For the third consecutive year, the Dougherty County Board of Education has been recognized as an Exemplary Board by the Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA), achieving the highest distinction in the GSBA’s three-tier recognition program.

This recognition highlights the board’s ongoing commitment to effective governance, transparency, and collaboration. By adhering to best practices, the board continues to strengthen its relationship with the community through trust and accountability.

“Our board’s recognition as an Exemplary Board by the GSBA for the third consecutive year is a true reflection of the dedication, integrity, and tireless effort of our board members,” Superintendent Kenneth Dyer said. “Their commitment to excellence in governance and positive accountability ensures that we are not only responsive to the needs of our students and families but also proactive in creating an environment where they can thrive. This honor is more than just an award; it’s a reaffirmation that we are on the right path—one of transparency, collaboration, and a steadfast focus on continuous improvement and student success.”

Current Board Chair Melissa Strother said that the recognition means that the board is following data-driven best practices that are elevating how the board operates to the benefit of the students and stakeholders of the district.

“This recognition serves as a testament to the board’s alignment with best governance practices,” Board Chair Melissa Strother said. “A healthy board will ultimately result in a healthier school system, which better serves our students and families in Dougherty County. This designation signals that our board is committed to holding ourselves accountable and pursuing excellence.”

The GSBA’s Exemplary Board status, created to recognize school boards that meet rigorous standards, underscores the importance of fiscal responsibility, strategic planning, and a clear focus on student success. The Dougherty County Board's dedication to these principles demonstrates its unwavering commitment to creating an environment where students thrive academically and where public trust is paramount.

This year’s evaluation period included several notable achievements. On the academic front, the district achieved a record-high graduation rate of over 90%, outpacing the state average for the fourth consecutive year. In addition, 124 graduates earned either an associate degree or technical college certificate (TCC), while 132 more gained industry-recognized credentials in areas like certified nurse assistant (CNA) and Six Sigma.

Fiscally, the board has remained focused on responsible budgeting. Even while making historic investments in classroom technology, school safety, academic tools, and infrastructure upgrades, the board achieved a record budget surplus. These strategic investments were made possible without raising taxes—in fact, the property tax rate has been lowered six times in the past seven years, most recently to levels unseen since 2002.

To further build trust and connect with the communities they serve, the board has also begun holding mid-month meetings at school campuses, offering a more direct way to engage with students, parents, and staff without interfering with the day-to-day operations of the schools – a best practice outlined by GSBA.

Through these milestones, the board continues to demonstrate that it is committed to improving the district while maintaining a clear focus on accountability and transparency. The board’s actions reflect a deep understanding that earning and sustaining trust is key to long-term success for both the school system and the community it serves.