ATLANTA -- The Georgia Charter Schools Association has created a "charter school of the year" award with help from the Coca-Cola Foundation.

The first winner of the award will be announced at the association's annual meeting in October in Macon. The award carries a $50,000 prize.

Schools in the 18-county Metro Atlanta area can qualify. They must have been open five years and have demonstrated academic success and sound fiscal practices.

RELATED: 11 charter schools receive key approval

Georgia has more than 200 charter schools statewide. The schools are funded by taxpayer dollars but are given flexibility in how they meet federal education benchmarks.

ATLANTA -- Parents and teachers know that having the right school supplies can mean the difference between a passing or a failing grade for students.

That's why Publix has teamed up with the United Way and several local partners to host the School Tools for Cool Kids program.

Residents can stop by their neighborhood Publix grocery stores from Monday, July 18 until Sunday, Aug. 14 to purchase and/or drop off school supplies in the School Tools bins.

"We encourage customers to donate school supplies to help . . . children begin the school year on a level playing field," said Brenda Reid, media and community relations manager for Publix.

Lithonia, Ga --    THE POLLS ARE NOW OPEN AS BIG LOTS KICKS OFF 4th ANNUAL VIDEO CONTEST

The following eight schools are all vying for a chance to win a share of the $100,000 in cash prizes:

• Annette Winn Elementary School – Lithia Springs
• Columbia Elementary School – Decatur
• Conyers Middle School – Conyers
• Hightower Elementary School – Doraville
• J.H. House Elementary School – Conyers
• Middle Ridge Elementary School – Covington
• Murphey Candler Elementary School – Lithonia
• Turner Middle School – Lithia Springs

From June 6 through July 4, the public can vote for their favorite video entries up to three times a day by visiting www.biglots.com/lots2give.