Hall County School District

Hall County School District Receives Gift of Ivester Family Home

The Hall County School District has received a generous gift from Doug and Kay Ivester, who have donated the Ada Mae Ivester home—Doug Ivester’s childhood residence—to the district.

The ranch-style home, located off Jim Hood Road, sits on 1.24 acres and spans approximately 1,989 square feet. As plans are developed, the district intends to honor Ada Mae Ivester’s legacy by naming the property in her memory.

“We will honor the name of this incredible woman as we contemplate the best use of this treasure,” said Superintendent Will Schofield. “We extend our humble thanks to Doug and Kay. Ada Mae was a true example of truth, honor, and compassion. She was a lifelong learner who wanted to help others.”

The donation reflects the Ivester family’s lasting commitment to education and the Hall County community. District leaders will begin evaluating how best to utilize the property in a way that supports the district vision while preserving the spirit of Ada Mae Ivester’s legacy.

HCSD Maintenance is hiring, come join our team! Apply Online
https://www.applitrack.com/hallcounty/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Maintenance%2fTransportation

🗳️ Reminder to Vote! Your vote matters, and every voice counts. If you haven’t voted yet, take a few minutes to make your voice heard and be a part of shaping our community’s future. Every vote makes a difference.

For voting locations and election information, please visit your local elections office website.

Congratulations to Kami Kovach, East Hall High School Work-Based Learning Coordinator, who graduated from the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Adult Leadership Hall Program!

Join us next week in the Literacy Garden for another special morning of literacy and learning! We are excited to welcome acclaimed children's author Lola Schaefer, who has written more than 275 books for young readers. Her newest book celebrates the fascinating world of bees, and we'll have an extra-special guest as Zach Free brings beekeeping equipment to help bring the topic to life. Schaefer's passion for reading, writing, and inspiring young learners has impacted educators and students across Georgia, and we are honored to have her share her talents with our community. Bring the family and experience the joy of reading, discovery, and connection in the Literacy Garden. We can't wait to see you there! 🪴🌿🌱💐🌷

https://www.lolaschaefer.com/

LOVETT LITERACY GARDEN
Garden Story & Activity
Summer 2026
Wednesdays / 10 A.M.
711 Green Street / Gainesville

Schedule
Date Topic
June 3 Soil
June 10 Seeds*
June 17 Bees**
June 24 Blueberries
July 1 Worms
July 8 Ladybugs
July 15 Trees
July 22 Sunflowers
July 29 Butterflies

Special Guest Authors

* June 10
Guest Author: Allie Millington
Book: When You Find a Question

** June 17
Guest Author: Lola Schaefer
Book: Because of a Bee

More than 80 children and their families joined us this week at the Literacy Garden at Gardens on the Green for stories, learning, and fun. We were thrilled to welcome award-winning author Allie Millington, whose books and school visits have inspired countless Hall County students and teachers.

From smiles aboard the Reading Rocket to books, lunches, and time spent together as a community, every moment reminded us of the power of literacy and connection. A special thank you to our media specialists, Master Gardeners, Nutrition Department, and all of our community partners who help make these mornings possible. Together, we're planting seeds that will impact children for years to come. 🪴🌿🌱💐🌷

LOVETT LITERACY GARDEN
Garden Story & Activity
Summer 2026
Wednesdays / 10 A.M.
711 Green Street / Gainesville

Schedule
Date Topic
June 3 Soil
June 10 Seeds*
June 17 Bees**
June 24 Blueberries
July 1 Worms
July 8 Ladybugs
July 15 Trees
July 22 Sunflowers
July 29 Butterflies

Special Guest Authors

* June 10
Guest Author: Allie Millington
Book: When You Find a Question

** June 17
Guest Author: Lola Schaefer
Book: Because of a Bee

HCSD team members spread literacy to the community. HCSD cares!

HCSD students are now learning to make bratwurst, breakfast sausages, and numerous other linked delicacies. They are tremendous! Real Learning and Caring.

Noel Cochran Selected as Next Principal of North Hall Middle School

Superintendent Will Schofield announced today his intent to recommend Noel Cochran as the next Principal of North Hall Middle School. He will make the recommendation Monday, June 22, 2026, at the scheduled board meeting. Cochran is currently serving as Principal at Tesnatee Gap Elementary School in the White County School District.

“I am honored to serve as the new principal of North Hall Middle School and to work alongside its dedicated staff, students, and families,” said Cochran. “As a resident of the North Hall community, this opportunity is especially meaningful to me, and I look forward to serving the community that my family proudly calls home. North Hall Middle School’s LEAD philosophy—Love, Effort, Attitude, and Discipline—aligns closely with my core values, and I am committed to building upon these strengths through strong partnerships with families, meaningful relationships with students and staff, and an unwavering focus on student success. I am grateful to Mr. Schofield and the Board of Education for the opportunity to return to Hall County Schools and serve the North Hall community. I am excited to continue the tradition of excellence at North Hall Middle School and support every student in reaching their full potential.”

Cochran has served as principal of Tesnatee Elementary School since 2023 and previously served as assistant principal at White Sulphur Elementary (2022-2023) and Oakwood Elementary (2019-2022). Before entering administration, she spent six years teaching at White Sulphur Elementary. Her experience as an educator, administrator, and athletic coach reflects a strong commitment to student success, positive school culture, and meaningful relationships with students, staff, families, and the community.

“Noel Cochran’s deep understanding of effective teaching and learning has helped students and educators succeed throughout her career,” said Superintendent Will Schofield. “She has a proven ability to support teachers, improve student outcomes, and foster positive school cultures where students and staff thrive. Her roots in Hall County, combined with her experience as an educator and a coach, give her a strong appreciation for the key role schools play in developing the whole child. I am confident she will be an outstanding leader for the North Hall Middle School community.”

Cochran holds a Leadership Tier II Certification from Metro RESA and a Leadership Tier I Certification from the University of Georgia. She earned an Education Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction and a Master of Arts in Elementary Education from Piedmont College, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of North Georgia.