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Zoe Boudrey, Shannon Sanchez awarded REACH scholarship
REACH
Staff Report
Published: Dec 13, 2023, 9:57 PM

Indian Creek Middle School eighth grade students Zoe Boudrey and Shannon Sanchez have been awarded the "Realizing Educational Achievement Can Happen" (R.E.A.C.H) scholarship. 

The recognition was announced during a special ceremony at the Newton County Board of Education on Tuesday, Dec. 12. 

Dr. Keith Benton, Newton County Schools’ (NCSS) director of student and family Support, emphasized the significance of the REACH program.

"REACH is a mentoring and scholarship program designed to ensure Georgia’s academically promising students have the academic, social and financial support needed to graduate from high school and college prepared for work,” Benton said.

As part of the honor, each of the newly inducted Georgia REACH Scholars will be granted a $10,000 scholarship upon their high school graduation. This scholarship can be utilized towards the cost of attendance at any HOPE-eligible university system of Georgia, technical college or private post-secondary institution.

Benton outlined the commitments expected from REACH scholars. 

"Our REACH scholars are required to sign a contract vowing to maintain good behavior, keep a cumulative grade point average above 2.5, meet with their REACH mentor at least twice a month and focus on achieving both a high school diploma and college degree,” Benton said. “They also must agree to maintain a crime and drug-free record."

The recognition of Boudrey and Sanchez as Georgia REACH Scholars highlights Newton County School System’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and providing opportunities for the continued success of its students.

"I am immensely proud of Zoe and Shannon for earning the prestigious Georgia REACH Scholarship,” said Dr. Duke Bradley, III, NCSS superintendent. “Their commitment to academic excellence sets an example for their peers, and I am confident they will make significant contributions to our community in the future."

“Congratulations to Zoe and Shannon for being recognized as Georgia REACH Scholars,” said Shakila Henderson-Baker, chair of the Newton County Board of Education. “Their dedication to academic achievement mirrors the values we champion in our educational community. This accomplishment not only reflects the students' hard work but also underscores the efficacy of the supportive educational environment fostered by Indian Creek Middle School. We look forward to witnessing Zoe and Shannon thrive as they embark on this transformative journey, paving the way for future successes and inspiring their peers. The Newton County Board of Education remains committed to cultivating a nurturing academic landscape where every student can reach their fullest potential."
Taylor Moody Named Finalist for Georgia Teacher of the Year
taylor moody ga toty finalist
Taylor Moody (center) was surprised with the news in her classroom Tuesday morning. (L:R): Georgia School Superintendent Richard Woods, Assistant Principal of Instruction Darrell Daniel, Assistant Principal of Business Engagement Linsey Shockley, Principal Chad Walker. Photo courtesy of the Georgia Department of Education
Staff Report
Updated: Mar 4, 2025, 8:49 PM
Published: Mar 4, 2025, 8:27 PM

Newton County Schools (NCS) announced Tuesday that Taylor Moody, an English Language Arts teacher at Newton College & Career Academy and the 2025 NCS Teacher of the Year, has been named a finalist for the Georgia Teacher of the Year award. 

Georgia School Superintendent Richard Woods made a special visit to Newton College & Career Academy Tuesday morning to surprise Moody and her students with the exciting news.

“Being named a finalist for Georgia Teacher of the Year with only four years of experience is truly shocking and humbling,” Moody said in an NCS press release. “I’m just grateful for the students who trust me, the colleagues who challenge and support me and the community that believes in the power of education. This honor isn’t just about me—it’s about all of us who show up every day, committed to making a difference. I’m proud to represent the incredible educators and students who make this work so meaningful.”

Moody has been a formative part of the NCS community since beginning her teaching career in 2020. She currently teaches World Literature and Composition, Multicultural Literature and Composition and Advanced Placement (AP) Language and Composition. 

Moody’s impact was recognized by The Covington News previously when four of her students – Nevaeh Craven, Layla Crayon, Hulet Neely and Shania Stewart – were honored as the 2024 VISIONS Youth of the Year for their creation of the Quick Save CPR mat. These students were state finalists in the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition, all due to an idea sparked by a project in Moody’s class.

Moody holds both a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Master of Arts in Teaching English Education from the University of Georgia. She is furthering her expertise by pursuing an Education Specialist degree in Teacher Leadership at Valdosta State University.

Chad Walker, principal of Newton College & Career Academy, expressed his pride in Moody’s achievement. 

"Ms. Moody is an exceptional educator who brings passion and creativity to her classroom every single day,” Walker said. “She has a profound impact on her students, challenging them to think critically and grow as learners. Her contributions to our school make her truly deserving of this honor. We are so proud to have her as part of the NCCA [Newton College & Career Academy] family."

The Georgia Teacher of the Year program recognizes outstanding educators who exemplify excellence in teaching and leadership. As a finalist, Moody will compete with other top educators from across the state for the title of 2025 Georgia Teacher of the Year.

Newton County Schools Superintendent Duke Bradley congratulated Moody on the recognition.

 “We are absolutely thrilled that Ms. Moody has been named a finalist for Georgia Teacher of the Year,” Bradley said. “She represents the excellence we strive for in Newton County Schools, and this recognition highlights the impact she has on her students and colleagues. We are excited for her to take this next step at the state level and wish her the very best in the next phase of the program."