,379

x

Other Grants $10,000 Literacy for All

$10,000 Dollar General

$25,000 CIS-GA

$15,000 CIS National

$45,000 United Way of Central Georgia

2020

5,098

2,039

87

8,300

$499,797

Other Grants $91,544 CIS-GA

2021

$23,150 CIS National

5,000

$25,000 CIS-GA

2,521

62

$15,000 CommunityFoundation

5,035

$39,239 United Way of Central Georgia

$499,813

Other Grants $15,000 CFCG/UW

$91,544 BCSD

$26,000 CIS-GA

$75,000 DECAL

$45,000 United Way

$7,500 Tri-County EMC

2022

3,959

1,969

146

4,440

$145,000 CIS National RRC Grant $52,000 CIS National Reengagement Coord.

$440,104

Other Grants $36,898 United Way

$85,000 Reaching Rural Communities

$16,675 Baldwin County School District $1,000 Georgia Power

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$28,000 CIS-GA

$2,500 Federal Robins

SoCPS NEWSLETTER • SPRING 2024

$15,000 Baldwin County Commissioners

$20,000 State of Hope

$50,000 DECAL

2023

4,690

1,658

71

2,151

$364,093

Other Grants $38,410 United Way

$85,000 Reaching Rural Communities

$66,000 Baldwin County School District $1,000 Georgia Power

$34,000 CIS-GA

$21,950 Federal Robins

$15,000 Baldwin County Commissioners

$25,000 Sandra Dunagan Deal Center for Early Language & Literature $50,000 DECAL

Continuing and Professional Education Fiscal Year 2017 Total Programs Total Participants Total Participant Hours CEU’s Reported Total Revenue

Fiscal Year 2018 Total Programs Total Participants Total Participant Hours CEU’s Reported Total Revenue

Fiscal Year 2019 Total Programs Total Participants Total Participant Hours CEU’s Reported Total Revenue

Fiscal Year 2020 Total Programs Total Participants Total Participant Hours CEU’s Reported Total Revenue

Q1 July - Sept.

Q2 Oct. - Dec.

Q3 Jan. - March

Q4 April - June

Totals

173 2,369 52,414.50 5,241.45 $549,348

134 1,620 14,268.50 1,426.85 $237,414

143 1,863 17,227 1,722.70 $415,500

154 4,537 75,332.68 7,533.27 $374,243

604 10,386 159,242.68 159,242.27 $1,576,505

Q1 July - Sept.

Q2 Oct. - Dec.

Q3 Jan. - March

Q4 April - June

Totals

133 2,252 32,906.00 3,290.60 $335,375

117 1,294 11,825.55 1,182.55 $339,047

140 1,804 1,6438.50 1,643.85 $362,721

154 4,637 100,692.23 10,069.23 $415,226

544 10,286 161,862.34 16,186.23 $1,452,369

Q1 July - Sept.

Q2 Oct. - Dec.

Q3 Jan. - March

Q4 April - June

Totals

101 1,902 36,935.75 3,693.57 $337,511

101 1,586 15,698.5 1,569.85 $406,926

125 1,538 14,058 1,405.8 $247,576

123 4,402 100,166.00 10,016.60 $417,513

450 9,428 166,858.25 16,685.82 $1,409,526

Q1 July - Sept.

Q2 Oct. - Dec.

Q3 Jan. - March

Q4 April - June

Totals

108 1,299 25,265.50 2,526.55 $309,153

99 1,075 1,5205 1,520.5 $431,375

133 1,046 13,680.75 1,368.07 $281,223

7 67 494.50 49.45 $3,058

347 3,487 54,645.75 5,464.57 $1,024,809

Continuing and Professional Education (Cont.)

Fiscal Year 2021

Q2 Oct. - Dec.

Q3 Jan. - March

Q4 April - June

Totals

38 323 2,309.25 230.92 $4,680

57 407 3,139.75 313.97 $14,421

48 294 8,885 888.50 $33,535

184 1,307 15,950 1,595 $55,716

Q1 July - Sept.

Q2 Oct. - Dec.

Q3 Jan. - March

Q4 April - June

Totals

60 704 9,938 993.8 $196,111

73 646 6,744 674.4 $238,628

89 938 8,007.5 800.75 $290,852

89 1,061 18,232.50 1,823.25 $290,852

311 3,349 42,922 4,292.20 $1,016,443

Q1 July - Sept.

Q2 Oct. - Dec.

Q3 Jan. - March

Q4 April - June

Totals

85 865 14,352 1435.25 $390,658

71 767 6,960.5 696.05 $359,029

87 1,204 7,898.5 789.85 $436,438

118 1,957 28,589 2,858.95 $386,119

361 4,793 57,800 5,780.1 $1,572,244

Andalusia Rentals/Hosted Fundraisers/ Campus Meetings

Total Participants

Q1 July - Sept.

Total Programs Total Participants Total Participant Hours CEU’s Reported Total Revenue

Fiscal Year 2022 Total Programs Total Participants Total Participant Hours CEU’s Reported Total Revenue

Fiscal Year 2023 Total Programs Total Participants Total Participant Hours CEU’s Reported Total Revenue

41 283 1,616 161.60 $3,080

Historic Museums Fiscal Year 2019

Old Governor’s Mansion

Andalusia

Old Governor’s Mansion Rentals/ Hosted Fundraisers/ Campus Meetings

Total Participants Old Governor’s Mansion and Andalusia

5,302

2,547

1,000

440

7,849

Elementary, Middle, High School Students, Non-GCSU College Students (Out of total participation)

1,914

647

x

x

2,561

$26,843

$12,482

Revenue

x

x

Total Revenue $39,325

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SoCPS NEWSLETTER • SPRING 2024

Fiscal Year 2020

Old Governor’s Mansion

Andalusia

Old Governor’s Mansion Rentals/ Hosted Fundraisers/ Campus Meetings

Andalusia Rentals/Hosted Fundraisers/ Campus Meetings

Total Participants

Total Participants Old Governor’s Mansion and Andalusia

7,517

2,045

2,970

433

9,562

Elementary, Middle, High School Students, Non-GCSU College Students (Out of total participation)

1,881

444

x

x

2,325

$18,896

$7,659

Revenue

x

Total Revenue

x

$26,555

Fiscal Year 2021

Old Governor’s Mansion

Andalusia

Old Governor’s Mansion Rentals/ Hosted Fundraisers/ Campus Meetings

Andalusia Rentals/Hosted Fundraisers/ Campus Meetings

Total Participants

Total Participants Old Governor’s Mansion and Andalusia

5,000

2,000

1,919

377

9,296

Elementary, Middle, High School Students, Non-GCSU College Students (Out of total participation)

1,320

401

x

x

1,721

$13,646

$6,737

Revenue

x

x

Total Revenue $20,383

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Historic Museums (Cont.)

Fiscal Year 2022

Old Governor’s Mansion

Andalusia

Old Governor’s Mansion Rentals/ Hosted Fundraisers/ Campus Meetings

Andalusia Rentals/Hosted Fundraisers/ Campus Meetings

Total Participants

Total Participants Old Governor’s Mansion and Andalusia

8,221

2,660

1,165

1,066

13,112

Elementary, Middle, High School Students, Non-GCSU College Students (Out of total participation)

4,839

1,180

x

x

6,019

$23,970

$8,787

Revenue

x

Total Revenue

x

$32,757

Fiscal Year 2023

Andalusia

Old Governor’s Mansion Rentals / Hosted Fundraisers/ Campus Meetings

Andalusia Rentals/Hosted Fundraisers/ Campus Meetings

Total Participants

Total Participants 10,002 Old Governor’s Mansion and Andalusia

3,499

2,896

1,469

17,866

Elementary, Middle, High School Students, Non-GCSU College Students (Out of total participation)

4,919

1,240

x

x

6,159

$21,863

$8,758

Revenue

Old Governor’s Mansion

x

x

Total Revenue $30,621

*X — Specific Data points on fundraising events, etc. were not kept by age demographic Please also note that FY20 and 21 were limited in operations by Covid-19 closures and event/capacity restrictions. *This data reflects on-site programs only. Vitural programming not included.

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SoCPS NEWSLETTER • SPRING 2024

Production Services Fiscal Year

# of Students

Generated Revenue

Partnerships

Employed

2016

1

Baldwin County Schools, The Vibe Dance Center, Georgia Military College

$5,500

2017

3

Baldwin County Schools, The Vibe Dance Center, Putnam County Schools, Northridge Christian Church, Georgia Military College

$52,000

2018

6

Baldwin County Schools, The Vibe Dance Center, Putnam County Schools, Northridge Christian Church, Georgia Military College

$49,500

2019

7

Baldwin County Schools, Georgia Military College, Putnam County Schools, Northridge Christian Church, Birdhouse Theatre Company, The Vibe Dance Center

$58,500

2020

8

Baldwin County Schools, Georgia Military College, Putnam County Schools, Northridge Christian Church, Birdhouse Theatre Company

$56,000

2021

7

Baldwin County Schools, Georgia Military College, Putnam County Schools, Northridge Christian Church, Birdhouse Theatre Company, City Springs Theater Company

$48,000

2022

7

Baldwin County Schools, Georgia Military College, Putnam County Schools, Northridge Christian Church, City Springs Theater Company

$83,420

2023

13

Baldwin County Schools, Georgia Military College, Putnam County Schools, Northridge Christian Church, City Springs Theater Company

$90,880

SoCPS NEWSLETTER • SPRING 2024 35

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SCHOOL OF CONTINUING & PROFESSIONAL STUDIES SPRING 2024 NEWSLETTER