An elementary school classroom. Charmain Z. Brackett/Augusta Good News
An elementary school classroom. Charmain Z. Brackett/Augusta Good News

Fifteen Richmond County schools earn top state recognition for climate, student support

Fifteen schools in the Richmond County School System were named Distinguished PBIS Schools by the Georgia Department of Education, the state’s top designation for campuses that demonstrate consistent, schoolwide implementation of practices that promote positive behavior, reduce disruptions, and support student learning.

“Earning the Distinguished designation means these schools are not only implementing PBIS with fidelity, but also seeing real results in student behavior, attendance and overall school climate,” said Deputy Superintendent of Operations Marcus Allen, in a news release from the Richmond County School System. “We’re grateful to our principals, teachers and staff for the commitment it takes to do this work well every day.”

2024-2025 Distinguished Schools:

  • Bayvale Elementary School
  • Blythe Elementary School
  • Copeland Elementary School
  • Diamond Lakes Elementary School
  • Goshen Elementary School
  • Hephzibah Comprehensive High School
  • Jamestown Elementary School
  • Jenkins-White Elementary School
  • A.R. Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet School
  • Lamar-Milledge Elementary School
  • Monte Sano Elementary School
  • Pine Hill Middle School
  • W.S. Hornsby Elementary School
  • Warren Road Elementary School
  • Wheeless Road Elementary School

To earn this distinction, schools must fully implement PBIS and demonstrate strong outcomes in attendance, behavior, academic performance, and school climate.

In addition to the distinguished schools, four Richmond County schools earned Operational status: Gracewood Elementary School, Hephzibah Middle School, Richmond Hill Elementary School and Wilkinson Gardens Elementary School. All remaining schools were recognized at the emerging level.

PBIS is a framework that helps schools set clear expectations for student behavior, teach those expectations consistently, and recognize positive actions. As part of Georgia’s Multi-Tiered System of Supports, it provides a structured, data-driven approach to improving behavior, strengthening school culture and increasing instructional time.

Augusta Good News is an award-winning member of the Georgia Press Association, receiving a second place General Excellence in 2025. Sign up for our free weekly newsletter here.

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