THOMASVILLE — Entering her second year as chairman of the Thomasville City Board of Education, Kejar Butler is plagued by a constant.

Soon after being elected chairman in 2020, COVID-19 struck, and the virus continues to wreak havoc early in Butler’s second chairmanship.

“It was a particularly challenging year with the pandemic,” Butler said.

Learning options were provided for families and students, Butler said, adding that she thinks teachers and schools adapted well.

The school board has met virtually and carried on with its agenda. School board training also was done virtually in 2020.

“We had to adapt and keep moving,” Butler said.

A facilities plan will be a school board focus this year, along with student achievement.

Dr. Hazel Jones is entering her second year as board vice chairman, and she wants to work collaboratively with the new superintendent to form an effective governance team.

Jones also wants to improve student performance by 3%.

Addressing the financial budget consistent with state law is another area Jones wants to address.

Adoption of the annual strategic plan also is an objective. 

“The strategic plan is a state requirement and includes an aligned vision, mission, goals and strategies focused on continuous improvement,” Jones said, adding that the strategic plan should be aligned with K-12 curriculum.

She wants to establish a school board policy and share the school system’s mission, vision, goals and beliefs with all stakeholders.

Jones wants to ensure the school district receives poverty diversity training and increases use of instructional technology.

Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1820