After the Bell: The Official Podcast of Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools

"After the Bell" the official podcast of Savannah - Chatham County Public School System. This episode, producer Dee Daniels talks with Kimberly McGuire, Executive Director of Student Support Services, and Dr. Douglas Simmons, Director of Counseling Services, about graduation season and celebrating the class of 2026 in Savannah-Chatham County Public School System.   They discuss what graduation represents for students, families, and the entire school community, and share behind-the-scenes planning details at Enmarket Arena, including rehearsals, cap-and-gown coordination, security and clear bag policy, nursing/EMS support, and diploma logistics. They explain ticketing (15 tickets per graduate via Enmarket-specific Ticketmaster access), arrival timing, seating and accessibility, free parking, hydration, and that ceremonies are livestreamed with replays on YouTube via the district graduation page.   They also offer guidance for families supporting graduates emotionally and practically through postsecondary transitions, emphasizing self-advocacy, persistence, and using available resources.   QUICK LINKS: Contact Us - Main Page District Calendar Lunch Menus Literacy is Our North Star Engagement and Outreach Map of Schools Athletics Department Career Opportunities Meet the Production Team behind "After the Bell"   FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:  00:00 Welcome to After the Bell 00:41 Meet the Graduation Team 01:54 Why Graduation Matters 03:29 Behind the Scenes Planning 06:39 Speeches and Student Moments 07:22 Tickets Timing and Entry Tips 12:19 Livestream and Replays 12:50 Supporting Graduation Emotions 16:27 Advice for the Class 19:18 Looking Ahead and Final Congrats

"After the Bell" the official podcast of Savannah - Chatham County Public School System - this episode ... producer Dee Daniels interviews Dr. Troy Brown, network superintendent for elementary and K–8 schools, about SCCPSS Summer Level Up opportunities.   Brown outlines four summer learning tracks: initial credit for high school students seeking advanced credits; credit recovery/remediation for grades 3–12 tied to promotion or graduation; blended learning with targeted platform-based support; and literacy enrichment camps for English learners in K–2 and 6–8, plus RISE (adaptive recreational and instructional enrichment) and extended school year for special needs students.   Families will be notified if attendance is required, with registration and strict four-week attendance expectations; transportation is provided except for Choice program students. He highlights optional offerings like Oatland Island and Massey camps, scholarships so cost isn’t a barrier, Georgia Tech-linked Seismic STEM camp, and workforce apprenticeships. Brown also shares home learning tips and his path into education inspired by a former math teacher.   QUICK LINKS: Contact Us - Main Page District Calendar Lunch Menus Literacy is Our North Star Engagement and Outreach Map of Schools Athletics Department Career Opportunities Meet the Production Team behind "After the Bell"   FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Welcome and Introductions 00:35 Summer Level Up Overview 01:19 Four Summer Learning Tracks 02:24 Family Requirements and Logistics 03:32 Camps at Oatland and Massey 04:41 Scholarships and Extra Programs 06:19 Preventing Summer Learning Loss 08:20 Explorers Academy Breakdown 09:17 Ignite Reading Tutors 10:47 Dr Brown Career Journey 13:08 Closing Thanks and Wrap Up

"After the Bell" the official podcast of Savannah - Chatham County Public School System   Recording at the Massie Heritage Center, producer Dee Daniels interviews Andrea Burkiett, Executive Director of Elementary Curriculum and Instruction at SCCPSS, about early learning and why it matters.   Burkiett shares how a childhood moment inspired her to become a teacher and explains early learning (birth–5) versus early childhood education (K–5), emphasizing that learning begins at birth and that 90% of neuron pathways develop from birth to five. She describes how early experiences shape vocabulary, book handling, routines, and peer interactions, and outlines misconceptions that pre-K is “babysitting,” noting it is standards-based, intentional learning through play.   The conversation covers early literacy (conversation, storytelling, sounds), early math (sorting, patterns, comparisons), social-emotional growth, enrichment to build background knowledge, and kindergarten readiness through language exposure and life skills. She highlights Georgia’s Child Find, encourages enrolling four-year-olds in available pre-K seats, and describes a typical pre-K day of large/small group centers and targeted instruction.   QUICK LINKS: Contact Us - Main Page District Calendar Lunch Menus Literacy is Our North Star Engagement and Outreach Map of Schools Athletics Department Career Opportunities Meet the Production Team behind "After the Bell"   FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Welcome and Introductions 00:30 Andrea’s Origin Story 01:56 Why Early Learning Matters 03:58 Foundations Kids Build 06:57 Early Literacy in Pre-K 08:24 Math Through Play 09:29 Social Emotional Growth 11:16 Enrichment Beyond Screens 14:13 Kindergarten Readiness 17:01 Support for Different Needs 20:09 A Day in Pre-K 22:16 Future Vision and Career Advice 25:10 Closing Thanks  

"After the Bell" the official podcast of Savannah - Chatham County Public School System Producer Dee Daniels interviews Christina Maldonado, director of Oatland Island Wildlife Center, about her 30-year education career and path from district science specialist to director.   Maldonado shares Oatland’s history—from a 1927 railroad conductors’ retirement home to a 1941 U.S. Public Health Service research facility (including invention of the fly strip), then its 1974 agreement to be operated by Savannah-Chatham schools and full transfer in 2004.   She explains the mission to foster appreciation of wildlife through education, conservation, and discovery, featuring only native plants and animals. Oatland spans 100 acres with over two miles of trails, about 40 species and 100 animals that cannot survive in the wild, and nearly 30 staff. They offer field trips, camps, toddler Tuesdays, Citizen Saturdays, author events, volunteer opportunities, and membership and donation ways to support animal care and enrichment.   QUICK LINKS: Contact Us - Main Page District Calendar Lunch Menus Literacy is Our North Star Engagement and Outreach Map of Schools Athletics Department Career Opportunities Meet the Production Team behind "After the Bell"   FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 00:40 Oatland Memories and Impact 01:14 Christina Path to Director 02:34 Oatland History Timeline 04:52 Mission and Native Wildlife Focus 05:57 Animals and Rescue Stories 08:05 Trails Habitats and Visitor Experience 10:00 Behind the Scenes Team 11:23 School Programs and Community Partners 13:05 Field Trips and Partners 14:05 Year Round Programs 14:36 Camps and Toddler Tuesdays 15:25 New March Reading Event 17:12 Why People Visit 18:42 Citizen Saturdays Explained 19:11 Youth OWL Program 21:15 Volunteers Make It Work 21:52 How to Support Oatland 23:48 Closing Thanks and Links

"After the Bell" the official podcast of Savannah - Chatham County Public School System   Producer Dee Daniels interviews curator Steve Smith at Savannah’s Massie Heritage Center about the site’s history, programs, and future. Smith traces Massie’s origins to Peter Massie’s 1841 bequest that funded a school built by architect John Norris and opened in 1856; it later served as a Union hospital, a Freedmen’s school, and then the first public school in Georgia’s first public school system formed by Savannah and Chatham County in 1866, operating until 1974.   After years of reuse, Friends of Massie helped reopen it in 1978 as a “museum school” using the “community is the classroom” model of place-based education. Smith describes exhibits on Savannah’s city plan, architecture, preservation, maritime history, Native Americans, and a 19th-century classroom, plus events like May Day and outreach programs such as History on Wheels, while noting building repair needs and growth in visiting school groups.   QUICK LINKS: Contact Us - Main Page District Calendar Lunch Menus Literacy is Our North Star Engagement and Outreach Map of Schools Athletics Department Career Opportunities Meet the Production Team behind "After the Bell"   FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Welcome to Massie 00:32 Origins After the Fire 02:46 From School to Heritage 05:30 Savannah First Public Schools 06:24 Where Massie Sits 08:49 Museum School Model 11:27 Touring the Exhibits 17:58 May Day and Programs 22:07 Future Goals and Repairs 24:34 How to Visit and Book 26:09 Closing Thanks

"After the Bell" the official podcast of Savannah - Chatham County Public School System   Producer Dee Daniels is at the Massie Heritage Center with District Math Content Specialists Stephen Salley - K-8 Content Specialist, Dr. Beth Tuck - Elementary Content Specialist, and Dana Marie - 6-12 Content Specialist.   They discuss changing the mindset that some people are “not math people,” emphasizing math as puzzles, games, and problem-solving—not just computation—and the reward of seeing students make connections. The guests explain the district’s K–12 math textbook adoption: 16 vendor proposals were rated by a nine-person group and narrowed to four products now being piloted in 24 schools for about six weeks, with educators and community members able to review materials and complete rubrics/surveys.   They outline how parent-teacher communication and events like Math Night help families understand instruction and advocate for students. Key dates are shared: public review at Port Wentworth on February 19 from 4–6 PM and the end of educator review and the classroom pilot period on February 27. The conversation closes with each guest naming influential educators and affirming math as their favorite subject.   QUICK LINKS: Contact Us - Main Page District Calendar Lunch Menus Literacy is Our North Star Engagement and Outreach Map of Schools Athletics Department Career Opportunities Meet the Production Team behind "After the Bell"     FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Welcome to After the Bell + Meet the Math Team 00:29 “Everyone’s a Math Person”: Changing the Mindset 00:58 What Math Content Specialists Do (K–12 Roles) 01:33 The Best Part: When Math Finally Clicks 02:55 New K–12 Math Textbook Pilot: What’s Happening 03:35 How Textbook Adoption Works (16 Vendors → Top 4) 04:15 The “Why”: Consistency, Access, and Support for All Learners 06:06 How Teachers & Families Can Review and Give Feedback (Public Review Details) 08:08 Bridging Math at School and Home: QR Codes, AI, and Parent Advocacy 10:15 What a “Math Night” Is (and Why It Helps) 12:17 What the Adoption Means for Students: Models, Discourse, Real-World Math 15:49 What Happens Next: Scoring Rubrics, Key Dates, and Final Selection 18:30 Quick-Fire: Influential Teachers & Favorite Subjects + Wrap-Up

In this episode of "After the Bell" the official podcast of Savannah - Chatham County Public School System, producer Dee Daniels sits down with Samantha King, the Director of Instructional Technology and Media Services.   Recorded from White Bluff Elementary School's media center, the discussion covers the evolution of educational technology in SCCPSS, the integration of personalized learning tools like Waggle, and the importance of digital citizenship. Samantha also outlines the district's rigorous cybersecurity measures, policies on cell phone usage, and plans for the future, including the strategic adoption of AI and other emerging technologies. The episode concludes with a heartfelt shout-out to inspiring educators and some fun reflections on student life.   QUICK LINKS: Contact Us - Main Page District Calendar Lunch Menus Literacy is Our North Star Engagement and Outreach Map of Schools Athletics Department Career Opportunities Meet the Production Team behind "After the Bell"   FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Welcome to After the Bell 00:37 Introduction to Samantha King 00:58 The Evolution of Technology in Classrooms 02:49 Integrating Technology for Better Outcomes 06:29 Teacher Training and Support 08:01 Digital Citizenship and Information Literacy 11:05 Parental Involvement and Resources 12:55 Student Privacy and Cybersecurity Measures 17:39 Personal Cell Phones in Schools 23:18 Emerging Technologies: AI and VR 25:48 Getting Support and Final Thoughts 27:39 Fun Questions and Closing Remarks  

In this episode of "After the Bell" the official podcast of Savannah - Chatham County Public School System, producer Dee Daniels visits White Bluff Elementary School and interviews Amy Perry, the Director of Career Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) programs.   Amy explains the evolution of vocational training into modern CTAE programs, detailing the 17 career clusters and 45 unique career pathways available to students. The conversation covers the hands-on learning experiences, work-based learning opportunities, and the introduction of new career pathways such as HVAC, heavy equipment operations, and virtual reality certifications.   Amy shares success stories, including student projects, field trips, and the significance of industry-recognized certifications. The episode also touches on the importance of life skills, dual enrollment, and the high graduation rates among CTAE students. Finally, Amy reflects on her own educational journey and the inspirational teachers and mentors in her life.   QUICK LINKS: Contact Us - Main Page District Calendar Lunch Menus Literacy is Our North Star Engagement and Outreach Map of Schools Athletics Department Career Opportunities Meet the Production Team behind "After the Bell"   FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:33 Understanding CTAE: Definition and Mission 01:26 Evolution of Vocational Training 03:13 Exploring Career Clusters and Pathways 05:13 In-Demand Career Pathways 08:14 Hands-On Learning in CTAE 10:35 Work-Based Learning and Community Partnerships 12:23 Industry Recognized Credentials and Student Success 17:14 Middle School Preparation and Dual Enrollment 21:19 Personal Reflections and Closing Remarks  

Welcome to 'After the Bell' the official podcast of Savannah Chatham County Public School System!   Producer Dee Daniels is at White Bluff Elementary's media center with Jessica Horton, the Director of Choice Programs at SCCPSS. Jessica shares insights about the 27 specialized Choice Programs available to students.   From STEM to performing arts, these programs allow students to pursue their passions from K-12. Jessica explains the application process, benefits of the choice programs, and the pilot transportation initiative. She emphasizes the importance of following students' interests and their role in the program's success. Join us for an inspiring conversation about how these programs empower students and prepare them for the future.   QUICK LINKS: Contact Us - Main Page District Calendar Lunch Menus Literacy is Our North Star Engagement and Outreach Map of Schools Athletics Department Career Opportunities Meet the Production Team behind "After the Bell"   FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:25 Overview of Choice Programs 01:38 Application Process and Criteria 03:27 Developing New Choice Programs 05:52 Specific Choice Programs and Opportunities 08:03 Application Timeline and Requirements 10:16 Transportation and Accessibility 11:29 Auditions and Specialized Programs 14:20 Personal Insights and Fun Questions 17:06 Career Journey and Final Thoughts  

Welcome to 'After the Bell' the official podcast of Savannah Chatham County Public School System! Today, we're taken to White Bluff Elementary School's media center for a captivating conversation with Kim Achenbach, District Performing Arts Specialist.   Kim shares her daily routine supporting over a hundred music, dance, and theater teachers across 53 schools. She highlights the evolving landscape of core music disciplines, which now includes modern band programs alongside traditional ensembles.   The discussion delves into the significance of community partnerships, mental health benefits of the arts, and the impact of music on academic performance. Kim also provides advice for parents looking to support and enroll their children in music programs and shares inspiring moments from her own musical journey. Join us for an insightful look into the vibrant world of performing arts education.   QUICK LINKS: Contact Us - Main Page District Calendar Lunch Menus Literacy is Our North Star Engagement and Outreach Map of Schools Athletics Department Career Opportunities Meet the Production Team behind "After the Bell"   FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:29 A Day in the Life of a Performing Arts Director 01:21 Evolving Music Education 04:13 Community Partnerships and Opportunities 05:48 Inclusive Music Curriculum 07:08 Spotlight on Savannah Arts Academy and Garrison School for the Arts 08:27 Public Performances and Student Opportunities 13:53 Music and Academic Performance 15:42 Mental Health Benefits of Performing Arts 19:32 Supporting Local School Music Programs 21:38 Future Vision for Performing Arts 24:08 Personal Reflections and Fun Questions  

Welcome to 'After the Bell,' your inside scoop on the Savannah Chatham County Public School System!   In this episode, host Dee Daniels sits down with Staci Taylor, the Deputy Superintendent for Strategy, Innovation, and Performance, to discuss the district's ambitious five-year strategic plan. Recorded at White Bluff Elementary's Media Center, Staci shares insights on creating a roadmap for the district's future, involving everyone from students to community members.   They explore the importance of innovative thinking, effective communication, and a student-centered approach to ensure a world-class educational experience. Tune in for a deep dive into how SCCPSS is preparing for a successful and transformative future!   QUICK LINKS: Contact Us - Main Page District Calendar Lunch Menus Literacy is Our North Star Engagement and Outreach Map of Schools Athletics Department Career Opportunities Meet the Production Team behind "After the Bell"   FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:  00:00 Introduction to After the Bell 00:32 Meet Staci Taylor: Deputy Superintendent 00:50 Strategic Planning for the Future 03:42 Engaging the Community 04:46 Innovative Approaches and Blue Sky Thinking 09:24 Keeping Students at the Center 12:44 Personal Reflections and Inspirations 15:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of "After the Bell", producer Dee Daniels interviews Sheena Boykin, the District Recruiter for Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools.   Sheena shares her excitement about winning the 2025 American Association of School Personnel Administrators award and discusses her role in recruiting top talent for various positions within the district. She emphasizes the importance of not only teachers but also other crucial roles like architects, bus drivers, and maintenance staff in making the school district successful.   Sheena also talks about her personal journey to Savannah, the extensive efforts in advertising open positions, and the various alternative pathways to becoming a teacher. The episode includes insights into the application process, international teacher recruitment, and the significance of building strong community partnerships.   QUICK LINKS: Contact Us - Main Page District Calendar Lunch Menus Literacy is Our North Star Engagement and Outreach Map of Schools Athletics Department Career Opportunities Meet the Production Team behind "After the Bell"   FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:19 Award Recognition and Significance 01:06 Role and Responsibilities of a District Recruiter 02:48 Falling in Love with Savannah's School System 04:20 Key Characteristics for Candidates 06:07 Recruitment Strategies and Community Engagement 08:28 Current Job Openings and Opportunities 12:56 Application Process and Personal Touch 14:44 International Teachers and Alternative Pathways 20:42 Personal Insights and Conclusion

In this episode of "After the Bell" producer Dee Daniels sits down with Mrs. Morphia Scarlett, the School Nutrition Coordinator and Farm to School Specialist at Savannah Chatham County Public School System.   The conversation explores the intricate role of ensuring students receive balanced and nutritious meals through hands-on gardening, local farm partnerships, and innovative menu choices. Learn about the impact of the Community Eligibility Program (CEP) and the introduction of culturally relevant meals, as well as the importance of integrating garden-harvested foods into school cafeterias.   Mrs. Scarlett also discusses various grants, the recognition their nutrition program has received, and upcoming initiatives aimed at enhancing local food access and sustainability. Dive into inspiring efforts to provide free nutritious meals, engage students in food education, and repurpose resources creatively to support the school community.   QUICK LINKS: Contact Us - Main Page District Calendar Lunch Menus Literacy is Our North Star Engagement and Outreach Map of Schools Athletics Department Career Opportunities Meet the Production Team behind "After the Bell"   FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:35 Role of a School Nutrition Farm to School Specialist 01:06 Importance of School Nutrition 02:15 Revamping School Menus 03:41 Local Food Initiatives and Grants 05:15 School Gardens and Student Engagement 06:44 Tasting Fairs and Menu Feedback 10:39 Awards and Recognitions 12:17 Multicultural Gardens at Oatland Island 14:24 Setting the School Menu 14:44 Menu Planning and Recipe Development 15:31 Upcoming Nutrition Initiatives 16:39 Importance of Serve Safe Certification 17:56 Farm to School Program 20:24 Parental and Staff Feedback 21:44 Personal Inspirations and Background 24:16 Upcycling and Sustainability Projects 27:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of "After the Bell", producer Dee Daniels speaks with Kimberly McGuire, the Executive Director of Student Support Services for Savannah-Chatham County Public School System. .   The discussion focuses on the importance of attendance, recent changes in attendance policies, and the creative initiatives implemented to address post-COVID attendance challenges. McGuire also highlights the role of school counselors, social workers, and attendance teams in supporting students.   The episode provides insights into the multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) and discusses ways parents can engage in their children's education. McGuire shares her personal journey and passion for education, emphasizing the importance of keeping students engaged and motivated.   QUICK LINKS: Contact Us - Main Page District Calendar Lunch Menus Literacy is Our North Star Engagement and Outreach Map of Schools Athletics Department Career Opportunities Meet the Production Team behind "After the Bell"   FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Welcome to After the Bell 00:27 Addressing Attendance Post-COVID 02:26 Creative Solutions for Attendance 05:47 Role of School Counselors 14:34 Engaging Parents in Attendance 16:45 Success Stories and Community Efforts 19:35 Getting to Know Kimberly McGuire 22:55 Final Thoughts on Attendance

Welcome to another episode of "After the Bell" with producer Dee Daniels as she sits down with Megan Davidson, Chief Operations Officer for Savannah-Chatham County Public School System. Today, we are at Groves High School's Learning Commons.   With the peak of hurricane season coinciding with the start of the school year, Megan provides an insightful look at how the school district prepares for and handles storm closures and recovery. She shares the intricacies of coordinating with emergency management, ensuring student safety, and maintaining operations amidst power outages and severe weather.   Megan also discusses her personal experiences with storms, the importance of communication, and how the district's various departments work together to make decisions swiftly and effectively. Tune in for an engaging and educational conversation about the challenges and strategies involved in keeping schools safe during storm season.   QUICK LINKS: Contact Us - Main Page District Calendar Lunch Menus Literacy is Our North Star Engagement and Outreach Map of Schools Athletics Department Career Opportunities Meet the Production Team behind "After the Bell"   FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE  00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:30 Discussing Storm Closures and Recovery 03:10 Decision-Making During Storms 06:24 Safety Measures and Preparations 21:10 Reopening Schools After Storms 22:02 Fun Quiz and Personal Insights 26:03 Conclusion and Farewell

Join producer Dee Daniels on 'After the Bell' for an engaging conversation with John Sanders, the Senior Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics at the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System.   Discover John's journey in education, the comprehensive physical education programs offered in Savannah-Chatham County schools, the importance of fitness and wellness, and the significant investments in athletic facilities across the district. Learn about the commitment to student development, inclusivity in sports, safety measures at events, and the dedication to ongoing teacher training and community partnerships. Tune in for insights on shaping healthier, active futures for students!   QUICK LINKS: Contact Us - Main Page District Calendar Lunch Menus Literacy is Our North Star Engagement and Outreach Map of Schools Athletics Department Career Opportunities Meet the Production Team behind "After the Bell"   FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Introduction to After the Bell 00:30 Meet John Sanders: Senior Director of Health, PE, and Athletics 00:51 John Sanders' Career Journey 01:56 Physical Education Programs in Savannah Schools 03:16 Upgraded Athletic Facilities 04:24 The Importance of Physical Education 05:45 New Stadiums and Athletic Facilities 07:05 Training and Support for PE Teachers 08:22 Local Partnerships and Wellness Initiatives 11:42 Ensuring Student Access to Physical Education 14:06 Safety Measures at Sporting Events 16:07 Fun Quiz with John Sanders 19:39 Conclusion and Closing Remarks

In this lively episode of 'After the Bell,' producer Dee Daniels takes you behind the scenes of the Savannah Chatham County Public School System. Recorded at Groves High School's bustling Learning Commons, the episode features an engaging conversation with Cherie Goldman, the district's Literacy Effectiveness Officer.   Cherie shares her fascinating journey from advertising for Toyota to her role in education, discusses the significance of National Literacy Month, and highlights the statewide initiatives and community partnerships promoting literacy. Parents and educators will find valuable tips on preparing kids for kindergarten and insights into the science of reading. Tune in for a mix of inspiring stories, practical advice, and even a bit of Japanese!   QUICK LINKS: Contact Us - Main Page District Calendar Lunch Menus Literacy is Our North Star Engagement and Outreach Map of Schools Athletics Department Career Opportunities Meet the Production Team behind "After the Bell"   FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Introduction to After the Bell 00:51 Meet Cherie Goldman: Literacy Effectiveness Officer 01:53 Cherie's Journey: From Japanese Major to Literacy Advocate 04:41 National Literacy Month and Georgia's Initiatives 09:23 The Science of Reading: Key Components and Practices 11:34 Community Partners Supporting Literacy 15:45 Preparing Children for Kindergarten 18:09 Fun Quiz and Closing Remarks

We're taking attendance and our first guest to join host and producer Dee Daniels is Dr. S. Denise Watts, the Superintendent of Schools. We're all set to chat about the exciting new school year in Savannah and Chatham County! IN THIS EPISODE: You'll learn about the cool new North Star Literacy program, the awesome free breakfast and lunch for all students, and the special $500 classroom grants for our amazing, creative teachers. Dr. Watts also shares about the new "Let's Talk" platform and the role of AI in schools. Get ready for fun stories and inspiring moments - AND - stay tuned for our "Extra Credit POP QUIZ" at the end to find out more about Dr. Watts' favorite school memories and what makes this school year magical!   QUICK LINKS: Contact Us - Main Page District Calendar Lunch Menus Literacy is Our North Star Engagement and Outreach Map of Schools Athletics Department Career Opportunities Meet the Production Team behind "After the Bell"   FIND A SPOT IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Introduction to After the Bell 00:21 Meet Dr. Denise Watts 00:53 The Excitement of a New School Year 02:26 North Star Literacy Initiative 03:53 Focus on Attendance and Workforce Development 04:39 Culture and Climate in Schools 06:14 Free Meals for All Students 08:04 $500 Classroom Grants for Teachers 10:31 Temporary School Locations and Community Spirit 12:01 Introducing the Let's Talk Platform 13:20 AI in Education 16:14 Fun Quiz with Dr. Watts 19:43 Conclusion and Future Adventures