The 2025-2026 REACH Scholars cohort is pictured, from left, with Linda McWhorter, Georgia Student Finance Commission 3rd Congressional District board member; Mason Peden; Damya Almon; Leo Castelan; Paiden Favors; Kendra Smith; and Dr. Eric Simmons, Carrollton Middle School principal. 

CARROLLTON, GA — On Thursday, Nov. 13, Carrollton City Schools celebrated a significant milestone as five eighth graders from Carrollton Middle School signed their commitment to the REACH Georgia Scholars program during a ceremony in the Trojan Hall of Fame Room at the Whitley Morris Field House. This year’s cohort, which includes students Damya Almon, Leo Castelan, Paiden Favors, Mason Peden, and Kendra Smith, marks the district’s eleventh signee class, bringing the total number of REACH Scholars to 55 since the program’s inception in 2015.

The REACH Georgia initiative, which stands for Realizing Educational Achievement Can Happen, provides selected students with a $10,000 scholarship to a HOPE-eligible college, in addition to other scholarships and financial aid they may earn. The 55 Carrollton City Schools REACH Scholar graduates have collectively earned $300,000 in scholarship funds.  The program is made possible by the support of state and local partners as well as the commitment of families, mentors, and community members.

In this year’s recognition program, REACH scholars heard from district and school administrators as well as a CHS graduate and former REACH Scholar, A’Jaiah Ward.

Carrollton Middle School Principal Dr. Eric Simmons praised the perseverance and commitment to pursuing their goals.   

“I have witnessed each of these students combine their natural gifts with consistency in work ethic and character to be shining examples of the commitment to achievement that our school district believes in,” said Simmons. “This ceremony marks an important step in this process. We are excited to support each of you in this continued pursuit of excellence, and look forward to witnessing all of the exciting accomplishments you are sure to achieve.”

Carrollton High School Assistant Principal and REACH Coordinator Ashleigh Paulk emphasized the role of families in the scholars’ success.  

“Parents and families, please know that your students recognize the hard work and sacrifices you have made before and throughout their lives,” said Paulk. “Your continued support and encouragement will be necessary to help your student achieve their goals.”

During the ceremony, Carrollton Middle School Counselor April Eidson shared her admiration for the cohort’s outstanding work ethic.  

“Their strength, their determination, and their kindness inspire me. Their strength isn’t found in perfection, but in persistence—it comes from showing up, from trying again, and from refusing to give up,” said Eidson. “I can’t wait to see where their journeys lead them next. But I already know this: the world is brighter, kinder, and better because they are in it.”  

As Carrollton City Schools continues its eleventh year of participation in the REACH Georgia program, the district remains dedicated to fostering student success and building a foundation for lifelong achievement.