State Superintendent Richard Woods visits Lake Oconee Academy and is greeted by students upon arrival.

GREENSBORO, GA (May 02, 2025)—State School Superintendent Richard Woods visited Lake Oconee Academy on April 23, 2025, to present the school with banners for being recognized as a Math and Literacy Leader school for the 2023-2024 school year. 

Excitement filled the campus as the band and cheerleaders gathered at the school’s entrance to greet Superintendent Woods upon his arrival. Refreshments served by Lake Oconee Cotillion students were meticulously displayed on school-spirited tables for the momentous occasion, while two of LOA’s kindergarten students held the door and welcomed Superintendent Woods. It was an entrance fit for a king, with students making it extra special. 

Several elementary to high school students were in attendance, and Superintendent Woods commended the LOA for receiving these prestigious awards and encouraged them to continue their success. He presented several banners for elementary, middle, and high school to recognize the proficiency on last year’s Milestones tests, which measure students’ understanding and mastery of the content in both Literacy and Math. Banners received were as follows:

—K-5 banner for Masters of Mathematics and a recognition for outstanding growth in 5th grade

—K-5 banner for Literacy Leaders and a recognition for outstanding growth in the 5th grade 

—6-8 banner for Masters of Mathematics and a recognition for outstanding growth in 7th grade

—6-8 banner for Literacy Leaders and a recognition for outstanding growth in 6th and 8th grade

—9-12 banner for Masters of Mathematics and a recognition for outstanding growth and distinguished achievement 9-12

Many staff members and students were able to speak briefly with Superintendent Woods. Seventh-grade student William Baynes shared his gratitude for having the opportunity to speak with Superintendent Woods. 

Baynes shared with him that he hopes to fly C-130s in the U.S. Air Force one day, to which Superintendent Woods replied, “That’s amazing! If you ever need a recommendation, reach out to my office.” 

Baynes humbly thanked Superintendent Woods for his graciousness. Honored to have had the opportunity, William shared how grateful he is to attend such a prestigious school.

LOA Executive Director Dr. Brad Bowling expressed his gratitude and pride: “We are incredibly honored to have hosted State Superintendent Woods at Lake Oconee Academy and are deeply grateful for his recognition of our students’ and teachers’ hard work. Receiving five banners for excellence and growth in literacy and mathematics is a direct reflection of our teachers’ commitment to using data to inform and guide instruction. Their dedication, paired with the relentless effort of our students, has helped us achieve these outstanding results on the 2024 Georgia Milestones.

At LOA, we believe that excellence is earned through daily discipline, collaboration, and high expectations. These awards celebrate not just test scores, but the growth, perseverance, and academic excellence our students demonstrate daily. We are proud of the work happening in every classroom and thankful for the partnership between our educators, students, families, and the greater community.”