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34 maconmagazine.com | August/September 2025 It's back to school time! What school notes and news do you want to share? Email hello@maconmagazine.com and keep us in the loop. excelling once they arrive. Long-time educator and Bibb County School District board member Dr. Henry Ficklin once posed the question, "What planet were the children from?" He was dripping with excitement following an encounter with a few M.A. Evans Academy students. "These children can go anywhere and do well," Gantt-Evans said confidently. The school doesn't discriminate and children of all races, religions, socio-economic backgrounds, and genders are welcomed, but it unapologetically is proud of what it has done for Black youth, especially. "We needed that for Black children. I wanted them to be on a high level too." M.A. Evans Academy even has a who's who of successful graduates, including political and public relations strategist Kim Carter – who co-helmed former Macon Mayor C. Jack Ellis' mandated re- election win in the early 2000's as a member of Polichix. Popular comedian and DJ Todd Davis was a student. Vibez restaurant manager and former political candidate Marshall Talley attended, along with Stephens' son Jimari, a Fort Valley State University engineering graduate. Aylah Birks, who attended Mercer University and is working on a future in medicine, went there too. Another line of demarcation for the school is its acceptance of students with late birthdays. December 30 is the cut off day instead of the traditional ones set in August and September, says Gantt-Evans, giving more students a chance at attending the school. Independence is not just a word either at the school. It remains financially solvent and pays its bills through tuition and donations. "We've never used government funds to run the school," Gantt-Evans says. "When people are getting something good, they appreciate and support it." Leading the Way M.A. Evans Academy and Gantt's Pre-School appears to be here to stay. Innovations like tablets in the classroom as an education-based tool (and extra curriculum item in between), has the school poised to thrive for years to come. Veteran instructors with 20 years of teaching under their belts are still on staff. Community support from Unionville and beyond remains strong. Reflecting on her efforts and the school's place in Macon history Gantt-Evans said this about her and the school's legacy. "I desire for this school to continue directly or indirectly. I hope and believe this effort has not been in vain." ABOVE Lillie Gantt-Evans in the classroom where the school still operates.