Bibb County Schools convocation highlights attendance

District leaders emphasize attendance and honor Teacher of the Year ahead of first day of school

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Bibb County School District is starting the school year by pouring into the people who help shape students every day.

Educators filled the Macon Coliseum Thursday morning for the district’s annual convocation. This year’s theme, “I Am the Promise,” focused on reminding teachers and staff of their impact not only inside the classroom, but outside as well.

Superintendent Dr. Dan Sims says the energy from staff shows they are ready for the year ahead.

“I feel like people are fired up once again,” Sims said. “It was great to give them the opportunity to reflect on who they are and for us to get ourselves prepared to stand up for our students.”

Sims says that message is especially important as schools face ongoing challenges. He says attendance will be a major focus this year, stressing that parents need to make sure their child is in the classroom each day.

“We’re counting on parents and families to have students at school,” Sims said. “We have what it takes to accommodate barriers if they’re in place, so we just need good communication. If there are barriers, let us know.”

The district also honored standout educators. Southwest High School teacher Dr. Amy Gitschlag was named the Bibb County Teacher of the Year. Gitschlag teaches science and is entering her 26th year in education.

She says the recognition is not just about her, but about educators across the district.

“There was a lot of excitement and pride coming into it, knowing that I was a finalist,” Gitschlag said. “This is an awesome district with a ton of great teachers, so to be recognized as the top is quite a privilege. I feel like I’m standing up and representing everyone.”

Students in Bibb County are set to return to the classroom on August 3.