AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – The Richmond County Board of Education is set to vote Monday night on a master plan that would close several schools in the district.

The plan would close T.W. Josey High School and Murphey Middle School and convert them into a career and college academy.

It would also close Jenkins White Elementary School and demolish Barton Chapel Elementary School to build a new one in its place.

During public input meetings, community members urged leaders to preserve the legacy and history of T.W. Josey High School. Alumni and neighbors said the school’s name needs to stay.

New mental wellness opens center opens in Augusta

Warren church in Augusta had its grand opening for the Hope Mental Wellness Center Sunday morning.

Alumni said they support academic improvements proposed under the plan but want the school’s heritage recognized.

“We applaud all of the changes — the wonderful changes, the academics, the new path and all of that that are being proposed for the students — that is absolutely wonderful, but we want them to understand also that they have a heritage that has been wonderful and it needs to be maintained,” she said.

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – Tiny homes for foster youth aging out of the system are one step closer to being finished.

Bridge Builder Communities is building the first tiny home community designed for this group in Augusta.

Each tiny home will have the essentials like air conditioning as well as a kitchen area, a wardrobe and closet space.

Each person will also get assistance for education, career planning and other needs.

On Sunday, the builders and their community partners signed the homes to inspire the kids.

“When those kids age out of foster care, about 55% of them become homeless almost instantly. And so we’re taking those kids, we’re giving them an opportunity, not just providing safe, affordable housing, but life skills training, workforce initiatives, pathways, but more importantly, a community that cares for them so that they can transition successfully,” said Michael Cooper and Jackson Drumgoole of Bridge Builder Communities.

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AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – A local church commemorated Black History Month through a two-day celebration honoring faith, heritage, and the achievements within the African American community.

The Black History Musical and Unity Day Celebration at Williams Memorial Christian Methodist Episcopal Church kicked off Saturday with a musical that highlighted the role gospel music, spirituals, and faith communities have played throughout Black history.

The event continued on Sunday with a worship celebration featuring a guest speaker.

The theme for the service was “Celebrating Our Heritage: A Legacy of Excellence.”

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