Each year the Georgia Department of Education recognizes schools for going above and beyond
to provide a supportive environment for military students and families.
Five schools in Richmond and Columbia Counties have been recognized with the Military Flagship School Awards. Baker Place Elementary School, Evans Middle School, Grovetown Middle School, and Harlem
High School in Columbia County and Belair Elementary School in Richmond County received the honor for 2026.
“All of Georgia’s K-12 public schools were invited to apply for the Military Flagship School Award, and applications were evaluated by a panel of judges with experience in the education of military-connected
students,” according to a news release from the Columbia County School District.
In Richmond County. Belair Elementary received the award because of its “intentional transition support to military students and families, including a peer ‘Buddy’ system, specialized counseling services, and more. The school also works with dedicated military family life counselors and community partners to ensure students remain connected to the post and have access to academic enrichment as parents prepare and return from deployment,” according to a news release from the Richmond County School System.
“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition on behalf of our entire school community. Supporting our military-connected students and families is not just a responsibility; it is a privilege. We are committed to ensuring that every child who walks through our doors feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed,” said Shetina Roulhac, Belair Elementary School principal.
In Columbia County, Evans Middle School was recognized because it “consistently follows the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children, provides personalized scheduling and school tours for newly enrolled students, and supports families throughout the deployment cycle. Through a
military-connected faculty and staff, ongoing family engagement opportunities, regular communication with stakeholders, and an annual Veterans Day celebration honoring military service,” the news release from Columbia County’s school system said.
Baker Place Elementary offers “dedicated programs such as a Military Family Life Counselor, a Military Child Ambassador Program, and year-round celebrations including the Month of the Military Child, Veterans Day events, and Military Appreciation Night, Baker Place Elementary School ensures military families feel welcomed, supported, and honored. With strong partnerships, frequent communication, and a staff deeply connected to military service,” the release said.
Grovetown Middle provides an array of programs. “From seamless enrollment and personalized
academic placement to daily counseling support, school-based mentoring, and access to
military liaisons and behavioral health services, the school prioritizes student stability and
success. Grovetown Middle also fosters connection through a Military Student Support Club,
meaningful family engagement opportunities, and staff members with firsthand military
experience. These coordinated efforts create a welcoming, responsive environment where
military-connected students are valued, supported, and empowered to thrive,” the release said.
And Harlem High School was also honored.
“Through a strong JROTC program, collaborative counseling services, academic and test-prep supports, flexible enrollment practices, and targeted scheduling that prioritizes student interests and belonging, Harlem High School ensures smooth transitions and sustained success. With deep community partnerships, meaningful veteran engagement, leadership opportunities, and year-round outreach,” the release said.
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