David Jones addresses Leon School Board

Former Leon High School Principal David Jones tells of his disappointment in the lack of support from the Board during the past year. Sherry's Shots The Leon ISD Board room was overflowing with emotion and supporters for David Jones at the January 12 ISD Board meeting. The agenda read: "Presentation from David Jones on his years of service as Leon ISD employee and future of Leon ISD."

David Jones was principal of Leon High School in February 20, 2008 when he was accused of abuse against a high school student. The Leon County Sheriff's Department investigated the case and subsequently turned the case over to County Attorney Jim Witt. Witt filed charges against Jones who turned himself in to the Sheriff's office. Jones was released on a personal recognizance bond. A trial was scheduled and postponed two times until County Attorney Witt ultimately dismissed the case.

Jones' presentation to the Board was a testimony of the hurt and embarrassment the episode caused himself and his family. Before Jones spoke Board President Jimmy Beddingfield advised Jones that he was allowed no more than 20 minutes and he could not verbally attack members of the faculty, staff or board.

Jones made no personal affronts and began by saying that he had been a math teacher and coach at Leon ISD since 1992 and that he had never planned to leave the school system. "If I had done something wrong I would have admitted it. When I needed the administration school board, you turned your backs", he continued as dozens of supporters stood by. Several times he mentioned that no one from the Board had asked his side of the story.

He went on to say that he would never make a deal with the County Attorney because he had done nothing wrong. "I would have never put my family in that situation and the most awful thing that has happened is my daughter and her husband have left the teaching profession."

When he ended his presentation supporters applauded and stood in appreciation. He left the room and said to the audience, "Thank everybody for coming. I love you all". Board President Jimmy Beddingfield thanked Jones for his presentation.

In other matters of school business all Board members were present at the meeting. The December minutes; payroll and 2007-2008 financial audits were approved as presented.

School Nurse Sheri Ramby requested use of the old gymnasium for the Leon County Health Fair 2009. The Board approved her request and asked for a report on the Health Screening event scheduled for January 19. She reported that 51 faculty and family members have signed up for health screening.

The Board approved Grade Book and Attendance On Line through SKYWARD, software program which allows grading and attendance to be tracked online. By using a password parents and children could access information as needed. The cost will be approximately $6,000. High School Principal Matt Garner said the program would be a great asset.

The Superintendent's evaluation is scheduled for February 9, following the regular Board meeting.

Two resignations were read by Board President Beddingfield. Lisa Cooper resigned from the custodial crew and Theresa Sitton resigned as head volleyball coach and athletic director. Sitton has accepted the position as director of the new Learning Lab scheduled to open next school year.

The three principals gave their reports stating that enrollment is steady. The Elementary and Jr. High students have been plagued with chicken pox and flu so attendance has been down.