Lake Oconee Academy is proud to share two prestigious recognitions that highlight both the strength of its leadership and the dedication of its students.
This summer, LOA Executive Director Dr. Brad Bowling was named one of only nine educational leaders statewide to receive the Jim Puckett Outstanding Educator Award from the Georgia Association of Educational Leaders (GAEL). This honor recognizes individuals who exemplify the visionary leadership, service, and commitment to excellence modeled by GAEL’s former executive director, Dr. Jim Puckett.
“I’m deeply honored to receive the Jim Puckett Award and to be recognized alongside other educational leaders across Georgia,” Dr. Bowling said. “This award reflects the opportunities I’ve had through GAEL, particularly my work with the Georgia Council of Administrators of Special Education (G-CASE), which has been central to my journey as both a special education teacher and as an administrator. I’m also proud that our LOA principals are now active members of GAEL, an incredible organization that provides strong professional learning and advocacy for leaders across the state. Just as importantly, this recognition reflects the work of our leadership team, teachers, and staff at LOA, who give their best every day to build trust, confidence, and a culture of excellence. It truly belongs to all of us as we remain committed to preparing every Greene County student for success beyond graduation.”
Adding to the celebration, LOA was also named a National Beta School of Merit for the 2024– 2025 school year. This esteemed distinction is awarded to schools that include members from all eligible grade levels in their Beta Club, underscoring a school-wide dedication to academic excellence and leadership development. Out of thousands of clubs nationwide, only 5,930 schools earned this recognition, placing LOA among an elite group of schools committed to fostering achievement at every level.
“LOA high school students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement while also exemplifying worthy character and a commendable attitude are invited to join the National Beta Club at LOA,” Dr. Bowling explains. “We are proud of those Titans who strive for academic excellence, proving to be some of LOA’s youngest leaders across campus. This recognition would not be possible without the continued guidance and focus of our High School Beta Club Coordinators: Mrs. Kris Stevens and Ms. Katherine Nolley. I am grateful to share this Merit Award with these deserving Beta students and their families.”
Together, both the Jim Puckett and National Merit honors shine a well-deserved spotlight on the excellence and integrity that define the Titan community. From the strength of its leadership team and the drive of its educators to the academic achievement and character of all students, Lake Oconee Academy celebrates these accomplishments with pride and gratitude, as they reflect the shared commitment of faculty, staff, students, and families to building a school culture rooted in excellence.