Plans to proceed on school consolidations

Wednesday, February 20. 2013

The Jackson County School System plans to move forward with plans to consolidate some school facilities next year in a bid to save money and make better use of school buildings.
In an announcement posted to the JCSS website Tuesday, superintendent John Green said the system would proceed with several steps, including:
• Adding a wing onto West Jackson Intermediate School to help relive overcrowding from West Jackson Middle School. That would completed by the following school year of 2014.
• Closing the current South Jackson Elementary School facility and moving that school into the current Kings Bridge Middle School building next fall.
• Combining 6th and 7th graders from KBMS with East Jackson Middle School next fall.
• Making a “school within a school” for 8th and 9th Graders in an unused wing of East Jackson Comprehensive High School next fall.
•Closing the Gordon Street Center.
For the full story, see the Feb. 20 issue of The Jackson Herald.

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#1 REALLY? on 02/20/13 at 05:42 PM [Reply]

Of course! This South Jackson/Kings Bridge "proposal" was shoved through because that's what Green wanted - period!

We all knew there was a secret meeting to approve this, yet at least 1 Bd. member denied "any secret meeting". Really? Are you kidding? Does Green and the Bd. think the community members, parents, and employees are stupid? It's hard to hide deception especially when your demeanor shows through as it did at the last "community meeting". That's the ONLY transparency we CAN see - we, the community members and parents saw right through Green that night. His anger, his side-stepping questions, the lies. There is NO tranparency as a few have been led to believe - you are only allowed to hear what he WANTS you to hear; there's ALWAYS more to the story. Investigation is an easy thing to do.

Comments have been made about change within the school system - change has NOTHING to do with people being "set in their ways". It has everything to do with decisions being made in secret with NO input from the very employees it affects. Saying one thing then doing another; talking out of both sides of his mouth depending upon whom he is speaking to; unprofessional behavior behind closed doors.

The SRO cuts that he wrote off as rumor at the EJCHS community meeting that Monday night? NOT A RUMOR! The SROs were told their positions were being cut so 3 of the officers sought out other jobs. The Sandy Hook school tragedy happened on a Friday. First thing the following Monday morning, the SROs were reinstated except the district had to hire 3 officers to replace the ones who had already found other jobs! Does that sound like a rumor? All one has to do to verify this is ask the 3 officers that left. Investigation is easy.

And the hiring freeze Green says is in place? Really? I guess it didn't apply to the Safety and Security friend that was hired - you know, the one that has NO law enforcement experience? But he's not a friend? Right! And the new east high principal friend - how in the heck did he get the Bd. to go along with that hiring? Why didn't we hire from within? There are many QUALIFIED employees in the school district who are capable, experienced, and certified to assume the responsibilities of a principal position.

If anyone wants to check, the Bd's own policy was broken when Green decided to hire his friend as principal instead of receiving input from the school. One would think policy and procedures are followed, but the Bd. bows down to what he wants. Oops!!
Check it out under Local School Councils: https://eboard.eboardsolutions.com/ePolicy/policy.aspx?PC=BBFA&Sch=4091&S=4091&RevNo=1.01&C=B&Z=P

A VERY few individuals have said give Green some consideration. Consideration? Really? All the lies that he writes off as "rumors", all the secret meetings where he gets what he wants. He LOVES power and the Bd. is handing it to him. I can imagine him laughing at all of us as he drives home everyday (while we pay for his mileage). He has it MADE and he knows it.

RISE UP Jackson County School District parents and community members! We need to do something about this!

#1.1 Speaking Parent on 02/21/13 at 10:37 AM [Reply]

I totally agree with you. I stormed into his office myself last Thursday morning and he couldn't answer for his lies. I confronted him myself and told him he has lied to us over and over and over. Still all he could do was scamper around and not even try to give me a straight answer. Seems he has so many in his pocket! This man is an out and out liar! People of Jackson County need to wake up! No one knew of this 8th grade proposal either until late Monday 11th before the meeting. How was that time to give parents a say in this? Adding a wing onto WJIS...really?? Lets bust the self esteem of these children that think they are going to Middle school and put them back in ELEMENTARY for another year at a totally different school. Oh, but I was told that it wouldn't effect North kids! Yea right! Yet another lie! Now I also hear that WJ 8th graders will eventually be in HS as well. I guess when HE gets the money to build this new high school that he says we need so badly he will also make a school within a school and house the 8th graders. Lets look at facts here, we don't exactly need a new high school on the west side, we need a new MIDDLE school. That is where the problem comes in. So why build a new high school, because Mr Green wants to! Wake up people, get this LIAR out of our school system! Band together and get a petition going to get him out. I'm sure there are plenty of parents that will agree.
Oh and FYI, there were 5 boys arrested in EJCHS for molesting a minor! Two of them 18, one 17 and two more that were under age. Yea, and 8th graders will be safe! I don't think so!

#1.1.1 Facts on 02/21/13 at 11:38 AM [Reply]

Just for the record, the incident you are speaking of did not occur at the school nor does it have anything to do with any school for that matter! If all the " concerned " citizens have such great soultions to our problems maybe they should have shared them at the community meetings instead of turning them in to a complete embarrasment to the county!! Just saying.

#1.1.1.1 The Facts! on 02/21/13 at 04:15 PM [Reply]

We tried to voice our opinion! He wouldn't listen!

#1.1.1.1.1 Facts on 02/21/13 at 04:40 PM [Reply]

Hardly anyone tried to voice their opinion about the subject at hand!! Just a bunch of blah, blah, blah, that had nothing to do with moving 8th graders into the high school. Not one single person asked what steps or measures would be taken to keep the 8th graders separated from the older children.

#1.1.1.1.1.1 Concerned Parent on 02/21/13 at 09:43 PM [Reply]

Actually someone did ask how he planned to keep the 8th graders away from the high schoolers and he replied with saying they have not gone that far yet in their planning. He said that about several things.

#1.1.1.1.2 Send it to the man on 02/26/13 at 01:46 PM [Reply]

Has anyone emailed Dr. Green? I did several hours ago. No response. Typical!

#1.1.1.2 Concerned Parent on 02/22/13 at 10:07 PM [Reply]

It doesn't matter if the incident happened in a church parking lot. You are missing the point. Our 13 year old sons/daughters will be going to school with 17 & 18 year olds. Dr. Green stated that he could NOT guarantee us that there would be no interaction because he hadn't planned that far ahead. Were you not at the meeting? He talked very rudely and would NOT answer any questions. Only lies and backtracking. I saw NO ONE embarrassing the county. Only parents standing up and trying to protect their children!

#1.1.1.2.1 That's Right on 02/23/13 at 07:46 PM [Reply]

AMEN!! You are SO right!

#1.1.1.2.2 Parent who went to High School in 8th grade on 02/25/13 at 10:25 AM [Reply]

When I attended Buford we were in High School in 8th grade. None of the uppper classmen ever messes with us, in fact they treated us more like little brothers and sisters. I understand your concern, but other school systems do this and it is not an issue. However I am sure there are times when this age difference does become an issue. Now East Jackson parents, need to layoff some. The West side is way behind in technology and facilities. Dr. Green had nothing to do with all of the backwards deals that went on to get East Jackson their schools. He is having to fix Dr. Adams screw ups and the previous admins screw ups. This way he can get the West side the proper facilities and technology. Our kids should not suffer due to some good ole boy crap that adams and company pulled. To be quite honest, they ought to fire one of these band directors to free up money for other educators to be brought in. Having 2 100k band teachers is ridiculous. Adams and all his cronies are what has both school systems messed up. Put the blame on the right people and let this man do his job to clean up the mess.

#1.1.1.2.2.1 notcorrect on 02/25/13 at 07:31 PM [Reply]

I'm not sure where you obtained your information, but the west-side schools are NOT behind in technology when compared to the "east-side" schools.

All the schools are comparable as far as technology in the classrooms goes.

#1.1.2 Get Informed on 02/21/13 at 06:15 PM [Reply]

The child molestation didn't happen at school, so that fact is irrelevant. Eighth graders are often in a high school environment. It's merely a one year difference.

As far as not needing a high school.....the high school students are served in two different locations due to not having enough room at the high school for those classes.
Maybe you should research your fact and get informed before shooting from the hip.

Either give legit suggestions or just accept the changes.

#1.1.2.1 Informed on 02/21/13 at 08:17 PM [Reply]

The school system does NOT need another high school. We do NOT need an East school "community" nor a West school "community - WE ARE 1! We are NOT Gwinnett County, but the superintendent is pretending we are.

The high schools are NOT the problem; therefore, why build another one? West Jackson Middle school is busting at the seams - build a bigger middle school! THAT'S where the need is!

Are the parents and community members going to give up on this fight? PLEASE DON'T give up! You are our ONLY hope - we NEED you!

Make phone calls and complain about the lies, about the way we were all treated at the "community meeting", Greens rude demeanor at that meeting, about hiring an unqualified FRIEND to be principal of a high school, how Green created the new position of Safety and Security for a FRIEND even though he says there's a hiring freeze, how the Bd. WON'T listen to the parents, community, and employees but will go along with ANYTHING Green wants regardless of the consequences, etc....

PLEASE CALL!
Ga. Dept. of Education
1-800-311-3627 FREE call
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools 1-888-413-3669 FREE call

CONTACT TV Stations - They'd LOVE to investigate this!
WSB-TV 404-897-7000
or contact Richard Belcher - Investigative Reporter
http://www.wsbtv.com/mailfriend/300/556/4984311f37/

11Alive 404-892-1611
or contact Center for Investigative Action
http://www.11alive.com/news/cia/contact.aspx

#1.1.2.1.1 Seriously? on 02/21/13 at 08:57 PM [Reply]

What will contacting the news do?

Did you not read the article about why you cannot just add on to the middle school?

Stop complaining and whining and start supporting your school system. If you don't like it, move to Jefferson!

#1.1.2.1.1.1 Huh? What? on 02/21/13 at 11:18 PM [Reply]

Not whining, not complaining - simply stating the TRUTH.

Didn't say anything about ADDING ON to that middle school - "build a bigger middle school".

We DO support the school system - we DON'T support lies, sneakiness, and the way we were treated at the community meetings. Did you attend those meetings? If so, need I say more?

#1.1.2.1.2 SJES Parent on 02/22/13 at 10:01 AM [Reply]

Thank you for the info sending Mr. Blecher an email right now. Green needs to go if SJ has to be closed then why not close Benton as well. And to the parent would said to send them to Jefferson are you going to give me the tution to send my child to the school if not keep your mouth closed.

#1.1.2.1.2.1 Something must be done on 02/22/13 at 04:54 PM [Reply]

What do you not understand about not having enough money to run the school system the way it currently being run? Something has to be done. Why would you complain about SJ being moved to Kings Bridge. It is right down the road and a much nicer facility. Closing down SJ will help save the school system money.

Where is the money to build this new middle school that you want??????

As far as Driver's Ed., it is not a school system's responsibility to offer this to you. While we are at it, cut the Pre-K program to open up classrooms. Parents can pay for our children to go to Pre-K (which is not required), and we can pay for our children to take Driver's Ed if they want a license at 16.

#1.1.2.1.2.1.1 URClueless on 02/23/13 at 07:39 PM [Reply]

What do YOU not understand about the district NOT needing to build a new high school? Why spend money on a new high school when the money needs to be spent on a new/bigger middle school! The need lies in building a bigger middle school!!!

Jackson County High School has just built a NEW Fine Arts facility and a new gym is in its final construction phase. WHY DO WE NEED ANOTHER HIGH SCHOOL? WE DON'T!!!!!!!!

NO - the school district isn't required to offer Driver's Ed BUT Jackson County is a rural school district. Do you not get it? Hard working families rely on their older driving children to help relieve some of the burden of traveling back and forth to take them to school and/or school functions (like sports practices/games). Parents who work out of county no longer have to take off work if the driving student is sick.

These same families CAN NOT afford to pay for private driver's training. Maybe you can, but the majority of us can not! Do you even know how successful the Jackson County Driver's Ed program is when it comes to saving student's lives? Educate yourself with the facts.

And, Pre-K is funded by the state so that argument is a moot point.

Next......

#1.1.2.1.2.1.1.1 Just a thought on 02/23/13 at 08:39 PM [Reply]

Building a new high school could allow the middle school to move into the current high school....

#1.1.2.1.2.1.1.2 The Truth on 02/24/13 at 04:05 PM [Reply]

The new "fine arts" and "gym" are part of the problem. The previous admin had NO IDEA about looking ahead and planning for the future. They flew by the seat of their pants and caved into parent pressure whenever it got too hot. So, when we really needed to look to the future and where growth was occurring, get out of the Jefferson City Limits, and quit having kids drive past JCCHS to go to TWO OTHER SCHOOLS; instead, we were caving into pressure and covering our butts for overbuilding on the east side by appeasing west side parents with promises of a new gym. The previous administration then had to deal with, "if athletics gets it, we better get it too," so they added the fine arts building. The order may have been vice-versa. Regardless, now JCCHS will have a new gym (they don't even fill up the one they have) and a new fine arts building that doesn't really add any classrooms. Why? Because once SPLOST funds were designated for it by previous administration, that's where the funds had to be used. Regardless, JCCHS will be maxed out once Gordon Street is closed, even with the new buildings. Again, there aren't a lot of classrooms being added. Oh, and if you thought closing Gordon Street was a bad idea...think about how much transportation costs and class time lost the county will be saving. But, that's for another post entirely. Regardless, don't think for a minute the school board didn't know what they were getting when they hired Dr. Green. They knew the financial MESS that needed to be cleaned up and the elephant in the room (empty classrooms on the east side). No one on the inside of the county would be able to get the job done, because there was too much political baggage from back room deals, dating all the way back to the 70's and 80's, that resulted in East Jackson being built, etc. Someone with fresh, new ideas, from the outside, had to get the job done. Plus, whether east side parents want to admit it or not, the new growth that is occurring(despite the recession) is coming on the west side, with a large chunk of it coming from Gwinnett County. 6 years ago, the west side was irate about how it was treated when East Jackson and Kings Bridge were built. Those intelligent enough to see the potential issue that was brewing were treated to a deaf ear. And, we don't even have to get into the occurrences within the building of JCCHS the year before East Jackson opened. So, now, here we are, 6 years later and we are reaping the benefits of our decisions from the past. Someone said in a reply that we were "ONE COUNTY", not 2 communities. That hasn't been the case since people walked the hallways of JCCHS "sprouting their wings" and wearing eagle gear in 2006-2007. But, regardless, something must be done. Jackson County is at a financial point where it must function now like no one else, so that it may function later like no one else. The parents/teachers/etc, predominantly on the east side, it seems, that don't like the process should look back to 6 or 7 years ago and remember how those on the west side felt. The difference is that the east side has their taj mahals to sit in and watch from and plenty of room to grow. And, the financial situation is FORCING something to be done, regardless how tough it may seem. Now, in regards to absorption...somebody needs to learn the difference between a RIF and absorption. NO ONE is losing their jobs, unless they're bad at what they do...nice that we finally have admin not afraid to get rid of underperformers. Teachers have been told OVER AND OVER...you may be teaching in a different school or in a different role, BUT YOU WILL HAVE A JOB! Finally, if you want to know how people feel about Dr. Green from Gwinnett County, go ask them. I have, including former students. You'll find that he is a visionary leader that demands a LOT of the people and students that work for him. He WINS and surrounds himself with WINNERS. Those that couldn't handle the demands and the expectation to excel didn't necessarily like him. And let me add, from some teachers within Jackson County, he hasn't tried to hide that from ANYONE. Personally, I'm glad we have a strong leader who is willing to take on the tough issues that our county faces, including the elephants in the room. Imagine how much different a position our country would be in right now if Congress and our President decided to do the same.

#1.1.2.1.2.1.1.2.1 blahblahblah on 02/24/13 at 10:59 PM [Reply]

blah-blah-blah.......

The new construction at Jackson High? Interesting same Bd. members were right there approving that funding and building plans as well, huh? Blame that on the West-side parents, too, huh?

Let's see - when Gordon Street school closes, what classes will have to move? I believe Green decided the construction class will now be housed at East Jackson High anyway. A lot of back-and-forth bus riding for the Jackson High students, huh?

The special ed classes already have classrooms at Jackson High, so that's not an issue.

Wonder what the East Jackson High ROTC department will do since Green had already told them they would be conducting classes at Gordon Street school?

Wonder what will happen to the district daycare operation? I'm sure the employees and workers would like to know if that's going to be "closed" as well!

Green seems to have pie on his face for all the inaccuracies/lies he's told about EVERYTHING going on in our school district - saying one thing, doing another, then saying something else.

Oh, my bad ---- Green calls them RUMORS, just rumors!

#2 Caring Parent on 02/21/13 at 08:07 PM [Reply]

Please tell all these folks to stop bad mouthing dr green. Also maybe Dr green should go out and talk one on one to some of the teacher, especially where they will be closing facilities... maybe that way they can know the truth, instead of listening to people who keep badmouthing him.

#2.1 the truth IS known on 02/21/13 at 08:33 PM [Reply]

Teachers dare not request a one-on-one meeting with Green. His behavior behind closed doors is reprehensible and one dares not have their name even known.

We DO know the truth -- he says one thing and does another, but then says something else.

#3 JustPlainOldBob on 02/21/13 at 09:38 PM [Reply]

Please, please, please, no more tax increases. Gasoline is almost $4.00 per gallon, housing starts and housing sales in Jackson County is pitiful due to the depression we are in. Jobs are scarce and if you have one probably are underemployed and making less than enough.

We have tightened our belts out of necessity the waist lines are getting smaller due to high food costs.

Jackson County live within your means.

#4 The TRUTH on 02/21/13 at 11:03 PM [Reply]

1. Green says there's a hiring freeze in place.
THE TRUTH: East Jackson High School is interviewing for new FOOTBALL coaches right now! But that's different, right?
THE TRUTH: Green created the position of Safety and Security to hire a friend. That's different too, right?
Guess the "freeze" applies to everyone EXCEPT Green and whomever he wants to hire.

2. SROs The officers in the high schools and middle schools? They may not be back next year - the new Safety and Security man has to be paid somehow. After all, Green cut the officers' positions before the Sandy Hook tragedy so he could hire this 1 Safety person (friend), but after the tragedy, he reinstated them (had to replace 3 because those officers found other jobs). Guess we can't keep both the officers AND the Safety man. I know who parents would cast their vote for - the officers!

3. DID YOU KNOW? Driver's ed may be cut for next year. If it is no longer offered, parents will have to PAY for private driver's training for their 16 year old - driver's training is REQUIRED in order for a 16 year old to get a driver's license. If parents cannot afford a private driver's training, the child will have to wait until they are 17 to get a driver's license.

4. JOB LOSS People WILL lose their jobs with this consolidation "proposal". There will an extra principal, extra ass't. principals, extra counselors, extra cafe workers, extra custodians, extra parapros, AND extra teachers. There is NOT enough space nor enough classrooms for all these employees. Oh, that's right - he said "No one will lose their jobs", but maybe a select few will be FORCED out. Maybe people in the same position at both schools will have to RE-APPLY for their job. Is that fair? is that right? You can NOT keep everyone - that's THE TRUTH!

There are MANY other decisions that have been made that parents, community members, AND employees aren't even aware of yet. Transparency? NO! Sneaky and secret under-the-table dealings that Green talks the Bd. into approving.

It's NOT HIS school district. He doesn't live in Jackson County and pays NO taxes here (we DO pay him to drive here everyday from Gwinnett County, though). He needs to quit walking around with the fake smile like he owns the schools and owns US.

Wonder why he left a Gwinnett County District Superintendent job to become a principal in Alabama? Interesting, huh?

#5 MS on 02/22/13 at 05:43 AM [Reply]

seems to me that if you think we can keep operating this system running and paying for a full school staff when the school is not full and the tax money coming in is NOT enough to support it then you would are wanting us to fail.

what is totally unfair about this situation is that no one wants to support, or listen, or be civilized about it all. as well the board and the administration needs to make a decision and get on with it, stop delaying.

and please stop complaining..

and dr green... be transparent.... if you are then thats fine, if you are not then man up and change.

#6 Drivers Ed is GONE on 02/22/13 at 06:13 AM [Reply]

The Drivers Ed Program is no more! I was told that a few weeks ago by teachers. I emailed all board members, the super, etc...... Lynne Massey-Wheeler and April Howard were the only to respond. Both said, "we have not heard of that and to our knowledge, Drivers Ed will still be in the high schools." At advisement's just last night - there is no longer a Drivers Ed program to sign up for.
Just tell the truth, I can deal with that. It's when you get a fib or just beating around the bush - it makes me not believe anything else that's said.

#6.1 anon on 02/22/13 at 11:59 AM [Reply]

It's been privatized. You are going to choke when you find out how much they charge.

#7 truth seeker on 02/22/13 at 08:34 AM [Reply]

well you are saying that its gone, but when my child did advisement they signed up and said they do not know yet if its gone or not. so why would they have a sheet to sign up on if its already gone... and why are you saying its gone when in fact it has not been decided yet?

#7.1 Drivers Ed is GONE on 02/22/13 at 11:33 AM [Reply]

The sheet that you signed up on - which was green, was not your advisement sheet, was it?? No, that sheet is in fact, just in case, the Board "might change its mind". What they are told at this point and it's been the same for weeks now, is that the program has been cut. There is no funding from the state for this program, and if in fact it were to be reinstated - you will have to meet the financial criteria. Only stating what was told to me last night(not by a TAA) - I would love to say that Drivers Ed is alive and kicking but, I don't believe it is.

#7.1.1 Double B on 02/25/13 at 11:33 AM [Reply]

Why would the school have a Drivers Ed program when the state offers a program online for $10. If your child needs Drivers Ed so bad go to www.georgiadred.org and let them take the course.

#7.1.1.1 please!! on 02/25/13 at 11:41 PM [Reply]

Please DON'T insult parents and other people by saying you can pay $10.00 and satisfy the Georgia requirements for driver's education - it's simply NOT true.

The $10.00 only covers a BRIEF "Fun, Easy, and Interactive" online course with NO classroom instruction and NO actual driving time.

In order for a 16 year old to QUALIFY for a driver's license (IF one chooses to this site), the total cost is $255.00, which covers all charges - classroom instruction, a BRIEF "Fun, Easy, and Interactive" online course, and 6 hours of driving time, which is the bare minimum REQUIRED.

Please.....

#7.1.1.1.1 ricky on 02/27/13 at 01:19 AM [Reply]

not trying to break things up but there are online classes for drivers ed for 75-90 dollars available which do meet the state requirements. my parents taught me to drive as i have taught my own kids to drive. You don't HAVE to have drivers ed in schools. Parents can and should do that job!

#7.1.1.1.1.1 Mr Potter on 02/27/13 at 07:47 PM [Reply]

You would be correct from the DDS website you will find a list of schools that offer the 30hr online course from a range of $10 all the way to $95. However you will still need to complete the Parent Teen Driving Course which requires the parent to log 40 hrs of driving time and 6 hours at night to satisfy Joshua's Law. Don't forget to have the Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program (ADAP) card also which can be taken online at https://online.dds.ga.gov/eadap/

#7.1.1.2 Do your homework before posting..... on 02/26/13 at 05:58 AM [Reply]

Please don't insult parents with a $10 fee post! Honestly, I'm not fighting for myself and the Drivers Ed Program. I'm fighting for all the folks who can not afford to pay $225.

Please don't insult people by saying "it's just $10" - IF that were the case, I know kids that would have elected to take it at home and replace that class with another AP class!
Geez, some people!!

#7.1.1.2.1 Double B on 02/27/13 at 10:13 AM [Reply]

225 is for the class plus the 40 hour training and if you read the Ga DMV website the 40 hour drive time can come from the parent. All they need is the $10 training course. http://www.dds.ga.gov/docs/teen/JoshuaCourseChart.pdf and look at option 4 I did the research for you! "because reading is hard"

#7.1.1.2.1.1 Double B on 02/27/13 at 10:37 AM [Reply]

Now I see why you guys are so upset over such simple things. There is a simple tool called google it took me about 1 minute to find out how easy it is for your child to get a license without a School funded Drivers Ed class. I think this is more about no parent wants to spend 40 hours teaching their child than anything. I posted a simple link about the $10 course and no one did any research about what they really needed to get a license for their child. Maybe it was my fault for thinking parents had looked at the DMV website and already knew what was required and that simple minded people need step by step instructions and I will take that blame but, please don't tell me I need to do my research before you have done yours.

#8 Truth Seeker on 02/22/13 at 03:43 PM [Reply]

So you are saying that just because YOU do not believe it that the rest of us are to believe what YOU believe?

#8.1 For you Truth Seeker on 02/22/13 at 10:14 PM [Reply]

The paper that you signed was JUST INCASE the Board changes their minds(we all know this happens OFTEN)! We were also told that IF there were enough sign ups that maybe they would reinstate it. And that's the truth!

#9 Change on 02/23/13 at 01:04 PM [Reply]

It is about time that someone comes into this county and does some changing! This county is so far behind because we are stuck in the past of the local "Mom & Pop" School System where everyone is related to everyone! We need to be progressive and move forward and make Jackson County no longer the laughing stock of the state of Georgia!

WAKE UP PEOPLE! CHANGE IS COMING!

#9.1 wrong on 02/23/13 at 07:10 PM [Reply]

This county is NOT "so far behind" as you would like to believe. Jackson County is one of the leading school districts in the state of Georgia when it comes to technology.

Laughing stock of Georgia? Yep - we are right NOW because of Green. Gwinnett County is definitely laughing because they are SO happy to be rid of him.

Having relatives in the school system does NOT reflect upon anything whatsoever. Get real!

Yeah - We'll be stuck alright if we don't wake up because Green is going to have this school district SO messed up we won't know which way to turn.

#10 ? on 02/23/13 at 08:35 PM [Reply]

Dr. Green's resume does not reflect any reason that Gwinnett would be glad to be rid of him.

Why on earth would anyone not welcome the expertise and experience of an educator whose leadership has helped dramatically increase SAT scores, improved AP opportunities, over seen two major school distict construction projects (one listed below and one in Alabama), and one who more than likely knows a thing or two about what to look for in a high school principal and whether or not an eight/ninth center school within a school concept might be of benefit.

Please see below if you have not already been made aware of Dr. John Green's extensive career serving as an educator. Then have some faith in a person who actually has experience running schools! Also, he is a father who has raised his own 3 children up in a public school system.

Do you really not want this person described below to be the superintendent in this time of educational budget crisis? Do you want more RIF that will most definately effect your children's favorite and best teachers and programs? Do you want more years of a reduced academic calendar? Do you want to lose the great career and academic programs that we currently have and lose the lead in the state in Georgia during these extended years of less and less money? Or do you want to keep our children's education first by keeping our greatest top notch educators and administrators in our county and potentially increase opportunities for Connections classes at the middle school level and AP classes in high school? Watch what you wish for my fellow Jackson Countians!

Green recently retired after three decades with the State of Georgia schools, including serving as an area superintendent for Gwinnett County public schools for three years. He was the recipient of the 2008 Georgia Association of Educational Leaders Educator of the Year Award, the state's highest honor for educators.

As an area superintendent, Green provided support and evaluated 46 principals in the school system with approximately 53,000 students.

During his tenure at North Gwinnett High, Green also saw SAT scores increase from 1009 to 1056 in a seven-year period. While there, he also oversaw a $1 million-plus stadium and facilities expansion.

Before that, Green was principal of North Gwinnett High School in Suwanee, Ga., for 10 years where he increased the number of students enrolled in AP courses by 600 percent in a five-year period. He also served as an associate principal at Brookwood High School in Lilburn, Ga., assistant principal at Berkmar High in Lilburn, Ga., after teaching at two different Georgia schools.

A graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga with a B.S. degree in mathematics education, Green earned a master's degree from Georgia State University in Atlanta and a doctorate in educational administration from the University of Georgia.

#10.1 IF he's so smart then..... on 02/25/13 at 07:03 AM [Reply]

If he is so smart - then how and why did he hire such a dumb principal for EJCHS???? This man, Stowers, that loves to address himself to everyone that "he is the new principal" is so beyond ridiculous!! He addresses my child at advisements with "Are you taking Chemistry?" My child responds, "Yes, AP Chemistry" And the so called principal says, "oh I tried to stay away from that stuff" - what teacher or administrator says that? He is pathetic!!!! He needs to be out of there!

#11 CHARLES FLETCHER on 02/25/13 at 09:54 AM [Reply]

Why don't we just return to the days when the School Superintendent was elected by the people. This way we would have a say and we could vote him or her out of office if they become little tin gods like Green. Also when are we going to finally say enough is enough and vote the current Board of Education out of office. Have people on the board that remind the superintendent that he seves at their pleasure not the other way around.Also remind the board they serve at our discretion not their own.

#11.1 YES on 02/25/13 at 07:49 PM [Reply]

Hear, hear!!

#12 BOE dislike on 02/25/13 at 04:18 PM [Reply]

So here we are now with a Superintendent who is now telling the BOE what to do. I agree that we are all in this together, but the one who is driving the division is Dr Green himself. He says in public "work together", but behind the scenes he does things that are just simply not right. I have emailed him, and the BOE, and it really breaks my heart that we are paying him his over the top salary, as well as all these other high paid administrators. Plus we are paying him $5,000.00 a month in travel expenses? Whats the deal with that. YOU WANNA SAVE MONEY THEN MOVE YOUR ARROGANT SELF INTO JACKSON COUNTY. Or are you planning to leave and go back to your Gwinnet County home after you have screwed up the whole county? If you wanna save expenses then save us $60,000.00 a year off of your travel expenses.

#12.1 Kathryn Anderson on 02/28/13 at 07:40 PM [Reply]

Green's travel is $5000/year -- not monthly.
An article quoted $5000/mo, but was corrected later.

#13 you cannot have everything on 02/26/13 at 07:45 AM [Reply]

Some of you have no idea how much it actually costs to "give" kids everything thing you all want them to have. The tax base of Jackson County isn't that great. Lots of people below poverty line, especially on the East Side. However, you want them to be picked up, fed, given computers, books, and then brought home 30 minutes after the last bell. Many children at EJCHS are 2nd, 3rd generation government dependents. And now you want to fuss about drivers ed? Look at other counties, they don't give it away at school-they pay for it. Driving is a privilege, not a right. If you can't afford it, then have your kid wait until they are 17, its ok. They are probably getting free lunch anyway. That is why this country is so screwed up, we expect everything to be provided for us. Get a job, stop smoking!

#13.1 Commerce Parent on 02/26/13 at 08:44 AM [Reply]

After reading all this, my head is spinning!
I am so thankful my child goes to Commerce!

#13.2 Do your homework, again...... on 02/26/13 at 09:55 AM [Reply]

How dare you belittle the people on the "East" side of the county! You have no clue. The person that used to make 6 digits, doesn't make that anymore! Maybe you were born with a silver spoon in your mouth but, a lot were not!
And for your knowledge, since you "think" you know so much - did you know that the Nutrition program makes more money from serving a student a "free meal" than a child that pays full price. Look up reimbursement rates! Now some people have hit hard times. If you want to gripe about Jackson County - maybe you should get back on I85 North and go back to Gwinnett County where all these West folks primarily came from! Then we wouldn't have over crowded "west" side schools!

#13.2.1 eastprnt on 02/26/13 at 11:46 AM [Reply]

Does the average parent know or think about nutrition programs and their reimbursement rates???

#13.2.2 Say what? on 02/28/13 at 10:17 PM [Reply]

Last time I went to Gwinnett, I had to take I85 South. Not North. Maybe you should do YOUR homework, again.

#14 you cannot have everything on 02/26/13 at 10:49 AM [Reply]

chill! I was saying that some people have no idea what is provided for the children and all we say is we want more. Its not about being born with a silver spoon. Its about working for what you have and making do with what you don't. I'm not from Gwinnett County. As much as it upsets you, Jackson County in a lot of areas is poor and ravaged by able bodied people depending on the government. I may be a teacher from the east side- you never know? Tired of seeing children who claim they can't afford paper whipping out their $200 cell phones. Tired of looking at the same parents who claim they can't afford anything for their child, come to parent meetings in the middle of they day-the whole entire family, after smoking a carton of $4.00/pack cigarettes. Let the man work, I voted, did you?

#14.1 Do your homework... on 02/26/13 at 12:16 PM [Reply]

All counties have able bodied folks utilizing government services! Agreed - and you would be surprised at my position - hear and see it everyday! And yes, I voted! As anything in politics, they say one thing and do another once in office!
A lot of deserving kids are being hurt by these major cuts! Doesn't seem fair!
And just praying that all teachers are able to keep their jobs, as Mr. Green stated! Nothing is certain any longer!

#15 ain't got time for this on 02/26/13 at 12:51 PM [Reply]

Anyone give thought to the fact that we are sending our 8th graders from Kings Bridge and East Jackson Middle to East Jackson High School, which hasn't passed the APY in 2 years. Quality of Education is certainly not a priority here. Let's just squeeze more students in, give them larger classrooms and less attention. I guess later the boardd will give consideration to the failing APY. Just for some more info, Jackson County spends more money per student than Gwinnett, but has less material, books, & other stuff then Gwinnett. Why is that. Look on the State Government website. It gives you how much each county spends per student. By the way, Gwinnett has a lot of free lunch programs also. Don't put down people who are having a hard time. Everyone would like to have their jobs back. It's the economy, not the people's fault.

#15.1 anon on 02/26/13 at 04:14 PM [Reply]

The economy? Stock market is at all time highs. Corporations are reporting record profits.

Times are good.

#15.1.1 sure on 02/26/13 at 06:04 PM [Reply]

Times ARE good for the CEOs and COOs of corporations because "record profits" mean THEY get bonuses.

99% of us aren't so lucky - we're just the blue collar workers living paycheck to paycheck as we struggle to keep our heads above water.

Maybe those corporations will share the wealth ....NOT!

And the Jackson County School District is in the midst of a financial crisis? It interesting they can hire NEW FOOTBALL COACHES at EJCHS. Hiring freeze that Green says is in place?? Must be a rumor OR either the district has some extra money somewhere that Green used to hire these coaches and the 2 friends - the principal and the safety director.

Wonder how much those positions will cost the county? $250,000? $300,000? And Green wants to close a good school, disrupt hundreds of student's and their parents by stirring up the pot, build a new high school when we need a bigger middle school, send 8th graders to high school and "create" some kind of "school within a school", etc........ Really?

He's created enough -- enough of a big mess, that is; yet he still seems to be the "boss of the Bd." and gets what he wants no matter what the cost.

Does any of this seem right to anyone?

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