The Putnam County Charter School System (PCCSS) recognized exceptional service, teamwork, and leadership during its recent board meeting, held at Putnam County Primary School (PCPS) on the same night students and teachers presented their annual Christmas show.
The event highlighted the impact of faculty, staff, and board members on the district’s success. The meeting was led by Superintendent Derick Austin and Assistant Superintendent Scott Sauls, with help from PCCSS Marketing & Communications Coordinator Lindsey Rickman.
Sauls opened the recognitions by presenting the Heart Awards, an honor recognizing exceptional teamwork at the school. The recognition celebrates PCPS employees who demonstrate outstanding collaboration, dedication, and care for students and staff.
The first Heart Award recipient was Selina Mashburn, the school secretary. Primary School Principal Dr nominated Mashburn.
Fanicia Rogers for consistently going above and beyond to help everyone at the school. From managing front office duties, copies, laminations, and leave processing to assisting with bus routes, deliveries, and last-minute teacher needs, Mashburn was praised as a steady and calming presence in the building.
Colleagues highlighted Mashburn’s kindness, flexibility, and willingness to step in at any hour when help is needed. Her coworkers said Mashburn’s support extends beyond daily operations, as she has provided personal encouragement and assistance to staff during difficult times. Several of their nominations suggested that the school would not run nearly as smoothly without her dedication.
The second Heart Award was presented to Devonte Battle, a member of the district’s technology department. Recommended by his supervisor, the recognition highlighted Battle’s professional growth and reliability since joining PCCSS.
Initially quiet and reserved, Battle has grown into a confident and dependable team member known for his attention to detail and proactive support. His work managing technology, helping with tickets, following up with staff, and checking in with schools has significantly improved responsiveness and customer service. Beyond his technical duties, Battle was cited for his teamwork, positive attitude, and readiness to support colleagues, making a meaningful impact across the district.
The Putnam County Charter School System Board of Education was also recently recognized by the Georgia School Boards Association with 2025 Exemplary Board Recognition, the organization's highest level of recognition. The distinction reflects the board’s commitment to effective governance, transparency, accountability, and student-focused leadership.
“Receiving this recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our governance team,” Austin said. “We are committed to making decisions that strengthen our schools, support our staff, and prepare our students for success.”
The standards for Exemplary Boards are designed to ensure local school boards provide outstanding leadership and accountability in service to their communities, according to rigorous GSBA criteria.
Established in 1998, the GSBA Board Recognition Program was developed by Georgia superintendents and school board members, based on the State Board of Education’s Standards for Effective Governance. It was one of the first programs in the nation to set clear, measurable standards for local boards of education.
The board meeting concluded with district updates, including upcoming technology upgrades for elementary, primary, and middle schools, with a cost not to exceed $265,000 and a three-year warranty. Additionally, plans were discussed to install a rubberized surface at the new elementary school playground, replacing traditional wood chips, with bids to be presented for approval at a future meeting.