Public Schools
The Washington County public school system is an asset to every person and business in the county. All schools are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Georgia Accrediting Commission.
As an employer, the Board of Education ranks as the county’s largest, employing more than 600 people (including substitutes) with an annual payroll in excess of $18.5 million. The board operates the county’s largest kitchen system, serving more than 350,000 breakfasts and more than 555,600 lunches a year. The transportation department logs more than 528,000 miles on buses and other vehicles.
The school board operates the following schools, all located in Sandersville:
- Washington County High School(WCHS) grades 9–12
- Thomas Jefferson Elder Middle School, grades 6–8
- Ridge Road Elementary School, grades 3-5
- Ridge Road Primary School, grades Pre-K–2
- Washington County Alternative School, grades 6-12
The system’s administrative offices, state-of-the-art technical training center, and transportation department are housed in a renovated building at 501 Industrial Drive in Sandersville, adjacent to the high school.
Modern technology is a given in the county school system. Every school classroom has a computer with comprehensive network access throughout the system. The new primary and elementary classrooms have 21st century educational technology including LCD projectors, wireless capability, interactive white boards and telephones. The middle school and high school have upgraded computer labs, wireless capability, telephones in each classroom, LCD projectors, 21st century equipped math labs and interactive white boards in many classrooms.
Fine arts is a strong component of the curriculum for the school system. Superior-rated band, choral and theatre programs at Washington County High School are a result of instruction that starts at the elementary level and continues through grade 12. In addition, a respected visual arts program, mass media offerings in print and broadcast journalism at the middle and high school levels, add to this strong program. A system-wide fine arts show in the spring showcases student talent.
Fine arts is a strong component of the curriculum for the school system. Superior-rated band, choral and theatre programs at Washington County High School are a result of instruction that starts at the elementary level and continues through grade 12. In addition, a respected visual arts program, mass media offerings in print and broadcast journalism at the middle and high school levels, add to this strong program. A system-wide fine arts show in the spring showcases student talent.
Not to be outdone, Washington County athletes are some of the best in Georgia. Many have been awarded major scholarships to some of the finest colleges and universities. The high school trophy case continues to fill with regional and state championship titles. Pro football and basketball teams have been fortunate to sign Washington County alumni, such as Takeo Spikes, brothers Robert and Terrence Edwards, and Greg Minor.
The Washington County Board of Education web site contains complete information about the school system including the superintendent, the board members, schedules, policies, etc..
