The Banks County Board of education held a called meeting Friday afternoon to discuss personnel matters. The meeting was precipitated by a myriad of social media posts and comments over the last few days alleging unethical conduct by staff at the elementary school.
Dr. Mark Stroud gave the invocation that was quite telling about what the Board of Education had before them.
“Lord, we ask you in difficult times and difficult moments to give us wisdom. Give us guidance and direction to try to make the very best decision that we can. I pray for this season, focus has been taken off what it ought to be about, our children. I pray we will be able to move forward. Lord, put our focus and our attention and our efforts back to educating and doing our best for the kids in the Banks County School System.”
The Board of Education was in executive session for approximately 25 minutes, after which they announced they had accepted the resignations of Principal Dr. Dana Simmons and teacher Dylan Charles. The Board also promoted current Banks County Elementary School Assistant Principal Dr. Leigh Ann Perry to Principal and current lead instructional teacher Amanda Grier to Assistant Principal of Banks County Elementary School.
With all of the attention on social media, it was anticipated that the seats in the meeting room would be full. This was not the case. Only five parents attended, four of whom are on the Elementary School Governance Council.
After the meeting, Banks County School Superintendent Dr. Ann Hopkins spoke briefly with Now Habersham.
“It is the practice of the District to make no comment regarding personnel matters to protect the privacy of our employees. Any issues concerning unethical conduct are taken seriously, thoroughly investigated, and addressed accordingly,” she said. “The safety and wellbeing of our students is always our first priority and has not been compromised.”
Dr. Hopkins says she has “tremendous confidence” that Perry and Grier’s leadership “will create a seamless transition for the school students, parents, and staff.”
“I am certain they will continue to lead while demonstrating impeccable integrity. Dr. Perry and Ms. Grier are motivators with high standards. Both of these educators have a servant’s heart devoted to the well-being of our students, staff, and community. They understand the importance of relationships and communication. I have no doubt that they will achieve great success in these new positions,” Hopkins said.
Members of the Board of Education declined to comment due to the sensitive nature of personnel matters.
Allison McClure, a parent and member of the Elementary School Governance Council said, “I am very thankful for the staff and the administration here.”
