Putnam Proud Podcast

 
Meet Dr. Pearson, PCPS’ New Principal
 
Putnam County Charter School System is excited to welcome a new leader to our primary grades, and in this episode of the Putnam Proud Podcast, we’re proud to introduce Dr. Carletha Pearson, the new principal of Putnam County Primary School.
 
In this episode, Dr. Pearson has the opportunity to introduce herself, share her educational journey, and discuss her vision for PCPS moving forward. From creating a strong, supportive school culture to ensuring every child has the foundation they need to thrive, she speaks to her commitment to student success, staff collaboration, and meaningful family partnerships.
 
Join us as we welcome Dr. Pearson to the PCPS family and hear how her leadership, energy, and dedication will help shape the future of Putnam County Primary School as we continue to inspire, innovate, and excel—starting with our youngest learners.
 
Thanks for listening.
 
Please take a minute to share with your friends, family, and colleagues.
Remember that Putnam Proud will highlight unique programs, innovative strategies, the wonderful families, focused students, graduates and their journeys, and successful staff and team members. There is so much to share. 
Go to the Putnam County Charter School System website for more information:
Putnam County Charter School System website
Length - 32:32
 
The music in the opening and closing is from Soul Shifters. It is called Honey Bee.
Downloaded for use with this podcast from Soundstripe.
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Track Title: Honey BeeArtist Name(s): Soul ShiftersWriter Name: Aaron SprinkleWriter IPI Number: 00179.77.26.10Writer PRO: BMIWriter Percentage: 100.00%Publisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSPublisher IPI Number: 00.886.23.55.00Publisher PRO: BMIPublisher Percentage: 100.0
 

Putnam Proud and Prepared: Meet our School Safety Staff
 
Student and staff safety is at the heart of everything we do at Putnam County Charter School System. In this episode of the Putnam Proud Podcast, we focus on the critical steps being taken to ensure our schools remain safe, secure, and supportive learning environments for all.
Following the passage of recent legislative bills, PCCSS has strengthened its commitment to school safety by welcoming new, dedicated safety staff into our schools. In this episode, we introduce our safety staff and hear directly from them as they share their perspectives on what it means to protect our campuses and support students each day.
 
Through thoughtful planning, proactive training, and strong relationships, our safety team plays an essential role in creating schools where students can focus on learning and staff can focus on teaching. This conversation highlights how safety is not just about presence—it’s about preparedness, communication, trust, and a shared responsibility across the entire school community.
 
Join us as we take an inside look at how PCCSS prioritizes safety every day, because protecting our students and staff isn’t just a policy—it’s a promise.
 
Thanks for listening.
 
Please take a minute to share with your friends, family, and colleagues.
Remember that Putnam Proud will highlight unique programs, innovative strategies, the wonderful families, focused students, graduates and their journeys, and successful staff and team members. There is so much to share. 
Go to the Putnam County Charter School System website for more information:
Putnam County Charter School System website
Length - 32:45
 
The music in the opening and closing is from Soul Shifters. It is called Honey Bee.
Downloaded for use with this podcast from Soundstripe.
See the following copyright information.
Track Title: Honey BeeArtist Name(s): Soul ShiftersWriter Name: Aaron SprinkleWriter IPI Number: 00179.77.26.10Writer PRO: BMIWriter Percentage: 100.00%Publisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSPublisher IPI Number: 00.886.23.55.00Publisher PRO: BMIPublisher Percentage: 100.0
 

Powered by Purpose: The Relaunch of the Putnam Education Foundation
 
PCCSS is proud to partner with and announce the official relaunch of the Putnam Education Foundation (PEF) with a renewed focus and a powerful mission.
 
In this episode of the Putnam Proud Podcast, we highlight the Foundation’s relaunch this Spring and its singular goal: connecting the generosity of our community with the specific needs of students across the Putnam County Charter School System. Built on the belief that every child deserves access to the resources and opportunities necessary to thrive, the Putnam Education Foundation works to bridge gaps and expand possibilities for student success.
 
Through strong community partnerships and private donations, PEF champions innovative educational initiatives that extend beyond the classroom—supporting programs, experiences, and tools that inspire excellence and prepare students for a successful future. This episode explores the vision behind the relaunch, the impact the Foundation seeks to make, and how community support plays a vital role in shaping brighter outcomes for Putnam County students.
 
Join us as we celebrate this renewed commitment to students, schools, and the power of community coming together with purpose.
 
Thanks for listening.
 
Please take a minute to share with your friends, family, and colleagues.
Remember that Putnam Proud will highlight unique programs, innovative strategies, the wonderful families, focused students, graduates and their journeys, and successful staff and team members. There is so much to share. 
Go to the Putnam County Charter School System website for more information:
Putnam County Charter School System website
Length - 43:21
 
The music in the opening and closing is from Soul Shifters. It is called Honey Bee.
Downloaded for use with this podcast from Soundstripe.
See the following copyright information.
Track Title: Honey BeeArtist Name(s): Soul ShiftersWriter Name: Aaron SprinkleWriter IPI Number: 00179.77.26.10Writer PRO: BMIWriter Percentage: 100.00%Publisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSPublisher IPI Number: 00.886.23.55.00Publisher PRO: BMIPublisher Percentage: 100.0
 

 
The Gold Standard: How PCHS FFA Shines Statewide
In this episode of the Putnam Proud Podcast, we celebrate the outstanding achievements of the Putnam County High School FFA program and the students who continue to set the standard for excellence in agricultural education.
 
Recently recognized as a Gold Emblem Chapter, Putnam County High School FFA earned one of the highest honors awarded by the state—placing them among the top 10% of FFA chapters in Georgia. This prestigious recognition reflects the chapter’s commitment to leadership development, career readiness, community service, and hands-on learning.
 
In addition to the Gold Emblem honor, we spotlight PCHS students who have earned their State FFA Degrees, a significant achievement recognizing dedication, skill development, and excellence in supervised agricultural experiences. We’ll also celebrate recent state-level showmanship winners, whose hard work, discipline, and passion have earned top recognition in competition.
 
Beyond the awards, this episode takes a closer look at agricultural education and why it matters. Ag education provides students with real-world skills, leadership opportunities, and career pathways that extend far beyond the field—preparing them for success in agriculture, business, science, technology, and more. Through programs like FFA, students learn responsibility, teamwork, innovation, and the value of hard work—skills that serve them for a lifetime.
Join us as we recognize the achievements of PCHS FFA, celebrate student success, and highlight how agricultural education continues to cultivate confident leaders and a strong future for Putnam County.
 
Thanks for listening.
 
Please take a minute to share with your friends, family, and colleagues.
Remember that Putnam Proud will highlight unique programs, innovative strategies, the wonderful families, focused students, graduates and their journeys, and successful staff and team members. There is so much to share. 
Go to the Putnam County Charter School System website for more information:
Putnam County Charter School System website
Length - 35:51
 
The music in the opening and closing is from Soul Shifters. It is called Honey Bee.
Downloaded for use with this podcast from Soundstripe.
See the following copyright information.
Track Title: Honey BeeArtist Name(s): Soul ShiftersWriter Name: Aaron SprinkleWriter IPI Number: 00179.77.26.10Writer PRO: BMIWriter Percentage: 100.00%Publisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSPublisher IPI Number: 00.886.23.55.00Publisher PRO: BMIPublisher Percentage: 100.0
 
 
 

 
 
Beyond Putnam: How Travel Shapes Student Learning
In this episode of the Putnam Proud Podcast, we highlight the powerful role travel plays in shaping student learning and perspective. We’re joined by high school students from across grade levels who recently took part in unforgettable educational travel experiences—from freshmen exploring the rich history of St. Augustine, Florida, to sophomores walking the monuments and memorials of Washington, D.C., and juniors immersing themselves in culture, history, and art abroad in Italy.
 
These journeys go far beyond sightseeing. Educational travel helps students connect classroom lessons to real-world experiences, deepens cultural understanding, builds confidence and independence, and sparks curiosity that lasts long after the trip ends. By stepping outside their everyday environment, students gain new perspectives on history, government, culture, and themselves—returning home with memories, insights, and inspiration that enrich their academic and personal growth.
 
This episode celebrates learning without walls and the meaningful ways travel helps our students grow into informed, engaged, and globally minded individuals.
 
Thanks for listening.
 
Please take a minute to share with your friends, family, and colleagues.
Remember that Putnam Proud will highlight unique programs, innovative strategies, the wonderful families, focused students, graduates and their journeys, and successful staff and team members. There is so much to share. 
Go to the Putnam County Charter School System website for more information:
Putnam County Charter School System website
Length - 55:52
 
The music in the opening and closing is from Soul Shifters. It is called Honey Bee.
Downloaded for use with this podcast from Soundstripe.
See the following copyright information.
Track Title: Honey BeeArtist Name(s): Soul ShiftersWriter Name: Aaron SprinkleWriter IPI Number: 00179.77.26.10Writer PRO: BMIWriter Percentage: 100.00%Publisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSPublisher IPI Number: 00.886.23.55.00Publisher PRO: BMIPublisher Percentage: 100.0
 
 

War Eagles Abroad: Learning Beyond Borders
 
During the summer of 2025, PCCSS faculty, administrators, and board members traveled to Tanzania in East Africa to determine whether this could become a safe, high-quality, life-changing international travel opportunity for our students. Tanzania is a unique country along the Indian Ocean, home to the Serengeti Plain, Mount Kilimanjaro, Ngorongoro Crater, and Olduvai Gorge, often called the cradle of humanity. Our team partnered with long-standing University of Georgia programs led by Dr. Lioba Moshi and worked closely with experienced professionals at Zara Tanzanian Adventures to review safety, lodging, transportation, and academic value.
 
They visited local schools, planted a tree at the Upendo--One Kids at a Time center, and built strong relationships that reflect shared values of learning, service, and leadership across two continents.As a result of this successful exploratory visit, we are preparing to take six Putnam County War Eagles to Tanzania for a powerful Lived Experience in June 2026. This Lived Learning trip will challenge them, inspire them, and expand their vision of what is possible. These students will stand where human history began, engage directly with educators and peers across the globe, and participate in meaningful service that strengthens international partnerships. They will represent our community with excellence while gaining firsthand insight into history, science, culture, and global leadership. When the whole world becomes curriculum, War Eagles learn to lead anywhere.
 
For more information about our upcoming trip to Tanzania, please contact Dr. Avis Williams at (706) 485-5381.
 
Thanks for listening.
 
Please take a minute to share with your friends, family, and colleagues.
Remember that Putnam Proud will highlight unique programs, innovative strategies, the wonderful families, focused students, graduates and their journeys, and successful staff and team members. There is so much to share. 
Go to the Putnam County Charter School System website for more information:
Putnam County Charter School System website
Length - 43:47
 
The music in the opening and closing is from Soul Shifters. It is called Honey Bee.
Downloaded for use with this podcast from Soundstripe.
See the following copyright information.
Track Title: Honey BeeArtist Name(s): Soul ShiftersWriter Name: Aaron SprinkleWriter IPI Number: 00179.77.26.10Writer PRO: BMIWriter Percentage: 100.00%Publisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSPublisher IPI Number: 00.886.23.55.00Publisher PRO: BMIPublisher Percentage: 100.0
 
 

Everyday Counts: The Power of Showing Up
When students show up consistently, they don’t just attend school—they build habits, relationships, and confidence that shape their future. In this episode of the Putnam Proud podcast, we dive into why attendance matters more than many realize and how each day in the classroom strengthens learning, connection, and success. Join us as we explore the real impact of being present and the simple ways families and our community can help students thrive one day at a time.
 
Thanks for listening.
 
Please take a minute to share with your friends, family, and colleagues.
Remember that Putnam Proud will highlight unique programs, innovative strategies, the wonderful families, focused students, graduates and their journeys, and successful staff and team members. There is so much to share. 
Go to the Putnam County Charter School System website for more information:
Putnam County Charter School System website
Length - 37:22
 
The music in the opening and closing is from Soul Shifters. It is called Honey Bee.
Downloaded for use with this podcast from Soundstripe.
See the following copyright information.
Track Title: Honey BeeArtist Name(s): Soul ShiftersWriter Name: Aaron SprinkleWriter IPI Number: 00179.77.26.10Writer PRO: BMIWriter Percentage: 100.00%Publisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSPublisher IPI Number: 00.886.23.55.00Publisher PRO: BMIPublisher Percentage: 100.0
 

 
Empowering Student Voices at PCCSS!
Season 5 Episode 1
We were excited to launch the second year of our Superintendent Student Advisory Council this past fall, featuring student representatives from Putnam County High School and Putnam County Middle School. This council provides an important platform for students to share their ideas, influence decisions, and help shape the future of education in our district.
Click the link to hear from some of our council members as they explain what the council is all about and share the initiatives, they plan to accomplish this year!
 
Thanks for listening.
 
Please take a minute to share with your friends, family, and colleagues.
Remember that Putnam Proud will highlight unique programs, innovative strategies, the wonderful families, focused students, graduates and their journeys, and successful staff and team members. There is so much to share. 
Go to the Putnam County Charter School System website for more information:
Putnam County Charter School System website
Length - 37:11
 
The music in the opening and closing is from Soul Shifters. It is called Honey Bee.
Downloaded for use with this podcast from Soundstripe.
See the following copyright information.
Track Title: Honey BeeArtist Name(s): Soul ShiftersWriter Name: Aaron SprinkleWriter IPI Number: 00179.77.26.10Writer PRO: BMIWriter Percentage: 100.00%Publisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSPublisher IPI Number: 00.886.23.55.00Publisher PRO: BMIPublisher Percentage: 100.0

 
S.T.A.R.S. in Action: Bridging the Gap Between School and Work
 
Explore how the S.T.A.R.S. program is transforming student readiness for the professional world in this week’s Putnam Proud Podcast!
 
The Putnam County High School Student Transition and Readiness Skills or S.T.A.R.S. program is a pivotal initiative designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world work environments. This innovative program is structured to provide students with practical experiences that enhance their readiness for future employment and independence. One of the primary components of the S.T.A.R.S. program is providing students with hands-on experience in real-world tasks. Activities such as document shredding at the Board of Education (BOE) office, bagging groceries at Ingles Supermarket or sorting sauces at Zaxby’s allow students to learn and practice workplace rules and procedures within a supportive setting. This exposure is crucial for developing the "workforce" skills necessary for future employment.
 
The S.T.A.R.S./Community-Based Instruction takes learning beyond the traditional classroom setting. By engaging in activities that apply academic knowledge to real-life situations, students not only acquire practical job skills but also contribute positively to the community. This approach fosters a sense of responsibility and accomplishment as students see the tangible impact of their efforts. The program emphasizes the development of essential skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. Through various activities and interactions, students enhance these skills, which are crucial for success in any professional environment.
 
The benefits of the S.T.A.R.S. program are numerous. Students gain real-world experience that complements their academic education, making the transition from school to work smoother. By mastering workplace skills, students build confidence in their abilities, paving the way for greater independence in their future careers. Moreover, participation in community-based activities helps students understand the value of their contributions and fosters a sense of belonging and purpose. The S.T.A.R.S. program represents a significant step forward in preparing students for the challenges of the workforce. By focusing on practical experience and skill development, we are equipping students with the tools they need to succeed both personally and professionally.
 
Thanks for listening.
 
Please take a minute to share with your friends, family, and colleagues.
Remember that Putnam Proud will highlight unique programs, innovative strategies, the wonderful families, focused students, graduates and their journeys, and successful staff and team members. There is so much to share. 
Go to the Putnam County Charter School System website for more information:
Putnam County Charter School System website
Length - 47:59
 
The music in the opening and closing is from Soul Shifters. It is called Honey Bee.
Downloaded for use with this podcast from Soundstripe.
See the following copyright information.
Track Title: Honey BeeArtist Name(s): Soul ShiftersWriter Name: Aaron SprinkleWriter IPI Number: 00179.77.26.10Writer PRO: BMIWriter Percentage: 100.00%Publisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSPublisher IPI Number: 00.886.23.55.00Publisher PRO: BMIPublisher Percentage: 100.0

Four Houses, One Family: Fostering Connections at PCMS
 
Explore how the House system fosters unity and friendship among students of all ages at Putnam County Middle School.
 
The PCMS House system ensures that students feel supported by their peers from the moment they enter middle school. It helps students quickly develop a sense of belonging and bridges the gap between grade levels. The school's community would be incomplete without the opportunity for students to interact with teachers beyond the classroom, fostering stronger relationships between adults and students.
 
The goal of PCMS' House system is to create a school-wide family atmosphere and uplifting culture that builds character and confidence in students. One of the main strengths of the House system is that it allows students of all ages to work together, creating a cohesive environment where age is not a barrier to friendship and collaboration. A point system adds a fun and healthy competitive spirit among the Houses. Points are collected throughout the year by each student, contributing to their House’s overall score to determine the champions in May. Students can earn points for demonstrating good character, academic excellence, school spirit, humility, compassion, and responsibility.
 
The highlight of this program for most students is the House Celebrations held on the last Friday of each month. These spirit days are crucial for letting students take ownership and instill pride in their Houses. All students perform their House cheers and chants, earn points for their Houses, and participate in various games and House meetings with the PCMS faculty. Overall, the House system has helped each PCMS student form friendships and create closer bonds with their peers and teachers as they navigate these crucial years of their schooling.
 
Thanks for listening.
 
Please take a minute to share with your friends, family, and colleagues.
Remember that Putnam Proud will highlight unique programs, innovative strategies, the wonderful families, focused students, graduates and their journeys, and successful staff and team members. There is so much to share. 
Go to the Putnam County Charter School System website for more information:
Putnam County Charter School System website
Length - 51:46
 
The music in the opening and closing is from Soul Shifters. It is called Honey Bee.
Downloaded for use with this podcast from Soundstripe.
See the following copyright information.
Track Title: Honey BeeArtist Name(s): Soul ShiftersWriter Name: Aaron SprinkleWriter IPI Number: 00179.77.26.10Writer PRO: BMIWriter Percentage: 100.00%Publisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSPublisher IPI Number: 00.886.23.55.00Publisher PRO: BMIPublisher Percentage: 100.0