CatoosaCONNECTS

Dear Students, Staff, and Families,

Can you believe the school year is already halfway over? The holiday season always seems to press the fast-forward button, but it also reminds us of the profound impact of giving—something that defines the heart of our schools and community.

Catoosa County Public Schools (CCPS) is blessed with a community that understands the transformative power of generosity. Our schools are extraordinary because of the unwavering support of families, local businesses, churches, and community members. Together, we’ve created a district where students thrive academically, athletically, socially, and personally. This spirit of collaboration makes Catoosa a place where families want to live, grow, and raise their children.

Throughout December, our schools have embodied the holiday spirit through food drives, coat collections, and other charitable initiatives. These initiatives, led by our remarkable students and supported by staff and families, provide warmth, nourishment, and hope to those in need. It’s a powerful reminder that every kind act—big or small—can create meaningful change. These efforts align perfectly with the fifth pillar of our strategic plan: partnering and connecting with our community.

Giving goes beyond material items; it includes the time, talent, and energy you share daily. Teachers inspire and nurture, parents volunteer tirelessly, and students learn to be good citizens and future leaders. This season, I encourage everyone to continue sharing their unique gifts, whether by mentoring a peer, lending a hand, offering an encouraging word, or simply spreading joy with your smile.

At CCPS, we don’t just teach math and reading—although our teachers excel at that, as reflected in our students’ achievements, including our highest-ever graduation rate and the 3rd-highest SAT scores in Georgia! Beyond academics, our educators and staff provide comprehensive support to meet the needs of both students and families. We are not just building bright futures; we’re fostering a culture of compassion, leadership, and community—a gift that will serve our students throughout their lives.

As we close out another successful semester, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the countless ways each of you contributes to our schools. Your commitment and kindness make our district, our community, and our world a better place.

From the Nix family to yours, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and best wishes for a new year filled with joy, peace, and opportunities to make a difference in the lives of children.

Chance Nix

Superintendent of Schools

After a remarkable 26-year career dedicated to public education, Don Dycus, Chairman of the Catoosa County Public Schools Board of Education, is retiring. Mr. Dycus has served as a steadfast advocate for students, teachers, and staff since January 1998. His unwavering commitment to excellence has left an enduring legacy in the district. Under his leadership as Chairman since 2003, the district has achieved significant milestones, including exceptional academic performance, enhanced safety and security in every school and classroom, state-of-the-art technology, and facility equitability in every attendance zone.

“It has been an honor and a privilege to serve on this board,” said Chairman Dycus. “My vision as a school board member has been to create an interest and desire in each child to take pride in themselves and become all they can be. We have done our job when students reach their greatest potential and become contributing members of society.”

Superintendent Nix added, “I am so thankful I’ve had the opportunity to work with and learn from Chairman Dycus for the past three years. He has been a true leader and a champion for public education. His commitment to students and his focus on system employees will be greatly missed, but his legacy of excellence, sound judgment, and collaboration will live on for many years to come.”

5 CCPS Schools Qualify for Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) for the 2024-2025 School Year.

What is the CEP Program?

CEP is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and allows qualifying schools to provide meals to all enrolled students at no charge. Students at Cloud Springs, LMS, LFO, West Side, and Tiger Creek will receive school meals for the 24-25 school year at no cost and without needing to complete the free/reduced meal applications.

Do all schools qualify for the CEP Program?
Not all schools within CCPS qualify for CEP. This is due to the number of students qualifying for free/reduced meals in each school. CCPS is closely monitoring all numbers and will add schools as they qualify.

Can students not in the CEP Program still recieve free/reduced meals?

Students at all other CCPS schools may still receive free/reduced-priced meals, if they qualify, by using the meal application found online by clicking here.

For additional information, please visit the Child Nutrition page on the CCPS site by clicking here.

Please call the Child Nutrition office if you need any assistance, 706-965-2414.

Please click here to watch a video tutorial about how to apply for meals

We value your input. If you would like to ask us a question please use the email address provided below in our contact information.

Email: questions@catoosa.k12.ga.us

Website: www.catoosa.k12.ga.us