Henry County Schools Named an Innovative School District by Center for Model Schools

HENRY COUNTY, GA – The Center for Model Schools recently named Henry County Schools an Innovative School District and will recognize awardees at the 34th Annual Model Schools Conference in Orlando this summer.

The conference honors forward‑thinking districts that drive transformation, inspire change, and implement groundbreaking strategies to improve student outcomes.

HCS is one of seven school districts selected nationwide, and the only school district in Georgia to receive the Innovative School District honor. The award recognizes HCS for “unwavering commitment to student success and innovation” and fostering a culture of collaboration, visionary leadership, and continuous improvement, exemplifying excellence in education.

“Henry County Schools’ vision is to ensure a high-quality, world-class education for every student, and our mission is to empower all students with exceptional opportunities and access that lead to success in a global society,” said Superintendent Dr. John Pace III. “Realizing these goals requires a steadfast commitment to student success, which drives every initiative and every investment. This recognition reflects the support of our visionary and award-winning Board of Education and the hard work of our dedicated, highly qualified staff, who are laser-focused on cultivating a highly effective school district.”

HCS has prioritized the development and implementation of rigorous teaching and learning structures, including a comprehensive professional development system for district and school leaders, instructional coaches, and teachers. Clear instructional frameworks, supported by a guaranteed and viable curriculum, have established a consistent standard for teaching. Furthermore, district and school walkthrough processes ensure professional development applications translate into classroom practice.

Along with standards-aligned teaching practices is a forward-thinking and proactive culture that has contributed to the district boasting the fifth-largest Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education program in Georgia, offering students pathways such as Aerospace and Naval Science, Engineering and Robotics, and Mechatronics.

HCS is also positioning itself to be a leader in STEM education in the region, with a “STEM for All” philosophy supporting the growth of elementary school VEX robotics teams and the development of a robust STEM curriculum – all setting the stage for the opening of Henry County STEM High School in fall 2027. The STEM high school will offer pathways such as Artificial Intelligence, Engineering and Technology, Biotechnology, Agriculture Energy Systems, and Electronics with an Aerospace focus.

Assistant Superintendent of Instruction and Learning Dr. Shaakira Akbar and Assistant Superintendent of Early Learning and Innovative Practice Dr. Lakenji Hastings will represent HCS at the conference. They will present on the topic, “Game Changers: The Playbook for Accelerating Instructional Improvement Districtwide,” during the conference’s Innovative Districts session.

“I am honored to represent Henry County Schools at the Model Schools Conference and to showcase the strong instructional systems our district has intentionally built to support teaching and learning,” Dr. Akbar said. “This recognition reflects the collective work of our educators and leaders who continue to refine and strengthen structures that ensure high-quality instruction for every student. It is a privilege to share how Henry County Schools is committed to continuous improvement through thoughtful systems that support both teachers and learners.”

“This prestigious recognition is a result of our district’s relentless focus on instructional improvement,” Dr. Hastings added. “We have an observation and feedback system that is second to none, and Henry County Schools’ investments in high-quality, curriculum-based professional learning and resources are paying dividends. This is a shared honor that could not have been achieved without our students, teachers, principals, and district leaders across all divisions.”

Dr. Akbar and Dr. Hastings will engage with more than 5,000 educators from 48 states and more than 100 countries to share insights and replicable strategies for improving student achievement.

“We believe a highly effective school district starts with a highly effective board of education,” said Board Chair Sophe Pope (Dist. 4). “We act as a unified governance team with core beliefs embedded within our Strategic Plan, inspiring our determination to ensure every child has a chance to succeed. This honor validates the tireless work and conviction of teams of employees across our district who are committed to keeping our priorities aligned with our community’s hopes, dreams, and aspirations for public education in Henry County.”