Pike County Schools Excellence in Education

The Excellence in Education Podcast is back, and this week Jeff sits down once again with Elkhorn Elementary Principal Amber Cantrell to talk about all the exciting things happening with the Cougars during the 2026-27 school year.

From the archery and dance programs that got their start last year to new opportunities and goals for students this year, Cantrell gives an inside look at how Elkhorn Elementary continues to grow. She and Jeff also discuss what the school learned from last year, what students and families can look forward to, and what the Cougars hope to accomplish throughout the new school year.

Catch up with Elkhorn Elementary and learn more about the students, staff and programs that make the school a special part of Pike County Schools.

Watch the Excellence in Education Podcast on YouTube:  https://linktr.ee/excellenceined

A new school year means new conversations on the Excellence in Education Podcast! To kick off the year, Jeff sits down with longtime Pike County educator and second-year Johns Creek Principal Jason Sanson.

Sanson shares his background in education, his journey to becoming principal at Johns Creek, and what he learned during his first year leading the school. He and Jeff also look ahead to the new school year, the programs and opportunities available to students, and some of the great things happening throughout Johns Creek.

Start the new school year with Excellence in Education and get to know one of the leaders helping shape the future of Pike County Schools.

Watch the full episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/6Mr8OGyA2Uo

Bevins Elementary Principal Sandy Merrill joins Jeff on this week’s episode of the Excellence in Education Podcast as the series highlighting principals and leaders across Pike County Schools continues.

Merrill shares her background in education, her journey into school leadership, and what led her to Bevins Elementary. The conversation also explores the many great things happening at the school, including student achievement, school culture, staff collaboration, and the programs helping students succeed both inside and outside the classroom.

This episode offers a closer look at the leadership, dedication, and community spirit that make Bevins Elementary a special place for students and families.

First-year Feds Creek Elementary Principal Melinda Potter joins Jeff on this week’s episode of the Excellence in Education Podcast to talk all things Feds Creek.

Take a deep dive into Potter’s background, her journey into education and leadership, and how she became principal at Feds Creek Elementary. The conversation also highlights the many positive things happening throughout the school, including student success, school culture and the goals shaping the future of the Wildcats.

This episode offers a closer look at new leadership and the continued commitment to excellence at Feds Creek Elementary.

Pike Central Bands Director Jason Johnson joins Jeff on this week’s episode of the Excellence in Education Podcast to talk about the many great things happening within the Pike Central band program.

From the wide variety of classes and ensembles available to students to the accomplishments and accolades the program has earned over the years, Johnson gives an inside look at what makes Pike Central’s music program stand out. The conversation also explores student opportunities, the growth of the program and the dedication it takes to maintain a tradition of excellence.

Whether you are a student, parent, music supporter or part of the Pike County Schools community, this episode offers a closer look at one of the district’s successful and long-standing programs.

First-year Phelps Elementary Principal Elizabeth Bentley joins Jeff on this week’s episode of the Excellence in Education Podcast to talk about her journey into education and leadership, along with the great things happening at Phelps Elementary.

Bentley discusses how she got started in education, her transition into the principal role, and the goals she has for students, staff and the school community. The conversation also highlights student achievement, school culture and the work being done every day to help Phelps students succeed.

This episode offers a strong look at new leadership and the positive momentum building at Phelps Elementary.

Millard School Principal Jake Robinson joins Jeff on this week’s episode of the Excellence in Education Podcast for a conversation centered on everything happening at Millard.

Robinson breaks down academic priorities, student achievement, school culture and the day-to-day work that goes into supporting students and staff. The discussion also highlights key programs, community involvement and the vision guiding Millard moving forward.

This episode offers a clear, honest look at how Millard School is building success in the classroom and beyond.

Elkhorn Elementary Principal Amber Cantrell joins Jeff on this week’s episode of the Excellence in Education Podcast for a focused conversation on student success, school culture, and leadership at Elkhorn Elementary.

Cantrell discusses academic priorities, support systems for students, staff collaboration, and the initiatives helping Elkhorn Elementary continue to grow. The episode highlights the work happening inside the classrooms, the goals for the year ahead, and the commitment to creating a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

If you want a clear look at what’s driving progress at Elkhorn Elementary and across Pike County Schools, this episode delivers.

Belfry Elementary Principal Katie Schram joins Jeff on this week’s episode of the Excellence in Education Podcast for a conversation focused on leadership, learning, and the future of Belfry Elementary. As a first-year principal, Schram shares her early experiences, priorities for the school, and the work being done to support students, teachers, and families.

The discussion covers classroom culture, student achievement, staff collaboration, and the goals shaping the year ahead. This episode offers a clear look at how Belfry Elementary is building strong foundations for success under new leadership.

Dorton School Principal Thomas Pinion joins Jeff on this week’s episode of the Excellence in Education Podcast to talk all things Wildcats. From academics and student growth to school culture, leadership, and community involvement, Pinion breaks down what’s happening inside Dorton School and the vision driving the Wildcats forward.

They discuss current initiatives, student achievements, and the commitment to creating a positive learning environment for every student. This episode offers a clear look at how Dorton School continues to build strong foundations for success both in and out of the classroom.

A must-listen for parents, students, staff, and anyone proud to support the Dorton Wildcats and Pike County Schools.