🎉 We're getting close! The Candler County Foundation for Public Education
is well on its way to reaching its $45,000 fundraising goal for this school year — but they’re not there yet!
If you haven’t had a chance to donate, there’s still time to make a difference. Every dollar helps support our students, teachers, and school community. 🧡🖤
👉 Donate easily online: https://secure.anedot.com/candler-county-education.../donate
Or,
Mail a check to: Candler Ed Foundation, P O Box 21, Metter, GA 30439
Thank you to everyone who has contributed so far — let’s keep the momentum going!
To learn more about the Education Foundation and what it does for our students:
https://www.metter.org/page/candler-county-ed-foundation
1 day ago, Candler County Schools
foundation donations
Candler County School District Celebrates 96.3% Graduation Rate for Class of 2025

The Candler County School District is proud to announce a 96.3% graduation rate for the Class of 2025, marking an increase from last year’s rate of 94.6%.

Metter High School achieved an impressive 99.2% graduation rate, while Metter College & Career Academy posted a strong 88.6% graduation rate.

Metter High School is one of only 60 districts that recorded rates at or above 95% in Georgia. Both Metter High School and Metter College & Career Academy have graduation rates above Georgia’s state average, which is 87.2%. Georgia’s statewide graduation rate has increased by 19.8 percentage points since 2011.

In addition, 70 Technical Certificates of Credit were earned in 2025 by Senior dual enrollment students at Metter High School and Metter College & Career Academy, highlighting the district’s commitment to career readiness and providing students with valuable skills for the workforce.

“This year’s results reflect the hard work and dedication of our students, teachers, and staff,” said Dr. Bubba Longgrear, Superintendent of Candler County Schools. “We are proud of our graduates and excited to see what they accomplish next.”

The district remains committed to providing high-quality education and support to ensure that every student has the opportunity to graduate and succeed in life.

“Our district and school leaders, teachers, and staff have worked strategically on providing a supportive and safe school environment,” says Assistant Superintendent Dr. Cadeisha Cooper. “This fosters a sense of belonging and encourages students to stay in school.”

“Being the #1 educational choice for all students by providing outstanding opportunities for success is a key aspect of our strategic plan,” says Dr. Longgrear. “The hard work and commitment to being #1 are demonstrated through data like this. It also validates the fact that all stakeholders are working together for the betterment of our students.”
13 days ago, Candler County Schools
The Candler County Schools Program for Exception Children's Parent Advisory Team (PAT) recently honored Deniese Snelling for 10 years of service. Snelling has played a vital role in strengthening the partnership between families, schools, and the community.
Over the past decade, she has helped organize events for students and families, supported the Black Tie Tiger Club, and provided crucial input that led to the transition from Field Day to Buddy Ball and the establishment of the Best Buddies Club. She has worked closely with staff to raise awareness of family needs, helped connect families with community resources and outside agencies, guided fundraising decisions, and advocated for those less fortunate. In addition, Snelling has frequently assisted behind the scenes with event planning and even transported students on field trips to ensure they could enjoy meaningful experiences.

"Deniese has been a steady partner for families and a strong support for our district," says Christina Holland, Parent Mentor for the PEC. "We actually served on the team together as parents before I began my role at the school. Deniese was part of the original PAT team, which was created by former Parent Mentor, Carol Smith. Even back then, I could see how much heart she has for exceptional children."

Snelling's leadership, compassion, and commitment have touched the lives of many students and families in Candler County.

Pictured: (l-r) Dr. Robbie Dollar, CCSD Director of Special Education; Ms. Deniese Snelling; Ms. Christina Holland, Parent Mentor with the Program for Exceptional Children
29 days ago, Candler County Schools
program for exceptional children

IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

The Candler County School District (CCSD) and the Candler County Sheriff’s Office remain committed to ensuring the safety of students, teachers, and staff by continuing strong partnerships through training and drills.

Throughout the year, Sheriff’s Office personnel, School Resource Officers, the Metter Fire Department, and the Candler County Emergency Management Agency work closely with school administrators to plan and conduct critical safety drills. These include monthly Fire Drills, seasonal Weather Drills, and Intruder Drills.

In compliance with House Bill 147, CCSD will conduct an Intruder Drill prior to October 1. State law also requires that at least one Intruder Drill be held each school year, although schools may choose to have additional drills.

“While these types of events are rare, our priority is to be as prepared as possible for any situation that may occur,” said CCSD Superintendent Bubba Longgrear. “The safety of our students and staff is at the center of everything we do.”

Fire and Weather Drills will be led by the Metter Fire Department, Emergency Management Agency, and School Resource Officers, while the Candler County Sheriff’s Office will conduct the Intruder Drill. Deputies have also trained CCSD staff on best practices to help protect themselves and their students in emergency situations.

Sheriff John Miles emphasized the importance of these exercises: “We want our community to know this is a drill and there is no cause for alarm. Deputies will be on campus to conduct the drill and evaluate procedures so that we are ready should a real emergency ever occur.”

In the event of an actual emergency, CCSD administrators will work in coordination with local and state emergency personnel, including the Candler County Sheriff’s Office and the Candler County Emergency Management Agency. Parents can stay informed by downloading the Candler County Schools app on iphone or android, checking the school website, following official school social media pages, and receiving phone calls/texts from the school’s automated system.

“When drills take place, our communications team will send alerts through local media, the Candler County Schools app, website, and social media, just as they would in a true emergency,” Longgrear explained. “We ask parents not to rush to the school during a drill or an actual emergency. Doing so makes it harder for officers to manage the situation safely.”

CCSD extends its appreciation to all local emergency agencies for their ongoing dedication to the safety of our schools and community.

29 days ago, Candler County Schools
ccsd
Metter High School has released the information for Homecoming Week (Sept 29-Oct 3)!
You can see all the info on our website here: https://www.metter.org/o/mhs/page/homecoming
about 1 month ago, Candler County Schools
Growing Our Own: Teacher Apprenticeship Program in Candler County

The Candler County School District is proud to partner with Georgia Southern University, the Georgia Department of Labor, and the Georgia Department of Education to participate in the Georgia Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program (GaRTAP).

GaRTAP is a state-funded initiative designed to address teacher shortages across Georgia, especially in underserved communities. The program provides a “learn while you earn” pathway, allowing aspiring educators to complete required coursework and hands-on classroom experience while earning a paycheck.

This school year, 7 Georgia Southern University students and 3 East Georgia State College students are serving as Teacher Assistants at Metter Elementary School while participating in GaRTAP. Each student works part- or full-time while pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree and teacher certification. In addition to tuition assistance and a monthly paycheck, participants are paired with a dedicated teacher mentor who provides ongoing guidance and support.

“This program is a win-win,” said Assistant Superintendent, Dr. CaDeisha Cooper. “Our students benefit from the on-the-job training and mentoring that these paraprofessionals are receiving, and the GaRTAP participants gain valuable, real-world experience as they prepare to become certified teachers. We are fortunate to provide this opportunity for aspiring educators.”

By investing in programs like GaRTAP, the Candler County School District is helping to build a stronger teacher pipeline and ensure high-quality education for all students.

“We hope these Teacher Assistants will complete their education, earn their T-4 certification, and pass the GACE exam—ultimately choosing to remain in the Candler County School District as teachers," says Assistant Superintendent Dr. John Jordan. "Their success will benefit not only our students, but also our parents, schools, and the entire community."

“A key priority of our strategic plan is recruiting and retaining highly effective, intrinsically motivated, and passionate teachers and staff, says Superintendent Dr. Bubba Longgrear. “We are confident that the GaRTAP program will play a vital role in helping us continue to achieve this goal.”

If you may be interested in learning more about the GaRTAP, please reach out to Dr. CaDeisha Cooper at ccooper@metter.org.

Pictured top row left to right: Cheslee Monroe, Iyana Deloach, Agatha Grimes, Lizbeth Solis-Pantoja, Jessica Williams
Bottom row left to right: Anna Carter, Narcisa Aguilar, Ava Anderson, Zoey Sikes, Kelly White


about 1 month ago, Candler County Schools
teachers
🚀 The Foundational Leadership Entrepreneur X-perience (FLEX) is gearing up for its 3rd year at Metter High School and Metter College & Career Academy—and we need your support!

FLEX gives students who already own—or dream of owning—a small business the chance to learn all the fundamentals of entrepreneurship. From writing business plans to creating presentations, product displays, and financials, students gain real-world experience in building a business from the ground up.

💡 FLEX is not only a program, but also a competition! Students work hard to earn a spot in the Top 10, Top 3, and Local Winner, with the chance to advance to the State Competition.

🌟 How you can help: Sponsorships are available at multiple levels. Your support will directly impact local students who want to build their businesses and keep them right here in our community.

👉 Learn more about FLEX and download the Sponsor Commitment Form here: https://www.metter.org/o/mcca/page/flex
about 2 months ago, Candler County Schools
FLEX
The Candler County Board of Education voted Thursday night to tentatively roll back the millage rate to 13.987, the rate recommended by the Tax Commissioner. Despite the rollback, the Board will continue to qualify for state equalization funding. Recent legislation lowering the minimum millage rate required to receive state equalization funding made it possible for the Board to adopt the recommended rollback rate. Final rate will be adopted at the September 18th Board of Education meeting at 5 pm at the Board Office.
about 2 months ago, Candler County Schools
millage
TIger Football action is back tonight in Tattnall County at 7:30 pm.
We’d love for you to be there in person to cheer on the Tigers! But, if you can’t make it, you can still catch all the action on WHCG Better 105.9 FM.

📻 Listen on the radio: 105.9 FM
💻 Listen online: https://radio.securenetsystems.net/cirruscontent/WHCG?fbclid=IwY2xjawMQVyNleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHnC_FrADlBpae9tNLALyubmcg7NTJ8sGQcWKB6VAbtqDw0sVFKTj8_MusrX2_aem_oYYRLp5pasSqjoa8q6hODA
about 2 months ago, Candler County Schools
🌟 Transitioning Together: Navigating Autism & Adulthood 🌟

CCSD’s Ms. Christina Holland will be leading a session on Thursday, August 28 from 9:30–11:30 AM at Georgia Southern University’s Statesboro Campus – Hwy 301 CPE Campus (formerly East Georgia College, across from Ogeechee Technical College).

💡 This session will help families explore important steps for preparing students with autism for adulthood.

✅ Topics will include:

Why transition preparation matters
Levels of support
Legal planning basics
Postsecondary options
Safety
Adult services and supports

🤝 Agency tables available for resources & guidance:

Pineland DBHDD – family support services, waiver info, respite
Judge Tony Thompson, Probate Court – guardianship information
GVRA – employment supports

This is a wonderful opportunity for families to connect, learn, and plan for the future!

Register for the class here: https://www.enrole.com/georgiasouthern/jsp/session.jsp;jsessionid=9C5CCE9831893EB84AE2374AAFB6B959?sessionId=25FA-CP-NAUTADLT-01PS&courseId=NAUTADLT&categoryId=FE02C4E8
about 2 months ago, Candler County Schools
Candler Youth Leadership Program applications for the 2025-2026 school year have opened! Deadline to register for this leadership fundamentals program is August 29!

This program is sponsored each school year by the Metter-Candler Chamber of Commerce for students in 10th, 11th, and 12th grades. The students will be chosen based on their application, resume and teacher recommendation. During this eight-month program, students will have the opportunity to learn more about our community through leadership workshops, team building, local tours and community service projects - all while learning the foundation of what becoming a great leader is all about.

Applicants must be a resident of Candler County classified as a high school sophomore, junior, or senior at Metter High School, Metter College & Career Academy, David Emanuel Academy, Pinewood Christian Academy or Bulloch Academy. If the student attends Metter High School/Metter College & Career Academy, but lives outside of the county, she/he may apply as well.

Applications must be returned to the Metter-Candler Chamber of Commerce or Candler County Extension Office by Friday, August 29, 2025 at 5:00 pm. Late applications will not be accepted. Applications can be found at https://5il.co/3nv18

If you have any questions, please email the Metter-Candler Chamber of Commerce office at CandlerYouthLeadership@gmail.com or call them at (912) 685-2159.
2 months ago, Candler County Schools
youth leadership applications graphic
🚀 Interested in starting your own business? Or, do you already have a business and want to learn how to run it more effectively?
Join us during Tiger Time tomorrow, 8/13, in Mr. Tom Golden’s room (MCCA) to learn all about FLEX — the Foundational Leadership & Entrepreneur X-perience program!

FLEX teaches you how to:
✅ Create a winning business plan
✅ Pitch your idea like a pro
✅ Manage your finances like a boss
💰 And compete for prize money while you learn!

📌 Ready to start? Apply here: https://forms.gle/h3xKscGTrgPja5Gj6
📌 Want to hear more first? See you tomorrow in Tiger Time in T. Golden’s room!
2 months ago, Candler County Schools
flex interest
The 2025-2026 School Supply Lists are available now! Click on the link and then click on your school! https://www.metter.org/article/2291623
4 months ago, Candler County Schools
The SWIRL (Speaking, Writing, Illustrating, Reading and Listening) Council, along with East Georgia State College, hosted an Adventure in the Park today in the Downtown Park. Guests were able to create lots of fun crafts, take home some free books and participate in a scavenger hunt! Miss EGSC, Katelyn Harris, read the guests an Eric Carl book. Special thanks to another host, the Georgia Youth Science & Technology Center and their coordinator, Ms. Erin Youmans who provided many of the activities and books given out today. If you would like to attend our next event, complete the following form and we'll add you to our email list for notifications! Form: https://forms.gle/UgfTeqQU8vPakNfh9
4 months ago, Candler County Schools
swirl event
At Candler County Schools, our employees make the difference. We're proud to share our Employee Profile with you from the 2024-2025 School Year.
4 months ago, Candler County Schools
profile
Congratulations to the following for their Years of Service to the Candler County School District: 30 Years of Service - Sherry Tyler, MES 25 Years of Service - Connie Daughtry, MES 25 Years of Service - Glenise Donaldson, MES 25 Years of Service - Suzanne Hunt, MES 25 Years of Service - Neppie Conley, Transportation 25 Years of Service - Jerry Byrd, Maintenance 25 Years of Service - Dr. CaDeisha Cooper, BOE 20 Years of Service - Alyssa Akins, MES 20 Years of Service - Octavia Houston, MES 20 Years of Service - Eric Verbel, MES 20 Years of Service - Sandy Wilson, MES 20 Years of Service - Aundrea Akins, BOE 20 Years of Service - Allen Lanier, BOE 15 Years of Service - Kimberly Grantham, MHS 15 Years of Service - Julie Ray, MHS 15 Years of Service - Leslie Gordon, MES 15 Years of Service - Jennifer Lewis, MES 15 Years of Service - Jill Vining, MES 15 Years of Service - Hannah Youngblood, MES 15 Years of Service - Sammie Lawrence, Transportation 10 Years of Service - Dr. Karen Chassereau, MHS 10 Years of Service - Lafonda Kelly, MHS 10 Years of Service - Stevie Bragg, MES 10 Years of Service - Megan Eason, MES 10 Years of Service - Mitch Nobles, MCCA 10 Years of Service - Denise Strickland, BOE 10 Years of Service - Tee Collins, Transportation 5 Years of Service - Shayla Donaldson, MHS 5 Years of Service - Wes Edenfield, MHS 5 Years of Service - James Ferry, MHS 5 Years of Service - Dylan Dixon, MMS 5 Years of Service - Taylor Dollar, MMS 5 Years of Service - Terrance Green, MMS 5 Years of Service - Bennett King, MMS 5 Years of Service - Kasey Koneman, MMS 5 Years of Service - Kristen Cason, MES 5 Years of Service - Haley Clements, MES 5 Years of Service - Lacey Henneman, MES 5 Years of Service - Rebecca Hill, MES 5 Years of Service - Taylor James, MES 5 Years of Service - Shanette Johnson, MES 5 Years of Service - Karen Stewart, MES 5 Years of Service - Mary Kate Storie, MES 5 Years of Service - Alesha Warner, MES 5 Years of Service - Annah Kirkland, MES 5 Years of Service - Tom Golden, MCCA 5 Years of Service - Rosalyn Thompson, BOE Thank you for your service to our students, parents and our community!
4 months ago, Candler County Schools
The Class of 2025 Graduation Ceremony will be held Saturday, May 17 at 9 am. Ticketed event. However, you can see the graduation live online here: https://www.youtube.com/live/fPXtPfe9ElA
5 months ago, Candler County Schools
Oak Tree Entrance is clear and open for drop off and pickup. Have a great day!
5 months ago, Candler County Schools
Don't forget that the MHS/MCCA School Governance Team will meet on Tuesday, May 13 at 3:30 pm in the high school conference room. We will also use this time to complete our Comprehensive Needs Assessment. We look forward to seeing you there!
5 months ago, Candler County Schools
sgt
The Candler County School Nutrition Department will host its Summer Meals Program from June 2 through July 18 (except for June 30-July 4) at the times and locations on the flyer below for children ages 18 and younger at no cost.
5 months ago, Candler County Schools
summer meal flyer