The Jeff Davis County school system’s technology is state-of-the-art and runs smoothly.
That’s what technical director Kelly McLoon updated the school board at Monday’s meeting.
McLoon details tech devices – MacBook, iPad, and more. – Available to teachers and students in all schools, protections against penetration of internet connections, and systems to regularly upgrade technology.
He also spoke about security systems throughout the school, including extensive cameras, a badge-reading system that staff use to access the school, upgraded firewall security to protect teacher and student data, and more.
“I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished,” McClone said. Added, “In terms of technology, we’re actually in pretty good shape … things are going well.”
One of the highlights of Monday’s meeting was traffic supervisor Alvin Merritt’s acknowledgment of young student Skyden Cravey for what he called a “heroic act” to save a man. A quarter of students suffocated on a school bus. Merritt, who had problems with him at the meeting, explained that the choking accident occurred when the bus driver was helping a student in a spot where he could not safely get off the highway. So he instructed Skyden to keep his students calm and help him cough up the quarter. he made it.
“A hero is defined as someone who is admired for doing heroic deeds,” Merritt said. “That’s what she did.”
High School Principal Dr. Greer Smith shared with the board the students’ interest in establishing fishing teams to compete in fishing tournaments sponsored by the Georgia High School Association. Smith said 52 students had expressed interest in the matter, and some parents had come forward to offer to use fishing boats for the team.
School Superintendent Dr. Chris Roppe supported the matter and the board voted to approve the new school event.
Among other actions, the board…
… I heard it was a doctor. Smith and Assistant Principal Sarah Beth Swain recognized the high school student ambassadors who support the school’s new students.
… Hear from Adam Kirby and Grant Miles who purchased a used telehandler, a forklift with a telehandler, for $36,000 for the school system.
… Approved out-of-state travel for high school and middle school bands to Troy State University for the Middle School SEUS Honors Band and Conductor Clinic.
… heard the financial presentation from Betty Corbitt, Chief Financial Officer.
… accepted the resignations of guardian Shante Harris and high school teacher Ruby Carelock, as well as the retirement of high school assistant principal Doug Alexander.
… Hired School Nutrition Program Assistants Diane Boyett and Sherry Newell, Custodian Naundus Miles and 49% Primary Teacher Vicky Varnadore.
… Approval for the purchase of land adjacent to a new practice football field between Pat Dixon Road and Collins Street.