My name is Max “Joe” Wood. I’m a native and graduate of JCHS Class of 1990. After high school, I enlisted in the Navy to serve my country. I returned home and have resided here for 20+ years. My wife Sara is an educator and we have been blessed with 4 wonderful children. My family is invested in growing and ensuring that Jones County is a better place for future generations through service and business development. I’m employed as an industrial automation engineer with responsibilities for strategic vision, project management, budget allocations, policy development and talent acquisition for 40 manufacturing plants.
What or who was your inspiration to run for Board of Education Chairman? Is there a reason you opted to run for chairman rather than represent one of the BOE districts?
In the 1930’s my great grandfather was the School Board Chairman of Jones County with a vision to build the Knox Center. My grandfather and father inspired me to dedicate my time to my community. I serve my community through my church, as a Scoutmaster for Troop 485, and as a volunteer with the Kiwanis and American Legion. I have served as a firefighter and fire chief. My aspiration to become Chairman is a derivative of my desire to serve my community in a greater capacity and improve conditions and the reputation of the school system.
Mask mandates have been a hot button issue nationwide. What is your stance on masks for students if another COVID wave hits?
Covid has been an unfortunate reality for many. I believe that masks should be worn at the discretion of the parent or individual. I also feel that it is the responsibility of the parent to keep children home if they are not well. The school has the right to screen and send home any individual that is exhibiting symptoms. Masks have held our younger children back in their speech development. Masks have hidden our smiles and joys for way too long. We enjoy our freedoms, each of us has a duty to protect our freedom to have the choice.
Jones County got a small dose of a school shooting in an incident earlier this year. Do you agree with the steps taken to increase security and what would you like to see more and less security at the schools?
The discharged gun in the school gym this year was not by accident. Investigators discovered more than one gun. Proactive policies and measures such as metal detectors/screening should have been in place. Jones County is fortunate to have strong law enforcement resources - we need to strengthen our relationships and have a proactive yet prudent approach to school safety. Our children’s safety should not be subject to the “it won’t happen here” or “it’s not a problem unless we say it’s a problem” attitude. The current “security measures,” i.e., clear mesh book bags are nothing more than security theater.
Sports are huge in Jones County. What are your views on balancing support for sports with supporting other extracurricular activities like band, chorus and arts and science programs?
Our focus should be on the whole child. It is important for children to be well rounded in their academics, social and emotional development, citizenship, sports, arts, music, community service, and other extracurricular activities. All children at every grade level should have an opportunity to grow and develop. Employers are looking for candidates with a variety of skills, talents, and experiences. Our schools should be fair and equitable when it comes to funding and experiences for our children. Our children deserve all the opportunities that we can afford to offer them so they can reach their maximum potential.
The JROTC program at JCHS has been struggling with its leadership. Do you support the program and if so, what needs to be done to secure its place in the school system?
As a United States Navy Veteran, I wholeheartedly support the JROTC program. Students who participate in JROTC programs in high school have access to one of the largest character development and citizenship programs for youth in the world. I have high hopes for its newly hired lead instructor. Currently, JROTC has exclusivity issues that require the Raiders (GHSA) team members to have JROTC as their elective. This restricts students with other interests such as welding from participating. Participation in JROTC builds self-confidence and should be a gem for Jones County. This group currently lacks basic facilities for training.
Each candidate has a platform of issues they would like to see addressed if they are elected or re-elected. The chairman does have a vote but needs two additional votes to make any changes. What is your plan to convince Board members to work with you?
As chairman, I will work with my fellow board members to define shared goals. To bring about change, I will first have to build trust among the team. I believe that the work of leadership is to get results in a way that inspires trust. As board chairman, I will work diligently to build consensus. Building consensus takes active listening and an ability to put aside issues of personal interest. It is important to listen and respect opposing points of view. I also believe that it is important not to be quick to judge and to have an open mind.
The Board of Education receives more taxpayer money than the county and city, and school districts have literally received millions of dollars in funds from the American Rescue Act. Do you believe those funds have been well spent, and what else would you like to see done with the additional money?
The BOE receives more than 60% of local property tax revenue, SPLOST, plus state and federal revenue. This financial obligation impacts all Jones Countians and can be especially difficult for retired/fixed income taxpayers. Expenditures should be linked to strategic goals. Board members and citizens should be encouraged to ask questions such as, “Why is it needed? What are the alternatives? Who is it going to impact? (positively or negatively) When are we going to see results? How are the results or success measured? Leading, looking backwards is problematic. The board should collectively craft a transparent comprehensive plan and work it.
What would be your top priority as chairman?
Improving student achievement by setting higher standards and expectations is my top priority. Last year at JCHS, 17.4% of students were proficient in Algebra I and 25.2% of students were proficient in American Literature. We are currently ranked 7th among schools in the Macon area, 284th in the state and 12,090th in the nation. It’s past time to earn our reputation as an academic leader. Our children need to be proficient in reading and math. I don’t know about you, but I sure would not want an accountant that is 17.4% proficient with my money. We can do better.
Why should voters cast their ballot for you rather than your opponents?
I believe I am the dynamic leader with a proven track record that Jones County needs to lead the board. My focus will be to improve student achievement and ensure the budget is balanced and value is maximized. Stakeholder input should be solicited to review/ update policies to ensure they are reasonable and well grounded.
As a voter, I am asking for your vote and your commitment to serve and commit to our children so that they can learn in a safe and academically rigorous environment. Our children need strong character and high moral standards.
Let’s Make a Difference ~ Together.
