FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 10, 2025
Blackburn Elementary, Lumpkin County Middle, and Lumpkin County High Earn Statewide Honors for Exceptional Student Growth and Achievement
The Georgia Department of Education has named Lumpkin County Schools among the state’s top-performing districts for student achievement and growth in literacy and mathematics during the 2024–2025 school year.
Blackburn Elementary School has been recognized as a Literacy Leader School for Third Grade Growth, while Lumpkin County High School earned Literacy Leader honors for High School Growth. In addition, Lumpkin County High School was recognized as a Math Leader School for High School Growth, and Lumpkin County Middle School received the designation of Math Leader School for Outstanding Achievement.
“These awards celebrate the hard work and commitment of our teachers, administrators, students, and families,” said Superintendent Sharon Head. “Literacy and numeracy are the foundation of lifelong learning, and our schools continue to set the bar high for academic growth and achievement across the state.”
The Literacy Leader and Math Leader recognitions celebrate schools that demonstrate extraordinary student progress and proficiency. Awards are given for achievement, growth, or both, based on students’ performance on annual Georgia Milestones assessments.
At the elementary level, Literacy Leader awards highlight the importance of grade-level reading by third grade, while high schools are recognized for student growth and proficiency on the American Literature End-of-Course (EOC) exam. Math Leader schools are identified based on student performance on the Algebra: Concepts and Connections EOC and on overall proficiency rates in mathematics.
State School Superintendent Richard Woods congratulated this year’s honorees, noting that “strong literacy and math skills open the door for every opportunity our students will encounter in school, in their future careers, and in life.”
Mrs. Head added, “These results reflect not only the quality of instruction taking place in every classroom but also the culture of collaboration and continuous improvement that defines Lumpkin County Schools. We are incredibly proud of our teachers and students for leading the way in both literacy and mathematics.”
Georgia’s continued progress in literacy and math reflects sustained statewide efforts to strengthen foundational learning. In recent years, the Georgia Department of Education has implemented new, high-quality K–12 Mathematics Standards and launched comprehensive initiatives to support evidence-based literacy instruction. This year, new English Language Arts standards—developed by Georgia educators and aligned to the science of reading—took effect, ensuring all students build strong reading, writing, and language skills from the earliest grades.
Throughout the 2025–2026 school year, Superintendent Woods will visit select Literacy and Math Leader schools to recognize and celebrate their success.
About Lumpkin County Schools
The Lumpkin County School System serves over 3,600 students in Dahlonega and Lumpkin County, Georgia. With a mission to inspire learning, growth, and service, LCSS is committed to providing innovative instruction, strong community partnerships, and a supportive environment that prepares every student for success in college, career, and life.
Media Contact:
Jason Lemley
Director of Community Engagement
Lumpkin County School System
56 Indian Drive, Dahlonega, GA 30533
jason.lemley@lumpkinschools.com | (706) 864-3611