MARTINEZ, Ga. () – Two local private schools are paying tribute to Deputy Brandon Sikes and Deputy Gavin White in a special way. 

Deputy Brandon Sikes was scheduled to work at Augusta Prep Wednesday before this weekend’s tragedy.

That’s why they and Augusta Christian Schools chose to wear blue to honor him. 

Sikes spent two years keeping students and faculty at Augusta Prep safe. That’s why Head of School Eric Hedinger says his loss is devastating. 

“When we heard the news about Deputy Sikes, it really touched our hearts. Our sympathies immediately went out to the family,” said Hedinger.

The school remembers Deputy Sikes as a family man, loved by the Cavalier community, and someone who never knew a stranger. 

“His warm smile really transferred onto others, and brought smiles into their hearts. We really cared about having him in and amongst our community,” Hedinger said.

Hedinger was just named the new Head of School on July 1, 2024, and while he only knew Sikes for a short time, he says his influence extended beyond the school grounds.

“He was approachable. So, people saying hi to him was a normal thing. You would see Deputy Sikes in the community, and he’d often recognize Prep kids, faculty, and administrators and say hi to us. That’s the warmest part of knowing deputies on campus and seeing them in the larger community,” Hedinger added.

At Augusta Christian, students gathering in the courtyard and circling up for a prayer vigil.

School leaders say they wanted to not only pray for Deputy Sikes’ family, but showing support for deputies at the school and around the county.

“We just want to support our community and wrap our arms around them, not only by wearing blue today as we all are doing for our officers, but also in prayer,” said Paige McLemore, Middle School Principal.

She adds how Augusta Christian stands with the men and women and blue, wanting to support them and families through the good times and bad.

“We don’t have their children here, or have any connections through the school with the officers. But we want their families to know that we are going through this with them. We are here for them, and we are praying for them,” McLemore said.

Several other local schools are also encouraging students to wear blue this week to honor the deputies.

School leaders say they will continue sending thoughts and prayers to Deputy White as he continues his recovery process.

Leaders from both schools are planning to attend Deputy Sikes’ funeral services next Monday, May 5th.