Jackson County School District

The work session featured superintendent comments, including reminders about an upcoming star student and teacher banquet and the annual board retreat, while also thanking the community for patience during recent severe weather events. Updates were provided on district initiatives, including significant successes in the robotics and Lego League competitions, with several teams advancing to regional and state levels, and winning major awards. Progress on computer science funding, which secured a $10,000 grant for professional learning and device purchasing, was also discussed, alongside an update on the UG comms grant project showing positive impacts on math and science instruction. Furthermore, the board received updates on the PreK timeline, current enrollment figures reaching a historical high for January, and the hiring season, noting a positive trend with an excess of substitutes leading to a temporary hiring freeze. Financial discussions highlighted the largest SPLOST collection ever received, exceeding $1.4 million, with a positive fund balance projection toward the $35 million year-end goal. Finally, attendance data indicated improvement, trending above 95% daily, and a partnership with the University System of Georgia to place student teachers was affirmed as beneficial for retention.

The meeting included approval of the agenda and superintendent's comments, where thanks were extended to staff for their work during recent weather days and acknowledgment was given to the maintenance team for school preparations. The superintendent highlighted recent successes in various student competitions, including robotics, science olympiad, state swimming, and wrestling sectionals, and announced upcoming events like the star student and teacher banquet and the board retreat. A significant portion of the meeting featured a presentation on the growth and accessibility of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program at Jackson County High School, detailing changes made to maximize student access and program sustainability, including piloting an IB English B program for EL students. Testimonials from a current IB alumnus and current senior students affirmed the program's positive impact on college readiness, academic performance (higher GPAs and college acceptances), and the development of essential life skills such as communication and social engagement. The meeting also included the recognition of the Rotary Student of the Month, Adam Thomas, acknowledging his academic achievements, athletic involvement, and community service.

Discussions included Superintendent's comments welcoming staff and students back for the new semester, reminding the board about the upcoming Code of Ethics approval and board meeting location change. A moment of silence was observed for the tragic loss of Mike Smith, construction superintendent. Reports were presented on the STEAM bus initiative, highlighting experiential learning achievements and funding from an innovation grant. The Human Resources section provided updates on the recent open enrollment period, emphasizing the importance and cost of health insurance, and the success of partnering with a new supplemental benefits broker (Mark III). Furthermore, an update on the JCSS Foundation scholarships for seniors and alumni was provided, alongside current enrollment figures showing 43% growth since fiscal year 2019.

The meeting began with a moment of silence in memory of Mike Smith, construction superintendent for Carol Dunny Construction, who passed away over the break. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by students from Gum Springs Elementary. Key segments included superintendent's comments, the spotlighting of the Gumspring Singers from Gum Springs Elementary, and a performance of "Winter Wonderland." The board recognized numerous students who won the district technology competition and will advance to the regional competition, spanning various categories such as audio production, graphic design, robotics, and video production across several schools. Additionally, two students from Jackson Empower FFA were recognized for state-level achievements in Employment Skills and Floral Design. The January Rotary Student of the Month, Autumn Langley, along with her most influential teacher, Miss Aaron Eler, were also recognized. The principal of East Jackson Elementary, Matt Stimar, also provided commentary.

The meeting began with a moment of silence to remember those who sacrificed in World War II on the anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack. The Superintendent's comments included updates on the schedule for holiday break, thanks to cafeteria staff and bus drivers, and recognition of Board members for GSBA training attendance. A student presentation highlighted leadership development, including the school's Wildly Important Goal (WIG) focused on reading proficiency and attendance, leadership notebooks, leadership roles, mission statements, and lead measures. The Board also heard a presentation on the recent release of CCRPI data, detailing significant progress across multiple indicators such as content mastery (ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies), student progress/growth, closing the achievement gap for student groups, readiness indicators (attendance, college readiness), and maintaining a high graduation rate. The Superintendent noted the need to elect a board chairman and vice chairman during the regular session.