Newton County Schools Superintendent Invited to Speak at Georgia State Board of Education Retreat
Covington, GA – Newton County Schools Superintendent Dr. Duke Bradley, III has been invited by the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) to address the State Board of Education during its annual retreat to be held at Jekyll Island on October 13.
Dr. Bradley will join a select group of superintendents to discuss strategies for school improvement and district transformation. His remarks will spotlight Newton County Schools’ journey of progress, emphasizing how collaboration between local leadership and state support systems has led to academic gains and stronger outcomes for students.
“Our progress as a district is the result of Board leadership, a clear focus, and collaborations between schools, families, communities, and the Georgia Department of Education,” said Dr. Bradley. “We’ve learned that improvement can be achieved when state resources and local leadership align around a shared vision for student success. That’s what makes Newton County Schools such a powerful story of undeniable growth, although we still have a long way to go.”
During his presentation, Dr. Bradley will highlight how the district has leveraged state supports to facilitate school improvement. He will also share how Newton County Schools is working to scale effective practices across all schools and to strengthen instructional systems.
Dr. Bradley credited the Newton County Board of Education for its leadership and commitment to academic excellence.
“The Board’s vision and steady support have allowed us to move forward with confidence,” Dr. Bradley said. “This is not easy work for anyone – but I’m grateful for a Board that encourages us to stay the course. And that’s important.”
During the retreat, Dr. Bradley will also highlight other noteworthy work that has been initiated over the past couple of years:
- The Newton County Schools Framework for Advancing Workforce Development, a districtwide effort to align K–12 education with future careers through exposure, exploration, and experience.
- Expanded Dual Enrollment and Advanced Placement opportunities, increasing student access to rigorous coursework and early college credit.
- Implemented comprehensive instructional improvement systems, focused on quality Tier 1 instruction, literacy, and data-driven decision-making.
- Strengthened community partnerships, connecting education, workforce readiness, and local economic development. In fact, Dr. Bradley is the newly named Chair of Georgia Piedmont Technical College Board of Directors.
Dr. Bradley’s participation at the State Board retreat underscores Newton County Schools’ reputation as a district poised for long-term success.