Troup County Schools Superintendent Dr. Brain Shumate is spending the first week of school making a stop at all 19 schools in the school system.

“It has been great as we have been touring the schools with our communication director Yolanda Stephen,” Shumate said. “It is the first time I have been in some of these buildings, and I have been very impressed.” 

Shumate spent Wednesday morning touring the halls and classrooms of LaGrange High School with principal Alton White. Shumate said he’s enjoyed touring all of the schools and meeting the teachers.  

“Our facilities are in good shape and ready for kids,” Shumate said. “Staff seems very ready to go and the kids have been great. Everyone is working on rituals and routines and making sure students understand what expectations are.” 

During his tours, organization and readiness have stuck out to Shumate. 

“Teachers are hitting the ground running with instruction and acclimating [students] to class,” Shumate said. “I am learning something new at every school I go into.” 

At each school, Shumate is not only taking mental notes but also physical ones as he focuses on ways the district office can help each school. 

“I’m talking with them on things where we need to grow,” Shumate said. “I am reminding myself to ask questions when we get back to the district office. Being in the buildings helps me understand the overall functionality of the school district.” 

This week won’t be the last time this school year that teachers and staff will see Shumate’s face this year. 

“I try to approach my job as a teacher, as a coach, as a principal to understand what kids are really experiencing on a day-to-day basis,” Shumate said. “I think it is important for me to be out and about at events and in schools. This is a week where I just need to get out and about, see people and really get a feel for the whole school district.”