BOE considers JCHS school improvement plan
By Deborah Bennett Millen News Editor

Improving the graduation rate and Georgia High School Graduation Tests (GHSGT) scores were among the objectives listed in the School Improvement Plan of Jenkins County High School. Principal Dr. Joseph Kirkland presented the facility's plan to members of the Jenkins County Board of Education (BOE) during the Monday, Nov. 12, meeting of the group.

Dr. Kirkland noted that while a score of 500 was considered a passing grade on the GHSGT, a score of 516 was needed to meet Annual Yearly Progress (AYP) requirements.

Annette Cobb, Career Student Association (CSA) club advisor, gave a presentation on the club and the accomplishments of several members. Club members participating were Glen Kelly, 2007 state president, Hillary Hudson and Patricia Milton.

Business manager Janet Fields reported a negative General Fund balance of $236,262.13. Fields noted, however, that the school system does not receive the bulk of its state funding until later in the school year.

It was announced that The Millen News is a recipient of the Georgia School Board Association's "Beacon" award. The award will be presented Nov. 30 during the association's annual conference in Atlanta. The newspaper was nominated for the award by the local BOE.

A revision for Board Policy JDA regarding corporal punishment was placed on the table for review until the next BOE meeting. Superintendent Blackwood noted that the revision related to the wording of the policy.

Chairman Gay noted that an "open house" for the JCHS new gymnasium would be scheduled for some time in January rather than during the first basketball game in November.

Other actions taken by the BOE included the following:

• Approved the elimination of a temporary, part time mechanics' helper position;

• Approved the addition of several names to the substitute teachers list;

• Approved a substitute custodian on an "as needed" basis; and

• Accepted the resignation of a paraprofessional at the Jenkins County Elementary School.