In Episode 42 of The Town Square Podcast, Trey Bailey sits down with Gail Rothman, Executive Director of the Newton Education Foundation (NEF), for an enlightening conversation about the foundation’s impressive progress in supporting local schools. They discuss NEF’s achievements, including raising nearly half a million dollars through donations and the Georgia Peach Tax Credit, funding teacher grants, and launching the REAP literacy pilot program in Newton County schools. Gail also shares her journey as the author of Roadmap for Education Foundations, a practical guide aimed at helping communities build and grow their own education foundations.

This episode highlights the critical role that community-driven funding plays in public education, especially as state and federal contributions continue to fall short. Gail offers valuable insights on the power of nonprofits and the necessity of professional leadership to drive success. Whether you’re interested in supporting education in Newton County or learning about the intricacies of nonprofit work, this episode is a must-listen.

In Episode 40 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Abigail Coggin, the current Board Chair and District 5 Representative on the Newton County Board of Education. With 15 years of service, Abigail reflects on her time navigating the challenges of school funding, the tough decisions made during the recession, and the evolving needs of the school district. She shares her personal journey, including her family’s deep-rooted legacy in Newton County and the lessons learned throughout her tenure. In a surprising twist, Abigail announces that she will not seek re-election in 2026, marking a new chapter in her life.

Abigail also opens up about her upcoming transition to becoming the Executive Director of the Newton County Arts Association, where she plans to continue her service to the community through the arts. With a focus on educational and performing arts programs, Abigail highlights upcoming initiatives like summer camps and concert series that aim to foster creativity and bring the community together. This episode is filled with heartfelt reflections, personal stories, and a look at the bright future of both education and the arts in Newton County.

In Episode 37 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey have a candid and insightful conversation with Shakila Henderson-Baker, the District 3 representative on the Newton County Board of Education. Shakila, a longtime advocate for public education and mental health, shares her personal journey and her vision for the future of education in Newton County. As a mental health professional and board member, she discusses the importance of integrating mental health services into the school system and the challenges students face today, including trauma, stress, and absenteeism. Shakila also reflects on her leadership philosophy and how her personal mission to serve children and improve education drives her work.

Throughout this episode, Shakila dives deep into the complexities of balancing her roles as a mother, public servant, and advocate. She offers valuable insights into the changing landscape of public education, emphasizing the need for community involvement, equity, and access to opportunities. This episode highlights the power of persistence, the value of diverse perspectives, and the importance of staying true to one’s mission. Tune in for a powerful conversation about leadership, public service, and the future of our schools.

In Episode 31 of The Town Square Podcast, hosts Gabriel Stovall and Trey Bailey sit down with Dr. Duke Bradley, the Superintendent of Newton County Schools, for a candid discussion about his first year leading the district. Dr. Bradley shares his perspective on the challenges and opportunities within the school system, touching on everything from student resilience to mental health services and the impact of recent legislation on local education. He also highlights the importance of community collaboration in shaping the future of education and offers insights into how Newton County Schools is fostering student success despite the many obstacles facing public education today.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Bradley reflects on his journey from leading schools in Georgia, South Carolina, and beyond, to his current role in Newton County. He discusses the district’s focus on student well-being, the importance of supporting underperforming schools, and the power of resilience in students who overcome significant challenges. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, optimism, and the steps being taken to ensure every student has the support they need to thrive in school and in life.

In this raw and angst-filled discussion, Gabriel and Trey confront the harsh realities surrounding school violence. They don’t hold back, even delving into the controversial topic of gun control measures. While they aren’t claiming to have all the answers, they make one thing clear: it’s time for action. The era of "thoughts and prayers" as the sole response to these tragedies needs to end. What’s required now are hard conversations that lead to real solutions.

This episode doesn’t shy away from the tough questions or the painful realities. Gabriel and Trey’s honest reflections will resonate with anyone who cares about the future of our schools and the safety of our children. Listen in as they challenge us all to engage in dialogue that sparks change.