Kayden Watkins

Twona Price (left), Chase Watkins, Marquita Arnold Freeman, Kayden Watkins, Debbie Watkins and Randy Watkins pose for a photo at the rotary club on Friday, Feb. 13, 2026. Kayden was named star student of the year. (Photo/Jasmine Milbourne)

Twona Price (left), Chase Watkins, Marquita Arnold Freeman, Kayden Watkins, Debbie Watkins and Randy Watkins pose for a photo at the rotary club on Friday, Feb. 13, 2026. Kayden was named star student of the year. (Photo/Jasmine Milbourne)

OCHS STAR student is Watkins’ latest accolade

Oglethorpe County High School science teacher Jennifer Yauck said what senior Kayden Watkins has accomplished is remarkable.  “He's followed a path of excellence ever since I have known him,” Yauck said, “and that is amazing.
Oglethorpe County Assistant Superintendent Kanya Cornish said the school system is constantly reviewing trends — called “data digs” — to improve curriculum and test scores. Enrollment in AP classes has also increased. (Photo/Cassidy Hettesheimer)

Oglethorpe County Assistant Superintendent Kanya Cornish said the school system is constantly reviewing trends — called “data digs” — to improve curriculum and test scores. Enrollment in AP classes has also increased. (Photo/Cassidy Hettesheimer)

Teachers, students find what works as schools boost their curriculum

Oglethorpe County teachers say the clearest progress in student learning this year hasn’t come from a single test score, but from the way the classrooms have changed.