Empowering Our Educators, Building Stronger Readers! 📖📈
Literacy is on the rise for our Blue Devils—and one reason for this measurable growth is the intentional professional development provided to our staff!
During the 2025–2026 school year, we successfully built capacity in the Science of Reading among all PreK–5 teachers. By investing in our educators, we are strengthening literacy instruction in every classroom and ensuring students receive the strongest possible foundation.
The results are clear: 58% of our K–3 students are now reading on track overall—an 11-percentage-point increase from last year’s 47%! This growth demonstrates how expert teachers, evidence-based instruction, and a shared commitment to foundational literacy are increasing reading proficiency across the district.
When we empower our educators, we build stronger readers—and together, we continue Moving the Needle!
#4theT
#MovingtheNeedle
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
Literacy is on the rise for our Blue Devils—and one reason for this measurable growth is the intentional professional development provided to our staff!
During the 2025–2026 school year, we successfully built capacity in the Science of Reading among all PreK–5 teachers. By investing in our educators, we are strengthening literacy instruction in every classroom and ensuring students receive the strongest possible foundation.
The results are clear: 58% of our K–3 students are now reading on track overall—an 11-percentage-point increase from last year’s 47%! This growth demonstrates how expert teachers, evidence-based instruction, and a shared commitment to foundational literacy are increasing reading proficiency across the district.
When we empower our educators, we build stronger readers—and together, we continue Moving the Needle!
#4theT
#MovingtheNeedle
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
What is Moving the Needle?
“Moving the Needle” began this spring as the theme for the planning and preparation of our Summer Professional Learning Conference. Since then, it has grown into a districtwide campaign designed to showcase the measurable progress and systemic growth taking place throughout Tift County Schools.
By sharing specific metrics and meaningful accomplishments, we are providing our community with clear evidence of our commitment to our mission: Collaborate | Learn | Achieve. This campaign celebrates the collective efforts of our students, staff, families, and community as we work together to elevate the standard of excellence across our district.
Across these areas of growth, Tift County Schools continues to demonstrate that intentional leadership, operational efficiency, and a steadfast belief that “All Means All” are effectively moving the needle. Every metric tells part of our story—a story of a safer, more rigorous, more inclusive school system that recognizes the dedication of our staff and unlocks the potential of every student.
Tift County is moving forward—together!
#4theT
#MovingtheNeedle
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
Live now on 92.1, Jennifer Howell and Josh Bowyer talking all things Tift County Schools.
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Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
Thank you to the parents and families of our students with disabilities who participated in the 2026 Georgia Department of Education Special Education Parent Survey!
For the 2025–2026 school year, 95.51% of participating parents reported that Tift County Schools facilitates parent involvement as a means of improving services and outcomes for children with disabilities. This result exceeded the state average of 90.93%!
Additionally, on 9 of the 10 survey questions, 96% or more of parents responded with “Agree,” “Strongly Agree,” or “Very Strongly Agree" with all questions receiving 90% or higher.
We are incredibly proud of these results and grateful for the continued partnership of our families. Your involvement, advocacy, and support help us better serve every student because, in Tift County Schools, we truly believe that ALL means ALL!
#4theT
Collaborate • Learn • Achieve
For the 2025–2026 school year, 95.51% of participating parents reported that Tift County Schools facilitates parent involvement as a means of improving services and outcomes for children with disabilities. This result exceeded the state average of 90.93%!
Additionally, on 9 of the 10 survey questions, 96% or more of parents responded with “Agree,” “Strongly Agree,” or “Very Strongly Agree" with all questions receiving 90% or higher.
We are incredibly proud of these results and grateful for the continued partnership of our families. Your involvement, advocacy, and support help us better serve every student because, in Tift County Schools, we truly believe that ALL means ALL!
#4theT
Collaborate • Learn • Achieve
📚 We still have space available in Pre-K for the 2026–2027 school year!
Give your child a strong start with engaging learning experiences and opportunities to build the skills needed for kindergarten and beyond.
Visit: https://www.tiftschools.com/page/registration for registration information and how to secure your child’s spot!
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Collaborate • Learn • Achieve
Give your child a strong start with engaging learning experiences and opportunities to build the skills needed for kindergarten and beyond.
Visit: https://www.tiftschools.com/page/registration for registration information and how to secure your child’s spot!
#4theT
Collaborate • Learn • Achieve
Today’s the Day! Welcome Back, Blue Devils!
The first day of school is here, and we couldn't be more excited to welcome our students back for an incredible year of learning, growth, and new opportunities!
As you walk through our doors this morning, know that our teachers, staff, and administrators are ready to support, encourage, and cheer you on every step of the way. This is your year to learn, lead, and create lasting memories.
We wish every student, family, and staff member a safe, successful, and exciting first day of school. Let's make the 2026–2027 school year our best one yet!
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
The first day of school is here, and we couldn't be more excited to welcome our students back for an incredible year of learning, growth, and new opportunities!
As you walk through our doors this morning, know that our teachers, staff, and administrators are ready to support, encourage, and cheer you on every step of the way. This is your year to learn, lead, and create lasting memories.
We wish every student, family, and staff member a safe, successful, and exciting first day of school. Let's make the 2026–2027 school year our best one yet!
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
🚍 School is Back in Session! 🚗
Tomorrow morning, our school buses will be back on the road, and thousands of students will be traveling to school by bus, car, and on foot
As you head out for your morning commute, please help us keep everyone safe by:
🛑 Stopping for school buses when required by law
🚸 Watching carefully for children at bus stops and in crosswalks
⚠️ Slowing down in school zones and obeying all posted speed limits
🚗 Allowing a little extra time, as traffic will be heavier than usual
Together, we can make the first day of school a safe and successful one for every student.
Thank you for helping us protect what matters most—our children!
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
Tomorrow morning, our school buses will be back on the road, and thousands of students will be traveling to school by bus, car, and on foot
As you head out for your morning commute, please help us keep everyone safe by:
🛑 Stopping for school buses when required by law
🚸 Watching carefully for children at bus stops and in crosswalks
⚠️ Slowing down in school zones and obeying all posted speed limits
🚗 Allowing a little extra time, as traffic will be heavier than usual
Together, we can make the first day of school a safe and successful one for every student.
Thank you for helping us protect what matters most—our children!
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
🎶 Mark Your Calendars! 🎶
Get ready for another incredible year of music as our talented Tift County Choirs and Show Choirs take the stage throughout the 2026–2027 school year!
From inspiring concerts to high-energy show choir performances, these events showcase the hard work, dedication, and talent of our student performers. We invite our families, friends, alumni, and community members to come out and support these outstanding students all year long.
Save the dates, and help us celebrate the arts at Tift County Schools.
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
Get ready for another incredible year of music as our talented Tift County Choirs and Show Choirs take the stage throughout the 2026–2027 school year!
From inspiring concerts to high-energy show choir performances, these events showcase the hard work, dedication, and talent of our student performers. We invite our families, friends, alumni, and community members to come out and support these outstanding students all year long.
Save the dates, and help us celebrate the arts at Tift County Schools.
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
🍎 The first week of school is here, and so are our delicious school meals! 🍽️
Check out this week's breakfast and lunch menus and get ready for a great start to the 2026–2027 school year!
📋 Looking ahead? Monthly menus are always available on our website: https://www.tiftschools.com/documents/school-nutrition/menus/18803049
🍽️ Want to see what's being served each day? Daily menus can be found on each school's website under Explore → Dining.
And remember—all Tift County Schools students receive breakfast and lunch at no cost throughout the 2026–2027 school year.
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
Check out this week's breakfast and lunch menus and get ready for a great start to the 2026–2027 school year!
📋 Looking ahead? Monthly menus are always available on our website: https://www.tiftschools.com/documents/school-nutrition/menus/18803049
🍽️ Want to see what's being served each day? Daily menus can be found on each school's website under Explore → Dining.
And remember—all Tift County Schools students receive breakfast and lunch at no cost throughout the 2026–2027 school year.
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
Tomorrow is the day! We’re ready to welcome every student back for a year filled with teamwork, learning, and achievement. See you tomorrow morning!
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
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Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
Only two more days! Charge those devices, set those alarms, and bring your best—we’re almost ready to begin.
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Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
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Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
Thank you to all the families who joined us for Meet the Teacher events across Tift County Schools!
It was wonderful to see our schools filled with excitement as students met their teachers, explored their classrooms, and prepared for a great year ahead. Your involvement and support play an important role in the success of our students and schools.
We can’t wait to welcome everyone back on Monday for the first day of the 2026–2027 school year!
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
It was wonderful to see our schools filled with excitement as students met their teachers, explored their classrooms, and prepared for a great year ahead. Your involvement and support play an important role in the success of our students and schools.
We can’t wait to welcome everyone back on Monday for the first day of the 2026–2027 school year!
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
This week, our School Nutrition staff and bus drivers participated in annual required training focused on Mandated Reporting, Youth Suicide Awareness and Prevention, McKinney-Vento, and Bloodborne Pathogens.
Led by members of our Student Services Department, these sessions provided important information and resources to help employees recognize concerns, respond appropriately, and support the safety and well-being of every student.
We appreciate our staff’s continued commitment to creating safe, supportive environments for all students—whether they are on the bus, in the cafeteria, or anywhere across our district.
Led by members of our Student Services Department, these sessions provided important information and resources to help employees recognize concerns, respond appropriately, and support the safety and well-being of every student.
We appreciate our staff’s continued commitment to creating safe, supportive environments for all students—whether they are on the bus, in the cafeteria, or anywhere across our district.
AO STAFF SPOTLIGHT: Kelly Edge
Role: Physical Therapist
Years with Tift County: 4
Favorite part of the job: Making a meaningful difference in students' lives. I love building relationships with students, watching them grow over the years, and helping them gain the skills and confidence to participate more fully in school.
Hobbies: Spending quality time with my family.
Bucket List: Visit all 50 states, attend a Kenny Chesney concert at Fenway Park.
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
Role: Physical Therapist
Years with Tift County: 4
Favorite part of the job: Making a meaningful difference in students' lives. I love building relationships with students, watching them grow over the years, and helping them gain the skills and confidence to participate more fully in school.
Hobbies: Spending quality time with my family.
Bucket List: Visit all 50 states, attend a Kenny Chesney concert at Fenway Park.
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
AO STAFF SPOTLIGHT: Aida Ayala
Role: English Language Learners Support Specialist
Years with Tift County: 8
Favorite part of the job: Helping English Language Learners succeed, overcome language barriers, and collaborating with teachers and the community.
Hobbies: Creating art, reading novels with unexpected plot twists, volunteering with local nonprofits, and spending time with loved ones.
Bucket List: Traveling the world to experience different cultures and learn new languages.
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
Role: English Language Learners Support Specialist
Years with Tift County: 8
Favorite part of the job: Helping English Language Learners succeed, overcome language barriers, and collaborating with teachers and the community.
Hobbies: Creating art, reading novels with unexpected plot twists, volunteering with local nonprofits, and spending time with loved ones.
Bucket List: Traveling the world to experience different cultures and learn new languages.
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
AO STAFF SPOTLIGHT: Tiffany Sinyard
Role: Occupational Therapist Assistant
Years with Tift County: 13
Favorite part of the job: I enjoy meeting my therapy students where they are and building on their strengths to improve their quality of life within the school setting.
Hobbies: Spending time with my family, binge watching Christmas movies, and taking naps.
Bucket List: Christmas at the Plaza Hotel in New York City
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
Role: Occupational Therapist Assistant
Years with Tift County: 13
Favorite part of the job: I enjoy meeting my therapy students where they are and building on their strengths to improve their quality of life within the school setting.
Hobbies: Spending time with my family, binge watching Christmas movies, and taking naps.
Bucket List: Christmas at the Plaza Hotel in New York City
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
AO STAFF SPOTLIGHT: Vanda Freeman
Role: School Psychologist
Years with Tift County: 9
Favorite part of the job: Serving the students of my community.
Hobbies: Reading and spending time with my family.
Bucket List: Visit all 50 states and visit a country on each continent.
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
Role: School Psychologist
Years with Tift County: 9
Favorite part of the job: Serving the students of my community.
Hobbies: Reading and spending time with my family.
Bucket List: Visit all 50 states and visit a country on each continent.
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
Three days! The energy is real, the campuses are ready, and an incredible school year is just around the corner.
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Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
📢 Meet the Teacher Reminders:
--All Tift County schools have a clear bag policy. This will be in effect at Meet the Teacher so plan accordingly.
--Guests attending Meet the Teacher at our middle and high schools will be required to pass through weapons detection upon entry.
Thank you for helping us maintain safe and welcoming schools!
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
--All Tift County schools have a clear bag policy. This will be in effect at Meet the Teacher so plan accordingly.
--Guests attending Meet the Teacher at our middle and high schools will be required to pass through weapons detection upon entry.
Thank you for helping us maintain safe and welcoming schools!
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
AO STAFF SPOTLIGHT: Heidi Burns
Role: Director of MTSS
Years with Tift County: 28
Favorite part of the job: I enjoy working alongside teachers and school leaders to ensure every student has the support they need to be successful. Collaborating to remove barriers, strengthen instruction, and create opportunities for all students is the most rewarding part of my work.
Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with my family and exploring new places through travel. Whether it is a weekend getaway or a new adventure, making memories with the people I love is my favorite way to recharge.
Bucket List: Visit Italy with my family to explore its history, culture, and incredible food while making lifelong memories.
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
Role: Director of MTSS
Years with Tift County: 28
Favorite part of the job: I enjoy working alongside teachers and school leaders to ensure every student has the support they need to be successful. Collaborating to remove barriers, strengthen instruction, and create opportunities for all students is the most rewarding part of my work.
Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with my family and exploring new places through travel. Whether it is a weekend getaway or a new adventure, making memories with the people I love is my favorite way to recharge.
Bucket List: Visit Italy with my family to explore its history, culture, and incredible food while making lifelong memories.
#4theT
Collaborate | Learn | Achieve
