Press Releases
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September 28, 2026
Contact: Michele Dugan
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS GRADUATION RATE SOARS TO RECORD HIGH OF 97.47%
Click Here to Download the Printable Version
CUMMING, Ga. – Forsyth County Schools (FCS) has reached a new all-time high graduation rate of 97.47% according to data released today by the Georgia Department of Education. The milestone surpasses the district's previous record of 97.0% set in 2025 and places FCS well above the statewide rate of 88.5%.
“This record belongs to our graduates, along with every family, teacher, counselor, and community partner who supported them,” said Superintendent Dr. Mitch Young. “Our goal is to prepare healthy, productive citizens equipped for whatever comes next. Graduating high school is the first step for our students, and I am proud that 97.47% of them are off and running. Until we reach 100%, though, we can say that there is still work to be done.”
The achievement reflects a districtwide commitment to meeting students where they are and guiding them to where they want to go. From the classroom to the community, FCS surrounds every student with the opportunities, support, and encouragement they need to finish strong.
To learn more about Forsyth County Schools, visit www.forsyth.k12.ga.us
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Forsyth County Schools is a premier school district in metro Atlanta, serving 55,300+ students representing 129 countries and 69 languages. FCS envisions a safe, connected, and thriving community for all and is dedicated to providing an unparalleled education for all to succeed. Learn more about Forsyth County Schools at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us and connect with FCS on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Press Release Archive
2026
- January - March
- FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS ANNOUNCES CHIEF OF FOOD AND NUTRITION SERVICES
- FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS EARNS RECOGNITION FOR ACADEMIC GROWTH AND ACHIEVEMENT
- FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS APPOINTS NEW PRINCIPAL OF SAWNEE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
- FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS NAMES DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
- FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS EARNS STRONG SCHOOL CLIMATE STAR RATINGS
- PRESS RELEASE ANNOUNCING A PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX INCREASE
- FORSYTH COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION APPROVES FY27 BUDGET CUMMING, Ga.
- FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS ACHIEVES TOP MILESTONES RANKINGS
- FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS EARNS DOUBLE FORBES RECOGNITION AS A TOP EMPLOYER
- FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS GRADUATION RATE SOARS TO RECORD HIGH OF 97.47%
January - March
- Forsyth County Schools Earns Excellent Financial Efficiency Rating
- Forsyth County Schools Approves Partnership to Enhance School Bus Transportation
- Forsyth County Schools Recognized as Georgia Literacy and Math Leaders
- Forsyth County Schools Recognized Among Best Employers
- Forsyth County Schools Achieves 100% Pathway Completion Rate
- Forsyth County Schools Announces Leadership Appointments
FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS ANNOUNCES CHIEF OF FOOD AND NUTRITION SERVICES
May 6, 2026
Contact: Michele Dugan
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS ANNOUNCES CHIEF OF FOOD AND NUTRITION SERVICES
Click Here to Download the Printable Version
CUMMING, Ga. — The Forsyth County Schools Board of Education has approved the appointment of Kimberly Davis as Chief of Food and Nutrition Services. She will succeed Mr. Todd McClelland, who is retiring after years of dedicated service to the district.
Ms. Davis currently serves as principal of Sawnee Elementary School and brings nearly three decades of education experience. Ms. Davis began her career with Forsyth County Schools in 1998 as a special education teacher. During her early years in the district, she served students at Vickery Creek Elementary, South Forsyth High School, and Mashburn Elementary. In 2003, she was named assistant principal at Nesbit Elementary School in Gwinnett County.
She returned to Forsyth County Schools in 2007 as assistant principal at Settles Bridge Elementary, where she served until 2014. She was then appointed principal of Coal Mountain Elementary School, a role she held until 2022, when she transitioned to serve as principal of Sawnee Elementary School.
“Kimberly is a trusted leader who understands our system and our community,” said Superintendent Mitch Young. “She brings a strong background in leadership and a focus on people. I am confident she will continue to build on the great work of our Food and Nutrition Services team and serve our students and families well.”
Ms. Davis holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Master of Education in Special Education from Georgia State University. She also earned a Leadership Add-On Certification from University of Georgia and is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Education in Leadership anticipated in May 2027.
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Forsyth County Schools is a premier school district in metro Atlanta, serving 55,300+ students representing 129 countries and 69 languages. FCS envisions a safe, connected, and thriving community for all and is dedicated to providing an unparalleled education for all to succeed. Learn more about Forsyth County Schools at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us and connect with FCS on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS EARNS RECOGNITION FOR ACADEMIC GROWTH AND ACHIEVEMENT
May 12, 2026
Contact: Michele Dugan
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS EARNS RECOGNITION FOR ACADEMIC GROWTH AND ACHIEVEMENT
Click Here to Download the Printable Version
Forsyth County Schools earned statewide recognition through the 2025 Single Statewide Accountability System (SSAS) awards from the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement (GOSA), with 15 schools honored for exceptional academic achievement and student growth.
The SSAS awards are based on three years of College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI) data and recognize schools in two categories: Greatest Gains and Highest Performing.
Schools across Forsyth County Schools earned honors at the Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels, including several schools recognized in both categories. The recognitions reflect strong student performance, academic growth, and the continued commitment of Forsyth County Schools educators, staff, students, and families.
Forsyth County Schools recognized through the 2025 SSAS awards include:
- Alliance Academy for Innovation – Platinum Greatest Gains and Platinum Highest Performing
- Big Creek Elementary School – Silver Greatest Gains
- Brookwood Elementary School – Bronze Greatest Gains and Silver Highest Performing
- Daves Creek Elementary School – Gold Greatest Gains and Platinum Highest Performing
- Denmark High School – Silver Highest Performing
- George W. Whitlow Elementary School – Gold Greatest Gains
- Haw Creek Elementary School – Bronze Highest Performing
- Lambert High School – Silver Highest Performing
- Midway Elementary School – Bronze Greatest Gains and Bronze Highest Performing
- Piney Grove Middle School – Gold Highest Performing
- Riverwatch Middle School – Gold Greatest Gains and Gold Highest Performing
- Settles Bridge Elementary School – Silver Greatest Gains and Gold Highest Performing
- Sharon Elementary School – Gold Highest Performing
- South Forsyth High School – Platinum Highest Performing
- South Forsyth Middle School – Gold Highest Performing
More information about the Single Statewide Accountability System awards is available through the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement.
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Forsyth County Schools is a premier school district in metro Atlanta, serving 55,300+ students representing 129 countries and 69 languages. FCS envisions a safe, connected, and thriving community for all and is dedicated to providing an unparalleled education for all to succeed. Learn more about Forsyth County Schools at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us and connect with FCS on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS APPOINTS NEW PRINCIPAL OF SAWNEE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
May 13, 2026
Contact: Michele Dugan
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS APPOINTS NEW PRINCIPAL OF SAWNEE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Click Here to Download the Printable Version
Forsyth County Schools has named Ms. Marla Callahan as the new principal of Sawnee Elementary School for the 2026–2027 school year, replacing Ms. Kimberly Davis as she transitions to a district leadership position.
Ms. Callahan currently serves as Assistant Principal at Kelly Mill Elementary School and brings nearly two decades of educational experience to the role.
Ms. Callahan began her career in education in Pickens County, serving as a teacher and later as an Academic Coach at Pickens County Middle School from 2008 to 2016. She then served as Assistant Principal at Pickens Middle School and Pickens High School from 2016 to 2018 before being named Principal of Harmony Elementary School in Pickens County, where she served from 2018 to 2023.
Following her tenure as principal, Ms. Callahan joined West Forsyth High School as an Assistant Administrator during the 2023–2024 school year. In 2024, she was appointed Assistant Principal of Kelly Mill Elementary School, where she currently serves.
Ms. Callahan holds a Bachelor of Science in Middle Grades Education from Brenau University, a Master’s degree in Education from Piedmont College, and a Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Kennesaw State University.
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Forsyth County Schools is a premier school district in metro Atlanta, serving 55,300+ students representing 129 countries and 69 languages. FCS envisions a safe, connected, and thriving community for all and is dedicated to providing an unparalleled education for all to succeed. Learn more about Forsyth County Schools at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us and connect with FCS on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS NAMES DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
May 27, 2026
Contact: Michele Dugan
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS NAMES DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
Click Here to Download the Printable Version
Forsyth County Schools has named Christopher Davis as the district’s next Director of Technology Services. Davis will join the district on July 1, 2026, replacing Tim Flemming, who is retiring.
Davis brings many years of technology leadership experience, most recently serving with Henry County Schools, where he directed a 75-member Information Technology organization and oversaw a 70,000-device ecosystem supporting students and staff across the district.
“Chris brings a tremendous depth of experience and a clear understanding of how technology supports teaching, learning, safety, and daily operations,” said Superintendent Dr. Mitch Young. “He has a strong track record of building reliable systems, protecting student information, and leading cybersecurity efforts, while aligning technology initiatives to the larger goals of a school district. We are excited to welcome him to Forsyth County Schools.”
Davis began his career with Deloitte Consulting before serving as IT Manager for The Church of The Apostles and Leading The Way, where he helped build the organization’s wireless and multi-campus network infrastructure. He joined Henry County Schools in 2009 as Network Coordinator and advanced through several leadership roles, including Director of Technology Operations and Executive Director of Technology Operations.
Davis holds a Bachelor of Science in Business with a specialization in IT Management from Western Governors University.
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Forsyth County Schools is a premier school district in metro Atlanta, serving 55,300+ students representing 129 countries and 69 languages. FCS envisions a safe, connected, and thriving community for all and is dedicated to providing an unparalleled education for all to succeed. Learn more about Forsyth County Schools at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us and connect with FCS on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS EARNS STRONG SCHOOL CLIMATE STAR RATINGS
June 3, 2026
Contact: Michele Dugan
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS EARNS STRONG SCHOOL CLIMATE STAR RATINGS
Click Here to Download the Printable Version
Forsyth County Schools earned strong results in the 2025 Georgia School Climate Star Ratings, with schools across the district receiving high marks in areas connected to student engagement, school safety, attendance, discipline, and overall school climate. All Forsyth County Schools earned a score of 3.75 or higher, with many schools earning the highest possible score of 5/5.
Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 20-14-33) requires the development and use of a School Climate Star Rating as a diagnostic tool to help determine whether schools are on the right path toward continuous improvement. The School Climate Star Rating measures school climate using four domains: Attendance, Safe and Substance-Free Environment, Discipline, and School Climate Survey results.
The 2025 School Climate Star Ratings are based on lagging data collected during the 2024-2025 school year, including responses from the 2025 School Climate Survey.
For the 2024-2025 school year, the Georgia Department of Education also implemented a revised calculation guide for School Climate Star Ratings designed to improve precision, fairness, and interpretability. While the four measurement domains remained the same, the overall rating system was updated in response to feedback from schools and districts requesting clearer, more actionable results to guide school improvement efforts.
“These ratings reflect the positive culture our schools work to build every day. The collaboration among schools, parents, and our community is key to these efforts,” said Superintendent Dr. Mitch Young. “A strong school climate supports student success, meaningful relationships, and safe learning environments where students and staff can thrive.”
School Climate Star Ratings are part of Georgia’s College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI) and are released annually by the Georgia Department of Education. Ratings can be viewed at the Georgia Department of Education website: https://ccrpireportspublic.gadoe.org/ccrpireportspublicweb/Views/Shared/_Layout.html
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Forsyth County Schools is a premier school district in metro Atlanta, serving 55,300+ students representing 129 countries and 69 languages. FCS envisions a safe, connected, and thriving community for all and is dedicated to providing an unparalleled education for all to succeed. Learn more about Forsyth County Schools at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us and connect with FCS on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
PRESS RELEASE ANNOUNCING A PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX INCREASE
July 14, 2026
Contact: Michele Dugan
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRESS RELEASE ANNOUNCING A PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX INCREASE
Click Here to Download the Printable Version
The Forsyth County Board of Education today announces its intentions to increase the 2026 property taxes it will levy this year by 0.99 percent over the rollback millage rate.
Each year, the board of tax assessors is required to review the assessed value for property tax purposes of taxable property in the county. When the trend of prices on properties that have recently sold in the county indicate there has been an increase in the fair market value of any specific property, the board of tax assessors is required by law to re-determine the value of such property and adjust the assessment. This is called a reassessment.
When the total digest of taxable property is prepared, Georgia law requires a rollback millage rate be computed that will produce the same total revenue on the current year’s digest that last year’s millage rate would have produced had no reassessment occurred.
The budget tentatively adopted by the Forsyth County Board of Education requires a millage rate higher than the rollback millage rate; therefore, before the Forsyth County Board of Education may finalize the tentative budget and set a final millage rate, Georgia law requires three public hearings to be held to allow the public an opportunity to express their opinions on the increase.
All concerned citizens are invited to the public hearings on this tax increase to be held at the Forsyth County Board of Education Central Office Building, 1120 Dahlonega Highway, Cumming, Georgia on, July 23, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. and, July 30, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
This tentative increase will result in a millage rate of 15.208 mills, an increase of 0.149 mills above the rollback rate. Without this tentative tax increase, the millage rate will be no more than 15.059 mills. The proposed tax increase for a home with a fair market value of $650,000 is approximately $38.74 and the proposed tax increase for non-homestead property with a fair market value of $575,000 is approximately $34.27.
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Forsyth County Schools is a premier school district in metro Atlanta, serving 55,300+ students representing 129 countries and 69 languages. FCS envisions a safe, connected, and thriving community for all and is dedicated to providing an unparalleled education for all to succeed. Learn more about Forsyth County Schools at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us and connect with FCS on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
FORSYTH COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION APPROVES FY27 BUDGET CUMMING, Ga.
July 30, 2026
Contact: Michele Dugan
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FORSYTH COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION APPROVES FY27 BUDGET CUMMING, Ga.
Click Here to Download the Printable Version
The Forsyth County Board of Education has approved a $762.5 million budget for the 2026-2027 school year, a 1.60% increase over FY26 and the smallest year-over-year increase for the district budget in over a decade. The budget holds the maintenance and operations (M&O) millage rate at 15.208 mills, its lowest level since 2007, with no increase to either the M&O or debt service rate.
“This budget proves you can be a responsible steward of taxpayer dollars and still invest boldly in what matters most,” said Superintendent Mitch Young. “With a minimal overall increase and keeping millage rates flat, we were still able to prioritize making improvements in safety, support, and learning. That is what good stewardship looks like.”
The approved budget funds a new mobile safety panic alert system, expanded mental health support, increased school nurse salaries, and additional School Resource Officer funding. It also provides a salary step for all eligible staff and continues investment in academic achievement, special education compliance, and instructional technology, while maintaining a 15% fund balance for long-term stability.
More information, including the full budget presentation, is available at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us
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Forsyth County Schools is a premier school district in metro Atlanta, serving 55,300+ students representing 129 countries and 69 languages. FCS envisions a safe, connected, and thriving community for all and is dedicated to providing an unparalleled education for all to succeed. Learn more about Forsyth County Schools at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us and connect with FCS on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS ACHIEVES TOP MILESTONES RANKINGS
August 11, 2026
Contact: Michele Dugan
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS ACHIEVES TOP MILESTONES RANKINGS
Click Here to Download the Printable Version
Cumming, Ga. — Forsyth County Schools (FCS) students posted some of the strongest Georgia Milestones results in the state for the 2025-26 school year, reflecting the district's relentless focus on academic growth and achievement.
FCS ranked first among large districts (over 1,000 students tested) in math and social studies End of Grade (EOG) assessments for all tested elementary and middle school grade levels, and second in the state for 5th grade science. At the high school level, students earned the highest End of Course (EOC) scores in Algebra and Biology for large systems. Results for all English Language Arts (ELA) EOG and EOC assessments will be released later this fall, following the rollout of new course standards statewide.
Multiple FCS schools also placed among the top 20 in Georgia for both EOG and EOC assessments, a reflection of consistent excellence across the district.
Superintendent Mitch Young said the results prove what happens when high expectations meet hard work and appropriate support in the classroom on a daily basis. "These scores are a direct result of the dedication our students, teachers, and staff bring to school every single day, and we could not be prouder," he said. "But we're not resting on this. Our war on complacency in FCS continues, and that means raising the bar again this school year. Every student in this district deserves an education that prepares them to succeed in life, and we will keep pushing and pulling until every one of them gets there!"
FCS remains committed to excellence in every classroom, ensuring students are prepared for the opportunities ahead.
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Forsyth County Schools is a premier school district in metro Atlanta, serving 55,300+ students representing 129 countries and 69 languages. FCS envisions a safe, connected, and thriving community for all and is dedicated to providing an unparalleled education for all to succeed. Learn more about Forsyth County Schools at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us and connect with FCS on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS EARNS DOUBLE FORBES RECOGNITION AS A TOP EMPLOYER
September 17, 2026
Contact: Michele Dugan
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS EARNS DOUBLE FORBES RECOGNITION AS A TOP EMPLOYER
Click Here to Download the Printable Version
CUMMING, GA – Forsyth County Schools has been named to two prestigious Forbes employer rankings for 2026: America's Best-In-State Employers and America's Best Large Employers. This marks the second consecutive year Forsyth County Schools has earned a spot on both lists, reflecting a sustained commitment to building a workplace where employees want to stay, contribute, and grow.
The rankings are based on an independent, large-scale survey of employees nationwide, measuring workplace environment, benefits and salaries, opportunities for professional growth, and overall job satisfaction.
According to Superintendent Mitch Young, “When our employees feel valued and supported, they are empowered to do their best work in shaping student success. Our school leaders do a fantastic job of collaborating with families and community partners to develop supportive environments in which our students and staff can thrive. This all leads to outstanding retention rates and special honors like that from Forbes magazine.”
With over 8,000 employees, Forsyth County Schools continues to invest in professional development, career growth, and collaborative leadership to ensure an unparalleled workplace that attracts and retains top talent. The district's commitment to innovation and student success has made it a model for school systems nationwide.
For more information about Forsyth County Schools and employment opportunities, visit www.forsyth.k12.ga.us.
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Forsyth County Schools is a premier school district in metro Atlanta, serving 55,300+ students representing 129 countries and 69 languages. FCS envisions a safe, connected, and thriving community for all and is dedicated to providing an unparalleled education for all to succeed. Learn more about Forsyth County Schools at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us and connect with FCS on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS GRADUATION RATE SOARS TO RECORD HIGH OF 97.47%
September 28, 2026
Contact: Michele Dugan
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FORSYTH COUNTY SCHOOLS GRADUATION RATE SOARS TO RECORD HIGH OF 97.47%
Click Here to Download the Printable Version
CUMMING, Ga. – Forsyth County Schools (FCS) has reached a new all-time high graduation rate of 97.47% according to data released today by the Georgia Department of Education. The milestone surpasses the district's previous record of 97.0% set in 2025 and places FCS well above the statewide rate of 88.5%.
“This record belongs to our graduates, along with every family, teacher, counselor, and community partner who supported them,” said Superintendent Dr. Mitch Young. “Our goal is to prepare healthy, productive citizens equipped for whatever comes next. Graduating high school is the first step for our students, and I am proud that 97.47% of them are off and running. Until we reach 100%, though, we can say that there is still work to be done.”
The achievement reflects a districtwide commitment to meeting students where they are and guiding them to where they want to go. From the classroom to the community, FCS surrounds every student with the opportunities, support, and encouragement they need to finish strong.
To learn more about Forsyth County Schools, visit www.forsyth.k12.ga.us
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Forsyth County Schools is a premier school district in metro Atlanta, serving 55,300+ students representing 129 countries and 69 languages. FCS envisions a safe, connected, and thriving community for all and is dedicated to providing an unparalleled education for all to succeed. Learn more about Forsyth County Schools at www.forsyth.k12.ga.us and connect with FCS on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.