DCSS logistics team recognized among nation’s best in procurement

ALBANY — For the second consecutive year, the Dougherty County School System has earned one of the nation’s highest honors in public purchasing, placing the district among just 30 school districts nationwide recognized for excellence in procurement.

The National Procurement Institute Inc. recently announced that 251 public and nonprofit organizations earned the 2026 Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award, which recognizes organizational excellence in public procurement through a rigorous evaluation of innovation, professionalism, productivity, leadership and e-procurement practices.

Dougherty County Schools is one of only 30 school districts in the country to receive the award this year, marking the district’s second time earning the national recognition.

Superintendent Kenneth Dyer recognized the achievement during last week’s Board of Education meeting, calling attention to a department whose work often takes place behind the scenes.

“I really enjoy recognizing our employees for the excellent work that they do,” Dyer told board members. “A lot of times, they go unseen, and they certainly deserve it.”

The district’s Logistical Services Department oversees purchasing for a school system serving approximately 12,000 students and 2,500 employees. Its responsibilities include procuring classroom supplies, instructional technology, transportation equipment, maintenance materials and services that support the district’s daily operations.

The Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award was established in 1995 by the National Procurement Institute to recognize organizations that demonstrate best practices in public purchasing. Award recipients are evaluated on innovation, ethical procurement, operational efficiency, leadership and the effective use of technology in procurement.

While procurement departments rarely receive public attention, their work directly affects how efficiently school systems spend taxpayer dollars. Every competitive bid, contract negotiation and purchasing decision helps determine whether schools receive needed goods and services in a timely, transparent and cost-effective manner.

Dyer recognized Sharonda Thompson, director of Logistical Services; Vachel Reese, assistant director of Logistical Services; and Charles Caldwell, facilities director, for their contributions to the department’s success. Caldwell was unable to attend the meeting when the recognition was presented.

The national recognition builds on the department’s historic first AEP Award in 2023, when Dougherty County Schools became one of only 25 school districts nationwide to receive the honor. Maintaining the award requires organizations to continue demonstrating excellence in procurement practices each year.

“Excellence personified,” Dyer said as the board applauded the department’s achievement.