NCS Parent Connect

In this episode of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, host Shebrie Jones sits down with Mrs. Nicole Pullens, School Social Worker and Education Support Person of the Year, to discuss the vital role social workers play in supporting students and families across Newton County. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how social workers address students' social and emotional needs, connect families...

The Georgia Milestones testing season is approaching, and families across all grade levels are preparing for what to expect. In this episode of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Ebony Smith, Director of Assessment, Accountability, Research, and Evaluation, to provide clear, helpful insight into the Georgia Milestones Assessment. Dr. Smith breaks down the purpose of the assessmen...

In this episode of NCS Parent Connect, we spotlight the Newton County Schools Virtual Instructional Program (VIP)and how it offers families a flexible, student-centered learning option—without sacrificing connection to school community. Joined by Dr. Angela Woods, VIP Program Specialist, we explore how the program supports academic success, keeps students engaged, and allows participation in activ...

In this special encore episode of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, we’re joined by Ms. DeMia Rogers, a high school counselor with Newton County Schools, to help guide families through the college application process. Ms. Rogers provides invaluable insights on FAFSA, scholarships, test preparation, and early acceptance options. We also discuss Georgia Apply to College Month and highlight key resourc...

In this episode of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, host Shebrie Jones chats with Dr. Sophia Seide, ESOL Coordinator for Newton County Schools, to explore how the district supports students whose first language is not English. Dr. Seide will explain the purpose of the English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)program, how students are identified and supported, and the important role families pla...

In this episode of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, we sit down with Mrs. Brooke Dial, Director of Special Education for Newton County Schools. She shares information on the services, resources, and support available to students with diverse needs. Parents will learn practical tips for navigating the IEP process., partnering with teachers, and helping their children thrive academically, socially an...

This month we’re going Inside Newton County Schools Athletics with special guest Carl Green. Hosted by Shebrie Jones, this episode dives deep into everything parents need to know about supporting their children in school sports. From understanding eligibility requirements and academic expectations to exploring the various athletic opportunities available, Carl shares his expert insights on how par...

Season 3 of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast kicks off with an in-depth discussion on a topic that directly impacts students and families across Georgia, the state’s newly adopted English Language Arts (ELA) standards. This important update affects how students will build essential literacy skills, including reading, writing, speaking, and listening, from elementary school through high school. In th...

In this episode of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, we sit down with Ms. Deena Sams, director of the After-School and Community Affairs for Newton County Schools, to explore the powerful impact of the After School Academic Program (ASAP) and Communities in Schools initiative. Ms. Sams breaks down how ASAP supports students academically through homework help, tutoring, enrichment, and innovative lea...

In this episode of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, we’re highlighting the incredible work of the Student and Family Support Department and their mission to promote student success in every aspect of life—academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. Join us for a conversation with Dr. Keith Benton, Director of Student and Family Support, as he shares how his dedicated team of school counsel...

Apprenticeships are opening doors for students to gain real-world experiences, earn credentials, and jumpstart their careers - all while still in school! In this episode of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, we're joined by Mr. Jeffrey Johnson, Apprenticeship Pathway Coordinator for the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG). Mr. Johnson shares how apprenticeships work, the benefits for students...

In this episode of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, we're joined by Stephen Woodall, Jordan Troutman and Kayla Walker, College and Career Specialists to discuss the critical topic of College and Career Readiness.  Our guests break down what College and Career Readiness means, how it benefits students and families, and the many ways parents can actively support their child's journey toward a success...

Cyberbullying isn't just online conflict - it can deeply affect a child's emotional and mental well-being. In this episode of the NCS Parent Connect podcast, we're going beyond the screen with Dr. Quentin Fretwell to explore the true impact of cyberbullying.

In this special early release of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, we’re joined by Ms. DeMia Rogers, a high school counselor with Newton County Schools, to help guide families through the college application process. Ms. Rogers provides invaluable insights on FAFSA, scholarships, test preparation, and early acceptance options. We also discuss Georgia Apply to College Month and highlight key resource...

In this special encore episode of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, we revisit one of our most insightful conversations with Hazel Health, our dedicated partner in student wellness. If you missed this episode the first time, now's your chance to listen.

In this informative episode of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, we explore dual enrollment - an opportunity for high school students to earn college credit while still in school. We chat with Ms. Alicia Walker, a school counselor who specializes in these programs, discussing the benefits, challenges, and eligibility criteria. We'll uncover how dual enrollment can enrich a student's academic journey...

In this episode, we talk with Jessica Harris, a School Climate Specialist with Newton County Schools. Jessica shares practical tips and strategies for adopting positive practices at home, helping parents create a nurturing and supportive environment for their children. Whether you're new to parenting or have years of experience, you'll be sure to find valuable information to enrich your parenting...

In this episode of the NCS Parent Connect podcast, we dive into the critical topics of Digital Citizenship, Chromebook Care, and Data Privacy. We are joined by Dr. Jennifer Williams, Director of Instructional Technology and Media Services, and Mr. Craig Dinn, Director of Technology Services for Newton County Schools. Dr. Williams discusses how our district is promoting responsible and ethical digi...

In this episode of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, we welcome Dave Wilkerson and Anthony Salcito from Varsity Tutors. They share how the platform is revolutionizing personalized learning and setting new standards in the tutoring industry. We discuss their mission, quality assurance, available subjects and grades levels, the access process and personalized learning experiences.

In this episode, we chat with Instructional Technology Specialist, Mrs. Lori McGovern. We uncover the importance of Lexile measures, understanding the meaning and offering practical strategies for parents to nurture their child's reading skills. She also shares reading tools and summer opportunities for literacy engagement. Websites mentioned during this episode: https://hub.lexile.com/find-a-book...

On this episode, join us for a deep dive into student wellness with our partners at Hazel Health a Telehealth service for students. Paris Corredera Carroll, Vice-President of Mental Health Clinical Services, joins us to discuss the transformative impact of virtual care in education. Discover the range of services Hazel Health offers, from primary care to mental health support, all designed to meet...

In this episode, we sat down with Debra Lary, a Work-Based Coordinator for the Newton County School System. We discussed how work-based learning shapes students' career paths and we hear about some practical tips on creating and maintaining a successful program!

We chat with Dr. Tim Schmitt, director of CTAE in NCSS. He provides parents with an overview of Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) programs. He shares a diverse range of pathways available to students and encourages parental involvement in their child's CTAE education. Dr. Schmitt shares success stories about students who have benefited from these programs. 

In this episode, we delve into the transformative realms of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). These powerful frameworks are reshaping education and behavior management by equipping educators, parents, and communities with tools to nurture emotional intelligence and foster positive behavior in students.

In this episode, Craig Dinn & Misty Smith dive into the world of Chromebooks in the Newton County School System, providing valuable insights into the maintenance and care of student devices, along with essential tips for staying safe on the internet.