Rightsizing Augusta Schools Discussed At Education Conference

Augusta, GA—- It’s a move to help Richmond County schools economically while still providing outstanding education. Some schools will merge for the upcoming school year in August. Under current recommendations Hornsby Elementary School and East Augusta Middle Schoolwould become a K-8 school under one principal. Collins Elementary Schoolis also preparing to be K-8. Another major change would be to Tubman Middle School.

Dr. Wayne Frazier, Principal, Tubman Middle School: “My job here is to make sure that whatever schools that these students go to, that the school becomes a better school because of their transfer there.”

Under the plan, Tubman would be used as an educational center and possibly for alternative education. Dr. Frazier says the change would be beneficial.

Dr. Wayne Frazier: “We don’t need to misuse or under use facilities and or funds and I think if we do it right, all children will benefit more, because there will be more resources to help those especially with the least amount of resources.”

Bungalow Road Alternative School will serve as a transition building. Dr. Dana Bedden says parents don’t need to worry about safety concerns as some schools begin to merge.

Dr. Dana Bedden, Superintendent Richmond Co. Schools: “Changing some of their opportunities to be successful will create a better engagement so they are not focusing on negative behaviors and focusing on positive behaviors and also create opportunities for success when you start feeling success you feel different about school.”

Dr. Bedden says there are more recommendations for other schools to merge, but the school board is awaiting results about building capacity and enrollment.