Open houses at Liberty County’s schools will be held Friday from 2– 6 p.m. at all schools in the system, and the first day of classes for the 2026–27 school year is Tuesday, August 4.

One of the changes for students this year is the move to clear book bags for all students, from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.

According to the school system, clear backpacks allow for easy identification of items brought into a school, reducing the opportunity to conceal a dangerous or prohibited item. Clear bag requirements also are enforced at all school system athletic events.

Superintendent Debra Frazier and school board Chair Verdell Jones said they were ready for the new school year to start.

“We are excited and ready to get the year started,” Frazier said.

Frazier also said the system ended the 2025– 26 year on a strong note and added accountability is the key word for the school year.

“Get your scholars ready because we are ready to move Liberty County Schools forward,” she added.

The school system also made a number of changes in administrators over the summer, replacing several who retired from their posts.

Valarie Lawson, who had been the principal at Lewis Frasier Middle School, was moved to the position of executive director of teaching and learning. Kenyatta Gilmore was promoted from Taylors Creek Elementary principal to director of human resources for the school system.

Kellie Zeigler retired as the system’s assistant superintendent for teaching and learning, and Mindy Yanzetich retired as the executive director of exceptional learning. Gilmore succeeds Michele Dasher, who retired as executive director of human resources. Lorraine Bowers is the new executive director of exceptional learning.

Dr. Elihu King is the interim director of Horizons, after Stephanie Woods ended her long career in education with her retirement.

Dr. DaShaun McGee, who had been an assistant principal at Bradwell Institute, is the new principal at Lewis Frasier Middle School.

Charlene Collins succeeds Gilmore at Taylors Creek. Wendy Kallman is the new principal at Lyman Hall Elementary after Dr. Norman Hart was named an assistant principal at Bradwell.