FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 25, 2025
Lamar County School System Named Georgia Reads Community, Awarded $25,000 for Literacy Efforts
BARNESVILLE, GA – The Lamar County School System (LCSS) has been recognized as a Georgia Reads Community, receiving a $25,000 award to further its commitment to improving literacy outcomes.
On September 30, 2024, applications opened for Georgia Reads Community, an initiative designed to support communities that demonstrate three to five years of proven partnership engagement and measurable literacy improvement. Out of 61 applications, LCSS was selected as one of 10 winning communities, officially honored during Georgia Reads Day at the Capitol on February 25, 2025.
Georgia Reads recognizes that strong, unified partnerships are key to advancing literacy. Lamar County’s selection highlights the district’s commitment to fostering collaborative literacy efforts through its designation as an L4GA Community.
A Community United for Literacy
The Lamar County School System’s success is rooted in strong partnerships with local organizations, including:
Barnesville-Lamar County Library
Milner Library
Ferst Readers
E.P. Roberts Community Center
Local daycare centers
Lamar County Health Department
Investing in Literacy for All
The $25,000 Georgia Reads award will support initiatives focused on:📖 Expanding access to books for families📚 Providing professional development and literacy resources for teachers of early learners🎉 Hosting community literacy events to engage families and students
Lamar County School System’s ongoing literacy initiatives demonstrate the power of community collaboration in shaping a brighter future for young readers.
Pictured in photograph
Jeremy Hawkins- Principal – Lamar County Primary
Kelly Hughes- Mayor- City of Barnesville and Manager- Barnesville Lamar County Library
Malcolm Mitchell- Former UGA Star and Georgia Reads Coach
Amy Christopher Learning Support Specialist – Lamar County Elementary
Dr. Whitney Pasch- Principal – Lamar County Elementary