This month we’re going Inside Newton County Schools Athletics with special guest Carl Green. Hosted by Shebrie Jones, this episode dives deep into everything parents need to know about supporting their children in school sports.

From understanding eligibility requirements and academic expectations to exploring the various athletic opportunities available, Carl shares his expert insights on how parents can help their student-athletes thrive both on and off the field. We also discuss the role of athletics in personal growth, teamwork, and leadership development, giving families the tools they need to guide their children toward a successful and fulfilling experience.

Whether your child is already part of a team or considering joining one, this episode is packed with practical advice, tips for staying involved, and answers to common questions parents often have about school athletics. Don’t miss this informative and engaging conversation that empowers parents to support their students every step of the way.

Season 3 of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast kicks off with an in-depth discussion on a topic that directly impacts students and families across Georgia, the state’s newly adopted English Language Arts (ELA) standards. This important update affects how students will build essential literacy skills, including reading, writing, speaking, and listening, from elementary school through high school.

In this episode, Dr. Robin Cartright, English Language Arts Program Manager for the Georgia Department of Education, provides a comprehensive overview of the changes. Dr. Cartright explains why the state has updated the standards, how the revisions are designed to better prepare students for real-world communication, and what these shifts will look like in classrooms across the state.

Parents and caregivers will learn what to expect as the new standards are implemented and receive practical tips on how to reinforce these literacy skills at home. The episode is designed to equip families with the knowledge and tools they need to stay actively involved in their child’s learning journey.

For ongoing updates, resources, and additional information about Georgia’s new ELA standards, families are encouraged to visit the Georgia Department of Education’s English Language Arts website at gadoe.org/learning/english-language-arts.

In this episode of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, we sit down with Ms. Deena Sams, director of the After-School and Community Affairs for Newton County Schools, to explore the powerful impact of the After School Academic Program (ASAP) and Communities in Schools initiative. Ms. Sams breaks down how ASAP supports students academically through homework help, tutoring, enrichment, and innovative learning activities in subjects like ELA, math, science, and more. 

In this episode of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, we’re highlighting the incredible work of the Student and Family Support Department and their mission to promote student success in every aspect of life—academically, socially, emotionally, and physically.

Join us for a conversation with Dr. Keith Benton, Director of Student and Family Support, as he shares how his dedicated team of school counselors, social workers, school climate specialists, and school-based mental health clinicians are helping to build positive school climates and support the whole child.

We’ll explore impactful initiatives like PBIS, Rethink ED, Sources of Strength, and our partnership with Hazel Health, which brings accessible mental health care to students directly in the school setting.

You’ll also learn about the resources available through the Newton County Community Partnership, including local services that support student and family well-being beyond the classroom. Visit newtonpartnership.org/resources/local-resources to explore valuable community-based supports.

Whether you're a parent, educator, or community member, this episode will give you a deeper look at the collaborative work happening every day to ensure every student has the tools they need to thrive.

Apprenticeships are opening doors for students to gain real-world experiences, earn credentials, and jumpstart their careers - all while still in school! In this episode of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, we're joined by Mr. Jeffrey Johnson, Apprenticeship Pathway Coordinator for the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG). Mr. Johnson shares how apprenticeships work, the benefits for students and families, and the exciting opportunities available through Newton County Schools. For more information about apprenticeships, contact your school work-based learning coordinator or contact Mr. Johnson directly, [email protected].

Resources: https://www.tcsg.edu/worksource/resources-for-practitioners/apprentice/ 

https://www.gptc.edu/business-industry/ 

In this episode of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, we're joined by Stephen Woodall, Jordan Troutman and Kayla Walker, College and Career Specialists to discuss the critical topic of College and Career Readiness. 

Our guests break down what College and Career Readiness means, how it benefits students and families, and the many ways parents can actively support their child's journey toward a successful future. From dispelling common misconceptions to sharing practical tips and resources, this episode is packed with helpful information for parents and students navigating the road to college and career success.

For updated information with the College and Career Readiness team contact them on socials:

Instagram & X (Twitter): @ccr_newton

Cyberbullying isn't just online conflict - it can deeply affect a child's emotional and mental well-being. In this episode of the NCS Parent Connect podcast, we're going beyond the screen with Dr. Quentin Fretwell to explore the true impact of cyberbullying.

In this special early release of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, we’re joined by Ms. DeMia Rogers, a high school counselor with Newton County Schools, to help guide families through the college application process. Ms. Rogers provides invaluable insights on FAFSA, scholarships, test preparation, and early acceptance options. We also discuss Georgia Apply to College Month and highlight key resources like Georgia Futures and the College Board to support students on their journey to higher education.

Whether you’re just starting the college process or need help finalizing applications, this episode is filled with tips to make the path smoother for students and their families.

In this special encore episode of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, we revisit one of our most insightful conversations with Hazel Health, our dedicated partner in student wellness. If you missed this episode the first time, now's your chance to listen.

In this informative episode of the NCS Parent Connect Podcast, we explore dual enrollment - an opportunity for high school students to earn college credit while still in school. We chat with Ms. Alicia Walker, a school counselor who specializes in these programs, discussing the benefits, challenges, and eligibility criteria. We'll uncover how dual enrollment can enrich a student's academic journey, give them a head start on college, and help reduce tuition costs. This episode will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about this exciting opportunity. Tune in to discover how dual enrollment can be a game changer for students in Newton County Schools.