I have taught in Jasper County for many years and I know it is the place that God has chosen for me. I have been offered other jobs with a higher salary and turned them down. Jasper County is where I am needed, wanted, and productive. True, problems are numerous here..the battles are numerous..but we are making progress. "Epiphany's" remarks really hit the nail on the head! I have seen everything he has said. I have found, though, that once you become a part of these parents' lives..when they know you REALLY care, then they begin to help you fight for what is best for their child. It is not true for all parents but the majority do come through for us. Now we must welcome a new administrator and embrace him. My desire, as a classroom teacher, is for him to address some issues which I feel will have an immediate impact on the schools:

#1- Lack of retention of our students..When children know that there are no consequences for their lack of effort, then there is NO effort. Summer school is used as a means to promote those who have not passed (even if this is not "public" knowledge). If you attend summer school then you are allowed to proceed to the next grade. This happens each and every year, regardless of their performance during summer school.

#2- Absent students..This is way out of hand. If they are not in class, they can't be taught! The laws are not followed, the problem is not addressed.

#3- Discipline..We need the support of the administrators. Many times when a student is written up there is absolutely no follow-up, no response from those in charge. There are children everywhere who are not interested in advancing their education. These are the students causing the trouble. Let's use our Alternative School for these children. I believe our behavior expectations are far too lenient. Children will do what is expected, accepted, and allowed. Please raise our expectations!

#4- Pats on the back- Let's begin to show those teachers who are making a difference that we appreciate them. A simple "thanks", a short note, a wide smile goes a long way and makes a huge difference in our attitude. There are many, many days when I feel that not one person is aware of the accomplishments I am making.

Thanks for listening to my concerns. Know that I truly love the parents and students in Jasper County and because of that love I, too, want to see things improve. Together, we can achieve so much! Here's to the upcoming year...may it bring out the best in all of us.