At Tuesday evening’s Board of Education meeting, Valdosta City Schools paused to honor courage, calm, and compassion in action.
On September 25, 2025, an unexpected and frightening situation unfolded at S.L. Mason Elementary School. In those critical moments, the safety and well-being of students and staff depended on quick decisions, steady leadership, and brave hearts.
Four individuals—Gregory Vaughn, Bernard Robinson, Randy Jones, and Sabrina Smith—were recognized for their bravery, leadership, and quick thinking during this incident. Each received a plaque proclaiming them a Protector of Valdosta City Schools for their heroic actions that day.
Superintendent Dr. Craig Lockhart and members of the Board of Education expressed deep gratitude to the entire S.L. Mason faculty and staff for their collective strength, teamwork, and grace under pressure. “You have reminded us what it means to BelieVe in the V,” Dr. Lockhart shared.
While Director Sabrina Smith was not pictured during the Board recognition, she and Randy Jones, who together oversee Safety & Security for Valdosta City Schools, were also honored separately with this month’s Coin of Victory for their leadership during the crisis.
Valdosta City Schools extends heartfelt thanks to the S.L. Mason Elementary family, the Valdosta Police Department, and all who played a role in keeping students safe. Even in the hardest moments, the heart of Valdosta City Schools continues to shine bright.