CLAY COUNTY, Fla. – Newly elected Clay County Superintendent Addison Davis initiated a series of “learning walks” Monday in schools throughout the district.
The tour of schools launched Davis’ “listen and learn” tour, which will be announced in his 100-day transition plan, scheduled for release on Dec. 1.
“One of the most important responsibilities of the school superintendent is to lead and support improvements in teaching and learning. This goal can only be accomplished by committing time to visit schools, observe instruction, and listen and learn from teachers and students,” Davis said.
Davis spent the day visiting Middleburg High School, W.E. Cherry Elementary School, Lake Asbury Junior High School and Charles E. Bennett Elementary School.
Cherry Elementary Principal Angela Whiddon told Davis that it was teachers and staff who took the school from a C school to an A school, attributing the success to the school's culture.
"I’ll be quite honest with you. I’m a firm believer in stuff isn’t what makes a school great. It’s good people that make the school great," Whiddon said.
With more than 37,000 students in the district, Davis said he wants everyone to feel like they have a voice.
“The culture we will create in Clay County (is) to have the accessibility to the superintendent, so that I can better help them problem-solve and decision-make, and ultimately create the best experiences for our students,” Davis said.
Whiddon said she and her staff are buying in.
“I wouldn’t think he would say it to them if he didn’t mean it, to where he’s actually asking the teachers to give their input,” Whiddon said. “I think that he’s a man who’s going to keep his word.”
Davis plans other school visits, but the dates for those haven’t been announced.