"Your job isn't easy. We all know that. But, your work this school year will impact and create opportunities for nearly every family in our community. I can't think of anything more rewarding than that."
Last week, SOSCD Superintendent, Dr. Tony McGee, ended the district's day of learning for administrative staff with those words, setting the stage for a new school year as he sent staff back to their campuses and departments with a common goal.
"When we talk about the Jacket expectations for the school year, you already know what that is," he said. "It's excellence in every area, and I'm confident you can achieve it."
The reference to "every area" was a common theme for the day-long professional development meeting that saw district administrators, school principals, assistant principals and department heads convene to share policy reminders, recaps of procedures, and expectations for the new year. Covering nuts-and-bolts topics from finance and child nutrition to technology and human resources, leaders shared information aimed at supporting compliance with state guidelines, boosting communication and collaboration between departments, and enhancing family experiences on the district's nine campuses. Directors and administrators from nearly all district departments spoke with school leaders and addressed operational questions from each area represented.
In addition to hearing from staff, the administrative team learned about new legislation and legal concerns impacting public schools from special guest speaker, Jim Keith, an attorney with Adams and Reese law firm. Keith specializes in advising school districts on employee matters, student issues, board and administrative relations and education of students with disabilities. He spoke with SOCSD leaders about key court cases that can affect schools, recent action passed by the Mississippi Legislature, and the most impactful laws that govern how schools address employee and student matters. Keith's informative presentation and question-and-answer session underscored the district's commitment to advocating for students.
This week, administrators and school leaders welcomed new teachers for orientation and professional development on Monday, and all staff back to campuses on Tuesday ahead of the district's tiered start for students on July 21 and 22. At each campus, staff has spent the week preparing classrooms, meeting with subject area colleagues, participating in professional development, along with answering questions from parents as they prepare to begin the new school year.
"We welcome students in just a few more days," Dr. McGee reminded the team last week. "I know you're eager to get back to your buildings to continue preparations for the year. Take advantage of this time to prepare for excellence."
"Everything matters," said Adam Dillinger, one of the district administrators, as he addressed his colleagues. "When it comes to providing an excellent experience for our families, everything matters."
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