School Board Talks ‘Branding’
The Jasper County School Board had its first business meeting under the direction of new Superintendent Kenny Garland Tuesday, and handled much routine action as well as a couple of special items.
Financial Director Anne Harrison was presented a certificate of excellence from the state Department of Audits for the school’s excellent bookkeeping which resulted in a clean audit. Anna Dunham from the Department of Audits made the presentation, and said only about 20 percent of the schools throughout the state make the achievement. The board congratulated Ms. Harrison on the award, which she has also received in the past.
The board heard from Madison Abbott about the gift that the Class of 2019 wants to leave the school. She, along with senior advisor Peyton Proctor, showed a video presentation of what they had in mind. It’s a big “M” on brick, land they suggested a planter at the entrance of the new football stadium. They came to the board because the class wants to give the gift but wants it to be in keeping with the decor of the project.
That brought up a discussion on “branding.” Is it Jasper County High School, home of the Monticello Hurricanes, or should it be juts Monticello High School or the Jasper County Hurricanes. It is a dilemma that has faced leaders for some time, but these seem willing to tackle it.
They agreed to discuss the “branding” further at the next regular meeting, scheduled for August 20. Interested persons should talk with their school board members about their concerns before that time.
The board and superintendent agreed to a “Meet the Superintendent” gathering at the high school on the same night as open house, when open house ends. At 7 p.m., persons can go to the Commons Area at Jasper County High School, 14477 Hwy,.11 north, and meet Mr. Garland.
The board also approved an athletic handbook to be given to all student-athletes, as well as a coaches manual.
During the board’s meeting on July 8, they approved the tax levy, and hired an assistant principal for Jasper County Middle School. Terrance D. Phillips will fill that position effective next week.
Hires that were approved Tuesday include:
•Kevin Crabb, ESOL teacher (49 percent) working at different schools.
• Karen Hays, paraprofessional, Jasper County Primary School (JCPS) .
•Ashley Melton, front office data clerk/secretary, Jasper County Primary School.
•Melissa Viney, bus driver, Jasper County transportation department.
•Mark Smith, groundskeeper, Jasper County maintenance department.
•Jessica Murphy, paraprofessional, JCPS.
•Amanda Vance, paraprofessional, JCPS.
The board also approved one resignation, that of Sandra Jackson as bus monitor.
