Savannah Standard

In preparation for the upcoming school year, the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System (SCCPSS) hosted a media day at A.B. Williams Elementary. The event aimed to inform about the district's plans and initiatives.

Deputy Superintendent of Teaching and Learning, Bernadette Ball-Oliver, introduced BrightSpace, a new Learning Management System. "Brightspace is designed with students in mind and offers all the features and support needed to reimagine blended learning at every grade level," she explained. This cloud-based system aims to enhance personalized learning experiences for K-12 students. Ball-Oliver also discussed new literacy initiatives and math standards.

Vanessa Miller-Kaigler, Deputy Superintendent, updated on transportation, nutrition, and maintenance services. She highlighted a new 'rider ID' system for buses: “Students will swipe on and off the bus with their student ID," enhancing safety measures. This complements the existing Here Comes The Bus app that provides real-time bus location updates.

The School Nutrition Program announced changes to its Free/Reduced lunch program due to actions by the Georgia Department of Education. Students previously receiving reduced-price lunches will now receive them free of charge. Parents are encouraged to apply online for this benefit. Breakfast remains free for all students upon arrival at school.

Chief Human Resources Officer Ramon Ray addressed staffing challenges affecting various departments like transportation and campus police. He emphasized recruitment efforts focusing on bilingual candidates.

Campus security was another focal point as Chief Terry Enoch advised vigilance: “Stay Ready so you don't have to Get Ready!" He stressed safety awareness for students traveling to school by any means and reiterated the district's commitment to safety across all events.