Dr. Buggs Praises Hardeman County Schools for Grand Junction Support {video}
The Hardeman County Schools board met for its monthly meeting on Tuesday, April 9, 2025, at 7 p.m. Present were board members Kenny Adkins, Jennifer Aylor, Patricia Carter, Johnny Davis, Anthony Ford, Bobby Henderson, Brad Polk, Gene Ross, Stacy Swift, and Director of Schools Christy Smith.
The board recognized the 2024/2025 Teachers of the Year. It also discussed first readings of policies and second readings of policies, which were presented during the March 2025 meeting.
During the public comment period of the meeting, Dr. Linda Buggs, principal of Grand Junction Elementary School, expressed her appreciation for Dr. Smith’s response after the tornados came through Hardeman County. Grand Junction was the hardest hit area in the county and is going through the process of a long recovery effort.
“She sent the entire board of education down to Grand Junction Elementary School. Nobody was here working, they were down there with me. Not only did she send her staff, she came herself and worked . . . that’s what leadership is all about,” said Dr. Buggs, who also praised the actions of several of her peers from the school district including Jeff Barnes and Craig Harris. “If you all want to go into business and want a Door Dasher, call Jeff Barnes and Craig Harris [who delivered needed items to families].”
In return, Dr. Smith commended Dr. Buggs for her concern for her students and staff, and diligence in keeping Dr. Smith informed of the needs of the school.
“We did not know what was happening. We didn’t know if the building was there or not . . . Everything we needed to coordinate, she [Dr. Buggs} said ‘I got this’ . . . And that is the reason she is the leader of a Level 5 Award school . . . she is to be commended highly for her leadership through this time too,” said Dr. Smith.
After Dr. Smith spoke, the board gave Dr. Buggs a standing ovation for her efforts.
AGENDA
Call to Order {0:00 minute mark in video}
Agenda Approval {0:56 minute mark in video}
Consent Agenda {1:11 minute mark in video}
- Approval of Minutes from March 11, 2025, Board Meeting {watch video of March 2025 meeting}
Stake Holder Recognition {1:32 minute mark in video}
Public Comment {13:30 minute mark in video}
Policy Updates {18:52 minute mark in video}
Resolution {22:42 minute mark in video} – Approved Resolution to participate in Section IV of the Education Freedom Scholarship Act of 2025. In order to receive the teacher bonuses provided by Tennessee Department of Education and the Governor’s Office, the board is required to approve the resolution.
Committee Actions and Reports {25:44 minute mark in video}
- Budget Committee {no report}
- DoS (Director of Schools) Committee {25:56 minute mark in video}
Adjourn
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