Caverna Board of Education
CMS Student of the Month was Gabriel Jimenez.
Katrina England
Reporter, Hart Co. News-Herald
The Caverna Board of Education met in regular session on May 8, 2025.
In attendance were Board Members Gina Lyon, Allison Dennison, Jennifer Briggs, Wayne Hatcher, and Jennifer Ballard, as well as Superintendent Amanda Abell.
There were no Public Comments.
Within the Superintendent Report, Abell announced that KSA testing had started, and would wrap up by May 16.
She also announced 4 aspirations for the district’s strategic plan. The aspirations were as follows:
Prepare Life-Ready Leaders;
Ensure Excellence in Teaching and Learning;
Promote a Positive Culture; and
Create and Maintain Physically and Mentally Safe Spaces.
Four Students of the Month were recognized for the district.
The CES Student of the Month was Charlie Doss.
“Charlie is a shining example of Colonel Pride,” read Abell. “She approaches each day with a positive attitude and a bright smile that uplifts everyone around her. Charlie works hard, helps others, and shows kindness in everything she does. She has shown tremendous growth this year and is now performing at or above grade level in all areas.”
CMS Student of the Month was Gabriel Jimenez.
“Gabriel is a hard worker in the classroom,” she said. “He follows the rules of Caverna Middle School and is just a happy go lucky guy who brightens the hallways of Caverna Middle School.”
CHS Students of the Month, Palin Heacock and Kaitlyn Pyles, were also recognized as Athletes of the Month.
“Palin and Kaitlyn excel in the classroom with all A’s and B’s and (are) an instrumental part of the return of the tennis program at Caverna High School,” read Abell. “Palin and Kaitlyn recently won their first doubles match against Hart County, which is a very big deal because it has been years since we have had a tennis team or won a match.”
The Employee Core Value Award for May was presented to Ms. Kuristen Jones.
Her nomination read: “Ms. Jones always leads with a caring heart, making sure the needs of every student are met with compassion and consistency. She is truly the backbone of Caverna Middle School—not only does she go above and beyond for our students, but she also plays a vital role in supporting our staff day in and day out. Her dedication, selflessness, and steady presence make her an essential part of what makes our school feel like a community. We are so fortunate to have someone as committed and compassionate as Ms. Jones on our team.
Mrs. Terry Thorpe was recognized with the “True Caverna Colonel” Award.
Abell read: “Mrs. Thorpe is the one students and parents alike can turn to—no matter the problem or situation. She communicates with parents consistently, always taking the time to share anything she feels they should know. She sets high expectations for her students, encouraging them to meet their goals daily and weekly. When a student struggles, she doesn’t give up—she nurtures them and empowers them. Mrs. Thorpe loves her students unconditionally and genuinely wants the best for every one of them. The bond she’s built with our students over the years means so much. Her presence doesn’t end when the school day does-she shows up. You’ll find her at nearly every athletic event, after-school activity, and anything involving our youth. She leads by example, constantly showing her school spirit and representing what it truly means to be a proud and respectful Caverna Colonel. We are so thankful for Mrs. Thorpe for her dedication, her heart, and the lasting impact she makes every single day.”
The Board approved the 2024-2025 Caverna High School Graduation List of Students who are on Track to Meet the Academic Requirements.
The board went into closed session to discuss proposed litigation. The meeting was adjourned after the closed session ended. No public updates were given.
The Board also approved:
-Finance Reports, Monthly Activity Funds, and Lunchroom Accounts;
-Bus Inspections
-Tentative Budget for the 2025-2026 School Year.
-Campbell, Myers, and Rutledge to Conduct the Yearly Audit for Year Ending June 30, 2025.
-Open 5 German American Credit Cards (2 District Cards and 1 Per School); and
-Amendment of the School Calendar due to NTI Days.
The CES Student of the Month was Charlie Doss.
CHS Students of the Month, Palin Heacock and Kaitlyn Pyles, were also recognized as Athletes of the Month.
