Jackson County Schools 2013 | 2016 | 2026 As we continue our preparations, we consider the contexts of the present (2013); the time when we reach capacity as a district (2016); and a complete cycle of schooling (when our current kindergarteners graduate (2026))
Goals and Priorities Awesome learning experiences provided for all students East and West School Communities Fiscal Confidence and Effective Planning for the Future We work collaboratively within a culture focused on leadership, character, and performance to ensure success for all students. This is best accomplished by providing “awesome” learning experiences for all students. The old saying “it takes a village to raise a child” rings true as we develop complete k-12 school communities on both the East and West sides of Jackson County. Each “school community” serves as a central focus for economic, recreational, and quality of life resources in the present as well as the future. We must have funds and a well managed system to reach our goals and to be good stewards for the entire citizenry of our community. Meeting the need s for a growing community provides challenges that require adaptability, flexibility, and a community mindset for the future.
Current Reality WJMS over capacity 2013-14 nearly 200 students 5 portable classrooms in use currently, would need to add 5 more for 2013-14 with current configurations Permanent classroom space exists on East side while portable classrooms are in use on the West side Approximately $12 million in Capital Outlay funds are available from the state once 100% classroom capacity is met System Capacity is 8340 and System Enrollment projected at 7535 for 2013-14 Based on our current reality (may have visuals included) we hope to partner with all stakeholders to implement proactive solutions and to avoid reactive responses. It is important to consider both the intended and unintended consequences of any courses of action. Your best thinking within the framework of “what is best for all our students and our entire community?” will be of great value in this effort.
Enrollment projections (3% growth) East Capacity East Enrollment West Capacity Total System 4,375 3,620 3,965 3,915 8,340 7,535 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 2016-17 2017-18 2018-19 7,535 7,765 8,005 8,252 8,511 8,779 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25 2025-26 9,057 9,345 9,645 9,957 10,281 10,618 11,331 Additional graphs will be included to provide specific growth patterns for both school communities. If we act now, we can avoid expenditures on temporary solutions that are not cost effective such as portables and operational costs. Our plan should include a direction that allows access to the capital outlay funds available through the state. The potential exists to open at least a portion of a new West Jackson HS as early as 2017-2018. East (4,375) West (5,815) Total (10,190) Includes KB Includes new HS
Enrollment projections Exceeds Capacity West side growth is weighted at 4.5% compared to 1.5% for East side.
Enrollment projections Exceeds Capacity West side growth is weighted at 4.5% compared to 1.5% for East side.
Enrollment projections West side growth is weighted at 4.5% compared to 1.5% for East side. JCSS exceeds capacity in 2016-2017, yet cannot access Capital Outlay Funds until 2025 – 2026. To accommodate students on West Side from the 2013-2014 school year to 2025-2026, we would need to purchase and utilize approximately, 120 trailers at $60,000 each for a total of $7.2M.
East and West School Communities Options… Individual School Total District East and West School Communities ? Add portables to meet growth needs, rezone to less crowded schools or build additions Consider establishment of “center” based schools that are within distance from both the East and West School Communities Customize solutions respective to geographic area and established community connections As we consider options, we should focus on our goals and priorities. In preparation for each year, “awesome learning experiences” for all of our children is the core purpose of the organization. Awesome learning experiences provided for all students East and West School Communities Fiscal Confidence and Effective Planning for the Future
Questions We are already studying solutions for obvious questions such as transportation, activities, and staffing. We are looking at a two-tiered system for bus routes that separates K-6 from 7-12 as well as “shuttle” routes to and from strategic school locations. Conversations and plans have occurred, and will continue, with County Parks and Recreation staff to provide comprehensive opportunities for students to participate in activities at school sites. Our staffing selection and placement process is under way. What other questions or issues should be considered as we work together to form our plans?