Student achievement, school attendance and technology improvements were among the highlights of the Jeff Davis County Board of Education’s regular meeting Monday, Oct. 5th.
The meeting began with a student spotlight recognizing the Jeff Davis Middle School boys and girls cross country teams, both of which won their conference championships this season. JDMS Principal Dr. Brent Coleman recognized members of both teams for their accomplishments.
The girls team members recognized were Valerie Porras, Dakota Mincey, Rayleigh Pierce, Zaylee Dukes, Jasmine Reynolds, Amy Miller, Winry Clark, Maria Aleman, Breyzi Trejo, Kamila Barragan, Jackie Lara, Brooklyn Andrews and Zoe Odum.
Members of the boys team recognized were Cason Roberson, Nathan Rayo, Alejandro Gonzalez, Abel Cabrera, Derek Fitzwater, Yobani Cruz-Santos, Ivan Ortiz, Rhett Wilkerson, Malaki Quinilla, Anyel Lucas-Morales, Nolan Worth, Fausto Espino Flores, Joshua Edwards, Jacob Wilkerson, Aiden Puckett, Jai’Anthony Benton, Gabriel Turner and Austin Ellis.
Attendance Tops 95 Percent
The board also received its September attendance report. Dr. Roppe reported that average attendance across Jeff Davis County Schools for the month was 95.39%.
School System Focuses on Cybersecurity
Technology Director Chris Raulerson provided an update on the school system’s technology department, with cybersecurity among the major areas of focus. Current efforts include enhanced email security, multifactor authentication and upgrades to wireless and network equipment. The department is also pursuing grant funding for future technology needs in an effort to reduce the amount of local funding required for improvements.
Board Approves Bus Purchase and Other Items
Board members unanimously approved several action items, including the purchase of a Blue Bird school bus, a Medicaid Reimbursement Services memorandum of understanding and a facilities-use request from the Hazlehurst Fire Department.
Chief Financial Officer Joshua Worth presented the August 2026 financial reports, which were also unanimously approved. 10.05.26.BoardSummary
Personnel Changes
The board unanimously approved all personnel items on the consent agenda.
Resignations included Madison McArthur, JDHS teacher, and Jacob Plunket, JDPS custodian.
The board approved recommendations for Alice Hughes and Kimberly Clark as JDPS custodians. Drew Hughes was approved to move from part-time to full-time as a transportation administrative assistant. 10.05.26.BoardSummary
The meeting highlighted both student success and some of the behind-the-scenes work underway across the school system, from maintaining strong attendance to strengthening cybersecurity and technology infrastructure.
