Worth chosen as Schools Chief Financial Officer

The Jeff Davis County Board of Education Monday night approved the recommendation from School Superintendent Dr. Chris Roppe to hire Hazlehurst native Joshua Worth as the new Chief Financial Officer to replace long-time CFO Betty Corbitt who retired recently after 18 years on the job.
Worth, who will begin his new position in January, is currently a budget specialist at the University of Georgia.
In other action at Monday’s meeting, High School principal Dr. Greer Smith recognized Lauren Helton and her Marketing students at the high school. Mrs. Helton explained projects her students have been working on such as making car freshies and Christmas ornaments. Her students are taught about the costs and profits from the items and the process of making them.
Students recognized were Kaleigh’Shae Walker, Kaleb Rewis, Abbie Lewis, Summer Santos, Milca Medranlo, Cierra Norris, Addi Davis and Ella Wood. Dr. Smith also recognized senior Laisha Hernandez as the 2023 Class AA State Champion in the 300 meter hurdles in track and as being on the 2022 Class AA State Championship softball team.
Dr. Natalie Hayes gave an update on the Human Resources Department, including benefits, open enrollment with American Fidelity, the transition to the YOSS (Your One Source Solution) platform many school systems are transitioning to, and upcoming staffing needs.
Nutrition Director Alisa Jone gave an update on the School Nutrition Program (SNP) administrative review and corrective action plans that have been put in place since the review.
The board approved the dates and times for the 2024 board meetings, corrective action plans to meet the federal award findings, the correction plan for the SNP meal prices, and the contract for architectural services from Fry Design Group of Macon.
Dr. Roppe presented the financial reports to the Board.
Under personnel, the Board accepted the resignations of elementary school custodian Theresa McRae and School Resource Officer Curtis Harper, and approved hiring Jeraldine Horne as an elementary school custodian, Caleb David in the SNP department, and Lawton Brown as community coach for the tennis program.
And Dr. Roppe presented a plaque to Board Chairman Roger Ogilvie for 15 years of service on the board.