Empowering Students.

Supporting Educators.

Enriching Our Community.

We’re a nonprofit with one mission: to help every student thrive. From classroom grants to college scholarships, your support fuels brighter futures.

Since 1988, the RCPS Foundation has invested in Rockdale County’s future by funding scholarships, teacher grants, and programs that elevate public education from Pre-Kindergarten through graduation.

Behind the Scenes — What the Foundation Is Working On 

Double the Impact:

Join Our $50,000 Match Challenge!

Big news, Rockdale! A generous, dedicated donor has pledged a $50,000 matching gift — which means every dollar YOU give to the Rockdale County Public Schools Foundation this year will be doubled until we reach our goal.

That’s right — your $50 gift instantly becomes $100, $500 becomes $1,000, and together we can unlock the full match to raise $100,000 for Rockdale County students and teachers.

These funds fuel scholarships for graduating seniors, classroom grants for innovative teachers, and recognition programs that celebrate excellence in our schools. This is your chance to stretch your gift further than ever before and create an even greater impact.

Created using the Donation Thermometer plugin https://wordpress.org/plugins/donation-thermometer/.$50,000Raised $4,050 towards the $50,000 target.$4,050Raised $4,050 towards the $50,000 target.8%

So far we have raised $4,050 towards our $50,000 target! That‘s 8% of the total!

Watch the progress LIVE! Our fundraising thermometer below will update in real-time as donations are received. Help us push the line higher and celebrate every milestone along the way!

How to Give

Every gift matters, every dollar is doubled, and every student benefits.

Be part of something BIG. Together, we can reach $50,000 — and beyond!

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RCPS Foundation Participates in Leadership Rockdale Education Day

Susan Paul Smith and Tracy Knutsen Represent the Foundation in Local Leadership Program

The Rockdale County Public Schools Foundation was proudly represented during Leadership Rockdale’s Education Day, held as part of the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce’s 2025–2026 Leadership Rockdale cohort.

Susan Paul Smith, Foundation Board Chair and community champion, and Tracy Knutsen, Administrator of the RCPS Foundation, joined education leaders and participants for a full day of learning, collaboration, and insight into the impact of public education in Rockdale County.

Leadership Rockdale’s Education Day highlights the inner workings of the local school system, including school visits, presentations from district leadership, and in-depth discussions about education policy, student achievement, and community partnerships. The RCPS Foundation was invited to speak about its mission, programs, and the role it plays in supporting Rockdale students and teachers.

“We’re honored to be part of a leadership program that values the role education plays in shaping our community,” said Susan Paul Smith. “It was a powerful opportunity to share the Foundation’s work—and to connect with others who care deeply about Rockdale’s future.”

As the philanthropic arm of the school system, the RCPS Foundation raises funds for scholarships, teacher grants, and recognition programs that reward and support excellence throughout the district. Participation in Leadership Rockdale reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to transparency, collaboration, and strategic community engagement.

Thank you to the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce and Rockdale County Public Schools for hosting this impactful day of learning—and for allowing the Foundation to be part of such a meaningful experience.

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RCPS Names 2025–2026 REACH Georgia Scholars

Three 8th Grade Students Selected for Prestigious Scholarship and Mentorship Program

Rockdale County Public Schools and the RCPS Foundation are proud to announce the newest cohort of REACH Georgia Scholars for the 2025–2026 school year. This year’s honorees are:

  • Kelsey Davis, Conyers Middle School

  • Amber Kelly, Davis Middle School

  • Ava Smith, Memorial Middle School

These outstanding students were selected based on their academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to success beyond high school. Each REACH Scholar will receive personalized mentorship and academic coaching throughout high school. Upon graduation, students who fulfill the program’s requirements will receive a $10,000 scholarship ($2,500/year for up to four years) toward their college or technical school education.

REACH Georgia (Realizing Educational Achievement Can Happen) is a statewide program designed to provide both social and financial support to students as they pursue post-secondary success. Students are paired with a mentor and academic coach who guide them throughout high school, with regular check-ins to ensure they stay on track with their academic, attendance, and behavior goals.

The RCPS Foundation is proud to be a local sponsor of this program and donated $1,000 toward this year’s scholar cohort. Truist Bank also contributed a generous $2,000 to support these students’ journeys.

“REACH Georgia is more than a scholarship—it’s a support system that walks alongside our students as they chase their goals,” said [Foundation Representative or Superintendent]. “We are thrilled to invest in this opportunity and celebrate these three exceptional young people.”

A formal REACH Signing Ceremony will be held at an upcoming RCPS Board of Education meeting to recognize the students and their families.

Congratulations to our 2025–2026 REACH Georgia Scholars! We are proud to support your dreams today—and your future success tomorrow.

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Gretchen Gault Named 2025 RCPS Teacher of the Year

Celebrating Excellence in Teaching Across Rockdale County Public Schools

The Rockdale County Public Schools Foundation proudly congratulates Gretchen Gault of Lorraine Elementary School, who has been named the 2025 RCPS Teacher of the Year!

Ms. Gault was announced as the district winner at the RCPS Teacher of the Year Celebration held September 25, 2025, at Rockdale Career Academy. The annual event honors exceptional educators from every school across the district, and this year recognized 24 school-level Teachers of the Year for their passion, innovation, and unwavering commitment to students.

District finalists included:

  • Latonya Saunders, Memorial Middle School

  • Danyel Stancil, C.J. Hicks Elementary School

“These educators represent the very best of RCPS,” said [Superintendent or Foundation Chair]. “Their dedication, leadership, and love for teaching have an immeasurable impact on our students and schools. We’re honored to celebrate them.”

The RCPS Foundation was proud to sponsor this year’s Teacher of the Year celebration and support the recognition of educators who go above and beyond every day.

The celebration also included performances and support from talented student volunteers, RCPS staff, and community sponsors. Each Teacher of the Year was recognized for their unique contributions and received tokens of appreciation for their service.

Congratulations to Gretchen Gault and to all of the 2025 Teachers of the Year! The RCPS Foundation is proud to stand behind those who inspire excellence in every classroom.

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How the RCPS Foundation Is Preparing for a Powerful Year Ahead

While schools may be quieter over the summer, the Rockdale County Public Schools Foundation is hard at work behind the scenes—laying the groundwork for an even more impactful year ahead.

As a nonprofit partner to Rockdale County Public Schools, the Foundation exists to support student success, recognize educator excellence, and advocate for strong public education. And we take that mission seriously—even in the off-season.

Here’s a peek at what we’re planning this summer:

🔹 Celebrating Our 2025–2026 Grant Recipients
We’re preparing a special August breakfast to honor the outstanding educators who received this year’s Foundation Classroom Innovation Grants. These projects will reach over 20,000 students, community members and families, and we can’t wait to share their stories.

🔹 Welcoming New Donors & Partners
Our community is growing—and we’re connecting with new businesses, organizations, and individuals who want to support Rockdale schools. If you’re interested in partnering with us this year, now is the perfect time to get involved. Please reach out via email (director@rcpsfoundation.com) and our Board Chair will connect with you.

🔹 Prepping for Scholarships & Recognition Programs
We’re already getting ready for this year’s Collins Family Scholarships, REACH Georgia cohort, and other student and staff recognition programs. Stay tuned for updates and ways to support.

🔹 Refreshing Our Online Presence
We’re updating the website, streamlining donation tools, and creating new content to keep you informed and inspired. Our goal: to make it easier than ever for you to stay connected with the Foundation and see your impact in action.

Even during the summer months, we’re working with one goal in mind—to lift up the students, staff, and schools of Rockdale County. Whether you’re a parent, educator, business leader, or neighbor, we invite you to be a part of it.

Want to get involved? Visit rcpsfoundation.com to explore ways to give, partner, or volunteer today.

Let’s build something great—together.

Get Involved This Year – How You Can Support Public Education

Make a Difference in 2025–2026: 4 Ways to Support the RCPS Foundation

As we prepare to launch the 2025–2026 school year, the RCPS Foundation is already hard at work ensuring that Rockdale’s students, educators, and schools have the tools, resources, and recognition they deserve.

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community this year, here are four ways you can support the Foundation’s mission of enhancing student learning:

1. Donate

Whether it’s $25 or $2,500, every dollar helps us fund classroom innovation, student scholarships, and recognition programs. Consider a one-time gift or set up a recurring monthly donation.

Give now: rcpsfoundation.com/donations

2. Become a Partner

Are you a local business, civic organization, or faith-based group? We’d love to collaborate with you on events, sponsorships, and outreach opportunities that directly benefit Rockdale students.

Let’s connect: rcpsfoundation.com/partner or via email at director@rcpsfoundation.com

3. Volunteer

From helping at our events to reviewing grant applications or supporting school programs, volunteers are the heartbeat of the Foundation. Let us know how you’d like to help—we’ll match you with opportunities that fit your schedule and strengths. director@rcpsfoundation.com

4. Spread the Word

Follow us on Facebook, share our posts, and talk to your friends and neighbors about why public education matters. Awareness is power—and it starts with you. Facebook 

Together, we can continue to fund innovation, reward achievement, and uplift public education in Rockdale County.

Make this the year you get involved. We’re excited for what’s ahead—and we hope you’ll be part of it.

PLEASE DONATE NOW! Your support funds innovation in our classrooms, scholarships for our students, and recognition for our educators. Let’s build a stronger tomorrow—together.

Our Initiatives

At the RCPS Foundation, we believe in the power of possibility. That’s why we fund programs that open doors, spark ideas, and celebrate every step forward—from teacher innovation in the classroom to students chasing their dreams through scholarships. Our initiatives are rooted in hope, driven by purpose, and made possible by a community that believes in public education.

Advocacy

We are proud advocates for the power and promise of public education. By sharing success stories, building community partnerships, and raising awareness of the needs in our schools, the RCPS Foundation helps amplify the voices of students and educators. Together, we champion a brighter future for Rockdale County—one where every child has the tools and support to succeed.

Scholarships

We believe every student should have the opportunity to pursue their dreams. That’s why the RCPS Foundation proudly supports four distinct scholarships: the REACH Scholarship for promising 8th graders, our RCPSF Scholarships for graduating seniors, the Collins Family Scholarships funded by generous donors, and the Superintendent’s Scholarship recognizing exceptional achievement. Each award represents more than financial support—it’s an investment in potential, purpose, and the bright future of Rockdale County students.

Grants

Great ideas deserve great support. Since 1989, our Foundation Grants have empowered Rockdale County teachers to turn bold ideas into hands-on learning—sparking curiosity, deepening understanding, and inspiring thousands of students every year. By funding innovative projects large and small, we give educators the resources to dream big and teach boldly, transforming classrooms into launchpads for limitless potential.

About Us

The Rockdale County Public Schools Foundation, a school/community partnership, is committed to attracting funds and resources for education programs and projects not covered in the school system’s regular budget. The Foundation invites teachers, parents, businesses, community organizations, and civic groups to support educational initiatives that benefit all our students.  The Foundation supports creative and educationally beneficial activities through the grant program, provides teachers with opportunities to participate in continuing education, and recognizes outstanding achievements by students and educators.

Our Mission

Our mission is to enhance student learning in Rockdale County Public Schools by providing financial support for innovative initiatives, rewarding student achievement, and serving as an advocate for public education. 

Rockdale County Public Schools Foundation
P.O. Box 82724
Conyers, GA 30013

501(c)3 Tax ID: 58-1826608

Serving Rockdale County students and teachers since 1988.