Superintendent Dr. Eric Holland and the Rome City Schools Board of Education spent last week in Atlanta participating in the 2025 Georgia School Boards Association/Georgia School Superintendents Association Annual Conference. The event brings together governance teams from across Georgia for required training, professional learning, and strategic planning.
This year’s conference theme, “From Moments to Movements – Transforming Education Through Governance,” emphasized the critical role school boards play in supporting student achievement and district success.
Clarifying the Purpose of the Fall Retreat
Due to the conference and its required training, the Board scheduled its Fall Retreat to ensure efficiency, reduce travel, and minimize costs. This retreat was part of the Board’s state-mandated governance training, completed under the facilitation of GSBA representatives.
During the retreat, board members received three of the nine annual training hours required by the State of Georgia, focusing on:
Effective school governance
Governance team self-assessment
Roles and responsibilities of a high-functioning governance team
A team-building session reflecting on where we have been, where we are now, and where we are headed as a district
The remaining six required hours were completed through conference sessions the following day.
Holding the retreat in conjunction with the conference allowed the Board to complete all required hours in a timely and cost-effective way.
Training, Collaboration, and Strategic Growth
The Board began its week with a full day of legal and policy training designed to ensure Rome City Schools remains compliant, transparent, and accountable. Members also participated in work sessions focused on strategic planning, student achievement, and continuous improvement.
Keynote speakers included:
Anne Marie Anderson, an award-winning journalist and former national sports broadcaster, who spoke on leadership, teamwork, and perseverance
Dr. Jeannette Epps, a former NASA astronaut, who shared her inspiring journey and insights on innovation and resilience in education
Board members also engaged in dialogue with State School Superintendent Richard Woods regarding statewide initiatives and opportunities impacting public schools.
Exemplary Recognition for the Third Consecutive Year
Rome City Schools Board of Education also received recognition for being named a GSBA Exemplary School Board for the third consecutive year. This honor represents the highest level of board governance in Georgia and reflects the Board’s commitment to high standards, responsible stewardship of resources, and student-focused decision making.
A Board Committed to Serving Rome
We are grateful for a Board that represents Rome City Schools with integrity, professionalism, and an unwavering focus on student success. Their participation in the GSBA Conference and annual Fall Retreat ensures they remain informed, unified, and equipped to lead our district forward.
Please join us in congratulating our Board of Education for their outstanding leadership and continued dedication to advancing public education in Rome City Schools.