The Beaufort County Board of Education today gave Superintendent Jeff Moss a positive evaluation for his first year as the district’s leader and extended his contract through June 30, 2020.

Chairman Bill Evans summarized the Board of Education’s evaluation of Moss with a statement delivered on behalf of the entire board:

“The board fully appreciates the energy and new initiatives that Dr. Moss has introduced in his first 16 months with Beaufort County School District. There is a renewed sense of transparency between the Board and the Superintendent, and subsequently with the public.

Dr. Moss has demonstrated an experienced and confident approach to his work that has brought a significant sense of competence to the efforts of the district. The ability to respond to rapidly changing contentious topics with calmness and new proposals (as demonstrated during the Bluffton crowding and attendance zone meetings) is greatly appreciated. His leadership has brought us several cost-saving plans, most notably in the areas of new construction and establishing in-house legal services.

“Academically, we are experiencing continued gains nearly in every area, and the board is strongly supportive of the early childhood and CATE initiatives which have been introduced and are already being implemented. The meaningful use of technology to support instruction and the numerous IT opportunities for our students will serve them well in whatever endeavor they choose going forward.

“The district is faced with volatile funding; we commend Dr. Moss for his efforts in bringing attention to this issue to the public and working at both the local and state levels to resolve the concern. We must continue to find ways to do more with less and look at reorganization as a way to reduce costs. The Board has continuing concern, as expressed in comments, in three primary areas: First, and most important, is the small advance being made to overcome the achievement gap. This is an historic reality that has plagued the district for years, and needs to have an immediate solution. The board is willing to support and provide resources as necessary.

“Second is the need to develop authentic alternative education programs across the district that do more than house discipline issues but serve those who struggle with traditional schooling. Programs that address special learning needs also should be a priority.

“Third, to get one and two done, we must have a fully staffed human resources arm able to attract and maintain the highest-quality staff, ensuring that there is an excellent teacher in every classroom and an instructional leader running every school and that they are held accountable for their work.  A priority should be set for identifying a diverse staff.

The board feels very confident that Dr. Moss is the leader we need to make Beaufort County School District a standout not only in South Carolina but in the region and nation.  We hope to have a meaningful and successful relationship for many years.”

Moss said he was encouraged by the Board of Education’s vote of confidence.

“I share the board’s commitment to the goals we’ve set for our students and also the board’s sense of urgency that we accelerate our progress,” Moss said.