CRMS Extended Learning Program
The CRMS Extended Learning Program is a dynamic after-school initiative designed to support and enrich our scholars beyond the regular school day. Focused on academic support, personal growth, and student engagement, this program offers tutoring, enrichment activities, and mentorship in a safe, structured environment.

Under the dedicated leadership of Ms. Shwanda Dukes and Mrs. Julie Evans, who serve as our Site Coordinators, Extended Learning has become a space where students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Their passion for student success ensures that every scholar receives the support they need to reach their full potential.

At CRMS, Extended Learning is more than just after-school care it’s an opportunity for growth, excellence, and Panther pride!

A dynamic and passionate educator, Ms. Shwanda M. Dukes exemplifies excellence, dedication, and visionary leadership in every facet of her work. A proud product of Griffin, Georgia, and a 1990 graduate of Savannah State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Marketing, Ms. Dukes brings over 30 years of experience in education, with the past several years deeply rooted at Cowan Road Middle School.

Throughout her tenure at CRMS, Ms. Dukes has taught all grade levels—6th through 8th—impacting a broad range of scholars with her rigorous instruction and deep belief in student potential. She currently serves as an 8th Grade Math Teacher, where she specializes in both Regular and Gifted/Honors instruction, preparing students for high school and beyond. Her instructional excellence and student-centered approach earned her the distinction of Teacher of the Year (2021–2022) at Cowan Road Middle School, and she was honored as a Top Three Finalist for Griffin-Spalding County District Teacher of the Year.

Ms. Dukes is a vital member of the CRMS Leadership Team, an active contributor to the AVID Site Team, and the driving force behind several academic initiatives. She serves as Site Coordinator for Extended Learning, a high-impact afterschool program that provides critical academic support and enrichment. She also leads the school’s March Madness program—an intensive Saturday academic prep series designed to prepare students for success on the Georgia Milestones Assessment. These roles reflect her steadfast commitment to academic excellence and student achievement.

In addition to her impactful work at CRMS, Ms. Dukes is a proud Life Member of the Savannah State University National Alumni Association, an engaged member of the Atlanta Downtown Alumnae Chapter, and serves on the Alumni Scholarship Committee, supporting the next generation of college-bound scholars. She holds advanced degrees from Piedmont College, including a Master’s in Early Childhood Education and a Specialist in Curriculum and Instruction, as well as certifications in Educational Leadership (University of West Georgia/RESA), Gifted Education (University of Georgia), and endorsements in Math, Reading, and Coaching (Griffin RESA).

Ms. Dukes is also a dedicated member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and Alpha Delta Kappa, actively serving on the Scholarship Committees of both organizations. Her unwavering belief that education is a divine calling continues to drive her lifelong mission: to empower students, nurture excellence, and leave a lasting legacy in education.

Ms. Julie Evans proudly serves as the Media Specialist and Extended Learning Coordinator at Cowan Road Middle School, where she combines her passion for literacy, enrichment, and academic excellence to impact students both during and beyond the school day. A dedicated educator and leader, Ms. Evans began her career at CRMS in 2006 as an 8th Grade English Language Arts and Social Studies teacher. Since then, she has become a cornerstone of the Panther community through her instruction, mentorship, and leadership.

Throughout her career, Ms. Evans has embraced opportunities to lead and serve. She coached the CRMS Girls’ Softball Team from 2007 to 2011, and led the Academic Team from 2015 to 2023, helping students grow in confidence, collaboration, and academic curiosity. Her excellence in teaching was recognized when she was named CRMS Teacher of the Year for 2012–2013, and later honored as the Griffin-Spalding County School District Teacher of the Year in November 2012.

In Fall 2013, Ms. Evans transitioned to her current role as Media Specialist, where she fosters a school-wide culture of reading and research. She works closely with students and teachers to integrate literacy across all content areas, making the media center a welcoming and enriching environment for exploration and discovery.

In her role as Extended Learning Coordinator, Ms. Evans helps lead after-school programming that provides students with targeted academic support, enrichment opportunities, and pathways to success. Her ability to connect with students and elevate learning in every setting makes her a vital part of the school’s academic and cultural heartbeat.

Ms. Evans continues to empower both students and staff through her love of books, her commitment to learning, and her deep belief in the potential of every scholar.