The Baldwin County School District’s convocation held special significance as the district welcomed new leadership. Dr. Kristina Brooks, Baldwin County’s new superintendent, addressed the packed auditorium with heartfelt enthusiasm, sharing a continued vision of academic excellence and strong community partnerships. In addition, the district welcomed Dr. Rodney Tyson, the new deputy superintendent, whose dedication to educational leadership will strengthen our mission across every campus.
Attendees were honored to hear from several distinguished guest speakers, including Commissioner Andrew Strickland, Milledgeville Mayor Mary Parham-Copelan, and Baldwin County Board Chair Wes Cummings, each of whom reaffirmed their steadfast support for the schools and the vital work of our educators.
Brooks also introduced a new Innovative Teaching Award to Oak Hill Middle's Biotech Teacher Sharon Reeves, marking a new legacy for the district to begin.
But the true spark of the morning came from the keynote speaker, Keith L. Brown, who is known to many as “Mr. I’m Possible.” Returning to the stage after first joining convocation in 2022, Brown delivered a message of empowerment, resilience, and unwavering belief in the students and the district. With passion and humor, he reminded all that nothing is impossible when everyone operates with purpose, vision, and heart. His call to action was “to see every challenge as an opportunity and every student as capable of greatness.”
Attendees also heard from students, who reminded each staff and faculty member why they do this work in the first place. Their voices, filled with promise and potential, served as a powerful reminder of the impact they make every day.
Closing convocation, the 2025 District-wide Teachers of the years were announced:
• MeganShuman–Lakeview Primary
• BrandiLawrence–Midway Hills Primary
• RhondaCrane–Lakeview Academy
• JessicaMoose–MidwayHills Academy
• TiandraCanty–OakHill Middle School
• AliciaJohnson–Baldwin High School “These exceptional educators represent the very best of Baldwin County. Their dedication, innovation, and compassion are the cornerstone of our district’s success,” said Eric Jones, School and Community Relations coordinator.
— Contributed