Three candidates running for the position of Chairman of the Board of Education faced off in a candidate forum last week, answering questions from members of the community.
The April 28 forum was sponsored by the Jones County/Gray Chamber of Commerce, Jones County Republican Party and The Jones County News. The questions for the candidates were asked by moderator Aubrey Newby.
The event was definitely a team effort. Jones County High School CTAE Instructor Adam Gillhouse and AVT students live streamed the forum as it happened, and the video of the forum is posted on the Chamber’s Facebook page.
Chris Pope with Music Medics supplied and operated the sound equipment for the event, and Gray Better Hometown Director Ashley Roberson assisted with logistics for the program and securing the venue, Butler Hall.
Jackson McKenzie served as the time keeper for the event.
The candidates running for Chairman are incumbent Ginger Bailey and challengers Brady Skinner and Max Wood. Early voting began for the May 24 election May 2 at the Jones County Elections Office located at the Jones County Government Center.
The forum opened with statements of introduction by the candidates, and then the question-and-answer portion began with all questions asked of each candidate. The candidates answered approximately two dozen questions over a 90-minute period.
The first question asked was how the candidates would balance the needs of teachers and wants of the public. Wood’s answer included looking at the budget and how the request would affect the school system. Bailey said the key is communication and finding out the needs.
“One way is to meet with parents,” she said.
Skinner said it is important to understand the process of the system, and he believes in an opendoor policy for the public.
The candidates were asked their feelings about banning electronic devices in schools. Bailey said there is a bring your own device program in some schools. She said some teachers do not want the devices, but others use them.
Skinner said there is a difference in electronic devices and technology.
“I don’t believe students are allowed to use cell phones in class, and phones shouldn’t be out in class,” he said. “No phones mean an increase in instruction time and limits cyber bullying.”
Wood said the school already has a policy for electronic devices.
“If a policy is not enforced, it’s worthless. Tools can be instructive or destructive,” he said.
Candidates were asked what they believe is the most important issue facing Jones County Schools. Skinner said teacher retention.
“We need to compete. If not with salaries, we need to make them feel at home and supported,” he said.
Wood said the most important issue is academics, and teachers were a big part of that. He said the board can help with the workload of teachers, their salaries, and the resolution of problems.
Bailey too answered academics.
“COVID took a toll,” she commented.
The questions and answers in their entirety can be viewed, at any time, on the Jones County/Gray Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.
For more information about the May 24 election, contact the elections office by calling 478-986-3222.
