Student achievement, a statewide recognition for the district’s school nutrition program, and plans for the upcoming school years were among the highlights of the Jeff Davis County Board of Education’s regular meeting on Monday, November 9.
The meeting included recognition of outstanding elementary students, appreciation for local law enforcement, and presentations on the district’s literacy initiatives and proposed 2027–2028 school calendar.
Elementary Students Recognized for Academic Achievement
Jeff Davis Elementary School Principal T.J. Mercer recognized students who earned top honors on the i-Ready Diagnostic assessments in reading and mathematics.
The following students were recognized:
Third Grade
- Mary Hersey — Reading
- Lincoln White — Math
- Layla Wooten — Math
Fourth Grade
- Brooklyn Leggett — Reading
- Isaac Fitzwater — Math
Fifth Grade
- Isabel Zarraga — Reading
- Johnathan Igou — Math
The recognitions highlighted the students’ outstanding academic performance.
School Nutrition Program Earns First USDA Recognition
The district also celebrated a significant achievement for its School Nutrition Program.
School Nutrition Director Alisa Jones recognized the department’s leadership team for receiving the 2025 USDA Turnip the Beet Bronze Award for the district’s Seamless Summer Option Program.
This marks the first time Jeff Davis County Schools has received the award, which recognizes summer meal programs that provide nutritious, high-quality meals to children.
Jeff Davis County was among just 22 Georgia recipients recognized for 2025.
Jones expressed appreciation for the dedication of the school nutrition staff and recognized the following managers for their contributions:
- Angela Burkett — Seamless Summer Option Coordinator and High School Manager
- Angela Steverson — Middle School Manager
- Cindy Fleming — Elementary School Manager
- Cathy Tanner — Primary School Manager
- Crystal Jowers — Pre-K Manager
The recognition reflects the district’s ongoing efforts to provide nutritious meals to students beyond the traditional school year.
Sheriff and Staff Recognized for School Safety Support
Dr. Adam Kirby recognized Jeff Davis County Sheriff Preston Bohannon and his staff for their continued assistance with school traffic and bus safety.
The recognition acknowledged the Sheriff’s Office’s support of students, families, and school personnel throughout the school year.
District Reports October Attendance
Dr. Roppe presented the district’s October 2026 attendance report.
The average attendance rate across Jeff Davis County Schools was 94.65%.
District Reviews Literacy Plan
Curriculum Director Jason Kennedy presented the proposed 2026–2027 Unified Literacy Plan.
The plan focuses on strengthening reading and writing skills throughout the district, beginning in early childhood and continuing through graduation.
The plan is scheduled to return to the Board of Education for approval at its December meeting.
Proposed 2027–2028 School Calendar Presented
Board members also reviewed the proposed 2027–2028 school calendar.
Dr. Roppe presented the calendar for consideration, with final approval scheduled for December.
The board also received proposed meeting dates for 2027, which are expected to be approved at the December meeting.
Board Approves Operational Requests
During the business portion of the meeting, board members unanimously approved several requests, including:
- Facilities use requests for prom and the Chamber of Commerce’s Turkey and Topics event.
- Out-of-state travel requests for cross country, the Jeff Davis High School Band, and a curriculum conference.
- A memorandum of understanding with the City of Hazlehurst concerning the Kersey Street Lift Station.
Chief Financial Officer Joshua Worth presented the September 2026 financial reports, which were unanimously approved.
Personnel Actions Approved
The board also unanimously approved personnel recommendations and changes.
Approved actions included the resignations of Kimberly Clark, a Jeff Davis Primary School custodian, and Jeffrey Coleman, a transportation employee and bus driver. Coleman will continue serving as a substitute bus driver as needed.
The board approved the retirement of Jeff Davis High School bookkeeper Myra Rentz, the termination of Jeff Davis Primary School custodian Maria Pineda, and the recommendation of Lexie Veal for a custodial position at Jeff Davis Primary School.
Looking Ahead
Several items presented during the November meeting will return for consideration in December, including the Unified Literacy Plan, the proposed 2027–2028 school calendar, and the 2027 Board of Education meeting schedule.
The November meeting highlighted both the achievements of Jeff Davis County students and staff and the district’s continuing work in academics, nutrition, safety, and school operations.
Source: Jeff Davis County Schools Board Summary, Regular Meeting, November 9, 2026.
