Georgia Department of Education Names Leader in Me® as the State Model Program for Character Education
Lumpkin County Schools Recognized for Early Leadership and Vision
DAHLONEGA, GA — [October 21, 2025] — The Georgia Department of Education has officially designated FranklinCovey Education’s Leader in Me® framework as the State Model Program for Character Education, recognizing its positive impact on student leadership, culture, and achievement across Georgia schools.
Lumpkin County Schools proudly celebrates this recognition, having long embraced the Leader in Me model to empower students to take ownership of their learning and lives. Through this approach, schools across the district have integrated timeless leadership principles—such as responsibility, initiative, and collaboration—into daily learning, helping students grow as capable learners and confident leaders.
“Long before this statewide recognition, Lumpkin County Schools recognized the transformative power of Leader in Me,” said Superintendent Sharon Head. “This framework aligns beautifully with our district’s vision to develop students who are prepared to lead themselves and others in any setting. We are proud that our commitment to leadership development is now reflected in Georgia’s model for character education.”
The Georgia Department of Education’s designation follows years of research and measurable success stories from districts across the state. According to the Georgia Leader in Me Impact Report, participating schools have reported improvements in student engagement, attendance, academic performance, and overall school culture.
Libbie Armstrong, Principal of Lumpkin County Middle School, noted that the recognition validates the district’s forward-thinking approach:
“This distinction reinforces what our educators, students, and families already know—that teaching leadership and life skills is just as essential as teaching academics. Lumpkin County students are learning to lead not just in school, but in their communities and beyond.”
Lumpkin County Schools joins other Leader in Me districts in celebrating this milestone, which underscores Georgia’s commitment to fostering character development, student voice, and whole-child education statewide.
For more information on Leader in Me and Georgia’s State Model Program for Character Education, visit www.leaderinme.org.
Contact:
Jason Lemley
Director of Community Engagement and Student Services
Lumpkin County School System
[jason.lemley@lumpkinschools.com]
(706) 864-3611