Glynn County Schools Receieves Economic Development Partnership Certification, Deepening Commitment to Workforce Development

Glynn County Schools proudly announces it has received the Economic Development Partnership (EDP) Certification from the Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE). The prestigious designation was formally presented during the 2025 Economic Development Association conference in Savannah on September 19th. This honor is a direct result of the school system’s robust and active collaboration with key local partners, including the Golden Isles Development Authority, the Golden Isles College and Career Academy, the Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce, and other influential industry leaders.

The EDP certification serves as a powerful testament to the Glynn County School System’s unwavering dedication to preparing its students for successful careers while strengthening the regional workforce. The rigorous GaDOE process ensures that certified school districts are deeply integrated with local businesses and industries, aligning Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) programs with the most pressing regional workforce needs. The assessment includes a series of virtual meetings, a site visit, and thorough documentation submission.

“Receiving this certification is a tremendous honor and a testament to the hard work of our educators and our vital partners,” said Superintendent Mike Blackerby. “This collaboration with the Golden Isles Development Authority, the Golden Isles College and Career Academy, employers like King and Prince Seafood, and the Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce ensures our students receive the training and skills they need to succeed in their careers. It also provides our local economy with a steady pipeline of highly qualified graduates, ready to contribute from day one.”

Dr. Joseph Depenhart, Principal of the Golden Isles College and Career Academy and CTAE Director for Glynn County Schools took the lead on the EDP Certification process, Depenhart states, “This certification is a significant milestone that highlights the collective commitment to our students’ futures and the growth of our local economy. By working hand-in-hand with industry partners, we are ensuring our programs are not only relevant but are also directly addressing the skill gaps in our workforce”. This recognition validates our outward and forward-looking approach to providing a well-trained workforce throughout Glynn County”.

A cornerstone of this collaborative effort is the Connect Glynn Educator Externship Academy, a unique partnership with the Chamber of Commerce. This program immerses educators in local industries, providing them with hands-on experience by observing and working with businesses such as King and Prince Seafood. These direct experiences enable teachers to bring real-world relevance back to their classrooms, enriching the educational experience and ensuring lessons are aligned with industry demands.

In return for their participation, educators receive a grant to purchase supplies for career development lessons, further strengthening their ability to prepare students.

Ryan Moore, President & CEO of the Golden Isles Development Authority commented on the achievement: “Our strong partnerships are an investment in our community’s future. By working closely with Glynn County Schools, the Golden Isles College and Career Academy, and industry leaders, we are actively helping to cultivate a skilled local workforce that will drive economic growth for years to come. The Golden Isles College and Career Academy, a key player in this initiative, offers career preparatory opportunities and hands-on, career-driven learning through over 20 distinct career curriculums.  GICCA CEO, Brian Weese, who also handles Workforce Strategy for the GIDA concurs, “Our established commitment to the Golden Isles workforce laid the groundwork for this achievement, and the EDP certification validates our ongoing efforts while inspiring us to deepen that dedication even further”.

Glynn County Schools remains committed to expanding opportunities for all students and evolving its programs to meet the dynamic needs of the local economy. This certification reinforces the district’s position as a central force in the area’s economic and workforce development activities.

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