(L-R): Nicole Pullens, Support Professional of the Year; Dr. Tomeka Stringer, Counselor of the Year; and Batini Farris, Media Specialist of the Year. Photo via Newton County Schools. Newton County Schools (NCS) honored three outstanding professionals during its Mid-Year Awards Celebration, held Wednesday, Feb. 18, in the Frank B. Turner Room at the Turner Lake Recreation Department. The annual celebration recognizes exceptional staff members whose leadership, service and impact strengthen schools across the district. Superintendent Dr. Duke Bradley opened the event by emphasizing the importance of recognizing the professionals who support students and schools each day. “Excellence in education is never confined to a single classroom or position,” Bradley said. “It is the result of a collective effort — professionals working together to ensure that every child has access to opportunity, guidance, and care. Today, we celebrate leadership, service, and impact across our district.” Batini Farris of Live Oak Elementary School was named the 2026–27 Newton County Schools Media Specialist of the Year. Farris has transformed her media center into a vibrant hub of technology, creativity and
