Houston County School Board discusses major concerns in the district

HOUSTON COUNTY, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Houston County schools are focusing on improving literacy and developing the next generation of workers in the community.

They say both are major concerns when it comes the county’s future. So far, the district has grown by more than 440 students this year. Last year, the district grew by more than 470 students. School leaders say they’re headed in the right direction, and are focused on their goal.

‘The workforce of the future’ is what Dr. Mark Scott, Superintendent of Houston County Schools calls students in the district. He along with other local leaders discussed what is going on within the schools at the eggs and issues breakfast.

“We’re teaching students to be problem solvers, to think strategically and I’d like the community to know that the workforce of the future is here in our school district and certainly worth our investment,” Dr. Scott explains.

Houston County Schools’ main focus is literacy.

This past year,over 83 percent of our third graders are reading on grade level. That’s certainly not a place to stop. We’re not satisfied until all of her students are reading on grade level,” Dr. Scott adds.

The district is investing and putting the right people in the right places, to strengthen students’ skills and helping them prepare for any career.

Dr. Scott continues, “Certainly making sure that our teachers are prepared to teach literacy and making sure that we’re encouraging our parents to read to their children and making reading a priority at home and at school as well.”

The district believes educating, planning and partnering with the community will help improve the future generation.

Dr. Scott also says there have been huge increases in ninth grade literature. The district also recognized an area of improvement in physical science. It has been restructured to be taught in eighth grade where students will receive high school credit for it.

Using ESPLOST dollars, Houston County is working on several projects including building a new elementary school, new gymnasiums and replacing school buses that will include air conditioning.