School board meetw twice
The Jeff Davis County Board of Education held two meetings Monday, a 5 p.m. called meeting to set the 2026 millage rate (see story elsewhere) and the 6 p.m. regular meeting.
In the regular meeting, Primary School Principal Dr. Shelly McBride recognized the following students who scored the highest in their grade level on the Beginning-of-the-Year i-Ready Diagnostic Assessment.
Kindergarten — Reading – Ayden Burkett; Math – Harrison Teal.
1st Grade — Reading – Bryn Bullard; Math – Barrett Williams.
2nd Grade — Reading – Luis Vega; Math – Cutler Hatfield.
School Superintendent Dr. Chris Roppe presented the August attendance report. The average attendance was 95.58%.
Transportation Director Alvin Merritt provided an update highlighting the department’s continued commitment to safety, efficiency and student service. He said the district operates 39 daily bus routes without double or combination routes. Also, the district’s recent MCCD inspection resulted in no major defects, reflecting the department’s focus on regular inspections, driver safety, and fleet maintenance. Mr. Merritt also recognized the transportation staff for going above and beyond to ensure student safety and said bus safety training is being developed for all grade levels.
The board approved an out-of-state travel request, Jeff Davis High FFA will attend the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Ind., Oct. 21-24.
Nutrition Director Alisa Jones presented quotes for equipment repairs for the School Nutrition Department.
After receiving three quotes, the Board approved the purchase of a 60KW generator and 400-amp transfer switch from City Electric Supply Company in Hazlehurst.
The board approved a Statement of Actual Financial Operations.
Chief Financial Officer Joshua Worth presented the July financial reports which were approved as presented.
The board accepted the resignations of primary school custodian Samethia McKever and transportation/bus driver Ricky Rowell.
The board voted to hire Guadalupe Olvera as a high school Spanish teacher; Fabian Valdelamar as a middle school and high school community soccer coach; and Victoria Roby as a high school community basketball coach.
