Incoming Superintendent Jody Barrow gave the Fayette County Board of Education a look at his plans for his first 90 days that begin July 1.
Barrow on June 11 told school board members that prior to July 1 he has already received a significant amount of school system data from various departments and has begun reviewing school board policies and procedures. Barrow also conducted a stakeholder survey that has been posted on the school system’s website for the past several weeks and has begun a review of the 2013-2014 budget.
“I considered good common sense on what I need to do to transition in as superintendent,” Barrow said, thanking interim Superintendent Dan Colwell for his “indispensable help.”
Barrow was sworn-in at the June 11 called meeting.
Barrow said during the first 30-day period he plans to meet with all administrators and central office staff and will meet with elected officials and community and civic organizations around the county. Barrow is planning to conduct a leadership retreat with the school board to establish priorities and a vision for the future. Barrow added that he has already met with the various local government administrators.
Other areas to be addressed during the first 30 days include reviewing the current facilities and visiting all schools and system facilities to assess their current condition. Barrow said he will also oversee the successful transition of the schools that will close later this month.
Barrow said the first 30 days will also include reviewing the accreditation report and studying past recommendations to insure preparation for the future.
During his second 30 days, Barrow said he will continue to get to know staff by name and will begin meeting teachers and school system personnel. Barrow said he will also meet with school councils and parent-affiliated groups. He will conduct individual meetings with all central office and administrative staff to review individual and collective goals for development and achievement.
Rounding out the final portion of the 90-day period, Barrow will attend at least one event of every fall sport, will begin attending the large number of other school functions and will attend various community activities. Barrow also plans to establish parent, teacher and student advisory boards which will meet quarterly.
Finally, Barrow will conduct a self-evaluation of his performance during the first 90 days and asked the school board to provide feedback on his performance.
“My goal is not to re-invent the wheel,” Barrow told the board. “I don’t want to be the best school system in the state or region. I think we can be one of the best globally.”
The Chamber Meeting Place at the Fayette Chamber of Commerce was overflowing Monday with chamber members and elected officials on hand for the 15th Annual Appreciation Dinner. Among those present in Fayetteville were (facing camera, L-R) incoming Fayette County School Superintendent Jody Barrow, and outgoing interim Superintendent Dan Colwell. Photo/Ben Nelms.
