Dear Editor,
As we approach the upcoming election season, it is critical that we, as a community, remain informed, engaged, and focused on what truly matters—our children and the quality of education they receive. The future of Jones County depends on strong, transparent leadership within our school system, and that is why I am writing to express my support for Marilyn Norfleet as the next Chairperson of the Board of Education.
Marilyn Norfleet brings decades of professional experience, educational leadership, and community service to this role. Her background includes advanced education in public administration and policy management, as well as hands-on experience in adult education, program management, and community involvement. She has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to education, public service, and family, making her a strong advocate for students, parents, and educators alike.
What sets Ms. Norfleet apart is not only her qualifications, but her understanding of how policy directly impacts families. Many residents have experienced confusion and frustration due to inconsistencies or sudden changes in school policies—particularly around student safety, communication, and daily procedures.
These situations highlight a larger issue: the need for a comprehensive audit and review of all Board of Education policies to ensure they are clear, consistent, and always in the best interest of students.
Policies should never leave families feeling unheard, children distressed, or staff uncertain. Whether it involves student pickup procedures or ensuring that all children are treated equally during school events, accountability and clarity must be at the forefront. We need leadership that will examine these policies closely, communicate them effectively, and correct any gaps that negatively affect our children.
Marilyn Norfleet is the leader who can bring that level of accountability. Her experience managing educational programs across multiple counties and overseeing numerous sites demonstrates her ability to lead with structure, fairness, and compassion.
In addition to supporting strong leadership, it is equally important that our community participates in the voting process. Key dates for voters include:
• March 2–6: Qualifying Week
• April 20: Voter Registration Deadline
• April 27: First Day of Advanced Voting
• May 2 & May 9: Mandatory Saturday Voting
• May 8: Last Day to Request an Absentee Ballot
• May 15: Last Day of Advanced Voting
• May 19: Election Day We also encourage everyone to participate in upcoming community events:
• Voter Registration Drive: Saturday, April 11, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Old Maggie Califf High School (lower level, agriculture/computer lab area).
• Meet & Greet Fish Fry: May 9, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Carol’s Park in Gray.
• These events provide an opportunity to become informed, ask questions, and engage directly with leadership candidates.
At the end of the day, this election is not about politics— it is about our children. It is about ensuring that every policy, every decision, and every action taken by the Board of Education reflects the best interests of our students and families.
Marilyn Norfleet represents the leadership, experience, and accountability that Jones County needs at this time. I encourage all voters to stay informed, get registered, and make their voices heard.
Sincerely, Dr. Barbara H. West Concerned Citizen, Jones County
