Board of Education honors the service of Bryan Upshaw

WARNER ROBINS — In the final meeting of the year, the Houston County Board of Education met at Lake Joy Primary and celebrated the service of Bryan Upshaw.

This was Upshaw’s final meeting as a board member after 10 years of service. 

“We are indeed so grateful for his many years that he’s spent on the Board,” Board Chair Helen Hughes said. “He will be remembered by me for his skilled knowledge, his practical experience and most of all, his measured approach to decision making when we’ve had some difficult decisions to make. We are so grateful for your years on this Board and we will miss you, but we will certainly know we will be seeing you in the future.” 

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Mark Scott led Upshaw’s recognition and had a few remarks on his behalf. Scott said Upshaw has been faithfully serving and representing District 7 since 2014. 

“[Upshaw’s] term will come to an end this month, but we know he will always be a great friend and advocate for public education in Houston County,” he said. 

Upshaw received a plaque that read: “Mr Bryan Upshaw, in grateful appreciation for your leadership, vision and years of service dedicated to the Houston County Board of Education and children of Houston County, board member District 7, Aug. 2014 to Dec. 2024”. 

He then received a gift from the F.A.B. Lab with a picture of the District Office etched on it. 

“This is to remember your time and the many meetings held in the building. On behalf of the board members, executive cabinet and all of Houston County, thank you for your many years of service and you will be missed. I appreciate your friendship and leadership,” he said. 

Upshaw was also given a plaque from the Perry Area Chamber of Commerce for all of his hard work and dedication. 

He then shared some remarks about his time as a board member and shared admiration towards the board members. He thanked each of them for their friendship, leadership and their service to the Board. He also shared a few words with Hughes and Scott. 

“Helen [Hughes], you’ve been a constant leader in these trying times, and if anybody can lead in the times you’ve gone through, you proved yourself a leader. I appreciate all that you’ve done,” he said.

“Dr. Scott, thank you for your leadership. I’ve said countless times you’re the smartest person in the room, and your character is above reproach and you’ve made this ten year journey an easy ride.” 

After Upshaw’s comments, it was on to the Superintendent’s Report. Scott said there are many school events for the whole family coming up to spread holiday cheer. 

“From art shows, concerts to school plays, there is something almost every night until Dec. 19,” he said. 

Also in the report, Scott mentioned Disney surprised Houston County Teacher of the Year, Jade Thomas, with a trip to Disney in recognition of her service to her students as well as her previous service as a Marine. 

“This surprise was captured by a Disney film crew and will air on the Disney Christmas Parade and Holiday special on ABC on Dec. 25, at 10 a.m. while also streaming on Disney+,” he said. “Congratulations again to our Teacher of the Year, Jade Thomas.”

To finish the report, Scott pointed out key upcoming dates. Dec. 20, will be a half day for all schools. Dec. 23-Jan. 2, 2025 is a Holiday Break, Jan. 3, 2025, is a student holiday and students return to start the second semester on Jan. 6, 2025. 

“I want to wish everyone a happy holiday season, and I hope our students and staff enjoy the Christmas season and return fresh and ready to go for the second semester,” he said. 

In new business, the Board approved the 2025 meeting schedule and an agreement with ICB Construction Group, Inc. for the Centerville Elementary Interior Renovation Project. 

The next Houston County Board of Education meeting will be Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025, located at 1100 Main Street in Perry.