Lt. Governor Casey Cagle today hosted the first annual Georgia Charter System Foundation Award luncheon in Dunwoody. Madison County Schools was one of 11 charter systems nominated for the award of Comcast’s Charter System Innovation and the Georgia Realtor’s Charter System of the Year Award.  

“Madison County Schools is a great example of the success that comes from a charter system,” said Lt. Governor Casey Cagle. “It is important that every Georgia student has access to a personalized educational environment suited to their individual skills and goals. In today’s competitive 21st Century global economy, we must ensure that every Georgia student is equipped with the knowledge and training they need to find a high-quality job.  Innovative charter systems are an important tool to provide access to a world class learning environment and I appreciate the Madison County School’s diligent work to improve education in the community.”

Flexibility allowed Madison County Schools to design internship programs with business and community partners. Partnerships with Broad River College and Career Academy, Caterpillar, and Athens Technical College award Carnegie unit credit and allow students to access a true STEM experience. Paid internships at the Bogart Caterpillar plant based on advanced welding pathway, articulated coursework, on-campus dual enrollment from Broad River and Athens Tech offer additional opportunities for students.   

Charter Systems are an education concept created by Lt. Governor Cagle in 2007 with the passage of the Charter System Act to allow public school systems to push the boundaries of innovation and strive for excellence. From the largest, Fulton County, to the smallest and most rural, Warren County; there are 31 approved systems in Georgia.