A Note From Nurse Jessica - January Wellness Update

Welcome Back and Happy New Year!!! 

I hope you all had a wonderful Winter break!  Full of rest and relaxation!!  

Since we are still seeing Flu and Covid on the rise locally I wanted to reiterate key components from my last email.  

Reminder from my previous email : 

Key sickness prevention is started with good health habits like avoiding people who are sick, covering your cough and washing your hands often can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like flu. 

The tips and resources below will help you learn about actions you can take to protect yourself and others from flu and help stop the spread of germs.

1. Avoid close contact.
   Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.

   1. Stay home when you are sick.
      If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. This will help prevent spreading your illness to others.

   2. Cover your mouth and nose.
      Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Flu viruses spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk.

   3. Clean your hands.
      Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.

      • Handwashing: Clean Hands Save Lives
        Tips on hand washing and using alcohol-based hand sanitizers

   4. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
      Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.

   5. Practice other good health habits.
      Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work or school, especially when someone is ill. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

Key Policy Reminders: 

• Students must be fever (100.4) free for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication.

• Students with any vomiting and/or diarrhea must be out for 24 hours post their last vomiting or diarrhea episode 

We continue to ask that you please keep students home when they are unwell. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to me.  Please be sure to let your student's teacher(s) know if your student is out sick, as well.  

Healthy Students = Better Learners

Kind Regards, 

Jessica Tolbert, RN

Lake Oconee Academy

School Nurse

Phone: 706-454-1562

Atlanta Braves Photographer, Kevin Liles, Visits Lake Oconee Academy

9th grade student, Ben Reber, excited to wear the World Series ring while posing for a photo with Kevin Liles.

It was an exciting day for Lake Oconee Academy’s photography class when the Atlanta Braves team photographer, Kevin Liles, visited to share his knowledge and experience as a photographer with the budding photography students.

Mr. Liles began his career as a small-town reporter in South Georgia. After covering local high school sports, Kevin discovered he had a growing interest in photography, especially when it came to sports. He went on to photograph hundreds of assignments for The New York Times, Washington Post, Sports Illustrated, and The Wall Street Journal. In 2018, he found his home as the team photographer for The Atlanta Braves where he continues his work today.

Mr. Liles shared some of the amazing moments he has captured over the years with the photography students. While most of the photographs he shared were epic ones he has taken for The Braves, he also shared some amazing moments he’s been fortunate to capture outside of The Braves organization over the years - from a regal portrait of former President Jimmy Carter to a rare moment with University of Alabama Head Football Coach, Nick Saban. He even shared an unexpected moment he was fortunate to capture of a pastor praying with a police officer that landed on the front of The New York Times Sunday edition. His was the lead photograph of every photographer across the country covering this story. It was an incredible honor.

In addition, Mr. Liles shared great advice with the young photography students as they prepare for their futures in any area of study. Mr. Liles suggested, “It takes about ten years, in my experience, to be really good at anything…” He later stated, “I think a lot of kids come into photography and try to be great very, very quickly. They want to be shooting a Braves game next week and it doesn’t work that way.” His advice was to just put in the time to gain experience, suggesting that in order to grow in photography one needs good critiquing of his or her work to excel in the field.

Mr. Liles enjoyed bantering back and forth with ninth grade student, Ben Reber. He noticed Ben had a superior knowledge of the Braves stats and playfully tested his knowledge throughout. Ben later shared how much he enjoyed seeing Mr. Liles work from games he had attended or viewed on TV, recalling the moments from memory. Prior to this event, Jordynn Chafin, a tenth-grade student, was unsure if photography was a career path she was interested in, “I wanted to do something in the technology field, but I thought photography was kind of boring. Seeing his work made me realize there is more to it and technology can be fun if you make it,” said Jordyn. She emphasized, “He definitely made me give photography a second thought.” 

Being in the presence of such an accomplished photographer was a special experience for these young photography students. Before departing, Mr. Liles gave the students an opportunity to hold his official Braves World Series ring, an experience many of the students will never forget!

Kevin Liles showing a Sports Illustrated cover he collaborated with another photographer on and explaining how the two made the cover come together.

About Kevin D. Liles:

Kevin D. Liles is a documentary, commercial, and sports photographer based out of Atlanta, GA. He specializes in creating narrative, layered and powerful images. Kevin has photographed for The New York Times, Washington Post, Sports Illustrated and The Wall Street Journal. Other clients include Turner Studios, The Golfer’s Journal, the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, ESPN, NBA and The Players’ Tribune. He is the co-founder of ATL Photo Night, a monthly artist talk founded in 2016 aimed at investigating the creative process. He is also past president of the Atlanta Photojournalism Seminar - the longest continuously operating photojournalism conference in the U.S. To learn more about Kevin Liles, please visit: kevindliles.com

Lake Oconee Academy's Marcus Rhodes recognized as one of six recipients of the REACH Scholarship in Greene County

In a recent announcement, Lake Oconee Academy proudly shares that eighth-grade student Marcus Rhodes has been chosen as one of the six recipients of the prestigious REACH Scholarship within the Greene County School System.

Established in 2012, REACH Georgia is the state's pioneer needs-based mentorship and college scholarship initiative. To qualify, students must be nominated by a teacher, marking it not only as a financial scholarship but an honor that comes with a comprehensive framework for success. This framework involves commitments from the student, parents, mentors, and academic coaches, collectively supporting the student's educational journey through high school and beyond. Upon meeting program requirements at graduation, REACH Scholars like Marcus can access a minimum of $10,000 for their education at a full-time, HOPE-eligible postsecondary institution in Georgia.

Marcus, a talented piano player and a proud member of the LOA football team, was selected for the scholarship due to his demonstrated leadership skills both in the classroom and on the football field. Varsity Football Head Coach Patrick Stewart was excited, stating, "That is amazing news! Marcus won our most improved award for football this year as he sought to improve every day. Can't wait to see him continue to grow through this program!"

Highlighting Marcus's academic qualities, his English Language Arts teacher added, "Marcus Rhodes is a promising young man with high aspirations. He is an excited learner with natural curiosity, engaged, social, and a leader in the classroom."

As Marcus transitions to high school next year, the REACH scholarship program will undoubtedly play a vital role in laying the foundation for his successful future. With all the shared pride for Marcus’s win, no one is as proud as his mother, DeTonya Rhodes, who summed up this particular moment best: “I am extremely proud of Marcus and the young man he is becoming. I am blessed and honored to have such a humbled child. Bruce Lee once said, ‘Preparation for tomorrow is hard work today.’ I can’t wait to see what his future holds.”

Lake Oconee Academy extends its best wishes to Marcus and the other Reach Scholars of the Class of 2028, anticipating their continued achievements.

A Note From Nurse Jessica - Wellness Update

LOA Staff and Families~

Welcome Back.....Thanksgiving Break flew by!!!

I hope that you and your family enjoyed some rest and fun!!

A few helpful tips from the Mayo Clinic: 

It may seem as though school-age children frequently get sick, especially during certain times each year. 

Your child(ren)'s immune systems are put to the test. Children in large group settings tend to quickly spread organisms that cause illness.

Viruses cause many common childhood illnesses. All it takes is for one child to bring a virus to school for the spread of illness to begin.

The power of hand-washing

What's the best way to keep your children healthy in school? Frequent hand-washing is the simplest, most effective way to stay healthy.

Remind your children to wash their hands when doing these activities:

• Before eating a meal or snack

• After going to the bathroom

• After coughing, sneezing or blowing their nose

• After playing outside.

Children should soap up their hands for as long as it takes to sing the "Happy Birthday" song twice through, or at least 20 seconds.

Coughing Etiquette: 

• Coughing into a tissue or napkin

• Coughing into your elbow, never into your hand

Other Helpful tips: 

• Remind children to keep their hands away from their eyes and out of their mouths because hands often are covered in germs.

• Teach children to not share water bottles, food or other personal items. Use this simple rule: If you put the item in your mouth, keep it to yourself.

It's also important for your children to eat a healthy diet, get plenty of sleep and stay current on their vaccinations to help fend off illness-causing organisms.  Keep your children at home if they have symptoms, including fever, cough, sore throat or rashes.

A few policy reminders: 

• Students must stay home if fever is present (100.4), they may return if at least 24 hours have passed since their last fever, without the use of fever reducing medication.

• Students must stay home if vomiting and/or diarrhea. They may return 24 hours after their last episode. 

If you have any questions please refer to the Lake Oconee website under the resource tab > school clinic. I have linked it here for your convenience: school clinic.  All resources are available here.  Please don't hesitate to reach out to me if needed :) 

I am so thankful for LOA and our staff, our students, and families!! I hope you each had a wonderful and healthy Thanksgiving!!

—

Our local health department will now have a kiosk providing COVID and Flu PCR testing kits. 

Please see below regarding the new kiosk from the DPH:

The Northeast Health District is now offering COVID and influenza PCR testing at
kiosks at five locations throughout the district. These kiosks offer access to testing 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
After completing a brief registration form, the kiosks dispense two test kits – one kit is for COVID testing and the other is for influenza (types A and B). The test kits include a nasal swab and instructions on collecting the specimens. Nasal swabs must be done for each test. Once the specimens are collected, they are safely packaged back into the kits and placed in the kiosk. The specimens are picked up daily and sent to an accredited lab for PCR testing. Individuals will receive notification of their test results by email or text, usually within 48 hours of specimen collection.

Pre-registration for testing at the kiosks is not required but is available at
https://register.testandgo.com/. 

There is no out-of-pocket cost for the tests provided through a DPH kiosk, but for individuals with insurance, their insurance will be billed.

For more information about these kiosks, visit: https://northeasthealthdistrict.org/resources/covid-19-testing/

COVID and influenza testing are among the many prevention measures that protect you and others by reducing the chances of spreading illness. Vaccination and good respiratory hygiene also help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses like COVID and flu:

• Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and warm water. Alcohol-based gels are the next best thing if you don’t have access to soap and water.

• Cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow or arm to help prevent spread of germs.

• Avoid touching your face as germs can get into the body through mucus membranes of the nose, mouth and eyes.

• Stay home from work or school if you’re sick.

For more information about COVID and influenza visit https://dph.georgia.gov/covid-19 or https://dph.georgia.gov/flu.

Kind regards,

Jessica Tolbert, RN

Lake Oconee Academy School Nurse

Lake Oconee Academy Band Performs at Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida

During the fall break from October 12th to 15th, the 8th through 12th grade band students from Lake Oconee Academy embarked on an exciting journey to Orlando, Florida. Their destination was Universal Studios, where they showcased their musical talents on the grand stage and enjoyed the various attractions.

The meticulous planning for this remarkable opportunity was spearheaded by Courtney Pilgrim, the Band Director for both the Upper and Lower Schools at LOA. Pilgrim initiated the Universal Studios Stars Performance Programs application process in February of the preceding school year, submitting video and sound recordings from past performances.

The Universal Studios Stars Performance Program caters to youth bands, allowing them to perform in front of Universal's diverse audience. This program accommodates a range of performing groups, from marching or concert bands to dance teams, choirs, and more, offering a platform for these talented groups to showcase their skills.

While at Universal, the LOA Band students focused on their performance and indulged in the trip's recreational side. They experienced the excitement of Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, and The Main Universal Park. They even ventured to Medieval Times, creating lasting memories that will resonate with the group for a lifetime.

Reflecting on the trip, Ms. Pilgrim admired the students' outstanding performance and the fantastic experience. She looks forward to future opportunities to perform with this exceptional group, and this trip will be a cherished memory for the students who eagerly anticipate the chance to attend such an event again.

LOA Students Win Big At The Annual Georgia National Fair Art Exhibit

Lake Oconee Academy (LOA) traveled to Perry, Georgia for the Georgia National Fair (GNF) Art Expo where they had 50 art pieces on display in the exhibition. Each year, GNF opens the art contest to all schools in Georgia where budding artists vie for top prizes in six different categories. Not only do the students receive ribbons for 1st-3rd place but also monetary awards: 1st- $25, 2nd - $20, and 3rd - $15 while Best In Category receives an additional $25 and a rosette. Best In Show receives $100!

There are six different categories to highlight the various artistic skills: Drawing, Painting, Other Types of 2D Art, Photography, Sculpture, and Other Types of 3D Art. In addition, there are classes within each category. This allows for a wide variety of artists to participate and show off their artistic skills.

This year, Mrs. Debbie Vogel, LOA Upper School Art Teacher, and Mrs. Amanda Stewart, LOA Middle School Art teacher, had 32 high school students submit 50 art pieces - the maximum amount allowed to be submitted. With a short notice of approval of participation for the Middle School Art students, Middle School had 11 exhibitors with 16 entries. The Middle School Art Department looks forward to having a stronger showing in future years as they’re only recently able to participate.  Vogel stated, “I am proud of all our students for submitting work to the Georgia National Fair youth exhibit. It is such a good experience for students to see their work hung among other artists in the state and it is particularly satisfying to earn an award.”

LOA had many successes at the Art Exhibit, taking home awards in various categories:

HIGH SCHOOL

11th/12th Grade

●      Maddie Cummings: 1st place - Water Media Painting

●      Irem Erturk: 2nd place - Water Media Painting

●      Naomi Tovar: 2nd place – Pencil

●      Marley Beeker: 3rd place - Sculpture Other

9th/10th Grade

●      Avery Sanders: 2nd place - Printmaking

●      Leighann Padgett: 2nd place - Paper Mache

●      Lexi Sangam: 2nd place - Pencil Drawing

●      Valaria Martinez-Arguelles: 1st place and “Best of Category” - Colored Photography

●      Blakely Cantrell: 2nd place - Black and White Photography

●      Ben Reber: Honorable Mention - Colored Photography

(L to R): Ben Reber, Irem Erturk, Marley Beeker, Mrs. Vogel, Madison Cummings, Naomi Tovar, Valeria Martinez-Arguelies

MIDDLE SCHOOL AND SCULPTURE STUDENTS

8th Grade (High School Art l Class)

●      Kira Delgado-Schelmetty: 1st place - Printmaking

●      Audrey Lowe: 2nd place - Printmaking

●      Yamily Perez: 2nd place - Ceramic Sculpture

7th Grade

●      Maddie Moon: 2nd place - Wire/Wood Sculpture

●      Roland Bryant: 3rd place - Clay Sculpture

9th/10th

●      Maggie Wilson: 1st place - Wire/Wood sculpture

●      Rilan Hudgins: 1st place - Wire/Wood Sculpture

●      Blakely Cantrell: 2nd place - Wire/Wood Sculpture

●      Linda Cason: 2nd place - Wire/Wood Sculpture

(L to R): Avery Sanders, Audrey Lowe, Mrs. Amanda Stewart, Roland Bryant, Maddie Moon, Kira Delgado-Schelmetty

The art exhibits stay on display the duration of the fair hosted every October. Thousands of people peruse the Miller-Murphey-Howell building to see the incredibly talented students across the state of Georgia each year. For young artists, it is a real opportunity to display their hard work.

The Georgia National Fair is a state-sponsored fair that is held every October on the Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter in Perry, Georgia. This is the 34th year in existence. It offers a wide range of activities and shows - including agricultural, livestock and horse shows, home and fine arts competitions, youth organization events, a circus, rides, a wide variety of fair food, and concerts boasting big name entertainers.

Lake Oconee Academy Honors Hispanic Heritage Month With Night Of Celebration

September 15, 2023 - October 15, 2023 Hispanic Heritage Month  and Lake Oconee Academy (LOA) celebrated with a night dedicated to exploring the delicacies and culture of various spanish speaking countries around the world.  

Students, parents, staff, and more were invited to attend the Inaugural LOA Hispanic Heritage Night to get a taste of authentic Hispanic food as well as explore the many different cultures within the Hispanic and Latino communities.

“Lake Oconee Academy has a very diverse student body. The Hispanic/Latino community has roots from many countries,” says Spanish teacher, Mrs. Lizette Delgado. “I wanted my students to learn the significant contributions the Hispanic/Latino Americans have made in the United States.” Delgado’s enthusiasm led to a night of celebration that proved to be even more of a success than expected. Mrs. Delgado enlisted the help of Mrs. Tabitha Mancil, LOA teacher, who quickly began rallying the help of the Hispanic parent body to bring this event together.

The enthusiasm and pride shined bright! Hispanic parents and students from LOA’s Parent Teacher Committee shared their countries, culture, and roots through food, dance and authentic crafts. Families represented the countries of Mexico, Peru, Columbia, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Ecuador, Panama, and Guatemala. Participating families decorated with flags, banners, tablecloths, and more - giving attendees an experience to be remembered.

Hispanic Heritage Month was incorporated into the classroom, as well. English Speaking of  Other Languages (ESOL) teacher,  Mrs. Shannon Hooks planned lessons throughout the month, teaching students about influential people, art, and stories of Hispanic culture. Several elementary students created a collaborative project, and kindergarten students made individual art pieces to contribute to the night of celebration.

Dr. Beverly Montgomery, LOA Upper School Director, shared her delight for the event, “I was thrilled when Mrs. Delgado informed me that the Hispanic/Latino members of our Titan Family wanted to host an event where we could celebrate and taste different cultures represented in our school and fellowship with our families, faculty and staff.  The food was outstanding, and the company was even better!"

Hispanic/Latino parents, teachers, and students alike beamed with pride and excitement as they shared their wonderful culture with others while attendees relished in the amazing food and culture. “If you missed this event, you missed out on some delicious food, an amazing sense of community and some of the most gracious hospitality I have ever seen at any school,” expressed LOA teacher, Mr. Eric Harper.

The success and excitement of this first ever Hispanic Heritage Night has only reinforced the hard work that went into planning the event. What started as an idea Mrs. Delgado had been dreaming of  became an event that will “no doubt be bigger and better next year!” Hispanic Heritage Night will now be celebrated as an annual event during Hispanic Heritage Month at Lake Oconee Academy for years to come.

Lake Oconee Academy Given Gold Honor Roll Distinction In Advanced Placement® Program School

L to R: Austin Marshall (AP Student), Mrs. Mandy Lipscomb, Dylan Phenix (AP Student), and Ben Leach (AP Student)

College Board announced that Lake Oconee Academy (LOA) has been named to the Advanced Placement® Program (AP®) School Honor Roll, earning Gold distinction.

The AP® School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP programs are delivering results for students while broadening access. Schools can earn this recognition annually based on criteria that reflect a commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness.

Last year, LOA had 75% of its seniors who took at least one AP exam during high school, 63% of seniors scoring a three or higher on at least one AP exam, while 31% of seniors took five or more AP exams!

●      LOA CURRENTLY OFFERS 22 AP COURSES

●      29 SECTIONS ARE TAUGHT PRESENTLY

●      14 TEACHERS AT LOA TEACH AN AP COURSE

LOA Executive Director Dr. Brad Bowling expressed his enthusiasm and pride in receiving this recognition, “I am incredibly proud of our school community for being recognized with this honor. This prestigious recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, teachers, and staff. It reflects our commitment to academic excellence and our support for advanced placement programs.”

From the perspective of an AP Human Geography and AP United States History teacher, Mrs. Mandy Lipscomb expressed the importance of Advanced Placement, “AP classes provide students with a great opportunity to kick-start their post-secondary plans. These courses are rigorous, and students learn to develop higher level critical thinking skills by emphasizing analysis and evaluation. This is very difficult for most students, but in the AP classroom, students are able to work closely with an AP teacher to develop and collect the necessary tools to problem solve. AP students exhibit motivation, reliability, and maturity to work independently - all of which provide a firm foundation for success in the post-secondary arena.”

“AP represents an opportunity for students to stand out to colleges, earn college credit and placement, and potentially boost their grade point averages,” said Trevor Packer, head of the AP program. “The schools have shown that they can expand access to these college-level courses and still drive high performance — they represent the best of our AP program.”

A Note From Nurse Jessica - It's Flu Shot Season!

It’s that time of the year again!!! Flu shot season!! 

We are happy to be hosting the Greene County Health Department on Thursday, October 5th for our annual Flu Shot Clinic.  

If you are interested in your child(ren) receiving a flu shot during the clinic, please fill out both forms attached and return to me (hard copies or via email).  

Deadline for form submission: September 28th (no forms will be accepted after this date) The forms are provided in English and Spanish.

Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.

Kind Regards, 

Jessica Tolbert, RN

Lake Oconee Academy

School Nurse

Phone: 706-454-1562

Fax: 706-453-1773

jessica.tolbert@lakeoconeeacademy.org

The Book Fair Comes to LOA!

LOA's Fall Book Fair will take place September 18-22! 📚 Click here to view classroom viewing times: https://bit.ly/3LlWg9w

Payment options: eWallets are amazing! eWallets provide electronic forms of payment that generate through the Scholastic registers. eWallets = no lost money. Cash is accepted and parents may use credit cards!

Create an eWallet: https://bit.ly/48h4iKE

Prizes will be given to our fantastic staff members throughout the week. Two of those prizes with be awarded to two elementary homeroom teachers that have classes with the most EWallets created.

Volunteer slots are still open! Please consider signing up. Click here to volunteer: https://bit.ly/3Lm863y

LOA Homecoming 2023

The LOA Events Class is excited to announce Homecoming 2023 - LOA's Got Game!

The week is filled with many fun events for our High School Students with a few for everyone sprinkled in!!!  We hope that you will have an opportunity to join us!  Read about the week below!  Here's a Google Doc for any updates!  

Door Decorating - Judging: September 29, 2023
We invite all Homeroom (Advisory) Classrooms to decorate their classroom doors this year in the Homecoming Theme: LOA’s Got Game. All Classrooms can choose their own game (board, video, etc.)  to represent your door.  (Talk amongst your grade level to make sure no games are duplicated in your grade level.) 
 
Doors should be decorated by Noon on September 29th for judging.  Click on the rubric to see how doors will be judged! Winners will receive an ice cream or breakfast.  

INFORMATION ON DRESS UP DAYS
Dress Up Days will be for High School Students Only.  Middle and Elementary Students may participate on Friday’s Titan Spirit Day.  

High School Students, please remember, Dress Up Days are just that DRESS UP.  We understand that some of these days lend themselves to casual attire such as t-shirts and jeans, but we ask that you make it obvious that you are participating.  You can do that by doing something with your hair, make up, or adding accessories. Dress Up Days are not required, but if you choose not to participate, you should be in your regular school uniform.  Short/Skirt Lengths should be at Fingertips! All clothing must be SCHOOL APPROPRIATE (No Drug, Alcohol, Sexual, Political References or anything degrading towards anyone else) .  No Skin Tight Clothing.  Nothing too revealing.  Undergarments should be covered. If leggings are worn, shirts or shorts must cover.   If any students choose to dress inappropriately, they will be sent home as an unexcused absence.  Unexcused Absence = Zero for Grades - No Makeups.  Once again, we want you to have fun and be creative, but it needs to be appropriate.  

SIGN UP FOR ALL ACTIVITIES HERE! (Games, Float Help, etc.)

SCHEDULE FOR THE WEEK

Friday September 29, 2023
Gold PM Advisement - Float Prep @ LOA

Saturday September 30, 2023
9:00 - 1:00 - Float Prep @ LOA

Sunday October 1, 2023
1:00 - 6:00 - Float Prep @ LOA
6:00 PM - Homecoming Kickoff - Powder Puff Football 

Who: High School Students will sign up to participate in the Powder Puff (Flag) Football Game.  We will need 10 Girls and 7 Boys from each grade.  The girls will play flag football, while the boys will cheer and coach them on from the sideline.   The entire Titan Community is invited to watch!   

Where: Tucker Field

Game 1 -  Juniors vs Sophomores
Game 2 - Seniors vs Freshmen
Game 3 - Losers 1 vs Losers 2
Game 4 - Winners 1 vs Winners 2
Game 5 - Winner 3 vs Loser 4
Game 6 - Winner 4 vs Faculty

Blue Day Advisement Schedule for Middle and High School 
Middle and High School will run an Advisement Schedule for the week of October 2-6, 2023.  High School Students will report to the Homecoming Activity Location during Advisement.  Middle School will report to their Advisement.  

Monday Oct 2, 2023 
Scrabble: Dress as something with the first letter of your first name.

Advisement - Activity - Homecoming Parade 
Various Groups, Teams and High School Classes will decorate vehicles (Floats, Golf Carts, Trucks, etc.) to ride in the parade.  SGA Class Presidents will head up their Grade Level Float.  Any students interested in riding on the grade level float must help in the construction/decoration of said float.  The Homecoming Court will be featured as well!  The whole Titan Community is invited to come and watch the parade!  Sign up on the activities link above to help! 

Tuesday Oct 3, 2023 
Guess Who: Rhyme without Reason - Find a partner and dress as two words that rhyme - examples: Butterfly and Super Spy; Aquatic and Patriotic, Tinker Bell + Taco Bell, Buzz Lightyear + Sightseer

Advisement - Daily Competition: Speed Volleyball Tournament - (6 person teams) 5 Min - The team to score the most points wins. 

Game 1 -  Juniors vs Sophomores
Game 2 - Seniors vs Freshmen
Game 3 - Losers 1 vs Losers 2
Game 4 - Winners 1 vs Winners 2
Game 5 - Winner 3 vs Loser 4
Game 6 - Winner 4 vs Faculty

High School Students will sign up to participate in the daily activities!   

Wednesday Oct 4, 2023
Game of Life: Dress as Future Career

Advisement - Daily Competition: Dodgeball Tournament  5 min timer - move to volleyball line
Game 1 -  Juniors vs Sophomores
Game 2 - Seniors vs Freshmen
Game 3 - Losers 1 vs Losers 2
Game 4 - Winners 1 vs Winners 2
Game 5 - Winner 3 vs Loser 4
Game 6 - Winner 4 vs Faculty

High School Students will sign up to participate in the daily activities! 

6:00 PM - Clash of the Titans - Titan Trivia and Challenges - Titan Center
Titan Trivia and Challenges (Trivia with Minute to Win It Challenges Mixed together!) 6 Person Teams

High School Students will sign up for a grade level team.  6 people per team - The teams will be determined randomly by who is signed up.  

Thursday Oct 5, 2023
Hay Day vs Subway Surfer: Farmers vs Skaters

Advisement - Activity -  Table Surfing - Obstacle Course - Subway Surfer/Hay Day Theme

Friday Oct 6, 2023

Battleship (Battle of the Classes - Titan Spirit Day) 
High School wear your Class Color!
12th Grade - Black
11th Grade - Royal
10th Grade - Gold
9th Grade - White
Elementary and Middle School Students, show us your Titan Spirit and dress in school colors that day!!! 

  
Advisement - Pep Rally on Football Field - 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
The Pep Rally will announce Homecoming Court and all Fall Sports in addition to final grade level games and the announcing of the Spirit Stick Winners! 

Schedule for Friday: 
1st Block - 7:40 - 8:45
2nd Block - 8:50 - 9:55
10:00 - 11:05 - Homecoming Pep Rally on Football Field
Normal Advisory Schedule 

Saturday October 7, 2023 
Titan Center 
8:00 - 10:00 
Tickets - $15
Purchase Tickets at loastore.org TILL SEPTEMBER 29. 

Everyone must purchase a ticket to enter.  Tickets are on sale till September 29.  ABSOLUTELY NO TICKETS OR FORMS WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER THE 29TH!  This is a FIRM DEADLINE!  Only 9th-12th Grade Students or Guests that have graduated but under the age of 21. Any Non-LOA Guests must complete a Dance Guest Form and have submitted by September 29, 2023. Guests must also bring identification to check in the night of the dance. 

We will be updating that Google Doc  with additional links and information as we finalize all the plans, so make sure to check back!  

News From the LOA Board of Governors - August Edition

We hope your school year is off to a great start! The Lake Oconee Academy Board of Governors held its monthly meeting on Monday, August 7th. We want to share some highlights with you:

●     LOA Waiting List - There are currently 355 students on the waiting list.

 ●     Charter Renewal Update - The LOA BOG approved LOA to send over its responses to the request for clarification from the Greene County School System. For more information regarding the charter renewal, please visit the Charter Renewal Resource Center located on the Charter Schools Tab on the LOA website and Quick Link at the top of the website.

●     Alternative Education Program was approved to be sent to GADOE- More information about this program can be found here.

●     Discussion of the Cognia Accreditation - LOA is currently going through the process of accreditation through the accreditation agency, Cognia. On their website, Cognia shares, “For more than 125 years, schools have been inviting Cognia and our legacy agencies, NCA CASI, NWAC, and SACS CASI, into their classrooms. Why? Because we go beyond evaluating school quality. We provide trusted expertise and actionable ideas that move the needle on school quality."

○     Accreditation is the launchpad for school improvement. Based on rigorous research-based standards and evidence-based criteria, the process probes the whole institution—from policies to learning conditions and cultural context—to determine how well the parts work together to meet the needs of every learner.

○     Accreditation isn’t about passing a one-time inspection—it helps education providers meet improvement goals and sustain commitments to better learner outcomes.

○     Cognia identifies schools and systems that best exemplify excellence in education and stand out in the service to learners based on the results of our rigorous accreditation process, as stated on their website. For more information on the accreditation process, please visit cognia.org. As a part of the accreditation process, a Cognia team will do a virtual site visit on Tuesday, November 28th.

If you have any questions or concerns, you can reach the LOA Board of Governors by emailing LOABOG@lakeoconeeacademy.org.

We are ONE TITAN!

To view the August newsletter online, please click here: https://conta.cc/3E0T1jM

Lake Oconee Academy Named National Beta School of Merit

Lake Oconee Academy is proud to announce its recognition as a 2022-2023 National Beta School of Merit. The school earned this acknowledgement by offering National Beta to all eligible grades on their campus. National Junior Beta includes grades 4-8 and National Senior Beta includes grades 9-12.

The National Beta School of Merit award is given to honor a club’s dedication and commitment to academic excellence. To achieve this prestigious honor, a school must include members from all eligible grade levels in their Beta club. This year, only 3,583 Beta Clubs across the country received this award.

Lake Oconee Academy’s Executive Director, Dr. Brad Bowling, Ed.D., shared his sentiments, “We are honored to have been selected as a National Beta School of Merit. It is a reflection of our Beta Club students’ efforts not only in achieving academically, but also in developing character through service and leadership among their peers and in our community.”

LOA Beta, along with its sponsors, LOA Faculty - Kris Stevens and Teena Garland, carried out numerous undertakings in the 2022-2023 school year. The projects included trash pickup, canned food collection, toy collection, and a highly successful blood drive. These have provided LOA Beta with distinguished accomplishments, including the following:

●      Through the annual event of Rivers Alive, Beta members helped clear trash from the waterways of Greene and Putnam counties.

●      Approximately 2,000 cans were collected in the school-wide canned food drive to benefit Greene County Food Pantry.

●      Nearly 100 coats were collected in the school-wide Coat Drive to assist Greene County residents who were in need of harsh winter protection.

●      150 handmade, holiday and Valentine’s cards were made for the residents of local assisted living facilities; additionally, members spent time with the residents and helped assist in holiday activities.

●      Beta Club members staffed LOA concession stands for every home basketball game.

●      Beta Club partnered with the American Red Cross to host a community blood drive; Beta members facilitated and provided donors with thank you cards.

To commemorate the accomplishments of LOA Beta, the LOA Beta Officers state:

“We have much more to accomplish; however, through service initiatives and continued vigor to serve, LOA Senior Beta Club members have developed a sense of leadership and devotion toward the community. As the tide shifts to the next school year, we anticipate an even brighter future that encompasses a multitude of opportunities to carry on the principles of a Beta member. ‘Let us lead by serving others’, our guiding principle acts as a catalyst as we lead every service event in our school and community. The wealth of knowledge and experience acquired through our work in the 2022-2023 school year demonstrates our capability to perform but also serves to further our goal of advancing our community through both service and leadership.”

About National Beta  
With more than 500,000 active members and 9,000 chapters nationally and internationally, National Beta has become the nation’s largest independent, non-profit, educational youth organization. National Beta recognizes outstanding achievement, promotes character and social responsibility, encourages service involvement to school and community, and fosters leadership skills. The National Beta program offers over $300,000 annually to its Senior Beta Members. Visit betaclub.org for more information. 

News From the LOA Board of Governors - Charter Renewal

Titan Family and Friends,

Thursday, July 13, 2023, the Greene County School System (GCSS) Board of Education (BOE) held a called meeting to discuss their clarification requests regarding the LOA Charter Renewal Application, to vote on approval to submit said requests to LOA, and to vote on approval to submit an extension request to the 90-day deadline (outlined in Georgia State Board Rule 160-4-9-.05 Charter Renewal Petitions Process) for the Charter Renewal Application. 

On Tuesday, July 18, 2023, the LOA Board of Governors (BOG) held a special called meeting at 5:30 PM in the 300 Building/Cafeteria.

We have detailed below the items covered at the July 18th special called meeting...

Discussion of the GCSS BOE Charter Application-Clarification Requests: At the meeting, a discussion was held regarding the GCSS Charter Application-Clarification Request that was received by LOA on July 13, 2023. Chairman Michael Tompkins, Dr. Brad Bowling, and Dr. Otho Tucker shared concerns about various items in the clarification request document and spoke specifically to the GCSS “non-negotiables” that were a part of said document. Among the concerns addressed were:

• The timeline of the charter renewal process, and the GCSS BOE delay in response to the charter petition

• Elements in the GCSS BOE response to the charter petition that appear to attempt to control, oversee, and monitor the growth, development, operations, and educational programs of the school, rather than grant the autonomy that charter schools are characterized by

• Requests to prove the success of LOA despite ample evidence already provided

•  A list of “non-negotiables” from the GCSS BOE that cause divisiveness rather than collaboration. Dr. Bowling and Dr. Tucker spoke to each of these from the perspective of LOA:

• Special Education and Services to Students with Disabilities

• Data used to inform instruction and comparisons between LOA and GCSS

• School discipline

• School safety plan

• Strategic Planning/Surveys

• Applications to the charter school

• Facilities

• Enrollment cap

• Funding

• Chairman Tompkins allowed for questions from the LOA Board of Governors. Dr. Bowling and Dr. Tucker responded to each question

Response to GCSS BOE request an additional 90-day extension to the July 15th deadline (received July 13, 2023): Pursuant to OCGA § 20-2-2064(a) and (b) and State Board of Education Rule 160-4-9-.05(1)(b), a local board of education must approve or deny a charter petition within 90 days of submission unless the charter applicant offers an extension. The Greene County Board of Education did not vote on Lake Oconee Academy’s petition within the 90-day period. At the meeting, the Board of Governors met and voted to agree to an extension of 30 days from the date LOA’s responses to the GCSS Request for Clarifications is sent, in order to give the Board time to review this additional information and reach a final decision on our charter.

The LOA Administration and the Board of Governors will continue efforts to increase communications between the LOABOG and the community at large. We are committed to keeping the community informed about LOA, not only regarding the upcoming Charter Renewal, but in all facets of our great school.

The next LOABOG is scheduled for Monday, August 7, 2023 at 5:30pm and will be held in room 102 of the LOA Upper School, Building 800. The next GCSSBOE meeting is scheduled for Thursday, August 17, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. in the Board Meeting Room located at 101 East Third Street, Greensboro, Georgia. We encourage parents, faculty and community members to attend these regularly scheduled meetings when possible.

If you have any questions or concerns you can reach the LOA Board of Governors by emailing LOABOG@lakeoconeeacademy.org.

We are ONE TITAN!

Pre-K through 12th Grade Meet & Greet Information

Pre-K

Pre-K Meet & Greet will take place Monday, July 31 from 5:00 pm-6:30pm.

Location- Pre-K Classrooms- Please report to your child’s classroom. The structure will be fluid and not based on last names**
⭐ Rm. 219 Dale Hughes
⭐ Rm. 218 Haley Snead
⭐ Rm. 406 Lisa Weaver
⭐ Rm. 407 Ashley Pincus

Please bring all school supplies at this time

Parking- Please park in the parking lot closest to the football field. This will allow for easy access to and from the classrooms. Faculty members will be stationed throughout the buildings to help you navigate our LOA campus. **
During the week of July 24, you will be able to view your child's schedule and classroom teacher in the Parent Portal/Infinite Campus. If you do not have access to Infinite Campus, you will receive your child’s classroom teacher at Meet and Greet. You may also reach out to Robin Weir at robin.weir@lakeoconeeacademy for questions relating to Infinite Campus.

Families are not required to attend Meet & Greet, but it is recommended to help with the transition to school from summer vacation. If you cannot attend but have questions, please reach out to your child's classroom teacher after July 24th.
Enjoy the remainder of your summer! We look forward to seeing our Pre-K Titan Families on July 31.

Kindergarten - 4th Grade

Meet & Greet will take place on Tuesday, August 1. Take note of the scheduled times below, depending on the beginning letter of your child's last name.
🔹 Last Name A-I - 9:00 am - 10:30 am
🔹 Last Name J-R - 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
🔹 Last Name S-Z - 1:00 pm - 2:30pm
*If you have students in your family with different last names, please choose one time to attend.

During Meet & Greet scheduled times, please do the following:
1. Visit your child’s classroom(s)
2. Bring in school supplies
3. Help your child(ren) become familiar with how to walk to their classroom from the carline that you plan to drop them off at

During the week of July 24, you will be able to view your child's schedule and homeroom teacher in Parent Portal/Infinite Campus. Faculty members will be stationed throughout the buildings to help you navigate campus. If you do not have access to Infinite Campus, you will receive your child’s homeroom teacher at Meet and Greet. You may also reach out to Robin Weir at robin.robin.weir@lakeoconeeacademy for questions relating to Infinite Campus.

Families are not required to attend Meet & Greet, but it is recommended to attend to help with the transition back to school after summertime. If you cannot attend but have questions, please reach out to your child's homeroom teacher after July 24.

Enjoy the rest of your summer and we are so excited to see our Titan families on August 1!

5th - 6th Grade

Monday, July 31 from 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Location: Buildings 500 & 600

9th Grade

Monday, July 31 from 6:00 pm - 7: 00 pm 

Location: Building 800

7th - 8th Grade & 10th - 12th grade

Tuesday, August 1.

Location - Homerooms Classrooms 

Last Name A-I - 9:00 am - 10:30 am

Last Name J-R - 10:30 am - 12:00 pm

Last Name S-Z - 1:00 pm - 2:30pm

If you have students in your family with different last names, please choose one time to attend Meet & Greet.

Lake Oconee Academy Celebrates 2023 Denim & Diamonds As A Record Breaking Success

On Saturday, April 22, 2023, Lake Oconee Academy (LOA) and the Lake Oconee Academy Foundation (LOAF) hosted their annual fundraising event, Denim & Diamonds at Collins Farm in Greensboro, GA. The event attracted over 550 attendees who gathered to enjoy a night filled with good friends, good food, good times, and an incredible amount of generosity. From ticket sales, sponsorships, and raffles to the silent and live auctions, this year’s Denim & Diamonds raised over $293,000 for the Lake Oconee Academy Foundation. This achievement surpasses all previous years, making this the largest amount of funds ever raised by one single LOA benefit event.

“I am beyond proud to have been part of planning this extraordinary event,” said Kendra Van Mol, Lake Oconee Academy Foundation Director of Development. “I have a deep appreciation for this school, community, and Titan Family. Our sponsors, volunteers, and attendees were all amazing, and their generosity has been overwhelming. One of my favorite moments from the evening was seeing the Titan Tower live auction item sell for $8,000. Alongside, of course, the delicious food and the Titan Ranch flash mob. I believe this year’s event brought an energy and excitement we’ve never experienced before. With everyone’s support and involvement, we were truly able to bring our best!”

Denim & Diamonds was largely made possible by a team of volunteers made up of business owners, community members, LOA faculty, and parents. They devoted many hours of their time in preparation, including set-up of the venue and silent auction, hand-made decor, and raffle ticket sales. Their hard work is a testament to the level of community support required to bring an event like Denim & Diamonds to fruition.

“On behalf of the Lake Oconee Academy Foundation and my entire faculty and staff, I would like to thank everyone who contributed in any way to make the 2023 Denim & Diamonds a special event. A huge thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Todd Collins who allowed us to use their beautiful home and property. I would also like to thank Denim & Diamonds Title Sponsors, Juturna, Bughouse Pest Control and Aalto Scientific, Ltd., and Platinum VIP Cocktail Sponsor, BankSouth as well as all of our incredible sponsors for their tremendous generosity. Finally, I would like to recognize Kendra Van Mol, Teresa Sitler, Event Co-
Chair, and their team of volunteers for their dedication and hard work in making our event a huge success,” noted Dr. Otho Tucker, CEO of LOA.

LOAF is a non-profit organization committed to enriching the educational experience of every LOA student. As the school population continues to grow, the mission of the LOAF is to support this growth through new classroom buildings, fine arts programming, scholarship opportunities, and everything in between to offer the best educational experience. Hence why the theme of this year’s Denim & Diamonds was, “Bring Your Best!”  With profits from this year’s events, the LOAF approved $200,000 worth of needs for the school and students – Including, but not limited to, new marching band uniforms, drill team uniforms, various athletic uniforms, new sheet music, art supplies and literature programs.

In previous years, LOAF has raised funds to provide LOA students with 6,000+ library books, a piano lab, equipment for broadcasting, technology, band/musical theatre licenses, costumes, technology, athletic equipment, an upper elementary playground, visual arts supplies for honors and AP programs, travel scholarships for international study programs, new athletic fields, and most recently, the campus expansion which included the completion of a new Fine Arts Building.

Denim & Diamonds 2024 is set to take place on Saturday, March 2, 2024 at Collins Farm.

To learn more about LOAF visit LakeOconeeAcademy.org. For a complete list of Denim & Diamonds contributors or to learn more about the event, kindly visit DenimAndDiamondsLO.com.

LOA has partnered with EPI for 2023 school supplies to make it easy on our parents

SHOP NOW for your 2023-24 school supplies. Avoid the stores and get all your school supply shopping done online. EPI school supply packs contain all the items and brands our teachers require. Not only is this convenient for you, but it is a fundraiser to help our school. Order now with our School ID at https://www.educationalproducts.com/shoppacks/.

LAK375 - Lake Oconee Academy

LAK377 - Lake Oconee Academy Middle School

Please note, this is not required for school supplies. LOA partners with EPI to make purchasing supplies seamless and easy.