We are respectfully asking Clarke County Public Schools and the School Board to reconsider the funding for the Technology Teacher position at D. G. Cooley Elementary.

This issue is not simply about a schedule or job title—it is about retaining our exceptional educator, Jennifer McDonald, who has become an essential part of our school community.

For years, Mrs. McDonald has gone far beyond basic job expectations by:

• Leading technology instruction for students
• Supporting teachers and staff throughout the building
• Managing the school yearbook
• Creating and managing the school newsletter
• Maintaining the school Facebook page
• Updating and supporting the D. G. Cooley website
• Coordinating lost and found
• Serving as Social Committee Chair
• Supporting the Appreciation Committee
• PTO representative for teachers
• Organizing School Store operations
• Facilitating morning announcements
• Serving as a team lead
• Covering bus duty
• Managing weekly lounge refrigerator clean-outs
• Organizing “No-Sale Yard Sale” donations from staff at the end of the year
• Creating and maintaining the “Panther Pantry” (teacher supply area in the lounge)
• Organizing and maintaining the book swap in staff lounges
• Redesigning and improving both staff lounges, on her own time
• Organizing morale-building events, incentives, and activities for staff  as well as for students
• Helping create a positive, connected school culture  
• Consistently investing extra time and energy into D. G. Cooley Elementary
• Built meaningful and supportive relationships with her students
• Helps out with the Book Fair

Her role functions as far more than a standard position. She is a central support system for communication, organization, staff morale, and school culture. There is currently no clear plan for who would take over these responsibilities. Without Mrs. McDonald , it is unclear whether these systems and supports would continue, which could negatively impact staff, students, and overall school climate.

Despite the tremendous value this position brings to D. G. Cooley, it is currently paid under the Instructional Assistant salary scale rather than as a full teaching position. Unfortunately, this level of compensation is not sustainable, and unless this pay issue is addressed, D. G. Cooley risks losing a dedicated educator who has made an extraordinary impact on students, staff, and families.

We understand budget limitations exist. However, budgets reflect priorities, and we believe investing in proven, dedicated employees, like Mrs. McDonald, who strengthen our schools should be a priority.

We respectfully request that the district:

• 1. Reevaluate available funding options for this position
• 2. Work to retain Mrs. McDonald and the many contributions she brings to D. G. Cooley Elementary  
• 3. Communicate openly with stakeholders before final decisions are made  

Losing talented educators because they cannot afford to stay hurts students, staff morale, and the long-term strength of our schools.

Please help keep the people who make D. G. Cooley special.