The Newnan Kiwanis and their guests learned a lot when Jerry Davis, Coweta County School System assistant superintendent for administrative services, addressed the group at the September 12 meeting.
 
According to Davis, the biggest challenge facing the school system is growth. “Normally, we see 750 to 800 new students at the beginning of each school year. This year, we started with over 1,000 new students—and it was a surprise,” said Davis.
 
Fortunately, Coweta County school administrators have had their eye on the situation and have been planning for it. Two new schools, Welch Elementary and Lee Middle opened this fall. Davis explained that the recent redistricting was another method used to help alleviate overcrowding in the schools. In addition, renovations in the existing schools have added classrooms and updated the facilities.
 
“One of the best things we can do is to take good care of our older facilities and utilize what we have,” Davis said, “especially since new construction costs are skyrocketing.”
 
Every week, speakers address the Newnan Kiwanis on topics important to the community. And the community is important to the Kiwanis. The global organization is dedicated to changing the world one child, one community at a time.
 
In Coweta County, Kiwanis hold an annual county fair, with proceeds going to local charities. Last year, through community participation, the Newnan Kiwanis donated over $153,000 to many worthy groups including local Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops, Angel’s House, Community Welcome House, Coweta Council on Aging and Newnan-Coweta Habitat for Humanity.
 
This year, The Coweta County Fair will be held Tuesday, September 19 through Saturday, September 23. Check www.cowetacountyfair.net for more information.
 
The Newnan Kiwanis meet every Tuesday for lunch, 12-1 p.m. at the Special Events Center, 299 Bullsboro Drive in Newnan. Community members are welcome; please visit www.newnankiwanis.com for more information.