PIE Tour of Schools Highlights | New Manchester High School

Partners In Education (PIE) of Douglas County recently visited New Manchester High School as part of the Tour of Schools, offering community and business partners an inside look at programs shaping student success.

Fine Arts Magnet Education (FAME)

New Manchester High School, which opened in 2011, is home to the district’s Fine Arts Magnet Education (FAME) program. Principal Casey Bethel shared what makes the program unique:

“Students from across Douglas County who are interested in band, drama, dance, visual arts, and chorus can petition to come to New Manchester. We have some of the most talented students in our area. I’m biased, but I think we have the best fine arts program in the Southeast.”

FAME offers concentrations in Dance, Drama, Vocal Music, Instrumental Music, and Visual Art, supported by professional-grade facilities, teaching artists, and community partners. The program prepares students for collegiate and professional pathways in the arts.

AVID Program

New Manchester is also the only high school in Douglas County with an AVID program, focused on college readiness for students who will be first-generation college attendees.

“AVID is all about being college ready,” Bethel explained. “Last year, we had 30 AVID seniors, and those students earned more than $10 million in college scholarships.”

Through academic support, WICOR strategies, and life skills development, AVID empowers students to succeed in rigorous coursework and beyond.

Leadership Through JROTC

The JROTC program at New Manchester focuses on leadership, discipline, and preparation for life after graduation.

“Staff Sergeant Major Kathy Cade is here every day working with students interested in the military after graduation,” Bethel said. “Our goal is for every student to be ready for college, the military, or the workforce—and we need our community partners’ help to make that happen.”

Cadets participate in Drill, Raiders, and Color Guard teams while building character, confidence, and leadership skills.

Learn more about the programs at New Manchester High School at https://nmhs.dcssga.org/o/nmhs

Partnership in Action

The PIE Tour of Schools goes beyond a walk-through—it showcases how educators, students, and community partners collaborate to create engaging, future-focused learning environments. With support from more than 200 local businesses and organizations, these partnerships strengthen public education and help Douglas County students thrive.