Richmond County Board Unveils New School Names, Sells Property for Facility Upgrades

The Richmond County Board of Education approved names for two new schools Monday evening. They also voted to sell the John M. Tutt Middle School property. The sale will occur after students transfer to a new building during the 2026-27 school year.

Board members christened the college and career academy at the T.W. Josey Comprehensive High School site as T.W. Josey High School College and Career Academy. It will keep the Eagles mascot. Colors remain Kelly green, Old English gold, and white. The new elementary school at the Barton Chapel site will be called Chapel Hills Elementary and will use the Raptors mascot with colors of green, blue, and orange.

"This is about honoring our community's legacy while making thoughtful decisions that position our students for success," said RCBOE President Shawnda Stovall, per Augusta CEO. "We approached each decision with the community in mind by listening to feedback, asking the right questions, and staying focused on what's best for students."

The board approved a resolution to sell John M. Tutt Middle School to Westminster Schools of Augusta. The sale allows the district to redirect funds from an aging building into student needs and modern infrastructure.

The transaction will wrap up after the building closes. Students will transition to the renovated Langford-Tutt Middle School during the 2026-27 school year. Construction on Langford-Tutt should finish in the fall of 2026.

More than 50 students and staff received recognition for their achievements during the meeting. The Cross Creek Comprehensive High School Basketball team was honored for becoming 3A State Champions after staying undefeated since late December.

RCSS Academic Decathlon winners, Star Students, art contest winners, and outstanding principals also received recognition.