Dr. Curtis Jones receives 2012 President's Award from Georgia School Superintendents Association
April 20, 2012
On Wednesday,April 18, at its spring meeting, the Georgia School Superintendents Association awarded the prestigious President's Award to the Griffin -Spalding County School System (GSCS) Superintendent, Dr. Curtis Jones.
In the nomination by Griffin RESA Director, Dr. Stephanie Gordy, she said, "I am fortunate to have been able to work with some of the top superintendents in the state, and the superintendent of the GSCS falls into that category. . . . . Because of his deep roots . . ., he possesses a passion for his work that goes far beyond what is normally expected of most superintendents."
The nomination cited the accomplishments that the system has made under Dr. Jones' leadership since his tenure began in 2009:
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A 6% increase in the graduation rate in two years from 68% to 74%.
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17 of 18 schools making Adequate Yearly Progress, up from 14 schools in 2009.
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No schools in needs improvement status.
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The Teachers as Learners conference which attracted 175 teachers and national presenters.
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A January 2010 Growth Opportunity Day for professional learning that attracted 750 employees, making it the largest event of its kind in the state.
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The district selected to be among the first 26 school districts (out of 181) as a Race to the Top district.
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The district piloting a student survey of teachers as part of Georgia's revamping the teacher evaluation program
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Building the capacity of staff and developing a structured, aligned, comprehensive system for planning, monitoring, managing, improving and communicating results.
Dr. Gordy said, "Having worked in several large school systems and having the honor to lead a RESA with an FTE of 115,000, I am aware of the leadership qualities needed to maximize students' achievement and to inspire the employees of a school district. Dr. Jones possesses those qualities and many more. . . . He is a tremendous asset to the system."
