Stakeholder Input Report For - Jefferson County Public Schools

Stakeholder Input Report for 

Loui svill e, Kentucky 

submitted by 

7905 L St., Suite 310 

Omaha, Nebraska 68127 

Phone: 888-375-4814/402-991-7031 

Fax: 402-991-7168 

Email: mail@macnjake.com 

Website: www.macnjake.com 

April 2011

McPherson & Jacobson, L.L.C. 

Executive Recruitment & Development 

JEFFERSON COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS 

Louisville, Kentucky 

Superintendent Search 

Executive Summary 

On March 28 though March 30, 2011, six consultants from McPherson & Jacobson, L.L.C. 

conducted 30 meetings representing 28 groups, met with or contacted by phone an additional 

26 individuals, sent out numerous letters and e-mails to gather input regarding the selection 

of a new superintendent for Jefferson County Public Schools. 

Outlined on the following pages (pages one through three) is an Executive Summary of the 

major themes expressed by the participants at these sessions. Following the Executive 

Summary is a compilation of all the input received from these groups and individuals in 

response to the four questions asked of each. That section will be followed by all of the 

online responses received through April 4 th . The online survey will have been available to the 

public through April 8 th with an addendum to this report to follow shortly with input from the 

remaining online responses. 

1. What are the greatest assets of the Greater Louisville Community? (This 

information is used to help us recruit quality candidates.) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Big city with a small town feel 

Friendly warm, welcoming 

Rich cultural opportunities – programs in art, theater, dance and many other areas 

are excellent and abundant. 

Wonderful parks system 

Neighborhood identities, people identify each other by high schools 

Tolerant and diverse community supported by non-profit organizations 

Cost of living is favorable and housing is affordable 

Progressive and developing downtown and riverfront 

Wonderful post secondary educational opportunities 

Wonderful medical community and medical research institutions 

Strong faith based community 

1

Strong educational advocacy groups in the city 

Education is strongly supported by the community and businesses 

Kentucky Derby festivities 

Louisville is economically stable and primed for economic growth 

Easy to navigate, can get everywhere in 20 minutes and community transit system 

is excellent 

The community leadership understands the importance of a strong and vibrant 

educational system 

2. What are the strengths/assets of the Jefferson County Public School District? (This 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Financially sound 

Facilities are well maintained, clean and attractive 

Large amount of innovation in programming such as career pathways, magnet 

schools and alternative schools to support children with intensive needs 

Strong commitment to diversity 

People are willing to volunteer in the schools 

Strong business, faith based and community partnerships 

Student support programs supported by community that serve schools and are 

district wide, such as Every 1 Reads, Care for Kids, Youth Print Program, etc. 

Committed and caring professional staff 

Multiple professional development opportunities for teaching staff 

Strong research and accountability department 

Data rich – has had a data warehouse for 25 years 

School district is committed to diversity 

3. What characteristics are most important in the next superintendent of the Jefferson 

County Public Schools? (This information is used as we screen potential 

candidates.) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Must have a passion and love for children/students 

Open, honest and trustworthy– a person of integrity 

Has knowledge of curriculum and instruction with the ability to implement and 

manage school programs efficiently and effectively 

A visionary leader and effective manager who can inspire motivate and build 

confidence 

An exceptional communicator with listening skills – someone who is visible in the 

community 

Someone who has led a large organization and demonstrated the skills necessary 

to turn a failing system around – a transformational leader 

Politically savvy must be able to build relationships with the union, media, 

legislators, state department of education 

Ability to collaborate and empower, tap in to skills of those around them 

Experience in reducing the student dropout rate and improving student attendance 

2

Must be able to bring people to the table from all constituencies from across the 

district 

The ability to create a strong cohesive working relationship with the board 

Have the ability to lead the board and provide them with training opportunities to 

improve their boardsmanship and governance skills 

Must be able to understand the impact and culture of the community 

A creative thinker who can think outside the box 

Must demonstrate a commitment to the district and community by becoming a part 

of it 

Recognize opportunities of current context to forge a path to navigate the future 

Must be able to stand up for what is right in the face of opposition – has 

demonstrated the strength to do what is necessary 

Is able to understand and develop systems – takes a systems approach to school 

improvement 

4. What are the most significant district, community or state issues the selected 

person will face and need to deal with in order to be effective immediately? (This 

information is shared with the final candidates.) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SAP – must come to agreement between superintendent and board 

Bussing as connected to the current student assignment system 

Student behavior, especially bullying 

Truancy and dropout rate 

Low performing schools – need comprehensive and cohesive plan 

Board is viewed as being divided and having functional issues 

Unsatisfactory working relationships with state legislature and department of 

education 

Special interest groups have excessive influence on decision makers 

Need to assess and identify improvements to the effectiveness and efficiency of 

central office staffing and take appropriate action to ensure high quality and high 

performing staff 

A lack of trust in the current system and its ability to turn the district around into a 

vibrant learning community 

State laws such as SBDM mandate restrict the superintendent’s ability to manage 

effectively and make the best use of district resources 

Central office is perceived as not connecting with community or schools 

Closing the achievement gap 

3

SUMMARY OF STAKEHOLDER INPUT SESSIONS 

GLI (Greater Louisville Inc.) 



Easy place to get around if you are interested in the Arts and easy access to 

museums and other family-friendly activities 

For superintendent’s family, it would be important that they understand that the 

position is critical (55K Degrees) in our community. Very high profile position. 

The chance to lead the transformation of education in one of America’s best cities. 

Education is the top priority in the business sector. City is large enough to provide 

access to everything you would want, but small enough to be welcoming. History 

and location has been leveraged to make it a global impact. Great opportunity to 

change education. 

Aerotropolis by John Kasarda & Greg Lindsey describes what constitutes a good 

city? Historically, great cities are built around the rails. In the future, great cities will 

be built around air travel: LA, Chi, Washington, and Louisville (UPS). 

Louisville is the most welcoming city in America. 

PNC—5 th largest bank in the county; 50 markets; Louisville market is the 5 th largest 

of these; expansion coming 

GE—bringing commerce back to Louisville, recruiting engineering talent; 1500 new 

jobs coming 

Health of Banking—Louisville did not struggle during the real estate crisis; very 

sound economy; health care sector—(I-65 Corridor) healthy patient care 

environment with the benefits of the economic development that comes with the 

health care professional 

GE—parts will be driven on location (within 300 miles of Louisville) 

University of Louisville—2 nd fasted growing medical research facilities in the 

country; cited current heart research (stem cells used for regeneration) 

$2 billion investment in the airport expansion 

Ft. Knox—human resources department has moved and with it brought further 

economic development 



Community member standpoint—tremendous amount of energy in forming the 

magnet schools and aligning the industries with these magnets 

Middle class supports the public schools in Louisville. 100,000 students attend the 

public schools; highest participation of the middle class in this schools system 

Commitment to diversity—drives things that happens in the community 

Scale—100,000 students—can make a big impact 

Consolidated school system—other similar cities there has been a corrosion of 

their inner-city schools; quality education in many instances and the creation of a 

very diverse environment; under-performing school system; we can proceed with 

5

great momentum or fail miserably; up until recently, JCPS has been a great asset 

in selling the community; foundation and legacy are there and we are at a turning 

point 

Economic drivers and a system that needs to be fixed—what a great opportunity 

For the 1 st time, the school system is going to benefit from the focus by the 

business and government leaders. Those in the school system do no appreciate 

the tremendous gain that will occur 

3. What characterristics are most important in the next superintendent of the 

Jefferson County Public Schools? (This information is used as we screen potential 

candidates.) 

Business community—core challenge is that the BOE is dysfunctional and unable 

to stick to a turnaround plan; it doesn’t matter who the superintendent is until the 

BOE is fixed—turnaround experience, led a large organization, do not need to 

come out of the school superintendents landscape, political savvy to withstand a 

state takeover 

Sense of time and place—systems merged in the 70’s; brief history of the 

superintendents in JCPS; Engersold—since of place and time; Daeschner— 

politicians; the current supt. was a good educator, but needed to be more active 

politically; next needs to reach out to the community, unions, principals, and 

teachers; will need a strong management team 

No idea who is the community liaison 

Board fighting with each other 

Massive organization, so you will need someone who understands the dynamics 

and that the job is multifaceted; willing to share in the rewards and failures 

Not looking for Superman/woman, but the focus needs to be focused on the 

children in the classroom and preparing them for the very dangerous world ahead; 

leadership characteristics of a CEO who can come into a large organization and 

apply the governance skills to get the dysfunction out of the BOE and align 

expectations so everyone knows what winning looks like; can put a team in place 

to be able to move toward that goal; have to have the tenacity to make touch 

decisions; eyes wide open; Current supt. has the educational software right but 

couldn’t deliver on the results; this success happens in both the public and private 

sector every day and needs to happen in JCPS 

PNC—looking for a dean and wanted someone who was not average; first search 

turned up nothing; second search turned up a candidate the was ideal but did not 

want the job; had to eliminate some roadblocks and develop a comp package; they 

have been successful as a result of this individual; the right candidate probably 

would not dream of putting in their application so we need to go after the best 

candidates (PNC was able to raise the money in one afternoon). It is possible. 

Find the right person, wherever they are 

This will not be a successful search unless we have somebody who will be a 

transformation leader. Find somebody who is a non-traditional educational leader 

6 

 

 

Skeptical of finding the new leader in the traditional pool 

Search Committee—gave the example of New Orleans hiring an ex-military 

superintendent and it failed miserably

Search Committee—discussion with the BOE about performance-based contract; 

the new superintendent can not be successful unless the superintendent is the 8 th 

member of the BOE 

Reminder issues that are not in the private sector such as the Union, tenure, serve 

more meals that all of the restaurants in Louisville, drive more miles than UPS 

Can Louisville continue on as a global leader without a strong educational system; 

we can’t sit around and wait for the right conditions because those opportunities 

will not be there anymore 

We know what situation in education is, but we need to change with the world. No 

employer has to stay in Louisville and if we don’t change they will leave 

The BOE, as individuals, are not dysfunctional and this would be a strength for 

someone who comes in, but as a group they border on dysfunctional. 

BOE members are hard working 




Time did not allow us to delve into this question. 

7

A.I.I Group – Simmons College 



Diversity of cultures – community is very accepting of immigrants and transplants. 

Size of community – we are the 17 th largest, yet have small town feel 

Southern Hospitality 

Easily accessible to many large cities 

Always room for collaboration, cooperation, and the community is always willing to 

come and have input. The school district is open to doing business with 

community. 

Strong business connection 

Huge range of schools – which wants us to look for innovative people to help with 

those that are struggling. 

The community understands the need for change – change in mayor, governor 

changing possibly. The need to understand that we need to change. 

Really open business community that is accessible to the supt. 

Very willing to contribute with money and man power 

Renewed focus on education from the community 

Community is focused to make the supt successful because it will make our kids 

successful. 

The ability to reach major cities across the US. 

For a city of its size, it has an arts and cultural community that is very attractive. 

We offer arts programming very similar to larger cities. 

Small boutique restaurants and eating establishments. Actually world class 

restaurants 

A core of dedicated volunteers that is very willing to come in and help with the 

school system. The supt needs only to come in and organize. Lots of groups willing 

to work. 

Very unique place – very cosmopolitan but a very warm feel 

Very health oriented – a dynamic park system, well managed and well kept. 

Very ecumenical as far as religion goes. A very welcoming religious community to 

work with personally and as work of Supt. 

Institutions of higher education – many within the city and close by. 

Medical institutions are also world class 

Lyman Johnson a huge figure in local history – Louisville is a challenge to live in, 

but he likes it 

Louisville is place where you can make a difference 

8



Challenge – This is an opportunity for success. Good school systems with lots of 

diversity. The system and community is challenged by the success for all of our 

students. They would come into a situation where people would be willing to line up 

and help to push you into success. People are looking to help. They want to be 

unleashed to work and help. 

Flexibility – schools that are successful and not so successful. Helping to work with 

parents to help navigate. 

Recognize the success of JCPS over the years – minority teacher recruitment, 

leadership program 

High level of expectation from our community as it relates to the schools and 

school system. The general community expects a lot from the system. A close 

collaboration between all of the stakeholders to help realize those expectations. 

JCPS is not a broken system – not having to start from ground zero. Very 

innovative programs are already in place. 

We need to realize that we have some very serious challenges and that person 

needs to like a challenge. It is a challenge internally and a desire professionally 

that would want to meet that challenge. 

There is an issue with diversity – some feel that a good educational system and 

diversity are mutually exclusive. They are not. This is the pathway out. 

Our school district is financially sound - each year we can pass a 5% tax increase. 

The challenge comes from what the state does, and when that happens we need to 

find out where to get other dollars. Example – Head start. We get a specific number 

of slots for students, but we have many that need that. 

We have not had to close any schools, nor lay off any teachers. 

Just now has been a mighty resistance to cutting education from the state; there 

was a “near train wreck” about that issue. There is a policy from the standpoint that 

there is a high standpoint of education in this state. 

Higher education has been under the same issue. There has been a “death by a 

thousand cuts”. Many institutions have come through this period due to their 

innovations they have made as results. 

JCPS has always come through with innovation as far as funding nationally – we 

compete very well with national grants. Great grant writers. 

We have excellent staff and administrators, however there are always the good, 

the bad, and the ugly. Overall, we stand up against any school district in the nation. 

That comes from the top down. The supt needs to determine what the need is. It is 

their job to determine if more PD is needed. They need to assess what the needs 

are. 

The training in and of itself doesn’t seem to be a program. Gheens Academy 

develops innovative teaching programs and rolls them out to the schools. 

10-12 schools have been determined as low performing schools and we are 

presently using the strategy of “re-staffing” where the principal comes out and staff 

are replaced. We also have done a lot of work with the GE Foundation and their 

grant. It has been a huge challenge to identify schools, change principals and keep 

the morale up in the school. How do we keep the morale up and keep people 

9

interested in administrative positions when the possibility is that they could be 

placed in low performing school and then potentially replaced. 

The new supt will have to come in and understand that diversity in this community 

is not yesterday’s definition of diversity. We are talking about students of color, low 

socio econ levels, first generation students, ESL etc. This supt will need to be 

ready to deal with these challenges. This is not a time for someone to come and 

learn in the job. Someone needs to come ready to work. 

The supt needs to come with a vision of what makes for sound instruction, what 

makes these teachers want to teacher, and what as a supt needs to do to get them 

to teach. 

It takes a very different knowledge to work with a very large system. What we have 

right now is a very large school system. How do you organize the resources that 

are there? Without organization and leadership to pull them all in the same 

direction at the same time, you have an unevenness in the system. 

3. What characterristics are most important in the next superintendent of the 

Jefferson County Public Schools? (This information is used as we screen potential 

candidates.) 

Be willing to step out of their office and go into the low performing schools to see 

what is going on and be willing to advocate for those in that school. Be able to 

relate to parents of the students in that school as well as key community leaders. 

Parents and guardians have to been engaged in this process. 

One of the first priorities is changing the culture in the low performing schools. That 

is where they need to focus their efforts. 

Ability to communicate with all stakeholders – including students. Students are 

what this is all about. Implementation cannot be done alone. 

There has been a history of dissention between Board members and the Supt. 

There has to be a sense of collaboration. 

Parents feel that they are not welcome in the schools. 

Better articulation between levels of schooling. 

Someone that has proven leadership skills in leading a very complex organization. 

Someone who has an appreciation of the diversity of the community. 

Student assignment plan is a huge issue in the community – we expect a 

commitment to the student plan. 

Should read the NAACP white paper on student assignment 

Commitment, retain, and promote diverse administrators 

It will take considerable strength to lift up all staff to work together as a team. 

The person should be able to terminate those that will not comply with the vision, 

then help those to transition out, and have those on board that are with the vision. 

Issues of family challenges, our homeless population. 

They need to have the skill and have an impact on society as a whole in their role 

10 

 

of supt. 

Must have good educational skills, however we need to have excellent associates 

who have area expertise to assist. One man can’t do the whole job. 

A supt needs to have a person they can turn the fiscal aspects over to another – 

someone who is flexible, and has the freedom and confidence.

Strong leader who can organize a strong senior management team. 

Look for someone who has a proven record in working with a large, urban district. 

We cannot afford to take someone from the “minor leagues” we need some one 

that is working and has prior proven results. 

We want the Supt to meet specifically with this group here. We have several 

groups that have been for some time addressing this issue. (Sen. Neal) 

We want to make sure that this person knows that there is a willing group to work 

with them. 

Communication – being about to communicate by act, word, and deed. How 

policies are rolled out 

We need someone that can bury their ego to some extent 

How we define success is bottom up and it defines. We have to find a way to 

redefine the districts approach and give credibility to the greatest need without 

compromising those that are doing really well 

We have two systems, maybe three, going on. 

Redefine what constitutes success in our system. 




Student achievement 

Understanding the low performing schools – what are the root causes and develop 

a strategy 

What is it that needs to be done and why can’t we get it done? 

Student assignment plan and maintaining that plan 

Transportation – parent concerns of long bus rides, a system that is in place on the 

first day of school. 

Transportation needs to be looked at and have a plan in place 

There are great transportation experts in our city that do not work in the system 

that could be a resource. They need to be tapped. 

There is a correlation between transportation and student assignment plan. This 

gives those that don’t like the student assignment plan more fodder for the fire. The 

feeling is that if we can get transportation under control, then the challenges would 

be lessened. 

Community relations – which has a lot to do with transportation 

Less than 5% of parents who have children in the district have issue with student 

assignment. 

Much better PR 

Some felt that they have been left out of the system 

Better relations with JCPS Board and KDE – a better working relationship 

Better minority representation in administration – specific shortage of African 

American Males represented in teaching staff 

Between Supt and Board – many things have been played out in the public. 

The new supt needs to have a good understanding in how things work with a Board 

How do we go about engaging our parents and get them involved 

11

New leadership will need to generate a new level of confidence that the good 

education of our students is a public benefit and vital to our public good. 

All of our children and their education are important to everyone in our community. 

Will need to know how to deal with our labor union – they are very strong and 

sometimes are keep good things from happening. 

The protection of those that have been here a long time and might need to go – 

changing that. 

Being able to educate all types of students and knowledge of different learning 

styles. 

Meaning that the new supt will have to communicate with all stakeholders. That 

has not been done in the past. 

Must be a collaborator, work with diverse groups – at least you must listen; the supt 

may not be able to do everything, but at least they have listened. 

12

Administrative Forum 



If you hire from within, they’ll know how friendly we are 

Has a small town feel to it 

A great place to raise a family 

Community is progressive and innovative while we remember our history 

Cost of living is a lot lower than comparable cities 

Lots of culinary locations, arts, entertainment opportunities 

Our own children attend the public schools, and not just neighborhood schools 

Diversity is valued 

Education and other opinions are valued 

Religious diversity and opportunities 

Business partnerships (e.g. GE, UPS, Humana) with those who value education 

Economic development—some companies are downsizing while others are 

increasing 

Hospitals bring in health care professionals 

Some areas of the cities are growing while others are not 

Central location (Southwest hub) near Indianapolis, Nashville, and Cincinnati 



Relationship with GLI that leads to financial support, but you have to have a 

superintendent willing to communicate those needs 

Community is willing to invest a lot of money (e.g. GE) 

Professional development opportunities 

Great staff who are experienced and committed to kids 

Every1Reads collaboration 

Church volunteers 

Technical and functional resources (Materials Production, Nutrition Services) 

Partnership with the Arts—we support and then give back to JCPS 

There are some good initiatives going on and they need to continue 



candidates.) 

Supports staff during these trying political times 

New, innovative ideas while still respecting current practices that are successful 

Supports administrators in their new, innovative ideas 

Someone who will face those fears and not just change for the sake of change 

Knows how to deal with the city-within-a-city school system and understands that 

there is not a one-size-fits-all approach 

Will take a hard stand for the schools and the employees 

13

Supports K-12 and early childhood 

Understands the inner workings of the schools 

Principal experience 

Collaborative leader who listens as well as directs 

Honors what has been done before and polishes what needs to be polished 

Meets with the principals 

Will at night to any school in the district, by themselves, and driving themselves; 

approaches a school without fear 

Works as hard as the principals 

Works on the social, emotional, and physical development of the student (whole 

childe approach) 

Recognized that value of the school counselor 

Education agenda needs to be an agenda that we look at wholeheartedly since our 

funding is dependent upon that agenda 

Understands and appreciates diversity within the workforce 

Accessible when you need them 

Approachable 

Balance between community outreach 

Open to an educator who is a man or a woman 

A educator can also be a businessperson (has to run a large central office) 




Community is divided over the student assignment plan and—even though they 

support diversity—there is very little agreement as to how this diversity will be 

accomplished 

Relationship with the State—olive branch to the Commissioner as right now it is 

somewhat adversarial 

Legislative issues that are forced on Jefferson County (navigate the political 

waters) 

Collective bargaining—garner the support of the union around those programs that 

lead to student achievement; teachers’ contact inhibits the administrator’s ability to 

non-renewal poor teachers 

State accountability system 

Lack of support for administrators during the non-renewal process 

Principals at turnaround schools are unable to pick their teachers 

District needs to have the ability to place teachers 

Superintendent does not have the ability to pick the principal; superintendent only 

gets to pick the principal after the school has failed 

Issues with trust, support, BOE, low moral among principals, current lack of job 

security among staff 

Schools of haves and have-nots; charters schools really exist (magnets, traditional 

schools) and are taking from the other schools 

Mis-educated parents who think that charter schools are the answer 

14

Concern was expressed that the administrators were being told what they should 

be looking for 

Expressed that the since of urgency is not urgency, but a since of fear 

The current state accountability system is completely invalid and inaccurate 

We, as a school district, have created situations that make us appear that we are 

not successful 

All of the top students are stripped off of the top and then sent to a select few 

schools; then the rest are left to the other schools 

Media portrayal of the district is negative and needs to be altered 

15

Kentucky Legislature Group 



Lots of major corporations located here 

Forward moving and thinking about education. Will not settle for something they 

are not happy with 

Strategically we are in a great spot in the US 

o Good air system 

o Center for conventions – largest air conditions, cover space in the country. 

Lots of repeat users 

Good cost of living – in expensive to live here 

Post secondary institutions 

Good partnerships between JCPS and Higher Ed 

Good restaurants, arts and sports 

Biggest small town in America 

All of the community is represented in with the merger of govt. Metro Govt covers 

all of the county 

Three educations system- JCPS, JCTC (Community College) and UofL (70% of 

students go to either JCTC or UofL) 

Affordability of post-secondary education 

Louisville has been seen as progressive in education - historically 



The challenge of a lifetime 

Diversity – a challenge but also a strength 

Large cultural differences – handle that different 

Family Resource /Youth Service Centers and their work 

Good facilities – buildings are kept in good shape 



candidates.) 

Strength to do what is needed 

Have the ability to work with others 

Inspire other 

Can work together in a team 

Must have someone who has the experience, not someone who needs training 

Needs experience and leadership 

A doctorate is a must 

Needs to be able to work with the union but within parameters 

16




Communication between Supt and Board 

Barriers to partnerships – possibly too many 

Issues of are students prepared well enough to go on to post-secondary 

Divided community that is not engaged in the system 

Personnel changes need to be made 

Low performing schools – 14 in total 

Brought in national consultant to look at diversity/ plan strategy and was told to 

move forward and then came back a week later and told them not to move 

Completely dysfunctional Board 

Testing - we need to know where students are and where they are when they 

leave. Where are our students – how do we know where are students stand 

Good students move out of the district into either private schools or they stay only 

with Male or Manual or Butler. 

The “good” parents are leaving the schools – we have taken out the best role 

models out of the school and the classroom 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ongoing relationship issues between JCPS and KDE 

There needs to be a strategy about re-engaging parents back into the school 

system. There needs to be some type of strategy that reconnects with those that 

are coming in from other schools outside of JCPS. 

Huge disconnect between the community at large and the public schools and it is 

getting worse. It has gotten to the point that this community will never reach its 

potential without the public schools. They need to reconnect with community along 

with the schools of all levels to be seen as covering the entire community. 

Go get the most dynamic leaders of education – no matter the cost. We want the 

best Supt in Jeff Co and we are going to pay for it. 

Pay those that are the most experienced – what we pay the Supt is nothing 

compared to those that are in big corporations and vice presidents of large 

universities 

Parents have given up 

The Supt needs to take ownership of the district – bring their family, kids go to the 

schools, and be part of the community 

We still have entrenched dynamics that defeat what we are trying to achieve as a 

community. What is playing out in the school system is a demonstration of what is 

happening n the larger community 

Even though we aspire to have one community, and the leadership does try to 

achieve that, but underneath the community might not accept it 

Leadership must be one page – we have not done that effectively, some aspects 

have in some ways, but not in totality 

Tremendous capacity on board but they are not trained, undisciplined, and selfinterested. 

They have no idea how to carry out policy. 

The board needs on-going training, they need to stand by solid rules, the board will 

never be functional if they don’t learn to operate 

17

The board didn’t take into consideration what the previous superintendent where 

he came from, very superficial 

Training could bring re-alignment – no confidence in the board as a whole 

Could potentially happen with the new chair 

Great concerns with letting Berman go due to the timing was absolutely terrible 

There are huge pressures form the state and wanting to get Jefferson Co into 

shape 

After research, the Supt was very knowledgeable and had good ideas. He did not 

have the savvy of knowing the inner workings of the district and fell prey to those. 

The politics of the situation is what has created the circumstances 

The dynamics are not going to go away – we as a community need to get hold of 

the board 

The teachers union and their support of Board members – they “run the show” 

through the school board. 

Many of the issues the board members deal with are totally inappropriate 

The board doesn’t know how to communicate with the public – they don’t inform 

what is going on to the public. The essential question is how dos the community 

become informed? 

The Board needs to have some principals as how to operate and how to operate 

with integrity 

There is no connection to the public – example the board members come in the 

back door. The board members are not known. 

Berman has been the only Supt that has reached out the members of the 

delegation. 

Perhaps we need to look at how we elect board members 

We have discipline problems and issues on the buses and we need more 

alternative schools 

18

Juvenile Judges 



Chose Louisville because of the Arts, and that we have a little bit of everything. 

The people are friendly and welcoming 

Many different types of neighborhood (e.g. the historic neighborhoods, the eclectic 

Highlands, the east end mansions); it is impossible to not find a place that will meet 

your needs 

Young mayor, effective airport 

Quiet money—those who don’t try to fix everything with money, a quiet undertaking 

of supporting others financially 

Unfortunately, a segregated community in many areas of the city 

Sometimes a closed community where it can be difficult to break into certain areas 

based on ethnicity and religious beliefs 

Active waterfront and urban environment 

People permeate through the neighborhoods 

Active place to live 

Great food and eclectic places to eat 

Lots of small, free magazines that help citizens to stay informed and involved 

Beautiful metro parks systems 

Lots of transplants who chose to make Louisville their home 

Real estate is diverse and affordable 

Even though there are negatives, they don’t compare don’t compare to the 

negatives in surrounding/comparable cities 

Economic segregation is present 

Great place to raise a family (parks, museums, safety, etc.) 

Community of honesty 



Teenage Pregnancy Program (TAPP) is an innovative program that has been 

highlighted nationally; has a place for all students 

Educators have come up through the school system, there are barriers and those 

who are barriers need to be removed 

What we are doing right now is not working 

We aren’t counting kids past 8 th grade 

Kids are habitually late/absent from school 

There needs to be credit recovery (e.g. Liberty High) 

Zero Tolerance—pushing our children out of school; suspending for invalid reason 

Buechel Metro—alternative placement for behavior; it depends on the schools and 

the offense 

Principals run the schools as their own kingdom 

We need a system in place for consistency from school to school 

Unequal discipline in schools; over-represented minority population; school-toprison 

pipeline continues to funnel minority students disproportionally 

19



candidates.) 

Great communicator—he or she will need to be more communicative than our last 

superintendent with the community 

 

 

 

 

 

Be more out there 

When you are running a multi-million dollar district/business you may need to find 

someone who has a business background; Dr. Berman was great in the 

educational realm, but not in the business side; you can always hire educators and 

those in charge of community relations; they must be able to bring in the best and 

the brightest in the areas, we can’t expect her to be an expert at everything, but 

she must be able to hire the best 

We need to reconfigure the school district (divided into quadrants) to bring more 

attention into at-risk schools 

District-wide reorganization is necessary 

Promotions have occurred just because the individuals has served their time, even 

though they may not bring benefits to the table 




The community may see something as a problem when it really isn’t 

Bussing issues (community split, high tension) 

No sense of urgency in our community about the actual students and their needs 

(specifically, homelessness) 

Financially, absences are costing the district millions 

Those in charge of pupil personnel cost a lot of money with little return 

Children have to miss 24 days before it is acted upon 

Two school personnel in the court building 

Judges have access to school data (attendance, discipline, academics) 

Only a small portion of those who are habitually absent are filed in the court system 

(the truancy officer position is BROKEN, BROKEN, BROKEN) 

The truancy officers and attendance clerks are under the supervision of the 

principal 

The high risk and high-need children are disproportionally 

We need to start working with students at an early age 

Bussing will be a major issue 

Needs to be wiling to hear from those in the community 

Kids are behind and not given time to catch up 

Truant students are homeless, underachievers, overachievers, bored kids, 

undiagnosed learning disabilities 

Communication qualities to educate the community about learning disabilities 

Kids claim to feel invisible in school, ineffective system in terms of how individual 

students learn 

Parent don’t feel welcome 

20

Kids are often have a misdiagnosed learning disabilities 

District cuts funds to the support services 

Kids who are failing are from dysfunctional homes and many suffer mental illness 

Parents often don’t get children to their doctor’s appointments and/or medicine 

Students often have other things that keep them from school (death in the family, 

illness) 

Attendance is the bigger issue, not truancy 

Attachments—kids being punished by taking things away 

An issue of this magnitude definitely requires the attention of the new 

superintendent 

Shell game, there is no accountability at the district level and a political game 

21

LEADERSHIP LOUISVILLE 



Very welcoming community 

Easy to get involved in the community – 

Community will be invested in this person’s success 

Ease of living and cost of living are appealing 

Traffic patterns are very easy 

Vibrant arts and cultural resource 

Good quality of life 

Very much quality of arts programs 

Offers so much – good food, good culture, educational community many things that 

young and those with family would really enjoy 

Access for the airport – easy to get into and to catch a flight 

Still impressed after living here all life 

Ease of travel 

Beautiful parks systems – walking trails, waterfront, biking 

Arts district is phenomenal – would compare to any big city 

College sports town – but has quick access to major sports arenas as well 

Very easy to live here – no obstacles to access 

Business community works very well together 

Close knit community and action oriented community 

People are willing to get things done 

Strong partnerships with UofL 

The strong academic partnerships actually work here and that is not the case in 

other places 

University Signature partnership between UofL and JCPS 

Initiative in the community to want to be involved – volunteerism, coaching, 

willingness to get involved 

A culture of civic engagement 

Great shopping for all 

Very diverse community – renaissance opportunity for leadership 

Small town with big town amenities 

From the personal social side – you will always know someone, but you always 

have someone new to meet 

Good weather patterns – for the most part 

The YUM center is a huge draw for major events which makes downtown even 

more vibrant 

World class sports – it is beyond just college sports, we have an international 

appeal 

Great golf 

Appearance of long term financial stability – not as volatile as other communities 

Good place to be sick 

Louisville Writing Project 

National Center for Family Literacy 

22



There are some amazingly creative programs going on despite bad press 

Lots of resources 

High school redesign is really dynamic – good career exploration 

Influx of young, engaging principals 

Authentic diversity – vast and incredible to see, not contrived 

Everyone Reads program – business community has embraced the need to get 

involved 

Working with national experts in such areas as reading, math, science 

No child is expelled – over 90% of kids eventually finish high school 

Alternative schools are there to help children with different needs 

Extraordinary tradition of partnerships between business and JCPS 

o GE Grant 

o New Kid in School – early 80’s 

Community ownership from the top tier of the community 

A good tie between education and job growth 

Elementary focused schools with career focuses and magnets 

Preparing to develop a digital technology campus focused on math and science – 

opportunities for training, internship etc. 



candidates.) 

Leadership 

Relationship ethos – weather parent, faculty staff or business community 

Engaging approach to the job – will engage all within the process 

Not afraid to collaborate 

Some that can interface with all stakeholders 

Motivational 

Policy orientated – not just to administer schools, need to be an administrator and 

understanding of policy 

Be decisive and be able to stick to their guns 

Public persona – the ability to render a clear vision. Be able to state vision in 30 

seconds – have an elevator speech 

Good articulation 

Need to be thick skinned, but at the same time compassionate 

Be able to weather the criticism 

Politically savvy – someone who can deal with politicians at state and local levels 

as well as the Board members 

Building and sustaining internal and external relationship 

Broad focus 

Cultural change agent 

Strategic acumen 

Integrity 

23

Can build a team 

Accountability 

Stature and presence 

External credibility 

Passion, passion, passion 

Can see what is coming next – being able to see what is coming around the corner 

Vision 

Respect what is here and what is working well. Value what has been done 

Working with stakeholders to lead change 

Help community groups to understand the change that needs to happen in order to 

move the district forward 

Will have about 6 months to form that impression – needs to have optimism, 

enthusiasm 

The district is hungry for enthusiasm 

Understanding of where the team needs to be around them 

We aren’t looking for someone who has all the answers but has the know how to 

build the team 

Very important to give the impression that they have a handle on the issues 

Demonstrated experience in handling a large size district/organization 

This should not be a training ground 

Positive energy 

Finesse 

Infectious personality 

We don’t need a curriculum writer 

Need to be combat ready – hit the ground running 

There is no hiding 

Need to approach this as the leadership challenge of a lifetime 




Student assignment plan 

The immense poverty that the assignment plan does not effectively address 

The inequality that is happening in our district 

ESL students 

Child advocacy numbers are going down 

13,000 homeless children 

Lack of educational attainment 

The bar keeps shifting – growing poverty and how do schools prove their success 

The instructional realities in many classrooms are not as good as they should be 

We are losing a whole generation of principals to lead change in the schools 

Challenges to getting good teaching happening 

Dealing with things in a district wide sustainable manner is an issue 

The role that the teachers union plays in our district and in our state 

No counterbalance to the union voice 

24

The surrounding counties have flourished due to flight from Jefferson Co 

We are losing good families out of the public school system into other school 

options 

The rhetoric needs to be softened 

When people move into the community, the first blush is not the best. The 

perceptions are not the best. 

Negative conversations about the school system as people move into the 

community 

As a whole people like the system, but it becomes a hardship on parents as well as 

kids 

There is a positive perception as it relates to curriculum and community 

involvement, but it is the busing issue. It doesn’t’ seem that there is a question 

about the quality of education, but the complexity of admission. 

Children for low income to single parent homes, the distances are a problem 

Huge paradoxical issue with the bureaucracy – the red tape needs to be cut 

Very unique political state 

25

Metro Council 



For a city this side of the Mason Dixon line is a huge Roman Catholic community 

with massive investment in parochial schools 

For the first time the mayor’s race involved the public schools, there were so many 

issues that crossed the lines 



1.5 million in grant to JCPS to take out salt and sugars in cafeteria foods and 

putting in more herbs, a local middle school is growing the herbs 

TAPP programs – a national model provides services for moms to be as well as 

their children. They have a 96% graduation rate. We need to explore what they are 

doing and try to replicate 

Family Scholar House – for those parents that are working towards their college 

degree – housing is supplied, tuition is paid 



candidates.) 

Sees more value in voc ed and not all kids are going to college and they have 

career choices. These choices are valuable career choices 

Don’t make school changes just for change sake if one works 

Someone who has real world experience 

Someone who has balanced a budget and can make it work 

Someone who has a knowledge of business – someone in charge of making the 

school produce 

Leader 

Someone who is willing to challenge the status quo 

Some who is willing to take on the union, and allowing the community to have 

educational options 

Needs to come from a diverse community and a relevant size of district 

Someone that could shift though the bad stuff and keep what is good 

Needs to focus on basic education 

Open minded – you cannot repeat things over and over and expect different results 

Willingness to buck the JCTA system 

A good understanding of the needs of special needs students 

A good disciplinarian 

Salesman – must sell changes to teachers in the union 

26




Changing the dropout age to age 18 

We have a huge childhood obesity issue 

Huge homeless population 

Huge free/reduced rate 

We cannot be compared to the rest of the state 

Huge immigrant population 

Populations of students that are not being served or getting the services they need 

Vocational education needs to be revisited – we are keeping options from our 

students 

JCPS is very top heavy along with the state dept and we are being held back due 

to lack of charter schools 

Too many positions in between the supt and the teachers 

Do not be beholding to the teachers union 

Understanding the budget and using the fiscal resources to the best ability 

There used to be a vocational school around the system – went to the vocational 

school first then could go back to their home school. 

We are not working to build our skilled labor in our community and we need to 

restart the programs within our schools 

Schools need to help students find their passion 

Current supt never visited schools – the connect needs to be revived 

Student achievement issues 

Our district is so large and such a bureaucracy, that we need to look at 

restructuring the composition of administration 

There needs to be more of a communication between state and local, more 

business involvement 

More interaction with agencies that can help 

We are not attracting the best and brightest teachers – there are many teachers 

that are just waiting to get out 

Discipline is a huge issue 

Students are not graduating with the tools they need to succeed in higher 

education 

Lack of neighborhood schools 

There is a lack of community involvement due to the fact that are no neighborhood 

schools 

Social promotions are a disservice to students and it is far too prevalent in the 

school system 

Affluent parents who can, will leave and got to private schools 

The number one issue is education 

Lack of parental involvement is a huge barrier to achievement 

Charter schools in certain areas of town could be the solution 

Other counties around are growing by leaps and bounds 

27

Better work with students with special needs – better prepared staff to work with 

these students 

How do we give students hope? 

We need to identify the problem and get them what they need 

Needs to be more structure 

One of the biggest issue is the leadership in the union 

28

YMCA 



Derby events! 

Good basketball teams 

Great, local non-chain restaurants 

Great park systems 

Good draw for families 

Easy to get around – can get anywhere in about 20 mins 

Diverse population 

Open and accepting of all 

No real sense of rush hour traffic 

Terrific arts program – Broadway series, orchestra, ballet, great performing arts 

center, downtown area, museums 

Unique neighborhoods – very intimate 

Friendliness to families 

Good airport – easy to get in and out – reasonable plane fares mainly due to 

Southwest hub 

Revitalization of downtown, with the building of the arena has really lead to more 

restaurants, bars and more activity in general 

Museum row 

University of Louisville – booming, good education recognition, multitude of sports 

accolades 

Lots of philanthropy – people are willing to give 

Willingness to volunteer 

Housing market good 

Good cost of living 



Good job of utilizing resources and bringing resources 

Good work with their grant working on getting more nutritious foods in cafeteria 

using local produce 

Good staff 

They do more than just stay within the school system, they reach out to community 

partners (more than just the Y) 

They don’t have to reach out, but they do 

Genuine caring for students – at the district level and individual school level they 

are willing to work and share information 

School Resource officers are better trained and handle the situations much better 

than in the past. School principal and officer partner better to handle the situation. 

The Family Resource and Youth Service center personnel work very hard to get 

families what they need 

29

Willingness to partner and create a strong educational process, which sets up a 

positive relationship 

Open dialog is possible – willing to work on issues 

Potential to have a Y and a school to share a building – so that it can provide a 

continuum of services for families 

Want to provide equal services to all kids no matter what area of town the child 

lives in 

Offering quality space in each of our programs 

Generous with allowing outside groups to use their facilities 



candidates.) 

Leadership – to be able to guide through major issues 

Someone who is willing to swim upstream 

Integrity 

Be willing to rock the boat if need b 

Experience in re-working a system 

Not go with status quo 

A proven track record of leadership 

Willing to take on a challenge – with the spotlight on the district as it related to test 

scores 

Building of a team 

Willingness to admit that there are problems – be open about what is going on 

Real desire to improve kids lives – so that kids are as prepared as possible. 

Be a good listener and have good skills 

Be able to hire the right people and maybe make changes on staff now if need be 

Come in and have short term impact but have vision of long term goals 

Dynamic 

Strong “stage presence” – someone that can be in front of a group and have a 

strong presence and poise in presentation 

Good speaking skills 

Their presence and be felt in the room 

Varied background about the complexities of a large scale delivery system 

Have a consistent core message 

Courage – don’t be afraid to take on some of the factions that are present – be able 

to sort through priorities 

Engaging with business community 

Having a little “wackiness” about their passions 

Be able to have some quick success stories 

Transparency – however we need to be careful since the best candidate for the job 

may not be looking for a job and there needs to be some confidentiality 

The resume could justify a larger salary – needs to reflect that they have the kinds 

of experiences to work in this district 

30

Continuation with an aggressive attitude toward partnerships 

Track record of involving parents – needs to have a strategy 

Be able to encourage the community partners to step up and help get parents 

involved 

Customer service oriented – looking at the system from the outside in 




Transportation – school choice 

Diversity 

Create positive parent/teacher interactions 

School Based Decision making councils – not able to set policies for entire district. 

Hard to lead a district like that 

Functional autonomy could be difficult – we need a school system not a system of 

schools 

Union issues – teachers that are in the classroom that don’t need to be there 

Sense of the haves and have nots between schools in the district- still some 

inequities that need to be addressed 

Working with the homeless students – 10,000-13,000 

Truancy issues as well as graduation rates are questionable 

Bullying issues as well as vandalism issues 

Lack of parent involvement 

Dealing with the status quo – rethinking how things are done 

If the logistics don’t support the way you have done things in the past, try 

something new 

School board is dysfunctional 

School within the school- African American youth not given the same chances as 

other students 

The magnet programs tend to segregate and lends itself to the school within a 

school 

The amount of physical activity is declining in the classroom and be able to look at 

creative ways to incorporate 

Recognize you cannot separate health outcome from educational outcomes 

How will they deal with the issue of charter schools in the legislature 

31

CLOUT, PIE, KY Alliance Against Racism and Political Oppression, Center 

for Family Literacy 



Commitment of business focusing on education (55,000 Degrees) 

Strong social justice movement 

Much under rated social justice community 

Welcoming for immigrants and refugees 

Good location for business and commerce 

Brookings Institute study – how can Louisville grow in a positive direction – 

increase the educational level, which is what the community is now trying to do with 

the help of faith based and business communities 

A recent surge on education and cooperative effort – not new to our community. 

Louisville had a history of supporting education especially in the African American 

community. 

Good arts community – Ballet, orchestra, Actors Theater 

Youth Performing Arts School – part of JCPS 

It has a sense of “home” 

A great place to raise a family 

Diversity is here – top 10 places in raising a family 

Schools are focused on diversity, focus on education 

Muhammad Ali Center – not just devoted to sports it refers to peace as well and 

justice for that peace 

Family is most important – that should be a place for the new Supt to place their 

family in a place where they can grow. 



From a student perspective – Brown School, very unique experience (The Brown 

School is a K-12 School) Gave the speaker a good foundation of meaningful 

integration 

Care for Kids program – programs that look after the mental and emotional wellbeing 

of students, want to see these types of programs preserved 

Always been community involvement, always an “initiative to bring it to the 

community” 

A strong force given to help parents to participate, and many opportunities are 

there for parents 

Very successful in a the difficult 30 years since desegregation 

The community still supports the desegregation plan 

Feels JCTA is a strong force and is a benefit to the school system 

A candidate would need to be aware of that 

32

JCPS has a willingness to try new things – after a community meeting JCPS 

worked and started a program of “restorative practices” instead of “zero tolerance”, 

they hired 30 additional behavior coaches 

Despite the complex student transportation, it has kept much of its “market share” 

as opposed to the “white flight” that many large metropolitan districts have 

experience. 

It has been a model in its retention of white families – however African American 

children have not fared so well. 



candidates.) 

Should believe overcoming the achievement gap should be a number one goal 

This responsibility lays on the Supt and the School Board 

Good political leadership in general as well as working with the Board 

Being able to understand the history of the community with racial issues 

Maintain a progressive culture and 

Positive image building 

Experience in working on positive culture 

Can increase student and parent interaction (demonstrated) 

Can demonstrate their leadership with unions 

Has a planned vision 

Can provide positive supportive atmosphere 

Good professional development 

No more zero tolerance approach of school discipline 

Understanding of restorative form of discipline 

Understand and appreciate the momentum of the movement towards this issue 

Committed to district wide solutions on bullying in school 

Focus on making the relationships in the classroom are more positive so that the 

behavior issues will not surface 

Being aware of different styles of learning 

Open-minded, tenacious, compassionate 

Receptive to diversity and recognize the needs of our students 

Committed to the role of the schools system and be responsible for what the school 

system does. 

Our system is so large, there is no reason that we can’t maximize the potential of 

each child – we have so many programs for so many different needs. 

The belief that race is a construct, not a fact. 

It can be achieved if the schools realize that fact and work towards that fact 

33




Achievement gap 

Diversity 

Restorative justice rather than punitive justice (zero tolerance) 

 

 

Plug the “school to prison” pipeline 

Alternative schools – disproportionately against minority, poor and special needs 

students 

34

Metro United Way 



Clarity of the Board itself 

Very welcoming 

Very livable – not a commuter city 

Vibrant arts scene 

Great college sports 

Very family friendly community 

Housing costs are low, low cost of living 

Unified govt and school district 

Relative stability despite the issue of school assignment 

Best restaurant town in the country! 

Air travel pretty reasonable due to Southwest air 

Good manufacturing – thanks to Ford, becoming more globally competitive, 

becoming a “center of excellence” 

GE is hiring again, growing and is their design center for their entire appliance 

industry. Bringing products back from overseas. They can produce at competitive 

rates than in China. 

Logistics center as it relates to UPS – as far as globally situated 

Very committed people in Louisville, weather is great 

Awesome Derby Festival 

Very intentional in supporting education 

Many groups are very willing to bring together their educational agendas to support 

the supt. 

Very distinct neighborhood cultures here 

Voted one of the best communities (America’s Promise- Colin Powell’s initiative) for 

youth for 4 years, going for a 5 th 

Travel easy – road trips are not unreasonable 

Public transportation – decent 

Arts well respected, orchestra etc. 

Diverse faith based and worship opportunities 

Mohammed Ali center and other museums available 



Recognized as one of the better large urban districts 

Large innovation – lots of career focused programs 

Gheens center is a huge advantage 

District has availed itself of a community that is willing to help out and partnership. 

One Community, One Nation program – one of Dr. Berman’s programs focusing on 

social studies and partnering with community organizations. Metro United Way 

35

partners with 3 rd grade. Starts in Kindergarten as a way to look at communities and 

continues into 6 th grade. 

A commitment to long-term change that has been started over the last few years. 

Looking at what the challenges of our community was, willingness to change 

We are a consolidated school system 

Consistency and stability of Supt for the past years (Supt before Dr. Berman was 

here 14 yrs) 

Parent Portal – parent link into computer system to check on grades etc. 

National merit semi-finalists are great from the district 

Collaborative nature of the district – many times other organizations as “how did 

you get your school system there?” 

New Mayor is very focused on education 

55,000 degrees initiative – working with multiple sectors in the community that all 

have an important role to play in getting us to our goal. 

Many times our strengths are over looked 

JCPS is very transparent as far as the information that it gives 

Works with a multilevel attainment system – offer tremendous opportunity 

Youth Print – working on creating a system of out of school time across the 

community. Partnership between JCPS, Metro United Way, and Metro Govt. 



candidates.) 

Team player – within the system and the community 

Exceptional communicator – and being okay with admitting problems, but being 

clear with time frame to work on. 

Being ready to deal with issues that are at hand. 

Needs to understand community systems – not letting the school system be an 

“island unto their own”. Outward thinking 

The role is more than a school system administrator – which needs to come from 

within 

Someone who knows how to understand working with an elected school board – all 

representing their own district 

Political smarts to work in that kind of system 

Ability to work with a very “needy” school board – they will have to address those 

needs. 

Needs to be a good communicator with all factors of the community 

Needs to value diversity and has some experience in working with that – 

demonstrated through their leadership that they have done that. 

Understands the challenges to garner support for long-term change. 

36




Student assignment and all that goes with it 

The very size of Jefferson Co. 

The love/hate relationship between us and the capitol and our department of 

education. 

Student assignment, race, class, poverty issues all go together 

The issue of Neighborhood based schools – several segments of the community 

are looking toward that – including a potential gubernatorial candidate. 

Many folks don’t understand the limitations to what a “neighborhood schools” 

mean. 

There has been a lack of leadership from the school board in helping the 

community to understand what that means 

Also, KERA (KY Education Reform Act) and the implementation of Site Based 

Decision Making. These are huge inhibitors to progress. 

Classic case of Urban Center of the state – we are underwriting the rest of the 

state. 

Trends by state govt that are looking toward slashing education. 

Being transparent – holding people accountable 

Rapid confusion between what is government and what is mandate 

The nature of change, real change, is a very tedious and arduous process. 

 

 

To have folks for a brief period of time and can do more damage than it can good. 

Not a fan of term limits – more concerned with having more authentic 

conversations 

37

Greater Louisville Alliance of Black School Educators 



Rich History 

Cultural attraction 

Tolerant Community 

Geographic location – 8-hour drive to 80% of the country. 

Community is supportive of education 

Weather—we have four distinct seasons 

Superintendent will live well in Kentucky (financially speaking). 

Safe: we’re a “big little town” 

Urban district, but not urban in the sense of what people see on TV. 

Largest collections of Victorian homes in the nation 

Cooperative and collaborative environment: Mayor and Congressional 

representative know people by name. 

We have enough money to be able to hire new teachers, not fire/lay-off like many 

other districts are forced to now 

Strong partnership between business & schools. 



Poor communication between certified-classified – administrative 

There is also a lack of honesty when there is communication. 

Kind, spiritual community-will often give supervisors the benefit of the doubt, 

however credit is not always shared as necessary. 

Money for technology – asset; challenge: not available to all students and schools 

Challenge: The top administrations don’t always listen to those they serve. 

There are schools even teachers consider “throw-away”; we need equality with the 

system. 



candidates.) 

See employees as educators; not only as a business 

Understand all aspects of diversity – gender 

Value each & every person who works for the district – custodian, teachers, 

principal, and demonstrate their concern for all employees. 

Able to work with and value each level of educator: Early Childhood, High School, 

etc. 

Must be able to be prepared to work with a strong union and be union-friendly and 

understanding. 

Be able to train-up. 

Be a “salesperson” and share the vision to get buy-in; be comfortable speaking 

with all populations and not speaking down to any community. 

Must be comfortable in all neighborhoods. 

38

Know that we lack succession planning. There are people here with the system 

that are qualified to do all jobs. 




Selecting leadership with different positions. 

Student Assignment 

Strong minded Board members and the members backing 

Communication style 

Recognizing when he/she doesn’t have “TRUE” backing or support 

Being able to hire someone smarter than you. 

Forthcoming with parents and being involved with going to communities. 

Deal Breakers 

 

 

The community will challenge the JCPS. 

Will the new superintendent be able to identify the land mine in Dr. Berman’s 

situation? 

39

Education Foundation 



There is in the community a focus and priority on education - many education 

focused initiatives 

Understanding of the need for the system to be successful for the community to be 

successful 

Track record of support from multiple organizations in the community for clearly 

articulated educational needs and objectives 

Wonderful, easy, comfortable place to live – family town 

Lots of family oriented activities as well as full range of interests from arts to sports 

Diverse economy -70 % of tax revenue comes out of Louisville area – Ford, GE, 

UPS are expanding and other industries such as health are growing as well – area 

is developing initiatives around growing white collar jobs – 

Economy is neither boom nor bust but relatively stable around finances and tax 

structure of city 

2. What are the strengths/assets of the Jefferson county Public schools District? (This 


Many community supported programs such as GE 25m math-science initiative & 

Every 1 Reads 

Significant percentage of all children in JC go to JCPS – JCPS has 4 HS in 

Newsweek’s top 200 

Prior winner of the Broad award 

Student Assignment Plan ensures diversity - which is a strong asset of the district 

and a part of growing up that the kids have got to experience 

Care for kids program 

High school career themes and freshmen academies 

The education foundation is a great conduit and connection between the business 

community and the school system 

3. What characteristics are most important in the next superintendent of the JCPS? 

(This information is used as we screen potential candidates.) 

Need to clearly define the needs and goals 

Needs to recognize, protect and support what is working – e.g. career pathways 

care for kids, etc. 

Change agent – charismatic personality that builds team -helps staff focus on 

results 

Needs to have experience in a larger community – needs mentor 

Needs to be able to unify the board – have political savvy – get them to focus on 

roles and responsibilities 

Has to have strong presence –leader who gains the respect and trust of people 

immediately 

40

Great communications skills – needs to be a great manger – have the skills 

necessary to effectively deploy staff and resources across the district – strategically 

implement an integrated approach across ES, MS and HS levels 

Needs a track record of successfully changing the business model at the schools to 

improve teaching and learning and raise student and operational performance 

Needs to be able to listen – gain consensus on the underlying best interests of 

children, e.g., benefits of diversity, equity of results, and devise a plan that moves 

the district forward in meeting those interests 

Needs to be able to change culture of bureaucracy 




Politically charged atmosphere 

Dysfunctional board appears to be arbitrary and capricious 

Needs to be an alignment with the board as a whole 

Develop a strategic vision for the schools and lead the board - 

Needs to have influence in the legislative arena to address some of the laws that 

hamper ability to manage effectively (CARA) 

SBDMs are an issue and can be problematic – curriculum decisions not consistent 

Critical issues are student achievement underachieving schools and students 

Special needs kids, ESL, large homeless population 


41

Classified Employees Union 


information is used to help us recruit quality candidates. ) 

Got all the good parts of a southern town but without the stereotypical bigotry and 

also has cosmopolitan facets, arts, athletics, and other activities, universities – big 

city with small town feel 

Caring community that comes together to help – identifies by neighborhood but all 

are part of larger community 

Easy access, public transportation – beautiful area in a beautiful state 

Derby is big event, Thunder over Louisville and other events draw people and 

families from all over 

2. What are the strengths/assets of the Jefferson County Public Schools District? 

(This information is used to help us recruit quality candidates.) 

Trade schools, aviation program, veterinary program, k-12 school, all illustrate a 

wide variety of programs available to students – every school has its own identity 

Schools connect with community in a variety of ways: Parent conference days, 

college night, business showcases are examples 

Partnerships between schools and businesses are evidence of local and district 

wide community supports for the achievement of academic goals, e.g. GE 35m 

science grant 

City partnership LEAP program to help kids who dropped out 

Trades provide apprenticeship programs that can lead to employment for students 

Student assignment plan is supported by the vast majority of the community – 

community is more aware of socio economic issues and is working to address 

them 

Board looks out for the good of everybody in the district –is accessible to employee 

organizations 



Needs to send message that achievement on tests is not the sole goal of the 

district 

Must win the respect and trust of his employees – needs to ensure that all 

employees are respected and valued for the contributions they make to the district 

regardless of their position 

Must be accessible to the employees – seen as willing to meet and listen to the 

people who are supporting the infrastructure that allows excellent education to take 

place 

Great communications skills – get out of the ivory tower – make an effort to create 

sense of community among district employees and publicly recognize their 

contributions – like kick off luncheon 

Needs someone who understands Midwest values - treats everyone fair and 

consistently across the board – doesn’t have to be liked but must be respected 

42

Needs to be a strong person who can unite people and lead them – able to say no 

when necessary to moving toward the goal 

Needs to be able to connect to people, understand where they come from and 

reach out to them where they are – must be upfront and honest - 

Wants someone who is committed to staying - not someone who is looking for a 

stepping stone to something bigger 

Must be able to hire talented people at all levels and allow them to do their jobs – 

must manage by the results they get 




Van Hoose central office needs to be brought into alignment with his/her vision and 

expected to perform. Central office is perceived as “if you screw up you move up” – 

Superintendent needs to ensure that management is streamlined and effective. 

Would set the tone for the whole district. Must eliminate culture of arrogance. 

Needs to recognize that some folks manipulate the system to their own advantage 

43

Community Forum 3.28.11 



One of the strengths of community is recent surge of interest in education as a 

necessary ticket to economic progress – fueled an active group of business, civic 

and community leadership to increase opportunities and support progress of 

education in Jefferson County as evidenced by the 50, 000 Degrees initiative 

Strong business community that backs education programs (Every 1 Reads) 

Strong college/ university system 

Caring community that looks out for each other and pulls together in a crisis 

Arts community is strong and highly recognized -many events and venues 

Tremendous amount of agencies that provide social supports to families – great 

infrastructure 

One of the best transportation systems in Northwest 

City of neighborhoods - where anyone can be comfortable in any neighborhood 

People are welcoming, friendly, gracious – diversity is embraced 

Historical background – famous race – cultural events/St. James arts fair 

Great weather, nice summers, all four seasons, good climate, great food 

Cost of living is reasonable 

Good location in mid west 

Lots of opportunities for family activities 

2. What are the strengths/assets of the Jefferson county Public schools District? 


Board’s 35 year commitment to diversity 

The support for diversity is not just on the school board – it is supported by the 

majority of residents – white flight has been minimized - has one of the highest 

ratios of ethnic white to African American – African American community still 

support SAP even though hasn’t produced results 

Facilities are well managed and maintained – receive excellent support from the 

community 



One of the largest systems in the area - need someone who can pull it together 

Needs to have a caring attitude – someone who will look out for the best interests 

of children, not just the adults 

Must be willing to continue what’s working and press for change in things that are 

not working versus imposing a new one-size fits all model 

Needs to be a strong manager - can handle multiple types of employees, can 

provide good customer service 

Needs to be convinced that with adequate resources, schools can provide a 

successful education for every child that results in every child learning to the best 

44

of their capacity and become a productive citizen – disadvantages are obstacles, 

not excuses – need to provide a quality education experience that is founded on 

students and teachers both being successful and having adequate resources 

Needs to be a strong, visible leader in community 

Proven track record of success in similar size district with similar demographics 

Must understand and appreciate the importance of the parents’ role and work to 

partner with parent on children’s behalf 




Safety issues on buses - children fighting and hurting each other -we need 

leadership to ensure their safety - bullying is an issue 

Must bring all folks to the table to focus on positive solutions 

Board appears to be more concerned about adults and process rather than doing 

what is necessary to provide a quality education for children 

Needs to be able to create a process for identifying and removing teachers who are 

not advancing students’ learning 

Contentious relationship between superintendent and board has caused problems 

– superintendent needs to be able to work with the board 

Union is barrier to creating process for ensuring teacher quality 

65% of graduates cannot read and write 

With all the problems, we have the room should be packed 

Dropout rate for black males is 50% 

Teachers’ union is too powerful – power struggle between union, board and 

superintendent is disrupting system’s ability to do the right thing 

Start something for long term and produce results quickly – must be able to show 

progress on improvements to failing schools, reduce longest bus rides 

Effective agent in effort to dramatically increase the proportion of tax dollars used 

for education 

Must rapidly unite a divided community – by focusing on successful teaching and 

learning 

Student assignment plan must be clarified and executed while working to ensure 

equity in programs and high level of teaching quality for all students across all 

schools 

Opportunity and responsibility to improve lower performing schools - understand 

that quality education is about equity of results not necessarily resources – e.g., 

mentor teachers and focus on providing what is necessary to ensure sustainable 

improvements 

Needs to change the reputation of the school system so that it is seen as a positive 

place for children who will receive a great education 

Need experience in dealing with issues facing district now – can’t afford to need 

OJT 

Must be willing to secure whatever resources are necessary to ensure a strong 

foundation for all children in basics 

45

Schools job is difficult –superintendent must be able to be agile and innovative in 

finding ways to adequately provide resources, training, mentoring and pd that each 

teacher needs to do the job and remove those who don’t succeed 

Too many students are passed on without learning the skills and knowledge they 

need to be successful post secondary 

Issue of nearly 13,000 homeless students 

Make sure kids leave here able to be successful in either college of the world of 

work 

46

Former Board Members 



Lot of new leadership, mayor, arts community, 

Young people into sustainability, green environment, healthy lifestyles 

Strong support of the arts - huge cultural community 

People love Louisville 

City is large enough to support arts and sports community but small enough that 

people feel connected 

Generous community - United Way exceeded its goal 

Military at Ft. Knox provides economic benefits to region 

Community is learning to cross barriers, broadening connections regional 

Huge multicultural community – non-profits provide supports 

Has successfully confronted the segregation issue 

People want to support international community, embrace diversity 



Diverse nature of urban/suburban district with community who values diversity 

Has a history of success – 

Unique programmatic opportunities and magnets e.g. STEM integration in aviation 

program 

Strong partnership with business community - has potential to be improved 

Strong support from general public for quality education 

Large district has benefits - opportunities to translate research into practice 

Instructional innovation is appreciated when it happens 

Dual enrollment partnerships 

University partnerships that support professional and leadership development 

Churches have been great partners with schools and districts 

JCPS market share has increased over time – 

Strong parental involvement 



Needs someone who has experience and background in urban district 

Has to be able to listen 

Leadership – being able to educate and inform Board and help them to understand 

the ramifications of all their decisions – needs to aid board in understanding their 

role and focus on their responsibility in fulfilling the mission of the district 

Needs to understand how economic stratification impacts students and schools 

and needs to be able to implement a structure and organization that involves all 

from boardroom to classroom – a teacher of the whole community 

47

Articulate the education process so that people understand how children learn and 

help parents understand how to support their children and understand their 

learning styles 

Leadership needs to go both directions in system and in community 

Must provide educational leadership but also have strong management skills that 

ensure accountability 

May not need to be educator, but whatever their background – must be 

accountable for standards of personal and district performance – must have an 

understanding of how schools are different from businesses 

If educator, must be able to see beyond confines of education and utilize effective 

business strategies 

Needs to take responsibility for creating a culture of continuous improvement 

instead of crisis management 

Must bring everyone to the table to ensure alignment and consistency of efforts 

Would like to see some diversity in the choice of superintendent 




Education and health services are two areas that business is interested in - 

important that the school system prepare students to be successful post graduate 

in business and higher ed 

Desegregated community that still grapples with integration 

May need to deal with unreasonable expectations of success in areas that require 

time to implement effective solutions 

Economic stratification is exacerbated by magnet schools 

Need strong leadership to fill the vacuum created by the board’s dysfunction and 

help the board develop the skills, knowledge and tools to govern effectively 

It is important to have as diverse a school system as we can but must be able to 

work within new legal framework and develop strong support for whatever plan is 

developed 

Business community needs to come back to the school system - partnerships can 

bring resources to the district 

Must be a strategic planner and strategic manager 

Must build internal and external ownership and support for the plan 

Adult ed is key issue 

Teacher Union issues are a problem 

Opportunities to learn what is necessary to be successful in either career/technical 

areas or college to meet students’ interests 

Maintaining an effective early childhood program should be a focus 

48

Urban League 



Many organizations dedicated to building community stand ready to work with the 

superintendent 

Community that truly cares about children – strong spirit of collaboration – will 

welcome and support the new superintendent into the community 

Has weathered economic downturn fairly well – there is a sense of economic 

vibrancy in Louisville 

Strong faith community that support education and families 

Business community wants to be involved and understands the importance of the 

education system to attracting business 



Strong partnerships with business and community organizations 

District is willing to stand up and embrace diversity and act on that value by 

implementing the student assignment plan 

Facilities are in great shape, clean, many modernized or new – well maintained 

We are in a position to manage growth and ensure that students most at risk are 

supported and provided with a quality education – community and system can work 

collaboratively to plan a comprehensive and cohesive approach 

JCPS central administration is talented and student centered 

Research and accountability division is a great resource to both the district and the 

community- have an interagency project that allows data sharing 



Needs to be able to help lead the board in partnering with the business community 

Needs to unify the board around the goals of the school system and efforts to bring 

everyone to the table in the interest of all children 

Needs to be able to relate to the diversity of the parents and understand that no 

matter what their place on the economic spectrum, all parents have the same 

desire for their children to succeed and should be respected and included 

Needs to be a strong leaders who can gather input, create a clear and consistent 

vision – diplomatic, tactful, honest and congenial but not willing to compromise on 

what needs to be done to accomplish the work – dead right and strong on leading 

Needs to have what it takes to motivate students and help them develop a positive 

attitude with an understanding of the importance of education to their own futures 

and confidence in their ability to achieve 

Needs to demand that staff has the same expectations for achievement of all 

students regardless of race, ethnicity or socio economic status 

49

Needs to understand title one and have experience with title one programs and 

schools 

Needs experience in actually turning around a school district 




Will need to work with troops and staff and get folks to come together around the 

vision 

Will need to unify the board and help them to understand and assume appropriate 

role 

Legislation such as the SBDM that hampers the superintendents ability to act in the 

best interests of student s 

Politics place too large a role in decision making both external and internal – is 

distracting and disruptive, sends a message of dysfunction 

Unrealistic expectations that results will be immediately apparent 

It’s hard to move the ball when revenue is stagnant or declining 

50

Community Forum March 29, 2011 



Friendly, open, proud of the city – serious about our city and welcoming of others 

who will support our education, arts and sports 

Big city with small town feel – lots of great restaurants and stores 

Central location to this part of the country all of the resources to be a major player 

– poised to be a leader in education by eliminating underperforming schools 

Great community that adapts to change, older corporations and families are 

renewed with younger people and families moving here and economic growth – 

every neighborhood has its own personality 

Our children are our biggest asset and we want them to grow up to lead the future 

of this community 

Louisville is synonymous with opportunity – want to protect and ensure we grow 

the positive characteristics of Louisville 

This is an opportunity for someone who wants to overcome educational challenges 

in a city with resources – 

Largest and most integrated district in country - place for someone who wants to 

make a difference in education 

Great respect for commitment and tradition 



Traditional program – core curriculum that provides a strong foundation for 

children’s academic success 

Great community support for schools and districts 

Good teachers and wonderful special programs e.g., math science and technology 

Traditional includes respect and positive behavior 

Students are greatest aspect – they want and deserve to learn 

Some schools have good programs such as ROTC, Decca, entrepreneur, nursing, 

aviation, that are focused on engaging kids in their education and should be 

continued 

Adequate funds are available to support JCPS 

Great staff have brought grant funded healthy food initiatives to the cafeterias 



Needs to be invested in the community and willing to grow our own 

Needs to be visionary, wants to be here to see the community grow 

Needs to have experience in Louisville 

Needs to be excited about tackling the challenges of the district 

Needs to respect that this community is steeped in tradition and be available to the 

possibilities of innovative approaches 

51

Needs to evaluate the whole system and ensure educators are focused on 

providing quality instruction and that the district is transparent about evidence of 

the success of that effort 

Community minded superintendent who is able and willing to go out and meet with 

citizens and address the issues of drop outs, academic failure, etc. collaboratively 

with community 

Needs to be able to replicate the successes that prepare kids for post secondary 

work and eliminate what doesn’t work 

Needs to adapt to the community 

Needs to identify what works best to improve educational attainment and stand up 

for what is necessary to achieve that 

Needs to be able to wield influence in the political arena and advocate for changes 

in the law that will allow the system to move forward without the restrictions on 

curriculum, hiring etc 

Needs to be concerned about the welfare of children, needs to meet with the kids 

and learn what they believe is necessary for success 

A leading authority on leadership, parental involvement, must be highly educated 

and an experienced classroom teacher, experience as college administrator, 

understand all community roles in supporting education –be published author and 

recognized expert in education – have an educational philosophy that values 

preparing them for life –be politically savvy – needs to keep it real 

Must have experience with both urban/suburban districts to be successful in Metro 

school system 

Needs to be old school but aware of what’s happening today – charismatic and 

able to see it through 

Needs to recognize assets, identify successful practices and incorporate into 

program 

Must be a visionary with a village mentality and motivate everyone to take an active 

role – 

Needs to have proven him/her self to be successful 

Not afraid to hold staff, students and parents accountable for bad and good choices 

Bring the quality up in all schools so people can be proud of neighborhood schools 

Must have the authority to make necessary structural changes in the system, 

including removing incompetent staff 

Must have definitive programs and standards and goals and be willing to buck the 

status quo 

Must be willing to embrace change – a visionary who is unafraid to embrace 

educational changes – can’t be afraid of the teachers’ union or any other potential 

obstacle to success 

Someone who has the balls to say “it’s not about me, it’s not about you, it’s about 

our children” 

Needs to understand and be able to implement business processes such as root 

cause analysis and six sigma and have analytical skills 

Needs to be able to partner with business community and have their support 

Needs to work to ensure quality of education is equivalent across the schools 

Needs to be able to instill a culture of respect across the district among and 

between students and staff and community 

52




Accomplishments of our children are on the back burner 

Curricular changes are not communicated and teachers seem unable to help 

parents to support their children academically 

Curriculum has been weakened – teachers are not trained – students are not 

prepared for post secondary work -in other words, the district is not doing its job 

Students are passed on and passed on without getting the skills & knowledge they 

need to be successful – 

Teachers need to not discourage students and need to involve parents in 

supporting children and helping them achieve 

Several schools have been identified as failing and bussing doesn’t seem to make 

a difference to academic achievement 

Legislature is too intrusive and needs to butt out 

Board micromanages the superintendent and is indifferent to student issues 

Bullying is a big issue – kids are bullied by each other, by teachers, by police, etc. - 

bus issues 

Bussing isn’t working to improve academic achievement and there is no other idea 

on the table. Need to deploy resources on things that work, not SAP 

Graduation rate of black males, dropout rate, school failure rates - 

Government entitlement needs to go because it mandates what goes on in schools 

and it keeps our children from getting what they need 

Transparency on budget 

Needs to make ECE a priority – special needs education is not provided in a timely 

manner –kids need to be served appropriately 

JCPS does not only not meet some students’ needs, its processes and programs 

creates barriers that keep children from being successful 

53

Hispanic/Latino Coalition, Adelante Hispanic Achievers 



Diverse and growing – kids are exposed to other cultures 

Welcoming and gracious – non-natives love it here 

Many organizations to become involved with 

Community service organizations are strong and range from outreach to 

immigrants to youth focused groups 

Internationals are about 12% of population – diversity is growing beyond Latinos 

Pride in high schools – sense of community around schools – small town feel 

Many churches that support internationals without quid pro quo 

Governmental organizations that are poised to help those who can’t help 

themselves – deal with discrimination issues 

Local government presence to liaison on issues and Internationals affairs 

Spanish newspaper – television channel – attracts newcomers 

Support for home town initiatives for healthy eating 

Parks are integrated and all aspects of city are accessible 

Festivals – Louisvillians love to party 

Louisville is clean 



Lots of activities and involvement in schools 

Schools are safe – appreciate the police presence 

Great commitment of teachers and principals to help students on an individual 

basis, deeply committed and caring 

Ethnically/racially integrated – all children welcomed 

ESOL – program is valued 

Newcomers academy is seen as positive way to help acclimate students and 

families 

Schools work with community – good partnerships that bring community resources 

into schools 

Well organized PTA/PTOs 

Try to listen to universities to ensure students are able to be successful 



Extensive cultural awareness and experience in supporting students from different 

backgrounds 

Bi-lingual or multi –lingual 

Want someone who sees the needs of all members of the community 

Strong commitment to quality education 

Be a leader to take the district to the next level 

Helps teachers to understand cultural traditions to be able to support students 

54

Students critical thinking skills need to be developed to better prepare students for 

college 

Curriculum needs to be more rigorous – 

Recognize values of all employees – listens and respects input from all employees, 

including support services staff 

Must be able to work with parents to help them be accountable for children’s 

behavior 

Able to recognize/address barriers to parent involvement due to poverty so that 

children’s equity of opportunities are not predicted by parent’s social-economic 

status 

Transparent and good listener with own board and parents 

Protect teachers and fights for their rights 

Motivate parents to be engaged and to keep kids in school – connect education to 

future 

Needs to talk to all the students and listen and act on their concerns 

Recognize the strength of diversity in local community and economy 

 

 

Understand that diversity is not just black and white – need to stress true diversity 

Understand the history of discrimination in Louisville and relationship to current 

issues re student assignment 




Need to strengthen ESL program with rigorous expectations for teachers as well as 

student outcomes 

Needs to be able to provide and ensure access to supports such as counselors, 

etc. for international students and families 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Needs an understanding of mid-western and southern culture 

Recognize that many newcomers who come for economic reasons perceive the 

district to be of a lesser quality than where they came from – able to learn from 

other districts even outside the country 

Quality of education is decreasing 

Eliminate institutional and individual barriers to international students’ achievement 

– putting students into advanced placement making use of resources 

Schools are divided in terms of quality and that is a barrier to students being able 

to get into the college of your choice 

Need to focus on students’ academic performance regardless of their background 

– have high expectations and accept no excuses - provide necessary supports 

Provide means for interpretation to ensure that parents can know that their 

concerns were heard 

Update curriculum, technology, materials and instructional techniques 

Some schools push students through without actually achieving the level of skills 

and knowledge they need to be successful post graduation 

Educate parents about the importance of and ways for parents to support their 

students and partner with the schools and districts to help children be successful 

Be aware of drugs in schools 

Counselors are too few and poorly prepared to help students prepare for college 

55

PTA 



The arts – accessibility 

Festivals – free and accessible 

City is active and vibrant and accessible to families 

City is accepting of move-ins 

Parks – many are connected by walking trails – hike and bike 

Concerts – free in parks 

No major traffic issues 

Very friendly and embracing 



Some wonderful and incredible staff (we have some that need to bloom) 

Diverse 

Elementary schools are good 

Magnet programs are good 

There are several initiatives, such as Care for the Kids, that are good 



candidates.) 

Someone who can shift thinking that middle schools need to be more like local 

elementary schools 

Effective communicator and communication leader who is able to develop a plan 

internally and externally with all publics 

Experience with diversity, student assignment and bussing 

Willing to collaborate with state and national entities to promote what is best for 

student learning 

Strong networker within the community – all publics 




Diversity and bussing problems 

Middle schools are large and need some attention 

Communication with parents and students 

 

 

Evaluation of student achievement – should look at multiple approaches 

Give attention to the fact that all levels or steps in organization must be focused on 

a quality education for every child 

56

Human Relations Commission 



Respect for diversity is evident in the metro community – especially GLBT 

community 

KY was first state in south to ratify the civil rights act 

Quality of living – great parks system – easily accessible 

Thriving arts community and wonderful restaurants 

Welcoming community -Large immigrant community 

Faith community is supportive and active 

Airport is close to downtown – 

Southern city with northern industrial mix that has adapted by trying to mix and 

grow the economy 

Adapted to desegregation 

Wonderful neighborhoods – people know their neighbors 

Cost of living is affordable 

Not the stereotypical Kentucky location 

It is a city – there is Louisville KY and there’s Louisville – top 20 in country in terms 

of population 



Lot of options that meet students’ interests e.g. arts, science and math, etc. 

Unified district – metro urban and suburban 

Choice program is valuable 

Personal experience with safe and clean schools – discipline is good 

Police resource officers help keep them safe 

Great fencing program – may have an Olympic contender 



Must be able to turn negatives to positives 

Must be able to identify with minority and immigrant populations and GLBT, 

committed to educating children from all backgrounds 

Helpful if bi or multi lingual 

Experienced in urban public education 

Needs to embrace the spirit of unification 

Must be able to adapt to the Louisville way of operating – must connect with our 

culture 

Must connect with culture of parents - respect parents and ensure they are 

welcomed and valued as equal partners in their child’s education - 

Bring teacher certification and accountability back into the classroom – 

Decisive leader with high emotional intelligence 

Restore a level of professionalism into teaching cohort 

57

High academic standards and expectations for performance of both students and 

staff 

Must be able to work with union, community groups and all interested parties 

Must have political savvy - must be able to address the racial intentions of his or 

her staff 

Must understand diversity is more than black and white 

Must be able to articulate and stand up for vision 




The Louisville Way – resistance to change and innovation 

We are failing our children and its’ not rocket science 

Kids are being pushed to pump out scores not focused on quality teaching and 

learning 

State legislature doesn’t like Louisville - 

Community needs to buy into changes needed 

SAP is not getting results intended 

Bussing 

Integration 

Communication 

Diversity 

Funding 

JCPS doesn’t play well with others – needs to learn to because you can’t achieve 

your goals on your own 

Disparities that take place in the classroom – integration is surface, racism is 

prevalent – system is being re-segregated 

Teacher quality is inconsistent 

Huge achievement gap 

58

Junior Achievement, et al 



Louisville has an abundance of resources that are willing to share and provide to 

schools 

Working to bridge gaps e.g. Cultural consortium 

Parks, schools, neighborhood organizations, arts, great private schools, strong 

universities 

City is accessible 

Many partnerships 

Lots of activities, festivals, conferences 

Young people are coming back to the community – more of a night life – 

Strong church/faith community 

Low cost of living, affordable housing, low crime rates 

Welcoming and friendly- easy to make friends, 

Good climate –weather 

Great food/shopping/restaurants 

Diverse with support groups for immigrant populations 

Great business support, strong philanthropic community 

Clean, beautiful 

Growing community - redeveloping downtown and waterfront 

Great time to come in and work w/exciting new leadership 



Best thing is that you have an opportunity to find the right school for your child 

Choice is key, student assignment is a positive thing to address issues created by 

housing patterns 

Committed professionals in the district at all levels from boardroom to classroom 

High schools’ career focus initiative is very exciting – well thought out, well 

directed, well supported -will take high schools to another level 

Facilities are extremely well managed – some incredible schools coming on-line 

Lots of community support for the school sports programs 



Honor diversity – not just ethnic – must be able to manage economic stations that 

folks come from and recognize that all children can learn, regardless of their 

background (don’t blame the background) 

Have high expectations for all students, staff and the board 

Be able to unify the board 

Brilliant, well trained, needs excellent management and leadership skills -has to be 

out in front, not delegating to second in command 

They need to believe they are in charge and not a puppet for someone else 

59

Needs to focus on what the schools can do to overcome obstacles of poverty 

Need to treat people with respect and absolutely disallow anyone treating people 

with lack of respect 

Needs to be able to work with partners and school to ensure student safety and 

security door to door 

Needs to be able to manage the political side of the position, savvy, with skills to 

work with internal and external stakeholders 

Must be able to develop constructive relationship with media 

Needs to maintain state accountabilities while providing a complete educational 

experience 

Expect and embrace community involvement 

Needs to strongly advocate for resources necessary to provide what schools and 

students need 

Charismatic – able to motivate all people from across the district 

Use the whole community as a classroom 




Negative public perception as fueled by the media 

Union issues 

Protective silos and turf issues internally 

Local government relationships 

Needs to overcome inertia fueled by rehiring of retired personnel 

Community divided by class, race, opinion 

Assignment and bus plans 

Needs to bring in new talent on timely basis 

Need to be able to interface w/55,ooo Degree Program 

60

KY Commission on Human Rights 



Louisville is central to the US 

Commission on Human Rights has long history of partnering with the schools to 

address segregation 

City took leadership in desegregation and promoting diversity 

State was first in the south to adopt civil rights law 

Small enough to know people big enough to provide services 

Potential for excellence 

Louisville is not KY – there’s L and the rest of the state – L is not typical southern 

city 

History of desegregation has resulted in a city that embraces and celebrates 

diversity 

Great place to live – but not to visit! 



Some really good people on staff who are committed to education 

System has contributed to the city’s understanding and commitment to diversity 

Board open to hearing input from the community 

SBDM give local school communities a voice 

Education graduates who want a challenge and want to work hard are drawn to 

JCPS and have very good experiences as teachers in the system 

There are many African American groups that are actively and constructively 

engaged with the school system 



Don’t bow to the politics 

Should be like Michelle Rhee, former chancellor in Washington, D.C. 

Focused on making kids ready for a knowledge economy and prepared to be 

successful in post secondary education 

Has to be able to transform the county schools 

Must be committed to early intervention /early education 

Must be committed to comprehensive/ community educational services 

Champion/cheerleader who generates a strong commitment to quality education 

Must be able to evaluate the efficacy of instruction and the capacity/competency of 

teachers 

Learning and Educational Preparation – must quickly gain control, develop and 

immediately implement a plan to address minority achievement without concern for 

politics 

Show firm and unwavering leadership in addressing issues like bullying 

Committed to a diverse and culturally competent staff 

61

Must be committed to establishing and maintaining a close working relationship 

with community-based organizations to promote diversity 

Committed to desegregation and supporting diversity in the schools 




Teachers are not culturally competent or responsive – they need training regarding 

practice and behavior to recognize and eliminate institutional and individual racism 

Louisville does a great job of educating smart and well resourced kids but an 

abysmal job of educating kids 

All student must be “college ready” 

Still segregation within schools – need to help teachers and administrators help 

kids bridge the gap 

Must be sensitive to and negate the current cultural influences of youth that dismiss 

the value of education 

School board must be supportive and united – 

Bullying 

Achievement Gap as reflected in test scores, Dropout and graduation rates 

62

2nd Session with Labor Unions 



Big city with small city flavor 

Warm welcoming community – people are friendly, mannerly and gracious – city 

has a southern culture with northern amenities 

Wonderful sense of community – people embrace all cultures 

Horizon on entrance is breathtaking 

Temperate climate with 4 seasons 

Union town – major employers all have strong working relationships with their labor 

unions – labor management collaboration reflects – highly educated union 

leadership 



Academic alternative schools provide opportunities for kids who are falling through 

the cracks 

They really care about the whole child - great programs that develop every aspect 

of the kid 

JCPS does try to meet the needs of every child regardless of their background – 

e.g. serves children with intensive needs in Home for the Innocents and Our Lady 

of Peace 

School to work program is an example of great partnerships with businesses that 

support students 

Choice provides incentives for kids to stay in the public system 

99.44% of the people that work within the district are all quality professionals that 

all know and do their job 

 

 

All positions are teaching positions that supports students 

Trade unions have articulation programs that provide students pathways to post 

secondary work and education that have the potential to be even more effective if 

expanded 



Need to be down to earth – get in with the people – know and communicate to 

people in every position that they value and respect the contribution each 

employee makes to the success of children and the district 

Has to be a people person who seeks input from and communicate their vision to 

everybody in the district and greater community and then brings everyone to the 

table to achieve the vision 

Manages people to ensure consistency of message and cultivates buy-in by 

fostering a sense of community 

Has to be student centered and instructional based 

63

Has to be a visionary with a strong enough ego to accept input and respect 

representation from the people affected by the decisions – needs to have buy-in 

and trust leadership 

Be responsive to the needs of special populations –ECE, ESL, homeless, etc. 

Can’t be afraid to come in and make changes in administration to increase 

efficiency and effectiveness – clean house- perception is if you mess up you move 

up (to central office) 

Needs to assess the problems and deal with them immediately 

Needs to be willing to become a part of the community – work, live and play here 

Offer an opportunity to local building and trades to work with the district 




Growing ESL population is going to need to resources and supports 

Concern over students leaving the county - brain drain 

Job descriptions need to be reviewed to ensure alignment of actual work 

assignments with descriptions 

Priority schools, teacher & principal evaluation and merit pay 

Political environment – neighborhoods schools is political straw-man – 

Focus on public education and not be diverted by charter school advocacy 

Must learn political system in Jefferson County locally and at state level- know 

personalities – establish relationships and advocate for the district as its champion 

Need more nurses to handle important medical related services for students 

64

1 st Session with Labor Council, Jobs w/Justice, Building Trades, Change 

to Win 



Diverse 

Large city with home town feel – people are involved in the community 

City of cities – people identify with local neighborhood and are proud of their 

neighborhoods and schools 

People love to live here and don’t like to leave after they spend time here 

Cost of living is in line with wages 

Arts have a lot of support – St. James Fair 

Whatever your interest, you’ll find it in Louisville: Arts, education, fishing hunting, 

minor league baseball team, horse racing, basketball 

Lot of support for local universities 



Diversity in programs and opportunities – so kids can enter world of work or college 

Lots of good program and school choices 

Prepares students to be successful in college 

Teachers will work to support individual students and work w/ parents to help 

advance student learning 



Open minded – put students first 

Hear concerns of community 

Organized to communicate effectively– be aware of message that connections 

aren’t valued 

Midwestern values and strong leadership – not afraid to “cross people” 

Focus on whole child, not just test scores – college isn’t for everybody – wants 

what’s best for each child, not just what’s best for federal department of education 

Needs to be able to ensure kids learn critical thinking skills 

Better be able to get along with labor unions – (locals have large organized work 

forces –important constituency) 




Student assignment is an issue – neighborhood school push is likely a result of 

approach as opposed to concept 

Testing is an issue – focus on whole student 

Characteristics (above) reflect issues that superintendent will have to deal with 

65

Metro Housing Coalition, Legal Aid, Fairness Campaign, CASA, Louisville 

Youth Group, Exploited Children’s Help Org. 



Big city with a small town feel – very comfortable and welcoming community 

When issues are identified, the community can come together to leverage their 

skills and assets through collaborative problem solving 

Community values diversity 

The community will Identify issues, embrace solutions and truly work to see a 

successful end 



Diverse 

Appreciates efforts to improve program in failing schools such as performing arts 

magnet middle school 

High school programs that are innovative – e.g., Shawnee program that allows 

students to get pilot’s license – integrated STEM programming 

Strength of staff – caring and experienced administrators and teachers 

Lot of energy around education – support from non-profits 

Research and accountability is strength e.g. work to identify issues around 

homeless children’s education and coordinate efforts to solve problems 



“Ear to the horizon and eyes to the ground” (sic) - paying attention to political 

situation in community and state – need leadership in legislative and political 

landscape who can accurately depict the situation in the schools and advocate for 

public policy that supports student interests and outcomes 

Need a bold dramatic leadership – bold and visionary to chart a coherent course, 

build consensus and establish coalitions to address systemic problems 

Not afraid of and committed to breaking down the silos that are barriers to solving 

problems that keep student from fully achieving their potential 

Committed to JCPS long term 

Understands the full intersections of oppression, racism, classicism, homophobia 

that are implicitly linked 

Strong and continuous commitment to maintaining and expanding diversity across 

all aspects of the continuum from social to ethnicity 

Must be able to display and embrace a genuine love of city 

66




Needs to be able to recruit and maintain talent 

Resources for special needs and homeless students 

A vocal and diverse community that is anxious 

Deal with increasing poverty issues - 

Deficiency in non-discrimination policy to include gender identity in policy 

School assignment issues 

Disproportionate discipline rates among special education and African American 

students 

Economic issue at home translate to school setting that requires district to deal with 

host of issues staff is not necessarily trained to handle 

Repair the reputation of schools labeled as failing and eliminate perception of 

pockets of elitism 

School system needs to be a portal to government services to help families access 

appropriate supports 

67

PTA- 15 th District 



Great community to raise children 

Everybody knows everybody – small town feel 

Lots of activities for children 

Businesses support schools with materials and in kind services 

Community that encourages family participation in outdoor activities – great parks 

system – family focused festivals 

Community focused on helping families engage in healthy life-style activities, good 

communication around activities and events 

Great restaurants, neighborhood eateries that represent the diversity of the 

community 

World class library system and related programs for children and adults – connects 

families to community events 



Arts infused into curriculum - district is enthused and partners with community to 

ensure arts curriculum 

Family resource centers – very resourceful in finding ways to help families 

School system believes that PTA is the parent involvement component 

PTA programs that are supported district wide and through local schools such as 

clothing assistance program 

Emphasizes and celebrates academic side as well as sports 

Academic teams are supported 

Lots of programs and choices available to students/parents 



Communication – not just inside Van Hoose, but with all the organizations that 

have a stake in education of children 

Need to be seen supporting PTA and community events 

Should be seen in schools and known in community 

Has to understand how PTA operates and appreciate the advocacy role of the 

organization – does not try to micro manage the organization 

Treat parents respectfully and engage with them as partners – seek their thoughts 

and perspective on effective programs and communication 

Use parents as resources for the benefit of the whole district 

Active part of the community – really make this their home to increase their stake in 

the success of the district 

Good management skills, leadership – able to recognize and replicate best 

practices in district and from across the nation 

Foster leadership in the system – systems approach that supports succession 

planning 

68

Has to know about diversity experience with Title 1 and poverty programs/issues 

Willing to take an innovative approach to include all parts of the community – goes 

to community – considers and addresses the restrictions families face in terms of 

being able to participate 

Needs to break down barriers not create barriers 

Needs to be able to set high expectations for all students and staff 

Superintendent who cares about children – puts them first 




Representing parents interests in student assignment and bussing issues 

Needs to be able to understand and empathize with parent perspective so 

students/families come first. 

Need to listen to principals to find out what they need 

Community and staff are concerned and unhappy – low morale – anxious over 

decline in system’s quality 

Has to deal with strong unions while putting children’s needs first 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Large special needs population – needs to have effective life skills program 

Needs to know the laws of Kentucky and be an advocate for legislation that 

supports, not hinders ECE and ESL students’ ability to be successful post 

graduation 

May need to clean house – needs a strong leaders who is results focused can 

implement a continuous improvement model based on results that make children 

productive members of society 

Can motivate parents and staff to support a systemic approach 

Want science fairs and other academic initiatives to receive support like sports 

teams do 

Needs to address obstacles to young children needing services - procedures need 

to be systemic and coherent 

Help advertise the existence of great partnership programs between PTA and 

district 

Leverage education to help break the cycle of poverty in families 

Make bus rides safer 

69

Retired Administrators 



Fine arts, strong sports and athletic community – something for everyone 

Family oriented 

Cost of living affordable housing 

Strong PTA 

New center for sports- triple A baseball team 

Derby 

Strong community agencies that support families – e.g. mental health, family 

resource center, health centers and facilities 

Strong churches that work together – as well as businesses that work to support 

children/families and academic achievement for students 

Many support groups are there to meet the needs of our community and fight the 

war on poverty 

City is centrally located and has easy access to many other areas 

City is easily accessible 

Strong philanthropic community and arts community 

National hub for UPS - attracting major automotive manufacturing businesses 

Attractive and clean – new development in downtown 

Urban/suburban community without divisions between city and suburbs that others 

face – merged government 



JCPS history of merger and forced bussing was a test that the district came 

through 

Strong and knowledgeable staff – expertise in multiple areas - committed 

Highly qualified staff with high level of MS and Doctorates 

People make Herculean efforts – people adapt to change quickly because they 

want to be successful 

Stable district in terms of leadership stability 

University partnerships 

District has the talent and ability to meet the needs of children and families 

Community is very supportive – computers, etc. 

Business community also very strong supporter of schools – 

Language program is evidence of openness to new ideas 

Infrastructure is terrific – new schools have been constructed, old schools 

remodeled 

District has strong national rep – Wallace – GE, local partnerships (Every 1 Reads) 

that bring resources to district across multiple levels 

Strong collaborative open door policy with Universities that support professional 

and leadership development, growth and mentoring models 

70

District has embraced the various populations as they enter and partner with 

community agencies to support whole child and families 

There has been a great deal of loyalty to the district and the potential to tap into 

that again 

Strong financial standing – 

Positive relationships with teachers and principals’ associations 

20 legislators from this area have always been very supportive of the district 

Close collaborative relationship with local gov’t is strengthened by the 

independence of the superintendent’s appointment 

Strong alumni, sports programs, as well as national recognition for teachers, 

activities – before and after school programs - people are jealous of JCPS 

throughout state 

Student assignment plan has supported student diversity 

Alternative education programs/middle school/are great 



Strong leadership -knows how to do bring others along to support a strong 

program that complements the existing strengths of the organization - strong 

management skills 

Visible in schools and the community 

Superintendent needs to take advantage of the expertise of staff 

Needs to partner with business and “powers that be” – demonstrate leadership in 

the relationship 

Supportive and able to partner with organizations that support our children 

Proven track record – knows what to do 

Can select and surround themselves with capable people and then use their 

expertise 

Needs to build a cohesive team effort – must bring the people to the table around 

instruction and achievement - have meaningful conversations and take actions that 

address systemic issues around instruction 

Need a competent educator who knows how to ensure quality teaching and 

learning across the district 

Must be able to articulate and implement a vision of uniform excellence across the 

district 

Must be able to understand the needs of the schools and history of the schools so 

as to appreciate the structures that work 

Needs to be able to create a comprehensive, coherent intervention plan that 

recognizes and addresses the unique needs and strengths of the district 

Experience with diversity and understands the effect of size – can’t afford to need 

OJT 

Must ensure equitable opportunities for excellence are known in all schools in order 

to staunch flight from the system 

Need experience with labor unions 

Need an exceptional communicator with Board, employees, principals, community 

at large – 

71

Someone who can make folks proud to part of JCPS 

Knowledgeable about Kentucky law and the SBDM council role in principal 

placement 

Needs to be able to balance need to do well on required tests with need to provide 

a complete educational experience 

Visible in the political arena now –must be proactive and influential in political 

arena 

Understand the impact of Louisville’s history on current culture and attitudes 

Needs to protect and support staff and focus on providing the supports necessary 

to help them succeed and retain folks who are getting demoralized 

Have to part of the community – move family here to show commitment to district 

Needs to hold him/herself accountable and not excuse self at expense of others 

Bold leadership 




Student assignment and transportation 

Morale/ culture people need to have input and understand how it was 

considered/used in decision making 

Discipline is a major issue 

Community loves district and supports education but is not connected to 

superintendent or the district 

Must address low performing schools – 

People are emotionally involved in education - issues need to be addressed 

publicly to focus energies on positive solutions 

Needs to advertise all the wonderful things that are happening in the community 

Needs to unify the school board – individual members shouldn’t have undue 

influence 

Needs to have a realistic and reasonable approach to identifying and addressing 

the achievement gap 

72

Student Session 



There’s always something going on that people can do 

Diversity of people and things to do that reflect multiple interests and cultures 

Biggest city in KY – a hub with a lot of options 

Community support organizations 

Good size, big enough to be interesting 

Family friendly 

Exciting and growing – downtown expansion 

Large area with diversity spread out in metro area – neighborhoods coalesce into 

greater community 

Big city with small town feel 

Great restaurants 



Students go above and beyond - lots of great things happening in all schools 

Always some school representing the whole county in state competitions and 

initiatives 

Programs are diverse, e.g. Performing arts 

Great preparation for college 

Diverse population in schools expose students to other cultures 

Many nations represented among schools make it a great experience for all 

Community involvement is strong in sporting and academic events 

College readiness programs growing in schools and district - mushroom effect 

With large student population, always have students who are striving as well as 

successful – full continuum of performance 

Hands on experience is positive 

District is open - students attend school board meetings - have an opportunity to 

voice their opinions and concerns 

Dual credit enrollment programs support college entry 

Choice options allow student to find best fit and provide what individual students 

need 

Very open to meeting the needs of community and students with programs that 

have college prep, AP, magnet 



Experience in large, urban/suburban type district 

Good communicator – transparent in decision making 

Courageous - stand behind any actions your take – weigh options carefully but 

stand behind your decision – don’t be afraid, you’re in charge 

73

74 

There’s always going to be disagreement – can’t please everyone, but decisions 

must be transparent to community 

Needs to understand the differences between schools and how they affects 

students and neighborhoods 

Needs to understand what is going on in the community – gets out of the office 

Has a strong voice and provides leadership to the board on the right path forward 

Needs to provide equal opportunities for every family 

Must be open and have experience with large community – know how to manage 

Needs to be able to listen and get input for good decisions 

Needs to be visible in district 

Must have a close relationship with each school and its leadership - treat as small 

cities 

Needs to be visible in schools, seen as actively supporting students – known to 

students 

Focus on educating students not just financial needs – make sure students are 

learning what is useful to their future lives 

Needs to support every JCPS school and focus on each school’s positives rather 

than negatives – build on their strengths 

Cares about career but also has a personal stake in the district – 

Needs to live in the district as well as work in the district 

Needs to get input from teachers and students on decisions that affect their lives 

Needs to be willing to spend time on a regular basis and visit with students and 

staff 

Should be from Louisville or Kentucky – if not, must make this his or her home 




SAP Bussing – long rides are ridiculous 

Fight for schools – there’s no such thing as a failing school 

Needs to have a better process for making decisions on cancelling school due to 

inclement weather 

Bullying is a big issue – physical and cyber bullying 

Provide educational support for immigrant students to help them be as successful 

as possible- put more resources in to the effort 

Teachers need to be evaluated on their results with students – some appear 

unqualified to teach the course- some seem to be looking for easy outs and not 

striving to engage students 

Needs to make every school equal so they aren’t judged as failures 

Need to take student motivation into consideration when evaluating teachers 

 

 

Need small class sizes 

Need to address poor attendance and engage parents in being able to support 

their students’ positive behavior and academic achievement 

There are multiple issues – teacher associations are very involved and vocal - 

budget is going to be huge issue as well as Free and Reduced Meals population 

and diversity

Raise everyone up - don’t equalize performance by lowering standards – focus on 

excellence in school leadership/administrations 

Standardized Testing -Audited schools students and staff have lost faith in testing 

because of disparity between std tests and AP pass score, grad rates and other 

indicators of academic success 

Parent Involvement and Student Involvement – stress academics over assignment 

- schools should receive the same resources and be held to the same standards so 

that they are all good 

Place more emphasis on middle school performance and target middle 

schools/students for improvement efforts before they fail in High School 

75

University of Louisville (UL) 



JCPS has relationship with UL, a major research institution- Whole menu of higher 

ed institutions is an asset 

Diverse in more than the traditional way – 

Southern charm – safe – comfortable – warm, friendly, hospitable people 

City without the typical social ills 

Community is poised for greatness 

Easy to get around 

Quality of life- unified gov’t school district is diverse and has magnet program that 

helps ensure diversity 

Within reasonable distance of many major metro areas 

Diverse neighborhoods – development on the river front 

Something going on all year-long - strong arts community 

Great area to raise families- cost of living and housing is reasonable 

Don’t have institutional competitiveness 

Closely aligned business and education community with each other and the 

interests of JCPS 

Community is supportive of public education and elected leaders reflect that value 

The nature of Louisville‘ s relationship with the state is typical of an urban area in a 

rural state but more positive than may be usual 



Large district – diverse 

Outstanding faculty - # of committed seasoned professionals 

Sound relationships with business and education 

Financially stable 

Public values relationship with the district 

District is poised to be a major driver for how the community moves forward 

Experienced school board 

Good leadership development program including doctoral program with 20 JCPS 

folks in cohort – developing internal capacity 

Good partnerships – e.g., Signature partnership involving nursing, social work and 

college of ed over 5 years 

Elementary teacher candidates of university are taking classes in JCPS elementary 

schools 

Equity in resource allocations – some extremely high performing schools – science 

and math, performing arts, 

Lot of close practical applications that move students into the university – 

Dual enrollment program 

174 districts in state – 1 out of 5 students in state are in JCPS 

Fiscally stable – 10% contingency – adequately resourced and supported 

76



Essential that candidate has experience managing a complex, major org. – Needs 

to bring the A game and not need OJT 

Organization management experience is joined with experience in range of diverse 

populations - homeless, economic diversity, minority, immigrants – must engage 

and provide leadership 

Enhance relationship with business, civic and religious communities 

Public relations and communications skills are critical 

Needs to be able to engage parents in education of youth 

Think outside the box – build team – go outside traditional circles to recruit talent 

Must have change management experience 

Must demonstrate evidence of student centered - data driven - continuous 

improvement 

Must be focused on the answer to this essential question, “How does the use of 

this resource improve student performance in a measurable way over a continuous 

period of time?” 

Sustaining relationships with community, business, media and religious and other 

community groups – needs to be the main communicator for the district 

Needs to be able to implement a program evaluation component and stay the 

course on programs that need time to get results 

Needs to monitor fidelity of implementation as well as results 

Must be able to engage organizations in achieving clear goals such as 3 rd grade 

reading proficiency via Every 1 Reads initiative 




Relationship between Board and JCPS leadership is strained 

Public confidence in JCPS is eroded and needs to be restored 

Managing resources going forward – deploying resources - effective and efficient 

use of resources in the interests of children 

Staffing - needs to pull together the right team with the right balance 

Union issues 

Reading comprehension levels prevent HS students from achieving 

 

 

 

 

Urgency of moving student achievement in a positive manner 

Diversity vs. student achievement - SAP concerns re transportation and loss of 

neighborhood schools must be addressed –use local resources. e.g. engage UPS 

to help devise transportation solutions 

Schools are losing their community support – need to reengage the neighborhoods 

Board-superintendent relationships – people tend to go back to their experience 

rather than adapt to current context – Board needs to unify around a common 

vision, support it, resource it, and evaluate it and adapt as necessary to provide an 

adequate answer to the essential question, “How does the use of this resource 

improve student performance in a measurable way over a continuous period of 

time?” 

77

Board, administration and union appear to be deaf to public’s concerns 

Student centered priority is in conflict with unions’ focus on adult member interests 

District currently favors stability over equity of resources, including staff resources - 

challenged kids need competent teachers 

78

Arts Group 



Diversity – 70’s 30 ESL students now more than 2000 

Livability of the city – orchestra 

Great resources 

Friendliness of the people 

Family oriented community 

Quality of life issues – parks, easy access to airport – easier to maneuver in city – 

collaborative nature of city (all ships rise when one ship rises) 

Art community – varied, also general arts we have famous museums 

Close to large cities – one hour flight to Chicago 

Small town field – neighborhoods have a lot of character – strong sense of place 

Largest collection of Victorian mansions in the nation 

Local businesses strong – local food production – strong local economy 

Family farms still in Kentucky – strong/prominent 

Community is supportive of our youth and children – org and agencies partner 

(such as 4-H) to help and support our youth 

108 organizations willing to collaborate with Supt in school district to improve 

students achievements and lives – survey shows 730000 experiences with children 

– 300,000 outside of Louisville – provide great resources for Jefferson County 

School District 

Arts org. use co-curricular strategies to teach students (ex. Use art to teach 

science) 

Cost of real estate is reasonable 



Family resource center 

District reaches beyond the classroom to help support children and families 

Strong magnet program – teacher are forward thinking and want to find new ways 

to best meet students needs 

Schools are very diverse in philosophy, focus and style – a range of models – great 

opportunity for improvements 

Career paths program available in addition to magnet schools - so can still focus 

Community/district partnerships – leverage resources and collaborate 

Everyone Reads program 

Middle School connection 

Youth Print program – plan to provide meaningful out of school activities 

79



candidates.) 

Supt. Should recognize and highlight the arts group resources and the data that 

shows how much better students do with experience in the arts – supt. Should 

embrace us 

See community as an extension of the classroom – have ongoing relationships with 

the school – integrate comm. In classroom 

Museum is partner with one school Maupin and they supt should foster this – helps 

this school become a magnet school 

Good listener and a good communicator at all levels 

Able to enter all arenas and interact in a warm friendly interested way with 

understanding all the roles in these arenas 

Track record of turning around failing schools 

Not so concerned with test scores – but more int. in teaching and learning and how 

the arts can help this (even teach toward the test) 

Have strategic plan and communicate this with time frame 

Creative and innovative – make sure students in classrooms become problem 

solvers 

Be a team player – supplement with quality people and communicate 

Proven experience in implementing skills 

Someone who embraces the concept of educating the whole child ---a healthy 

child – well fed 

Manage all expectations and communicate - –it takes a village 

Bridge the gap between JCPSD and state 

Doesn’t have to be from out-of-state 

Driven, dynamic, innovative and perhaps fun. Someone who can break the mold – 

perhaps make school fun. 

Someone who can look at cross-curricular methods – differing learning styles of 

children 

Visionary and communicator of that vision 




Student assignment 


30% not completing high school 

Budget issues 

School Board needs to understand how much time it takes to move a district like 

this 

Strong teacher union 

Student and teacher morale in failing schools 

Create a college going culture 

Health and overall wellbeing 

80

Education issues have become more and more politicized – same thing with 

Charter Schools 

Climate has become more about test scores and not children 

Need to educating the whole child 

Poverty, ESL, homelessness, single parents and challenges these brings 

81

Interdenominational Ministerial Coalition 


Information is used to help us recruit quality candidates.) 

Community good to raise children – culturally – diverse 

A lot has to do with sch. District – the way people see community 

Athletics is important in this community – multimillion dollar center 

Arts is strong here – orchestra, ballet, actors 

Colleges presence here, as well as community college 

Youth performing arts school 

Friendly, warm and welcoming – diverse 

Progressive community – businesses, etc., 

Job opportunities 

Housing is affordable 

Family aspect - New growth 

Religious community is very strong here – seminaries 

Park systems 

Medical facilities, doctors and research 

Public protection is good here 

Transportation system is good 

Close to capitol 

Seat of gov’t is central in city 

Conventions bureau is strong – growth has occurred because of this – major 

conventions can now be held here 

Convention center downtown venue for major systems 

Skyway to connect convention center to hotels downtown 

Philanthropy and foundation potential is good 

UPS, Casey foundation etc., help to support education – there are resources in the 

private sector to help 

Universities here have particular niches to attract from across the country 

Youth development – Youth Print program for out of school time \ 

Church community is an asset 



Financial stability - able to tax without much opposition – grants available – federal 

funding coming in 

Teachers who are committed 

Variety of opportunities educationally – all types of fields and professions for 

students 

82



candidates.) 

Experience with working with a large urban school district 

Able to trim the fat where necessary, clean up low moral, inspire, be a team builder 

--- strong enough to deal with teachers union (primary challenge) 

Able to take another look at restructuring – using policy, laws, etc 

Possess admin. Skill and ability to adjust immediately in an organizational way – 

quick and a keen eye to do this – we have a lot of work to do 

Eclectic enough to deal with ESL, AAM, and any pockets showing deficiency 

Working history of dealing with black people – lifting up econ. Deprived, homeless 

and all challenged children because of background or home life 

Vision to do this and embrace the vision (above) 

Diverse in the human being area – people centered leader 

Genuine love for children – care and love for children – fight for children 

Deep passion for the work – for the cause – look at need of individuals 

Be visible in all schools to gain first hand knowledge – hands on approach 

Ability to communicate with all stakeholders in the community 

Better articulation between elem., middle and secondary schools for smoother 

 

movement of students 

(JCTA – teacher association) – supt must have strength to remove ineffective 

teachers 

Supt must have strength to stand behind and give support to effective teachers – 

supt must see through “smoke” and analyze problems effectively and take 

appropriate action 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Someone who will bring best practices from around world (global vision) to have 

some quick solutions – we are losing time that is eating away at the fiber of educ. 

-----discipline/student behavior must be addressed – some immediate character 

development of children in schools (less expensive to put corrective measures 

rather than fund penal institutions) 

Teachers must be supported in this character development – discipline 

Strong relationship developed between Board and supt. 

Understand power basis in community and state (Frankfort) 

Address with student assignment and bussing issue 

Relatable to principals – younger principals – supt, principals and teachers need to 

have better communication 

Have strength to penetrate the hidden segregation issues – Board is held hostage 

to people in their zone 

83




Board members can be a challenge – make people scapegoats 

Look at 3-4 year old programs for all students 

Busses – length of bus rides - Safety on buses 

Teachers need to be bussed 

Understand segregation can take place even in diverse population 

Textbooks, resources, etc., should be looked at to be culturally sensitive to black 

students 

Look at students and where they come from – what their culture is like – need to 

understand a person’s life 

Promote self worth in every person’s life – to do this must understand the person – 

what do they go home to – must use all resources to help students to success 

Promote compassion in teachers (15 min. reading at home every day) look at 

funding equity for lowest performing schools 

Supt should look at School tax and how it is being used 

Close the achievement gap – West Louisville schools should be comparable to 

East Louisville 

Look to churches for support and help for underprivileged children 

Look at teachers salary and what teachers do 

Look at equity in parents and students choice 

 

 

 

 

Elementary, middle student assignment and bussing and High school redesign 

Cannot dwell in past – live in changing environment – teachers must keep up with 

new teaching strategies – give teachers more freedom to learn these strategies 

and use them 

Teachers should collaborate in order to improve – analyze their data and their 

teaching strategies – share ideas and problem solve together 

Community should empower supt to declare independent 

84

Teacher Open Forum 



A lot to do – derby 

Friendly city- very considerate of each other – close knit 

Not too big we are just right 

Historical places people can visit 

Affordable city – something for everyone 

Park system is good 

Benefits of big city such as the arts, restaurant 

Not a big traffic program 

Diverse culturally – people from all over 

Festivals that celebrate the diversity 

Easy to navigate the city 

Reasonable driving distance from a lot of different places – Cincinnati, Nashville, 

Indianapolis, St. Louis, etc., 

College town 

Medical 

Universities collaborate with district to develop programs 

Arts – we have beyond what is typical for our size 

Donated funding for the arts 

Festivities around the Derby presents major activities, riverboat races, etc., for 

interesting recreational activities 

Extensive park system in city 

River has heritage – connected us to St. Louis to New Orleans – provides cultural 

experiences – have riverboats 

Distinctive neighborhoods (have neighborhood celebrations) 

Healthy city – unified gov’t and school system for entire county – help prevent 

intercity decay 

New mayor very interested in working with the supt. of schools 



Choice – magnet schools provide different focus areas for choice 

Transportation friendly 

Desegregation has been a success for many years 

Unified county system – leverages our resources so we do well in NAPE scores, 

Partnership with university for teacher recruitment 

We are tax base of the state – larger than other districts in state 

Support of community in different programs – ex. Everyone Reads program, Care 

for Kids program, Classroom Assessment for student learning program 

Teachers are able to get PD they need – ex. Science inquiry program, at the 

forefront of most programs 

Funding – district is financially solid 

85

Do not have to use millages – only board has to approve tax increases 

GE grant has been huge 

Teacher union has focus on teaching and learning 

Strong partnerships with business 



candidates.) 

Be a good listener and a problem solver – communication is going to be key – 

communicate the good things that are happening 

Be a good manager of staff, administrators – work well with admin. Team 

Must have vision but able to manage the vision in an effective way 

Should have experience as a teacher, principal, etc., and understands how 

students learn 

Honor the good things are happening – inquiry based approach, everyone reads, 

formative assessment, Care for Kids 

Collaborate and work with teachers union 

Diplomatic when speaking with the community at large – sympathetic, empathetic 

with teachers and parents 

Experience with our history here at JCPSD 

Understanding needs of levels of schools and transition effectively from level to 

level 

Understands schools are different and how to make high poverty schools work 

Have a consistently and fairly enforced discipline plan for the entire district 

Someone who values educating the whole child and understands teachers role 

around promoting citizens of this community, state and country 

No charter schools 

Political savvy – internally, in the community and statewide 

Value and appreciate the diversity we have I our city and school district – see 

diversity as a strength – embraces diversity 

Experience in dealing with diversity 

Experience With authentic types of assessments – performance based 

Don’t be afraid of considering someone internally 




Student assignment and bussing 

Failing schools and how to deal with it 

Working with Board of Educ. 


Work with the community to help with closing the achievement gap – 

1/7 of student pop in KY – more administrators in JCPSD than workers at KDE 

– manage the relationship with KDE – very challenging 

Managing the “time” issue – everyone wants a piece of the supt.’s time 

86

Communication with all publics 

Parent involvement 

Management of admin. Staff is an issue 

Common management of middle management 

Coordination of the belief that “all children can learn” 

87

Teacher Union 



candidates.) 

An educator who really deeply understands teaching and learning and can design 

a program to do this 

Someone who can work with a union – sit down at the table with us and be 

collaborative 

A leader as well as a manager 




Bussing issue should be taken care of immediately 

Bring friends to be his eyes and ears – put together a leadership team he can trust 

and that trust him 

Clean house 

Disciplinarian 

6 member committee by law must be used 

88

Classified Employees 



Diverse community 

Community support 

Good community to raise a family in 

If students and parents take advantage of offerings and programs the community 

and school, students will do well 

Multiple business and community partnerships, also faith based organization 

partnerships 

Supportive efforts for parents – scholarship information University of Louisville – 

national conference 

Support art and culture programs in the school 

Community is supportive of the arts – cultural consortium provide support for 

instruction in the classroom 



Community cares about education 

Bussing is good – mistakes are minimum 

JCSD offers a lot (most are offered on East side of 65 

Programs are good and should leave in place 

SBDM councils – allows community input 

Teacher recruitment program is good and available 

Tries to provide quality pd for certified 

Pd focuses on cultural diversity and cultural competency for certified 



candidates.) 

Respect for all people 

Personable 

Have a sensitivity to diversity 

 

 

 

 

 

Communicate and be visible to people 

Understand the politics of JCSD (where we’ve been and how we got to where we 

are- understand the south and that change does not come easy for the Board – the 

board has their own network in the community – if u ruffle the feathers of one in the 

network) 

Willing to work with all people from all backgrounds and all types of community 

members 

People are pushing for charter schools because they think the leadership aren’t 

listening – AF AM people are pushing for charter schools because of people 

coming in and looking at test school data 

Kentucky or Jefferson County viewpoint instead of national viewpoint 

89




Classified people are considered second class 

Outside people and local come into Louisville and yell foul because of 

bussing/student assignment 

Vocational programs should be revived 

We don’t get very varied pd 

Classified people cannot serve on Site Based Decision-making council 

No voice for the classified 

SBDM council should have a minority – don’t always 

No opportunities for classified to advance – no career path 

Make sure administrators reflect the diversity in the student population 

Diversity in instruction and materials should be maintained and expanded (more 

inclusive) 

 

 

Willing to work closely with the Mayor’s office 

Disproportionately more children of color being suspended and sent to ALE/ this is 

growing 

90

Central Office Staff 



candidates.) 

Patience to get to know Louisville – we complain 

Get to know the lay of the land – Mayor does not have anything to do with us, etc. 

Bring the Board’s vision to life 

Willing to work with school board 

Understands the importance of using interpersonal communications and mass 

media 

Should be a skilled communicator (listener) 

We have divided factions in this community – they need to be humble (keep the 

ego in check) 

Understand the communications staff and the function in this district 

Communicate and be proactive instead of always reacting 

Data driven 

Experience in a large district – not a one way fits all 

Good money sense 

Think before decisions – ramifications are big in a decision this size – be more 

deliberate 

Sense of southern manner and ways to get things done 

A systems approach thinker 




Ability to get things done through multiple agencies, departments, etc. 

Ability to organize, delegate and follow through 

Ability to operationalize the vision 

Perhaps look a “Chief of Staff” 

Ability to break down silos and promote team work with leadership team 

Be aware of value of work that is capable of 

Ability to collaborate as a supt with leadership team to problem solve 

Great appreciation for community work 

Prioritize community engagement work – let business know district needs them – 

bridge the gap between Supt. And community 

Ability to manage a split board – develop and heal the board 

High schools that are low performing (6), middle schools (2) 

Needs to understand the turnaround models 

Relationship with the KDE 

Student assignment and bussing 

 

 


Disproportionality of AA and poor kids in suspension and disciplined and 

achievement – accountability 

91

Balance of educating the whole child and test scores 

Teachers Association have been given “free check” – determining the fate of our 

future 

Cognizant of economic future of school district 

Supt’s relationship with the Board 



Strength – Guts 

Forge a working relationship with this board 

Business community may be wavering with involvement to see where new Supt is 

Public perception about this district 

Low performing schools 

Local and national push for Charter Schools 

Must talk (communicate well) with businesses – community 

Must communicate well with staff internally (appreciate the expertise and ideas) 

Understand relationship with JCSD and the State – set the tone for how we 

conduct business across the state 

Diversity and student assignment is a big issue – honor our history around this 

issue – the politics of this 

Achievement issues – effective practices and good teaching – about leadership 

and how you lead this 

Public relations is an issue 

92

JCASA 

Proven track record of having a level head 

Clear vision that is shared with leadership team 

Bring back to focus where we are going – reenter our efforts with laser like 

energies – in light of turn around 

Ability to develop relationships with political folks at state department – articulate 

our needs etc., in a way that builds bridges 

Building bridges within district – and with community – visible and accessible 

Balance between short term focus and long term focus – particularly on low 

performing schools 

Great communication (listening) skills 

Willing to take advice from immediate cabinet 

Unify a divisive school board 

Political savvy to develop support board in a very positive manner 

Experience in dealing with schools who are “failing” schools every year in district 

Ability to deal with Morale issues – 

Ability to identify dysfunction at all levels to address the issues of empowerment 

and tap the skills in district – surround yourself with good people to help you and 

delegate and listen 

Doesn’t have to be an outside person 

Need to hit the ground running 

Understand disconnect of where decisions have been made and where the work is 

done 

Find a focus – needs to be “college ready” 

Needs to look at diversity plan – student assignment and bussing 

Strongly support the ASCA – allow counselors to be counselors 

Rethink certain paradigms, such as formula for assistant principals, counselors, 

etc. 

Willing to listen and to take a stand 

93

Prichard Committee 

Paradigm shift must take place to pay attention to state requirements – must be 

from the top 

Understand value of central office group and guided to focus on correct things – 

how to best use these experts, etc 

Look closely at who teachers are – keep excellent teachers in classrooms because 

this is where change takes place 

Must value teachers and what teachers can bring 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Know how to work alongside of the teachers union 

Understand that the union does not include all teachers or speak for all teachers 

and that scholastic audit says that the teachers contract is a barrier to improving 

schools 

Understand that we are about kids here 

Become aware of history of segregation and the impact on cities – neighborhood 

schools will segregate 

Be sensitive to ESL students – culturally diverse 

Exposed to and working with a multicultural group – understands urban schools 

Understand that there are parts of the city that is rural – needs to have a broad 

view 

Not predisposed with pat answers concerning school reform – look closely at who 

we are and look at research that fits us 

Assess community so that they understand and appreciate what we are here – 

value partnerships with business community, colleges, arts community, nonprofits, 

ministerial alliances 

 

 

Someone who is open to varying approaches to engaging parents – look at schools 

and communities they serve and then decide on the types of parent engagement 

Be sensitive to offerings at KDE – including formative and summative assessments 

– look at monitoring of all things 

94

KY Youth Advocates 



candidates.) 

Able to create a community consensus on student assignment – make sure 

community comes together – supt. Doesn’t have to do it himself 

Must look at Kentucky accountability assessment and figure out how to be 

successful – bring in external group to assess 

Right-size and right-role central office – it should not be a command post – 

principals do not know who they work for – also recalibrating principals role 

Good school systems need a climate of creativity and imagination – must be able 

to take risks to improve – must be innovative 




Allow people to be creative and imaginative 

What innovation practices has the applicant done in similar districts – large, diverse 

urban districts 

Someone who can look at the student assignment and bussing and ensure safety – 

process is convoluted 

Principals are considered “hired hands” 

Promote effective teaching behavior and effective strategies 

Able to deal effectively with the Union 

Disproportional alternative learning programs 

95

Southwest Dream Team 



candidates.) 

Have background in similar number of students, experience in diversity, experience 

in a supt. with similar problems, bussing 

Interest in Louisville’s underperforming schools in southwest area of 

Keep the things that are working (ex. Clusters) 

Personable and able to lift morale 

Leads by example 

Values multicultural 

Continue with college credit courses in high school 

Keep up with the “times” - focus them on working toward college, volunteerism, 

and citizenship, etc. 

Experience with public relations 

Parental involvement important 

Need to reinforce and be proactive about positive things going on in the district 

96

Kentuckiana Works 




Better if we could find someone with local knowledge with national level talent 

Manual High School has become top - one of policy issues is - can we keep this, it 

has made other high schools worse 

Middle schools - elementary to middle (massive - anonymous) test scores plunge 

at middle school 

State law issues (Louisville gets short end of stick in legislature) ESL kids, supt 

does not get to appoint principals, 

Student assignment must be done by Board - go to neighborhood schools 

Teachers union - we have great teachers but we also have abysmal teachers that 

need to be removed - poor teachers need to be removed 

Do not have to be educators to be supt. - Can be like Mark Roosevelt 

97

Jefferson County Teachers Association 



candidates.) 

Someone who is an educator who has experience in education 

Work for the whole child and not just test scores 

 

 

 

 

Leadership skills and a strong manager and ability to make the necessary changes 

On teaching and learning issues, our current supt is very good – we would like to 

see someone who can build on what we have started, ex. reducing classroom size 

– discipline (social and emotional learning programs) and focused on authentic 

assessments. Stiggins work is important. 

A supt that will respect teachers, value teachers and their input. 

Ability to collaborate is more important in this district than on the average 




Money needs to be in the classroom not in top administration 

 

 

 

Must work with the KDE better. The commissioner can be difficult. 

Need a supt who can deal with discipline – supt should expect the code of conduct 

to be followed. – Disruptive classrooms were a part of every scholastic audit. 

Rigorous teaching not happening. (how can you teach with the discipline issue) 

Site based council are not working and supt should know this – cant choose their 

principals 

98

The following input is from a wide range of individuals with whom the 

Input Consultants visited with during their three days in Jefferson County 

Schools. These individuals were community members, staff members and 

business individuals. 



A big city with a small feel that is culturally rich 

Old Louisville is beautiful with mansions 

Wonderful park system 

City has smart involved people—progressive 

Post secondary schools are excellent and abundant 

All of the arts 

Cost of living is very reasonable 

There are some very good new young leaders 

There is a sense of pride in the public schools 

Excellent hospitals and also professional community 

Many churches 

For as large as a city as we are, crime rate low 

Lots of social services – i.e. homeless. 

Lots of things to offer – recreation, sports, arts, museums 

When people move here they don’t want to leave, they want to raise their children 

here 

Great collaboration with all systems – Metro Govt and School system 

Business community is the best around 

Very supportive of initiatives 

Great work ethic and passion – wonderful reputation that brought several 

companies to relocate here 

Great horse races – Churchill Downs is a great place! 

Lots of great restaurants 

Great place to raise kids – safe community 

Strong police and fire departments 

Great courts systems 

Beautiful neighborhoods here 

Good traffic patterns – compared to other larger cities around 

You can get anywhere in Jeff Co within 20 mins 

Hard working 

Motivated 

Stable Community 

Generous and committed—crusade for children—Every 1 Reads 

While they are diverse, they come together 

Many activities and festivals – many family activities 

Sports continuum, from Little league to professional sports 

99

One of the few cities in the country that have professional companies in all 

performing arts 

Area is one of the nicest – lost of activities across a range of interest, e.g. arts, 

sports, hiking spelunking, horse/bourbon country 

Growth industries are locating in the area that will help drive and support 

educational attainment 

Metro government helps ensure equity of resources among urban and suburban 

areas and community –wide focus 

High School is the connection among Louisvillians 

Catholic Charities ex of strong support system for immigrant population 

Great restaurants – many ethnicities represented 

Great community support to help schools and the district 

Vibrant downtown w/new arena 

Wonderful network of arts venues and restaurants 

Beautiful riverfront – people get along well in “Kentuckyana” - basketball is the only 

area of contention 

Metropolitan area – international flavor - but small enough to get things done 

Friendly – Midwestern work ethic with southern charm 

Starving for educational leadership 

Good neighborhoods and housing 

Good communication between superintendent’s office and mayor’s office 

Community is ready for a change 

Opportunity to create best urban school district in the country 



The district is financial sound 

Very flexible district 

The Adm. Look for ways to grow 

Large district thus can create leverage with the state 

Strong Technology department 

The schools have a civic mentality 

They promote an inquiry based learning model 

Gheen’s Academy is a big plus 

A very diverse district 

Not a true urban district 

Good employees 

Right time for new and strong leadership to come in 

There is a great deal of pride in the district 

There are eager financial partners that wish to work with the schools 

Many volunteers 

We put kids first 

Every program benefits a child 

Programs are not cookie cutter – it is individual for the child 

100

We have choice – not just diversity, but have choice of schools so that the child 

can get the best for them 

The staff all works well together – we have different personality traits but work 

together 

A good Board of Ed – they are very understanding of issues, as long as they are 

kept informed all is good. 

Committed to kids – we will find funds to help kids 

Enjoyed having a strong school system – historically 

We have more than 100,000 kids and we don’t struggle monetarily like many areas 

to. Proper funding to be able to run a good school system 

Well trained staff – great teachers and principals 

Alternative school programs are tremendous – 

We have places for everyone – we don’t’ expel anyone 

Student code of conduct and bill of rights are done well 

Sound policies 

When leadership comes, they don’t want to leave. They realize how rich our 

community is with resources 

Great athletic programs 

Great kids 

This district does not have the same issues that many huge urban districts have – 

there are no hollowed out inner city schools, but have the opportunity to succeed 

System not broken – it is accessible and open. 

Good facilities 

Systems are sound 

Certified teacher in every classroom 

It is not so overtaxed that it can’t succeed 

Because the entire county is the system, it has everybody’s attention 

Great principals—quality teachers 

Parent Involvement is good 

Schools are safe, orderly, clean 

Schools have gradually come back to working together more collaboratively 

principals in accountability cohorts – collective efficacy 

Good teachers - union has been one of best allies for crisis intervention – willing to 

waive contract provisions to help kids – 

Billion $ a year operation – fiscally stable – able to fund important initiatives 

Magnet and career programs provide choices to meet students interests 

Great relationships and partnerships with community organizations and 

foundations 

This district is fairly progressive – not afraid to try new stuff – 

Managed choice is a program that meets students interests and manages space 

within school 

Stable population 

Fiscally stable – population supports taxes for public education 

Great student transportation system 

District technology has been recognized in local and national arenas 

101

Focus is on systemic excellence, replicating best practices 

Great data, strong research dept. 

Very talented people in central administration and also in the schools 

Lots of community partnerships – e.g. Foundation, Metro Gov. Metro United Way 

Focus of the District and community is what is best for kids 

We are well resourced – budget cutting is not an issue – board taxes at max and 

resource development department actively pursues grants 

Amazing people, teachers, principals who go out of their way 

Good relationship with the union –open relationship that allows staff to work 

collaboratively 

Kids and families pull the community together – housing has become more 

integrated 

Folks in this district work hard to make diversity strategies work for families and 

children 

Compared to other large districts have made strides in achievement, due to 

willingness to work and talk to each other – long term relationships foster 

collaboration 

People who find their strengths in the face of adversity 

Staff is becoming more cohesive in terms of vertical articulation planning and 

training 

Principals work with school community partners - really work hard to establish 

positive connections with all stakeholders 

Staff is extremely committed to the success of kids – fantastic work ethic – folks 

work long days and take the success of the schools personally – view their role as 

public servants- very proud of the district 

Great things are happening across the district - we have the whole package 

Bussing for over 40 years (color blind community) 

Parents want diversity, choice and proximity 



candidates.) 

Needs to be able to teach a board of education how to function 

Must gain confidence of the board and public 

Must destroy segregation in the system 

If we only teach to the test we will have plateau 

102 

 

 

 

Consider both traditional and non-traditional candidates 

Knowledge of education—curriculum, basic business of ed., be a good manager, 

delegate to right people, communicate effectively, must have good people skills 

and be out in the community 

Need a person that can instill confidence in the system, can inspire, can get things 

done, and who is a strong leader

Needs to have great leadership skills. Is one who can bring people together 

around a common goal? 

It is a must to get the right person this time around 

Open to alternative type of selection-non traditional if right 

Must be a collaborator 

Be willing to admit you are not perfect when you make a mistake—admit it and 

move on. 

Person needs to be honest, truthful and direct with staff 

Can build a team instead of just a group of individuals 

Good communicator 

Supt must be able to weigh what is best for the whole district and not be so 

“political” – hard to do 

Good personality – be able to work with staff 

Be able to build a rapport and be relaxed but be serious about the business 

Be able to listen to the people that are already here – there are lots of talent and 

experience that can be very valuable. That experience needs to be valued 

Need to be able to work through the bureaucracies that are ever present, need to 

be able to balance 

Need to be able to help work through the problems – we need someone who will 

build an atmosphere of being able to work through those problems. 

Leader should not be a “top down” leader 

Need someone who can create an atmosphere of working together 

Be able to celebrate those who can invest in long term gain 

Be able to see long term vision and what success will look like 

Help people understand what needs to be done for long term gain and short term 

gain are the same thing 

Deep, passionate commitment to diversity is critical 

Someone who works on principal and has courage to lead through difficult times 

Need someone who can speak to a national audience concerning our issues that 

we are experiencing here 

Be able to work with state department around difficult issues that are particular to 

Jefferson Co. 

Deep philosophical commitment to doing the right thing 

Be able to understand the powerful social networks 

In our community and with the student assignment plan, you need to have a 

tremendous communicator 

Need to have someone that can build common themes – keep everyone “in the 

boat” 

Be able to build a team – pull everybody together 

Start with pulling staff on board then get the community on board 

Need to have charisma and win people over 

Be able to teach and bring people along 

Be willing to put in hard work 

Be able to articulate to the community what exceptional is 

Be able to articulate to the community what their vision is 

103

Patience 

Consistently 

Look for one with local knowledge and a national talent area. 

Do not be afraid to bring in the “non-educator” who has demonstrated operational 

ability and provide successful solutions. 

Supt must be aware that they are the face of this district! 

Be willing to consider a non-traditional candidate for the position 

Tenacity, integrity, fortitude, aggressive 

Willing to work with public, residents and corporate sector 

Willing to assess the district from an unbiased perspective 

Experience with urban/suburban schools diversity, poverty – reach out to people 

not just leaders of groups - get connected to people and principals quickly 

Systems understanding and approach – clarity on roles and responsibilities 

processes and procedures among and between all levels from boardroom to 

classroom 

Supervision balance of pressure and support – need to eliminate silos increase 

coherence and congruity in work of district 

Proven leader with management experience 

Needs to be great instructional leader as well as manager 

Work with labor unions both internally and externally be in touch on a regular basis 

Integrity - must be honest even if it’s something we don’t want to hear – need to be 

able to depend on information that is used to make policy decisions 

Must be the champion for diversity 

Quick learner must address academic issues 

Have to pay attention to infrastructure, buses and facilities 

Needs to be able to get an additional tax approved – nickel tax –without recall 

Understand the complexities of a large district - needs to be able to delegate and 

follow-up 

Has to have a fairly thick hide to deal with political assaults – has to have a sense 

of humor 

Needs to be able to listen and solicit diverse perspectives and opinions 

Has to recognize own limitations 

Has to be able to lead and support staff 

Politically savvy to understand what’s going on 

Good turnaround skills 

Must be able to stand up for what is right for JCPS 

Focused on the data – must be able to use the data to make decisions not tainted 

by politics 

Needs to provide a clear, simple, consistent vision of the work of the district and 

ensure that goals are understood and embraced throughout the district – 

Needs to be truthful and transparent in decision making and in motivating the work 

force to improve 

Needs to be committed to kids and aware of potential conflicts of interest as 

programs are developed and brought in 

Needs to be able to put systems in place and trust people to work them 

104

Needs to know how to work with a board 

Must be able to develop positive relationships with press and community 

Has to be able to lead effective achievement efforts 

Humble- an ego that’s under control – 

Visible commitment to kids 

Successful past leadership experience 

Willing to listen and integrate ideas other than their own 

Willingness to commit themselves to being part of the community - self and family 

Able to view system as a whole – not favor one level over another – able to put 

systems in place 

Sees the necessity of the value of diversity 

Collaborator 

Someone who does not micromanage 

Nurtures and cultivates the commitment of staff and lets them lead what they direct 

Centered with own moral imperative that always looks first at student interests 

Student centered decision maker and expects it of others 

Models continuous learning for staff 

Owns limitations – appreciates talent in house- 

Willing to build on and values what is working already in the district – not 

dismissive of current efforts 

Seeks and values input from all stakeholder groups 

Encourages innovation that helps kids 

A teacher at the center of their leadership 

A negotiator who can mend previous wounds to build a strong culture – 

Visionary and a great leader 

Smooth in handling board 

Ability to communicate and manage the board (a disparate group) 

A person who can communicate well with all the publics 

Tough-skinned 

Some association with a large (more than 5 or 6 schools) so they can appreciates 

dynamics 

Open and willing to accept others opinions – collaborative 

Needs to understand the politics of managing a system in a city like Louisville 

Should not reinvent the wheel 

Need an EDUCATOR, not a non-educator 

Skills in leadership, in what works, in building collaboration 

Warm, friendly, approachable and visible 

Culturally adept 

Flexibility in order to get things done 

Good communication skills – be proactive in promoting the district 

Must get alignment from teachers union 

Strong ego but humble enough to know what they don’t know 

Needs to know how to build and use a team 

Comfortable in urban community with everything from wealthy to deprived people – 

educated to uneducated 

105

Multiculturalists 

Someone who speaks the language and communicates the vision effectively 

High energy person 

A rising star 

Understand larger global context of educating our students at Jefferson County 

Public Schools 




A divided board education—regional elections harmful to getting things done that 

need to be done. 

Failing schools—low performing schools—must turn them around 

Financial condition not a problem 

Student assignment and bussing—must be revised—history is behind the plan— 

the hardest work is done. 

Newspaper has been excessively critical of the district. Needs to get them looking 

at the district differently. 

Board and supt. relationship needs help. How must a board act in order to have a 

great relationship with a supt? 

Special interest groups such as the teachers union-needs to be fixed plus such 

groups consume considerable time 

Must build confidence with the community 

Must also connect well with the staff of the district 

Don’t move forward until many of the issues are solved 

Supt. must be a leader who understands how systems work 

Student Assignment must be resolved in a fair and yet realistic manner 

Be aware that due to the size of the district, changes affect multiple areas 

Test scores, accountability and the success of our students – first and foremost, 

this is what we are “graded’ on 

Work on the PR with our community about all of the good that is happening in our 

district, not just the bad things. Be able to carry the message that children are 

successful where ever they attend. 

Student assignment is an issue, and needs to be “tweaked”; the new Supt will have 

to address this issue – both with families in the East End and with those families in 

the West End as well. 

The Board is not expecting the new Supt to come in and “tell them” what needs to 

be done but work with them. 

Understanding the history of the district as it relates to desegregation – understand 

the “divide” in the community as it relates to poverty, race 

Issue of charter schools 

Understanding the connecting links and relationships of those in the district and in 

the community 

The social networks are very, very powerful here 

106

The pressures around accountability are extraordinary – we are always going to be 

on the list of those in trouble the way that it is set up now. Be able to negotiate 

those pressures and how to get through them are important. 

Negotiation their way around the board as far as governance issues and how to 

work to get into a better place of working. 

Understanding roles of Superintendent and Board of Education 

Awareness of national shift concerning public education – accountability testing 

Be able to handle how the media handles many issues 

Be able to educate the community and help their understanding of the myths, truths 

Know politics and the inner workings 

There is not a cosmopolitan population here. 

Many of the people here have not been out in very many places 

Lack of mobility of community members 

When people talk about change, they are mostly focused on specific issues 

What do people mean when they state change? 

Trying to convince the community what change looks like and what it will take to 

make it happen 

Someone that can articulate at multiple levels – instructional and operational 


Must raise the drop out rate 

Increase the college bound numbers 

Helping the community understand what the mandate from the Supreme Court and 

how it affects our student assignment 

The Supt. Office may need or benefit by adding a C.O.O or Chief-of-Staff position 

to handle operational matters. 

The bureaucracy in the district is our problem 

The board is very split-will need to address 

Huge achievement gap between high and low performing students-must develop 

strategies to address 

Must work to improve relationships with state government entities 

Will need to overcome an over zealous union 

The district thinks it is better than it really is—must establish what reality is and 

move from that point forward 

Many programs but little evidence they are working to positively impact the bottom 

line for children. 

Work to raise the moral of the community, businesses, teachers and staff 

Site based issues create problems with alignment 

Housing patterns negatively impact ability to balance enrollment 

Need to eliminate silos increase coherence and congruity in work of district 

Clarity on roles and responsibilities processes and procedures among and between 

all levels from boardroom to classroom 

Listen to principals – politics of principals and leaders 

Work with commissioner to eliminate friction – help union align with interests of 

students 

Community is on edge over student assignment plan 

107

108 

We are poised for either greatness or failure 

SAP 

Legislation is passed without taking into consideration the context of 

implementation 

Board has a lot of areas of disagreement, but is not dysfunctional 

NCLB as implemented by KY – high impact on one of the only urban districts in the 

state- 

High homeless population, large ECE and ELL student populations 

Adverse relationship between district and commissioner - 

Need to allow talented people the leeway to make decisions and provide input into 

solving issues – centralization has had a chilling effect on people’s involvement in 

continuous improvement 

District has almost become, perception wise, a “have and have not” district 

(Eastern is “haves”, Western is “have nots” need to be able to level the playing field 

– give the “have nots” the opportunities to be successful 

Has to get people to understand that all kids can achieve at high levels regardless 

of where they live if they are provided with quality instruction and community 

supports 

Have to address needs of over identification of minority students in ECE and 

growing ESL populations 

Politicians have put public schools on the defensive – need to educate regarding 

needs and advocate for the resources needed to deliver a quality education – 

Shift in power of state department of education is not accompanied by competency 

or capacity – focus seems to be political rather than student-centered – weakens 

the district 

Local contract is not focused on what is best for kids – union is too focused on 

needs of adults – need to be able to bring union to the table to improve the delivery 

of educational services and the quality of the teaching staff 

Relationship with community 

Needs to be aware of limitations re SBDM 

Politics – both small and capital P 

District’s culture need attention to become more positive and people need to feel 

valued respected and their expertise put to use 

Relationship with school board- need to build a team 

Mend relationships in gov’t -build relationships with folks in schools and across the 

district 

Supt. should be aware that some of the board members want to hire and fire 

personnel, which is not their job 

Staff issues – former deputy and others worked behind the scenes to undermine 

Supt. 

There is a group that want to “smash” the student assignment plan 

Complicated relationship between Jefferson County school system and the rest of 

the state 

Failing schools, supt. will receive blame 

Board needs to be more transparent

Board needs development 

There is a changing of business leadership in Louisville 

Confidence in the school board 

Large complex society 

Large urban area and low economic challenges 

Teachers are not embracing standards 

Adult and teacher issues are the priority instead of student issues 

School board tension – are they equipped to oversee a billion dollar organization 

An audit should be done on personnel needs 

Bussing and student assignment 

Board needs development 

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110

INPUT FROM ONLINE SURVEY 

(NOTE—these responses have not been edited, 

they are printed as entered by the stakeholders) 

Administrators 



Their people in this community. A giving community and compassionate. 

We are large enough to serve a large diverse population and yet small enough to 

effectively serve a large diverse population. 

diversity, arts, low cost of living 

Arts (theatre, music, etc.), Cost of Living, ... 

Someone who understands inner city youth- not just suburban children. 

The school system and how we all work together to make it a better place for the 

children to be succesful. It is a great community to raise children and the 

community is concerned with families as well as individuals 

Beautiful blending of open space with development. Especially related to 

Waterfrount development. The emphasis on becomming a healty city-outdoor 

events etc. Keep and attract young professionals. A top notch urban school 

district and outstanding Pre-School program. Lets not loose this! 

Louisville has a special small town feel but big town benefits! For example: Ctr. for 

the Arts, KFC Yum Ctr., the Universities, etc. etc. 

The cost of living. The arts, the parks and it's a great place to raise children. 

accessibility to arts and entertainment reasonable cost-of-living diversity 

Great support for the school system 

It is a great place to raise a family. The schools are very good, recreational options 

are varied and numerous, the cost of living is low. 

Louisville is a wonderful city, full of theater and a commitment to the arts. The 

school district is urn=ban and suburban, yet there is choice in what schools kids 

select, so they can get what they want. Our mayor wants a close connection with 

the district. Makes sense. 

A community that is committed to doing whatever it takes to make all schools 

effective.We have many community partners who want to help us in our mission to 

educate every student. 

The Louisville communty is rich in tradition and a willingness to support and help 

public education through it many contributions and sponsorship, i.e. Everyone 

Reads, Junior Achievement, Blessings in a Backpack, UofL, Bellarmine, Spalding 

partnerships, effective partnerships with city government and GLI 

Small town feel, very giving community, lots of activities provided by the city. 

We have a good diversity with lots of room for creativity and growth. 

Improving the home life and home situations through education means - schools 

nearest home to encourage family particiation and pride. 

Diversity Community support 

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Small town feel......Big city advantages, such as restaurants, arts/entertainment, 

sporting venues, etc. 

Cultural events Park System 

The fact that we are already a DIVERSE community. Our neighborhoods are rich 

with various cultures. Our schools should be able to attain diversity without 

students having to travel so far to attend school. 

Diversity; strong community; commitment to quality education of our students. 

Resources and services provided by local govt and agencies, variety of arts and 

entertainment venues 

Louisville is a great city with many activities. The arts community is very active as 

well as college and minor league sports. 

History. Louisville has such a rich history. Each community inthe Greater Louisville 

area has a story behind it. It's glories and struggles. 

A community that supports the school district 

Louisville is a town that supports and works with JCPS. It is a town rich in culture. 

The Jefferson County school system; an open cultural and political environment; 

lots of arts, entertainment, recreation, library, and resturant opportunity; an 

acceptance of diversity and inclusion; an adequate tax base; fairly strong support 

for the school system, especially among parents. 

Louisville is centrally located in the country. Our diverse heritage creates a melting 

pot of America. We celebrate the diversity through our Arts, sports, and business 

opportunities. 

Size, charm, big city with small town feel! 

The low cost of livng, relatively easy commutes from a range of areas, a good mix 

of housing choices, good sports teams, starting to become a "greener" city 

Excellent community resources for helping folks get their basic needs met! A 

community that rallies behind their home grown hardworking people. A community 

of volunteers sincerely wanting kids to succeed. 

Louisville has all of the qualities of a large city with the feel Ida close-knit 

community. 

This survey is not set up to find what the people want. It's one more stupid way the 

board is triing to make it seem like thay care. The people shouldn't be the ones 

telling the new candidates why to come here or that the school system is great ( Q2 

). The survey should consist of what needs to be fixed and what the community 

thinks needs to be fixed what needs to stay the same. But like so much in the past 

the board will do whatever they want no matter what the community wants. 

Whoever they get will do what is needed to keep the board happy. That would be 

to make more failing schools but a well mixed group of kids!! 

Generous citizens (time, talent and treaure). Vibrant, active urban culture and 

offereings. 

Wonderful place to live and raise a family - Community willing to step forward and 

support public schools for the success of all the children - Healthy respect for 

diversity and inclusion 

Community outreach and involvement by offering insititutions and activities for all 

citizens of the community. Great public & private educational institutions, from 

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elementary through higher ed. Recreationl opportunities, museums, parks, sports 

(little league and beyond). 

Educating our children, not teaching them. We have the asset available to have the 

best school system in the country. We have the people is others would get out of 

the way and let the system educate. 

The strength of the private and parochial schools. 

great diversity 

Vibrant arts scene; generally great weather; the Derby 

Business and community support of the school system Diverse community 

Growing area with lots of employment opportunities 

The cost of living, including housing, is usually more affordable. We have many 

attractions due to the renovations downtown, such as the new stadium, Glassworks 

and slugger museum. 

Size (not too large, not too small); history, location 

The arts community, derby and the festival. The small town feel with all the 

amenities of a big city. 

Our schools. 

The community has great access to the arts, green space, and very livable areas - 

whether one prefers suburban or urban. JCPS schools and the area colleges 

provide a great educational base for families. 

Large city benefits in a small city environment 

The Arts, the universities, the friendly people, large enough to be diverse but not 

too large, relatively little conflict considering how diverse Louisville now is, great 

park system, you get all four seasons of weather but not too harsh, Ky is located 

fairly centrally to many parts of the country and has a good airport system. 

Generally we are a community that cares about one another and is generoud in it 

support 

cost of living 

affordable, arts, diversity, low crime, athletic, lots to do here, great for families, 

school district, choices 

The committment of the community to public education. 

Long history of support for education, strong financial base for schools, large yet 

small community feel, strong leadership supportive of school system, arts, sports, 

great community activities, everything big cities have with less transportation 

issues! 

Opportunites typically associated with large cities incuding businesses, 

communities events, fine arts, education and cultue with a hospitality and travel 

associated with a smaller city. 

Small city feel - 

Creative young people devoted to helping others 

The quality of living in Louisville is fantastic, from the arts to sports. There is 

something for everyone in Louisville. Their is quality housing in all areas of the 

metro area as well as shopping and entertainment. 

Cost of living Strong medical facilities Presence of growing postsecondary 

educational opportunities Urban school district that has maintained market share 

of the middle class Strong tradition of support for non-profit organizations 

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2. What are the strengths/assets of the Jefferson County Public School District?(This 


Once the district identifies a challenge it is quick to respond. 

We do have a large group of employees that care for kids and we have a large 

group of employees that work very hard to serve our diverse student population. 

Families have the opportunity to send their children to schools that best meet their 

chids needs. 

many options for parents and children to choose from; 

Good salary and good support of classrom teachers PD sessions are beneficial. 

Multi-Cultural Diverse 

focus on addressing development of the whole child, CARE for Kids, etc.; our 

diversity - having kids be exposed to folks from other cultures; still have lots of 

work to do on helping us all get along - building school communities of respect adn 

caring 

Parents can make choices and there is a variety of programs to best serve their 

children. 

Stroung Pre School program. Low crime rate for a city and district jof our 

demographics. Lots of financial resources. Several colleges and universities in the 

area. 

Intense focus on high-quality equitable access to collaborative instruction. All 

stakeholders are committed to all students having equitable access to high-quality 

curriculum and instruction that is personalized and engaging. Particularly within 

the area of Early Childhood Education! 

Great employees that are committed to seeing that children are successful. 

diversity quality instruction hard workers strong support system 

Supportive staff Great programs 

High quality of instructional staff supported by district personnel. Ample resources, 

professional development opportunities and a vision of teaching and learning that 

is centered around the overall development and achievement of each child. 

Good relations between the the community and the school district; lots of 

successful volunteer programs. We are also a district that is not in crippling debt 

like so many others. The Gheens Professional Development Academy allows 

many people to develop professionally — innovative, powerful brain trust of the 

district that can make things happen across the school system. We have a good 

(nationally recognized) research and evaluation department. The Cultural 

Consortium is a unique organization partnering 60 arts and culture organizations 

(museums, artists and arts organizations, e.g., Louisville Ballet, Kentucky Center, 

Stage 1, Speed Art Museum, Frazier Museum of International History, Louisville 

Zoo, etc., with the district — we share our needs and clarify our curriculum as it 

evolves and they tailor program and outreach to meet our needs, a true symbiotic 

relationship. We both benefit. As a large district (largest in the state) we wield 

great leverage in some education matters at the state level. We also have a stateof-the-art, 

and effective, technology unit that services the district and brings us 

cutting edge tools to advance 21st skills. 

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1.)Good Teachers 2.) Programs for all students to succeed 3) Resources for 

struggling students and families( ie FRYSC, PACES Grant and Behavior Coaches 

and etc...). 

A highly qualified staff committed to ensuring student success. 

Diverse population, many successful alumni, dedicated teachers 

There is a large group of dedicated individuals that want kids to succeed. There is 

also a lot of room for improvement and growth toward equality of education. That 

will make for a ripe opportunity for someone to be innovative, creative and 

successful. 

The funding is available to support ALL schools and thier needs - it may be 

determined that shools nearest the home require less funding. 

Programs offered to meet the needs of all students 

Progressive school district Incredible resources such as Gheens Academy, 

resorce teachers, etc. Wealth of talented educators 

Our school system is definitely open to trying new initiatives. Our focus on Care For 

Kids has opened many doors. 

Strong commitment to equality for our students academically as well as 

socially/economically. We have a very diverse population and seek to celebrate 

the strength in diversity. 

It is a high performing urban school district with employees who are dedicated to 

the educational achievement, and social enrichment of students. 

JCPS does have a lot of programs in place that could help schools and students 

succeed. I think that is an area that could be greatly improved but it is in place. 

Diversity Resources 

Employees who put kids first 

JCPS is a school district committed to developing the whole child, social/emotional, 

ethical and academic - CARE for Kids. 

Well qualified and experienced professional and support staff; competitively 

compensated staff; a fiscally independent and non-partisan elected Board; an 

adequate tax base and conservative budget practices; an experienced Board 

expecting longevity from the superintendent; staff and a parent base accustomed 

to and supportive of a demographic student mix and inclusion in the schools; 

adequate, well maintained, and clean school facilities. 

How we strive to serve our diverse community. With over 150 different countries 

and languages represented in our school system, we strive to help children 

become successful academically and personally. 

Dedicated staff, large wealth of resources, opportunity to amazing things and lead 

us into the future 

lots of resources in terms of finance and people 

We have many "star performing schools" that help the district shine: Manual High 

School Binet School Male Butler Greathouse Audobon 

Dedicated staff who want to teach children. Strong research department. 





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Dedicated staff. 

Hard working employees at every level of the organization committed to excellence 

in service - Schools (models) of excellence at each level (pre-school, elementary, 

middle, and high) - Pockets of excellence in each school building - Caring adults 

in each school building - A school board willing to work with their superintendent to 

effect positive change for children - Highly innovative systems in several 

departments of the system (Research/Planning, Finance, Facilities/Transportation) 

Diversity of population(student, staff and administration) and programs. 

The assets are the people if you understand what the #1 asset is the people. Our 

strengths again are the goals we put forth that we need to put our efforts toward 

educating our children. 

They have a lot of money to waste, particularly on high schools that are too small 

and an absolutely idiotic school assignment plan. 

Offering of courses and programs including Special Education. We have a number 

of option and magnet schools with a variety of services. 

Committment to diverse schools; desire to educate all students; responsive 

administration 

Well-integrated school system with diversity in all schools Choices of programs 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

for students High-quality leadership 

We are a large district that is diverse in accepting all students throughout the 

community, including those from challenged neigborhoods, 

Great question... 

Diversity 

The collaborative spirit of the district. We have a wealth of resources at our finger 

tips. 

The district has access to some of the best minds and practitioners in the 

education world. Opportunities abound for professional development and for 

working on a wide variety of projects. The students and schools are diverse and 

interesting, which provides a very rewarding work environment. 

a lot of knowledge is here and a lot of good people 

Diversity, dedicated and may long time employees, honest, hard working people 

who mostly do what is right for kids above anything else. Programs to meet many 

different student needs. 

Being alrge, we have a wide range of possibilities thata can be offered to students 

large district 

diversity in ethnicity, SES; high standards; diversity in programming to meet all 

types of learners; choices of schools 

The quality of the classified and certified staff, and their committment to the 

students and families they serve. 

strong financial base, many, many dedicated and committed employees, passion 

for the District, child-centered, willingness to work with focused, responsive 

116

leadership - This is really a wonderful District that has so many things going for it 

that just needs the right match to move us forward! 

Diverse population of engaged students with supportive parents. Talented and 

dedicated employees. Available financial resources. Commitment to continued 

improvement. 

 

 

 

 

Diversity 

School choice, where parents and students can commit their energies and focus on 

areas of study that help them develop their academic skills in fields where they are 

interested. 

JCPS has a strong dedicated work force. Teachers, administrators and classified 

perssonel are all dedicated to improving the lives of the children we serve. Strong 

ties to the University of Loisville, University of Kentucky, Bellarmine University and 

Spalding Universtity provide an excellent training ground for new teachers and 

administrators. 

Commitment to diversity Quality professional development opportunities for staff 

Administrative expertise Abitity to make data-driven decisions 


County Public Schools?(This information is used as we screen potential 

candidates.) 

Visionary, recognizes JCPS employees for going the distance for children and 

views the whole child not testing. 

Ability to effectively communicate with staff all all levels. Willingness to listen to 

what currently exists in Jefferson County and learn how it functions before 

implemention of new programs and initiatives that may overlap current effective 

practice. 

We need someone that is familar and has experience with our school district's 

needs. Taking two years to learn to maneuver through the political landscape will 

set us back even further. 

 

 

 

 

 

experience with a large, urban public school district; innovation; whole child needs 

Honesty, integrity, leadership skills, experience leading a district of similar size and 

demographics, focus on students and student achievement, committed to the 

school district and the community, ability to recruit appropriate staff and trust them 

to do their job, willingness to work with board members instead of against them, 

open and approachable, unselfish, 

JCPS needs a superintendent who 1. has worked with large districts 2. ia 

accessable 3. is willing to do what is best for students 

Someone who is a good communicator and team player. They also need to be 

compassionate and have empathy for all children. This district is entirely too large 

to be a Micro-Manager. Utilize the individuals hired to assist! 

someone who LIKES kids and whose record gives evidence; someone who 

communicates regularly with our Bd., who is a consensus builder, who strongly 

communicates a good long-range plan in addition to improvements now; who 

communicates this via media too to community. we're really looking for a magician 

it seems. I really liked Dr. Berman and am SO SORRY his time was cut short. 

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118 

I would love to have one who realizes the importance of Early Childhood. Early 

childhood is beneficial for the economy and the welfare of the city. 

Bright, well educated, thoughtful and visionary. Committed to diversity and Pre K 

education. 

I believe we need a superintendent that will not only focus on academic success for 

our students in terms of high stakes testing, but also on other aspects of their wellbeing; 

i.e. social and emotional aspects. I would like for our next superintendent to 

be willing to channel resources into our schools and into underserved communities 

within our city to help meet the needs of those students in those communities 

academically, socially, and emotionally. Many of the students in these areas have 

difficulty performing academically because those other needs are not being met. 

Someone with political skills to navigate rough waters of Student Assignment Plan, 

relations with KDE, collective bargaining, etc. 

The ability to look at the social/emotional needs of the students along with 

academic issues. 

The candidate has experience as a building level administrator. Communicates 

well with all stakeholders. Is willing to listen and include others in the decisions 

being made. Is approachable. Someone who understands that decisions must be 

made that are in the best interest of children.Someone who understands that it is 

people not programs that will move this district forward. Someone from Ky. 

someone who understands the special needs of urban education someone 

who believes in a setting high standards for behavior as well as academics 

someone who will get into the schools and address the real problems 

I loved the leadership that we had. Must have a vision and the knowledge to 

acquire resources to run such a large district. Must be able to see the needs of 

education just not on the local level but involved in national initiatives. Mission and 

vision of all stakeholders Innovative Able to attract attention to district with millions 

of dollars awarded to district Knowledgeable about the district and can think 

outside the box like the previous superintendent did. 

Honesty, integrity, punctual, conscientious, ability to make decisions and take 

ownership; willing to take advice from staff and Board members; work as a team 

player; not manipulative and deceiving 

I believe it is essential that the next superintendent have experience in a large 

district. I also think that he/she should have experience as a principal of a school. 

The leader must have the abiltiy to advance the district vision in a variety of ways 

including the establishment of positive working relationships with district personnel, 

parents and community leaders. 

A person who has strong skills as a communicator, one who speaks well to a 

variety of groups and is personal and does lots of follow-up notes and phone calls. 

Someone who possesses vision but is willing to bend and knows how to build 

consensus with the Board and other important stakeholders. Our Board needs to 

think of the common good, not just those who put them in office from their specific 

sub-district in the city. That is hard to do but a skillful articulator of vision and one 

who gains the confidence of the entire Board will be in a position to be a true 

consensus-builder. He or she must believe that all content in the curriculum is core 

content, not just math and literacy. The superintendent must be visionary, 

knowledgeable of pertinent research on how kids learn, and an intellectual who

knows how to relate to people and translate deep understanding into everyday 

language for the broader public. 

1.)Vision 2.)Appropriate Skill-Set 3.) Great Interpersonal skills and 4.)Tenacity 

We want someone that does not project an air of superiority over the parents, and 

is willing to listen to them without interupting their comment and act upon the 

parent's suggestions providing areply to them. Suggest that you pursue the 

Chancler of the New York City School District who recently left that position in a 

greatly improved position than he found the district when he was first hired. 

Level headed (no knee jerk reaction) Visible - experienced with urban issue - 

experienced building level administrator (principal) understanding of instruction, 

ability to identify goals and priorities, willingness to tackle the difficult issues of 

system-wide dysfunction, HORRIBLE student assignment plan, poor public 

perception. Someone who is customer driven (schools are the customers of 

Central Office ans should operate as such) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Open mind, creative, interested in the "whole child" with programs for 

social/emotional growth and mental health assistance in schools, appreciation and 

understanding of frysc's, willing to visit and talk to folks in all schools. 

I would hope that we would get an individual that would not surround themselves 

with "yes" people. We need an individual that will see the schools, be in the 

schools for a time and listen to those that are in the trenches day in and day out - 

not those that sit in offices and look at data and make decisions based on how the 

numbers were crunched. 

Familiarity of the needs and expectations of all areas of JCPS (Shawnee, Fairdale, 

PRP, Ballard, ...) 

Someone who has had experience is a large urban district Someone who is 

outgoing and in touch with the local schools 

Collaborative leader/Good listener Credibility-experience as a principal and or 

assistant principal Experience running a medium to large urban district Emphasis 

on quality instruction more than on programs Balance between vision and 

maintenance Financially responsibile (wise use of monies) 

Improve school and student performance Have a shared vision Unite the 

shareholders Lead 

Honesty, Integrirty, and a willingness TO UTILIZE RESOURCES THAT 

CURRENTLY EXIST WITHIN THE SYSTEM. One who understands the levels of 

professionals they currently have and what they are AND are not capapble of. 

Needs to be highly visible. Should make a concerted effort to visit all schools and 

get to know the principals. He or she must have strong communication skills and a 

willingness to think outside the box. 

Student Achievement as a top priority. Support for and recognition of principals 

and teachers. Honest committment to making decisions that impact local schools 

with the school stakeholders (principals, teachers, parents, students) and their 

points of view in mind. Honest committment to streamline systems and procedures 

to eliminate barriers between educating students and busy work for school based 

staff. 

Personality PLUS. Someone that can get the community back on our side. 

Someone that would cut the waste and get the budget back into the schools. 

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120 

 

 

Someone that will not allow board level employees to NOT help schools because 

that is the reason for their jobs. 

Communicator Transparency Accountablity 

Experience; personl integrity; willing to enroll own children in JCPS; strong 

instructional leadership skills 

Someone who is not just about the test - someone who is about children learning - 

not test prep - someone who is committed to developing the whole child. The new 

supt. needs to keep in mind that we are about children - they are our clients. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Strong intelligence; good judgement; solid health and energy level; preparaton and 

successful experience as teacher, principal, and superintendent; excellent 

communication skills (including listening); outstanding leadership skills including 

ability to help heal rifts within the education family and the supporting community, 

inspire staff and community to greater effort, engagement, and stronger support; 

ability to effectively deploy and manage staff and resources efficiently; hold basic 

pertinent views congruent with professional staff and parent community; ability to 

advocate and advance workable education and accountability practices; political 

savvy. 

Someone who has been successful in a "large" metropolitan community (serving 

more than 50,000 children at least). The person should be familiar with a diverse 

community of learners. It is important the person can build a strong, positive 

working relationship with the Board of Education locally and at the state level. 

Having a sense of superiority will not serve this community well. The person might 

want to consider promoting those already serving in the district rather than bringing 

folks from former school districts where they have worked. 

Collaboration, honesty, communication and a listener 

Balanced in terms of data-driven (using data and test scores to improve instruction) 

without going overboard (using instruction to practice testing), a caring, thoughtful 

leader. Someone who understands the idea that behavior and social-emotional 

skills underly the foundation for learning. Someone able to help this district's 

departments become more united in the way they work. 

For them to be seen and heard from!!! We need someone that wants to be a part 

of our community. For the first year he was here, he was flying home ever 

weekend!! During snow storms, we never saw him because he was up north with 

his family! You take the job, you move your family! All district stakeholders should 

be addressed by the new super. This superintendant has never once addressed 

my group of co workers! For someone coming in touting that they are so warm and 

fuzzy wanting to commit to character development--then never even addressing 

our group--has been so disappointing. Berman says one thing and does another! 

Huge disappointment! 

Data-oriented, systems oriented, experience with large, diverse school system. 

Desire to work as a team and LISTEN to input. 






the board will do whatever they want no matter what the community wants.



One who values educational achievement over political correctness; one who 

values and promotes family involvement in schools by supporting neighborhood 

schools and the right of parents to choose to send all of their children to the same 

school when they consider it appropriate; one who leads by example, not 

pontification; one who focuses on solid, academic performance rather than glitzy, 

optional programs that divert attention and resources away from the basics (i.e. 

reading on grade level, fundamental math skills, competent civics instruction, etc.) 

Honesty: not looking to spin the message but willing to face the facts and address 

them - A belief in Kids First and the willingness to tackle the adult issues that pose 

barriers to student success - An attitude of Service to others over protecting self 

Open to looking toward the future to be able to make changes heading in that 

direction. People oriented, must be able to work with a vast array of people. 

Experience in working with a district possibly a s large as ours, would be helpful. 

We need a Supt. that has a backgroud in business 1st and education second. We 

are a 500M dollar business wth our main goal, that is education. Our new Supt. 

must be a person that understandsthat understands his #1 assets are the people 

he works with each day in the field not the little group that Berman associated with 

each day. He must be a person that will bring discipline back into the schools and 

be a leader. He must gain the people's backing, you have to earn respect. 

He/She better know how to count to 7. 

someone coming from a district similar to ours in size and programatic needs. 

Consensus builder; advocate for all children; actively promotes school district 

(public figure) 

Ability to manage and delegate a system of this size in terms of resources, 

timelines, and funding Ability to develop relationships and trust within the district, 

especially with his/her cabinet and the JCBE Belief that diversity in schools is 

critical to our community's continued growth Multi-focused - support schools at all 

levels (E/M/H) Ability to advocate for JCPS student and staff needs at the state 

and national level Advocate for JCPS within the community Ability to negotiate 

state expectations in a realistic manner 

Acceptance of diversity, but must be willing to consider the concern of parents 

when making student assignment changes. Also, they should adhere to a budget 

focused on spending for student needs (including pertanent staff) and less for 

extravagances. 

experience at leading a large school district vision for the direction (future) of 

public education articulate in communicating the purpose of education, schools, 

and community courage to do the right things when addressing the challenges 

posed by the current trend of fear-based propoganda of public education 

Clarity of vision; strength of conviction; steel spine 

The ability to look past academics. With our diverse community, there are other 

needs. Understanding of diversity. 

Collaborative leader with a proven record of turning around low performing schools. 

Also the leader should have experience in an urban school district. 

121

The next superintendent must be a master of communication. Being able to 

convey ideas clearly and concisely and being willing to share information with 

stakeholders are vital attributes. Sometimes people in this district have the same 

goals, but remain at odds because of poor communication. Also, it is critical that 

the new superintendent can analyze information accurately and objectively. 

She/he must not rely solely on the JCTA representatives for the teacher viewpoint. 

A large percentage of teachers disagree with some of the JCTA positions and they 

should be heard. The new superintendent must also be supportive of 

administrators as they run the school based operations. . 

experience with a large urban district; honesty; experience as a building principal 

It is very important that they understand that Louisville is very diverse in this 

county. West Louisville is not like Southwest Louisville, whichis not like the 

HIghlands, which is not like Southeast Louisville, which is not like East end 

Louisville. Wihtout exzaggerating, ti can be like in New York City going to Little 

Italy, then Chiantown because the differences in SES, goals in life, culture, life style 

is completely different in this community more so than people want to admit. 

Willingness to delegate and leave responsibilities at the level where they are is 

implementation-don't micro-manage; to be articulate, open minded, hopeful and 

patient(not reactive) 

they want to trash the assignment plan 

progressive, leader, available, team member 

Must have a clear vision for the district and experience working in a district similiar 

to ours. 

able to handle management side as well as instructional (or set up systems to 

ensure oversight), visionary and inspiring, leadership to move district forward, 

instructional knowledge and ability to increase student achievement through 

collaboration and support for schools, effective communicator, collaborator, treat all 

groups equally, respect opinions of others, respect for diversity, school experience 

- preferably principalship so have strong understanding of the work of schools, 

equitable financial support for the levels, willingness to take a look at reducing 

central office position in support of school funding, prefer experience in larger 

school districts, good listener but willing to act when needed, ability to bring groups 

together, strong ethical and moral base, ability to nurture the relationship with 

school board, politically savvy, ability to work well with unions but hold hard line 

when necessary, embrace the community, always putting children first - I know that 

this list is extensive but I do believe there are people out there that can fill it! 

Focus on student achievement. Value of the adults who provide the education. 

Understanding of the community partnerships. 

Someone who will listen Somone who will advocate for ALL students at the local 

and state level. Someone who will fight to correct political inequities. Someone 

who KNOWS Louisvile - what is so bad about promoting our assistant 

superintendents the to superintendent position? Why do we have to look nationally 

to solve a problem that could be solved by someone locally? 

That they understand the importance of diversity and developing the talents and 

skills of the whole child. They need to understand that Arts programs give students 

the motivation and longing to come to school. They also need to be willing to 

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examine the issues, talk to the people involved in each decision before making 

sweeping changes. 

The next superintendent needs to be thoughtful, not reactionary. He/she needs to 

be an active listener to a variety of members of the community, teachers and 

administrators. He/she should be open minded and willing to compromise. 

Ability to assess and direct the talents of the people with whom s/he works Ability 

to maintain and form productive partnerships with community-based groups 

Commitment to diversity Excellent communication skills Clear vision and plan 

Political savvy 




Needs to downsize the administration and put greater emphasis on the customers 

at the bottom. We cannot continue to produce a product that cannot meet the 

criteria for independence in life. 

Failing schools and student assignment plan. 

The new superintendent will need to unify the school board in order to address 

immediate district needs. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

maintaining diversity, promoting proficiency, reducing the achievement gap 

Turning around schools identified as Persistently low-achieving, building trust 

among staff who have been demoralized, building a strong cohesive relationship 

with the Board (board and staff have been manipulated and played against each 

other by a superintendent determined to get his own way at any cost), nurturing 

and healing must be allowed to take place 

New math and literacy standards Union does not support additional pay in high 

need areas like math, literacy, special education 13 turn-around schools 

New Statewide Standards- Busing Issues/Student Assignment Equity across 

cultures Test Scores and the State Auditing Schools in JCPS/Removal of Principal 

and Staff Members 

Immediately? Strong social skills, calm, inclusive. Have meetings with 

stakeholders very early on arrival. Let us all meet this person and have this person 

convey the message that he or she wants contact with all of us. 

The most important issues is to bring this community back to its level of 

excellance. We need to give all children an equal opportunity to succeed. 

Overly politized school board. Lack of intellectual independence. Way too 

concerned about being re-elected. At heart this is a very under educated and 

conservative state. Watch out for the politicians. They will take advantage of this 

fact for their own advancement. 

#1 Student Assignment Plan #2 Relations with our KY. Dept. of Ed./Commissioner 

of Education, Terry Holliday and current JCTA President, Brent McKim and current 

Superintendent, Berman are obviously severely strained. 

busing diversity 

The student assignment plan and all of its shortcomings. The state's take on low 

performing schools and how to "turn them around". The seeming negative 

relationship that the state dept. of education has with JCPS. 

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schools dealing with the achievement gap schools dealing with students who 

disrupt the educational process limited funding 

Must have the respect of the community and allowed to do their job without any 

interference from the board. The community must understand how to make 

informed decisions about education and know that to turn any organization around, 

it takes at least 3 to 5 years to make an impact. We must work together as a 

community, that includes parents, school, school board and superintendent. With 

the history of diversity, it has always been an issue for all people to fully 

understand the need in this community. This is 2011 and we must have the ideals 

and fortitude to do what is best for our students. All the political jockeying and 

rhetoric has been so detrimental to our community. Issues Diversity Low 

performing schools Equitable and equal education for all students Innovation and 

inquiry based curriculum keeping up with the initiatives that are in place and 

making necessary changes to move our district into the 21st century. 

Student assignment - make neighborhood schools an option; no reason to continue 

the current student assignment plan; students deserve the experience of 

neighborhood schools; JCPS should not have "private" elite schools which is what 

the student assignment plan has created - Male, Manual, Ballard, Eastern. 

Student Achievement - continuous progress and improvement; NCLB and Senate 

Bill 1 issues 2. Accountability - with Sentate Bill 1 there will be a new accountability 

and testing system 3.. New Common Core Standards - the curriculum, instruction 

and assessment implications associated with it. 4. Student Assignment - 

balancing issues raised around keeping diversity while honoring parent choice 

AND making transportation reasonable (efficient and safe for all children) 

Student assignment - how to make it fair without giving up on thorough-going 

integration. 2. Avoiding the trap of simply focusing on testing and assessment. 

There is a lot more to teaching, and it is the "a lot more" that engages kids in real 

learning and that promotes the desire to do well on tests and the ability to do so. 3. 

We need a return to creativity. When kids and teachers are creative, they are 

engaged. When they are engaged, they become learners. When they are 

learners, the also develop the skills for test-taking. "Don't put the tests first, put the 

learning first." I fear most people will fundamentally want the opposite, but that 

won't affect test scores in the long run; it will generate boredom, the number one 

reason kids drop out. If we are to respond to poverty (60% of our children are 

poor), then we must find a way to engage students not bore them. (4) Teacher 

morale, it is low. (5) A two-track education system that is largely a racially 

segregated system but not in appearance. We need true heterogeneity. (6) 

Inequity among schools. Manual is a good example of a school that gets too many 

white kids from rich neighborhoods. Deal with such institutionalized inequity. 

Have a plan to deal the various achievement gaps in our county and be prepared 

to come up w/ a new plan to keep our schools diverse. 

Improving the conduct of the students, improving teaching perfomance & 

techniques, control the student behavior & assignment of busing situation. assign 

attendance at neighborhood schools where possible. 

Horrible student assignment plan system-wide dysfunction Poor performing 

schools lack of an effective curriculum department Must be willing to work with 

KDE Stop letting JCTA run the district

The stress of the student assignment plan, meeting the needs of students in "low 

performing" schools, economic issues impacting families, the increase of media 

topics 

Immediate effectiveness is going to be hard for anyone in a system as entrenched 

and set as JCPS. I do think that an individual that can get a feel for the wide 

variety of personalities our schools have and the visions our community leaders 

have will get the buy-in they need to be successful. As someone who has two 

children that have gone through JCPS (one going to college in the fall) and as 

someone who has worked in the schools for 10 years, there seems to be a 

disconnect between the reality of the school day and the desired outcomes of the 

school day. We need to work as a district, community and state to bridge this 

disconnect. 

Changing the mindset of the parents to increase the expectations at home - thast 

will in turn change the expectations at school. 

JCTA Student Assignment Low performing schools 

Student assignment plan (particularly a shorter duration for the transporting of 

students) Underachieving schools Divided community over busing/neighborhood 

schools District & national concern over bullying 

The apparent perception around the state that JCPS is the enemy of the rest of the 

state. 

District- power struggles/trust/lack of leadership Community- faith in public schools 

Getting our school system back on track. Reversing the student assignment plan 

so that children can go to school where their parents REALLY want them to! With 

this system in place, our schools would probably be EVEN more diverse than they 

are now! 

There are many initiatives in place. The big question is whether or not the 

candidate will keep or dismantle them. The candidate will immediately be 

bombarded by strong focus community groups such as the NAACP, a faction of 

east end parents who want to dismantle the Student Assignment Plan, and 

Transportation Plan. 

Implementation of the student assignment plan. Diversity may need to be 

redefined in order to eliminate the student cost of long bus rides, and school 

assignments that prohibit parent involvement. Diversity should be a priority, but not 

at the expense of the students in terms of lengthy bus rides, etc. Public perception 

is that the district cares more about the race of students sitting next to one another 

rather than the education and achievement of all JCPS students. That will have to 

be addressed and changed. Shortfalls in state and federal budgets will also 

present challenges. Low performing schools will have to be turned around. 

School assignment, over zealous testing and assessment from our district. Getting 

empahsis back on schools and students and away from power plays by many at 

the district level. To be effective immediately, the new sup must make it clear that 

anyone doing a disservice to schools or children will not have a job with JCPS. 

Testing Student Assignment 


The busing issues and diversity. We need to do what is best for children. 

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Student/school performance sufficient to meet pertinent accountability standards 

including reaching workable understanding with the Educationer Commissioner 

covering time and means to comply; adjustments in the student assignment plan 

and it's implementation including de-politicizing it to a level where it was 3 or 4 

years ago; healing rifts among Board members, school family, and community 

arising from practices and departure of previous superintendent; arouse and 

engage the parent community and others to articulate what they want from the 

schools and how they can be supportive; assess and report on their input and 

move to keep them engaged. 

It is important the person can build a strong, positive working relationship with the 

Board of Education locally and at the state level. We have been plagued most 

recently with negative news media surrounding the relationship currently. It is 

extremely important given the current media blitz on the district that we gain some 

positive press through this change. 

Achievement and achievement gap issues; accountability of teachers for quality 

instruction and central office support of schools 

Definitely someone able to handle to politics of student assignment and state 

accountability. Both are contentious issues and polarizing. Both are somewhat out 

of the control of the superintendent so the next one will need to quickly learn and 

adapt to these issues. Also, the next superintendent needs to be capable of 

intentionally addressing the achievement gap as well as the disproportional 

representation of the African-Americans in suspension and alternative school 

placement data. 

STUDENT BEHAVIOR!! Test Scores Budget Constraints 

Student assignment challenges; achievement gaps 









The student assignment plan, including forced busing; state accountability as 

related to our "failing schools;" credibility - they must practice what they preach and 

accept the notion that we will continue to get the same results we have now if we 

do not assertively make significant changes to our current "business model." 

A deep focus on results for kids in all decision making (NCLB, State Law, 

Commisioner of Education) - Establish a system in which each school provides an 

excellent education for each child, (NCLB, GLI, Community Forum, NAACP, Urban 

League) - Student Assignment: building a plan and support for this plan in which 

each school classroom represents the diversity of the community so that each 

student succeeds. (NAACP, Urban League) 

Budget issues; transportation issues; and maintaining diversity. 

Stop this busing, We need diversity but not at the expense of our children. Surveys 

show that our children need (9) hours sleep, this can't be done by depot our 

children at 6:30 AM before the chickens are up. They are tired before they get to

class. Discpline in the classrooms and on the school bus. Getting the parents 

involved can't be done when they live across town. Our board members need to 

step back, get out of the way. They are a big issue because they won't listen to the 

community nor will they let the Supt. do his job. We need to understand that we are 

niot living in the 70's this is 2011, we need to move ahead. We must educate our 

children. There is a differance between teaching and letting the teachers be 

teachers. This school system has set the teachers and schools to fail. 

A divided BofE. The continuing effect of cherry-picking, skim-off-the-top Magnet 

schools on the rest of the district. 

schools being audited due to poor test scores 

State and federal testing; inability to choose and mentor administrators and 

teachers 

Student assignment Inequitable assignment of ECE and ESL students to 

schools Teacher evaluation system and deficiency process - needs major 

overhaul. It is much too difficult to eliminate ineffective teachers. Teacher 

transfer process and re-staffing of low-performing schools - this is a mess and 

continues to enable underperforming teachers to move from school to school 

Meeting proficiency goals in underperforming schools - need someone who 

understands that high concentrations of at-risk students with high levels of 

diversity leads to more NCLB targets and makes it much more difficult for school 

staffs to move students to proficiency. Schools must be diverse in terms of 

socioeconomic levels - with all schools close to the at-risk % of the metro area. 

There shouldn't be schools with less than 30 or 40% at risk students (FRL) - 

including magnets. 

The priority schools mandated by state, student assignment plans, the threat of 

bargaining units being challenged as well as the Boards authority being challenged 

and student bullying. 

FEAR- fear that we (public school educators) are intentionally failing to do 

something more than we are; fear that our community is failing because of our 

schools; fear that our state is deficient because of our schools; fear that our nation 

will deteriorate because of our educational system. 

Indecisiveness, constant flux, mistrust from the public/parents 

Accountability. Union representation. 

Student assignment Dealing with challenging students to ensure all schools are 

safe havens. 

A new superintendent will have to understand the poverty, drug abuse, and the 

gang issues facing our schools. While we are not like some of the larger cities, our 

issues in these areas are real and must be taken into account when creating policy 

and programs. Creating an environment where parents are expected to participate 

in their child's education as parents - not as psuedo teachers, principals, lawyers -- 

or as enemies of the schools is important. Obviously the student assignment plan 

will be a critical issue. Also, budget cuts, core standards, and accountability are all 

changing the way we do business. We must have a leader capable of planning 

ahead and helping JCPS continue to excel and improve. 

Student reassignment plan; the fact that principals and staffs of schools are being 

removed due to test scores and it has destroyed community confidence in the 

schools and destroyed morale of JCPS school based employees 

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WEneed more programs for slower learners who do not meet the guidelines for 

special education. Many of the students are either not addressed at all or not 

considered "weak enough" yet get out of high school barely reading and writing 

and doing math.Dr. Berman was right about reaching these kids and their parents 

through Care for Kids. It helped some BUT the other part is more one on one and 

more foreign speaking staff for our increasing foreign populations, not just 

Hispanic, either. THe kids need to be taught on a level they can hanmdle and not in 

class causing trouble because they don't qualify for specail education and are 

expected to read and writer and do math at a 9th grade level yet read, write and do 

math at a third grade level. These trimester catch up programs in no way allow 

enough time for them to truly catch up. How could one third of a school year do 

that? Although it has been said that research says smaller classes do not work, I 

disagree. More highly structured research based instruction on a daily basis in 

SMALL groups would do it. It costs some money but less money than jail later 

Contray to public opinion, I don't believe it is student assignment or low achieving 

schools-I believe the most important issue is how do we look at each student as an 

individual who needs assistance in learning 

modivation of students. Getting parents to value their students education 

Be able to effectively communicate the need to have a high quality public school 

district that serves all children in the community to the various stakeholders. 

District: 1. Student assignment - taking an open and honest look at if this current 

process is best for children. We still have many high poverty schools that the plan 

has done nothing to address so what is it that we value for diversity's sake? 2) 

Morale – need to bring back the spirit and power of “us” and “we” and that there is 

genuine appreciation and respect for individuals in the district 3) Need to get back 

to the fundamentals of strong, high quality instructional practices. We have 

become a district of programs and add-ons. 4) Student achievement – has to be 

constantly focused on this issue yet, be supportive for schools and willing to 

provide equitable resources for all schools. We are becoming of district of schools 

that have a lot and school that get nothing. 5) Hard look at reorganizing the district 

– perhaps into regional concept, refocusing central office departments on school 

support, collapsing departments that are no longer needed, and hotline system that 

is responsive to schools Community: 1) Perception of school district due to 

audits and NCLB 2) Support for schools – it is there, just needs to be constantly 

nurtured 3) Building collaborations – health, mental and extracurricular needs for 

students State: 1) Perception of Jefferson County with rest of commonwealth – 

nurturing a collegiality and collaborative relationship instead of we are so “different” 

we cannot relate 2) Leadership to bring groups together in support of necessary 

changes to high stakes testing and educational practices 3) Leadership so that 

school funding is not decreased 

Low performing schools Bussing Finances 

Student Assignment Inequities in schools of choice - why do we continue to allow 

the elete schools to grow and grow and the poor schools to suffer the 

concequences? 

The student assignment plan. Equitable support for all programs. 

The new superintendent will need to address the inequities in student assignment 

at all levels. Student assignment has a dramatic effect on school culture and the

ability of schools to be successful in meeting federal and state standards. He/she 

will need to improve morale among the district's employees and develop trust 

within the district and community. 

School transportation Local media Establishing a leadership team Working with 

KDE 

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Classified Staff 



strong commitment to diversity 

The Science Center is nice. The ballet is nice, but the Louisville Orchestra is 

struggling which is sad, but since we feel that arts are not important in this area, I 

suspect that that should be expected. 

Being able to relate to the employees at large 

One of the greatest assets of GLC is that most of the community has been here all 

their lives or the majority of their lives and participate in the schools and the 

community, 

VARIETY! ALWAYS SOMETHING GOING ON. 

Louisville is a big city with the qualities of a small town. 

The diversity of many activities that are offered to the community as a whole. 

Family, friendly, caring. 

Assets of Louisville are its diversity, the wide range of neighborhoods that it 

includes from some more rural areas to urban areas, and the overall generosity of 

the people that live here. 

The Louisville Community is large and has an incredible amount of diversity. There 

are few large districts (or any districts) for that matter that are as diverse as JCPS. 

This relates to the ethnic diversity, economic status, home community and more. 

We cover all the bases with our students and Louisville is a large city, filled with 

resources, partnerships and outside educational opportunities (zoo, museums, 

planetariums, etc.) Louisville is extremely different than other counties in 

Kentucky, as well as any other district in close proximity. Having experience with a 

large district doesn't really cut it for JCPS, because it isn't your typical large city 

school district. 

Businesses, conventions for the economy, the attractions( Yum, KFEC, Lou. 

Slugger etc.) and of course the friendly people of Lou. KY. 

Tight knit community, all the amenities of a large city like New York or San 

Francisco but with a small town feel. 

great area for most any possible industry. Great location and access. 

Someone willing to work with the community of each school and its neighborhoods 

Community involvement, concern and care for all citizens. Pride and volunteerism 

in the community. Loyalty! 

Friendly, helpful people. Very diverse community. Many agencies/services 

available to provide assistance to those in need. Unique culture. 

manageable geographic area, with public transit, extensive wonderful public 

parks(Olmsted Parks and all the others), diverse population, lots of grassroots 

groups trying to save the environment, help homeless people 

diversity 

The greatest assets of Louisville is it's diversity, it's since of community and 

friendliness to outsiders. 

Our Families/ and our childre should be the gretast assets. 

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Caring Comminity 

This community is very diverse and culturally rich. 

people of all races 

Louisville has many different areas of the ARTS, performing, visual and interactive 

arts programs and museums. Our theater and music programs are awesome! Also, 

the city is very accessable...you can get almost anywhere in the city within 20-30 

minutes. Overall, traffic isn't THAT horrible. 

It's people and it's businesses. 

The size and scope of Louisville is, to me, its greatest draw. The city is not too 

small that it feels confining, nor is it too big that you don't feel a part of the 

community. 

Louisville has many activities for those who like to bike ride or run. The parks are 

incredible. The restaurants are amazing. The music scene is over the top; there 

are indoor and outdoor concerts all year. 

Friendly people, we help wherever need. Jobs are coming back to Louisville. 

Louisville is a concerned city and strong community. 

that the coummunity will go to bat for the person chose and welcome them to our 

city. and help in anyway they can. 

We have several companies here in our fine city. To name a few 

Humana,UPS,Ford Motor Co. and we have the fastest two minutes in town 

Churchhill Downs. 

LOW CRIME RATE FOR THE MOST PART, NICE PARKS AND RECREATION 

PROGRAMS, GREAT DIVERSITY, FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE 

Our cultural climate of exciting sports, natural beauty, riverfront events, arts & 

culture, dining. Just great people! 

We are a very caring community especially when it comes to educating our 

children. 

Louisville is a city with lots of diversity and great activities for people, Science 

Museum, Derby Museum and Speed Museum are great places for our students to 

explore. 









Derby activities 

The community, while the 17th largest city in the United States, is a tight-knit 

community. The Greater Louisville Community is also a very diverse community 

that has prided itself on celebrating that diversity instead of bucking against it. 

Our unique community and the talent that is in our own backyard. 

Our city is strong in Arts with museums, orchestra, and cultural events. There are 

many sport venues. 

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Friendly people, good location for singles and families, for the most part good local 

leaders, most people love Louisville and will work toward making our schools 

better. We are a city of rich and poor as far as money, however, we usually work as 

one in a crisis. Just a good place to live and to raise a family and I believe that we 

have a low crime rate. 

Louisville feels like a bigger city than it is. We have a great visual as well as 

performing arts community. We also have a wonderful local music scene. There 

are many free or inexpensive events held by the city throughout the year! 

Wonderful arts community; generous volunteers who give time to help less 

fortunate; tight-knit communities 

Louisville has become a community with many cultures. Since the 1980’s, Cubans 

have integrated into KY. Our schools are now filled with many different Spanish 

speaking students and other cultures as well. I feel our schools are doing a great 

job in accommodating the different cultures, which helps in providing a great 

education to all. 

Louisville is a city with a small town feel. We have the Arts, Sporting events, and 

lots of attractions all around Louisville. Moving within the city is very easy 

compared to other larges cities. The cost of living is very reasonably too. Louisville 

is a great place to live and raise a family. 

Excellent job market. UPS, Humana, Ford, JCPS,etc...... 

The many touis attractions and great housing market. 

Fairly large city with a small-town friendly feel. Great cost of living (home, utilities, 

entertainment, etc). 

Louisville is a crossroads for great cities such as Indianapolis, Cincinnati and 

Nashville as well as an amazing destination for the Kentucky Derby, arts festivals, 

dining and historic distilleries, museum row, horse country, farmers markets, and 

the largest collection of Victorian homes in the U.S. 

It is a large school system with a lot of room for improvement. There are many 

historical things associated with the city of Louisville. This will be a demanding 

person with lots of time and talent. 

growth in Business advances in healhcare college graduates having a vision for 

the future strong workforce dedicated Police & Firemen 

Louisville is a city with many suburbs and neighborhood communities. The park 

system is great, the downtown area is continually developing, and our new mayor 

is scrutinizing metro government practices and ethics. 

No comment here. 

Diversity Hometown feeling although 16th largest city nationally Sense of 

community 

We have the assets of a big city on a smaller scale 

Cultural diversity, our current mayor and his vision, the Ohio River front for bringing 

community members together to celebrate traditional events; community building; 

food and shelter for homeless families. Louisville has a reputation: if you are 

hungry there are meals available. We should be very proud of this as a city! 

Friendly community and great cost of living. 

Location; Civic Pride; the people who live here 

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The love of their own children as well as the children in the community. Their 

sacrifices they make for the welfare of their children to insure they are well 

educated. 

WORK WELL WITH THE COMMUNITY IN PROVIDING QUALITY EDUCATION 

TO ALL STUDENTS 

The "Big City" environment without actually being a "Big City". Examples: cultural 

arts, diversity in businesses, growing cultural diversity, worldwide events as Derby, 

etc. 2. Another asset is the pride our larger corporations have for the community 

which can be seen in their support. 

safe, afordable, centrally located community 

It's a family town and the cost of living is reasonable. 

Louisville has several universities, museums, and theatres. 

Warm,welcoming community very diverse population 

Growing arts community. Partnerships with the business sector. Low cost of living. 

Friendly city. Most attractions are easy to get to. Still pretty safe in most areas. 

zoo, waterfront, library, Speed Museum, Actor's Theatre, Music Theatre of 

Louisville, various art galleries, Fund for Arts, Bats baseball, UofL sports 

Louisville has a great parks system. The riverwalk is one of a kind, and all of the 

Olmstead parks located from the West End out to Cherokee park are amazing 

assets to our community. 

I believe that one of the greatest assets of Greater Louisville are its Arts and 

Cultural attractions. 

Diversity, potential for growth. 

friendly people, diverse and active arts scene, wonderful parks system 

Someone that knows what the children and families need to succeed to reach their 

goals. 

Diverse community 

the arts, the central location, basketball, friendliness of community 

The people is the greatest asset, and children have to be seen as not the future but 

the present. 



principals 

It pays well. 

Know what it means to do thankless jobs 

Technology advances, Parent Portal, access to programs 

LISTENING AND TRYING TO PLEASE 

The employees at the school level are very caring of students. 

The JCPS district has a wonderful supply of very good teachers. They certainly 

are not recognized enough. The everyday barriers they have to teach against is 

overwhelming. 

Great teachers who really do care; active parents. 

Strengths/assets of the school district are the wide range of programs offered to 

students as well as adults. It is such an important part of our community because 

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of the number of children the district serves. Also, it is one of the largest employers 

in the area. 

Individuals love to conduct their research in JCPS, because of the diversity. They 

can get wealthy kids, poor kids, black kids, Indian kids, homeless kids, ESL kids, 

gifted adn talented, etc. We get research requests from all over the United States. 

There is also a lot of room for growth and improvement (although the general 

population believes they are WAY more knowledgable than they really are.) 

Work well with students and community, parents input very important, try to reslove 

important issues quickly 

The vast majority of the teachers honestly care about the kids and their progress. 

many willing volunteers and parents to assist with great teachers and 


Someone that can lead us to achieve greater things 

Dedicated, caring individuals who want our children to succeed and remain in the 

community to one day give back and have pride in their school and city. 

Excellent Early Childhood program. Caring, dedicated staff. Very diverse. A few 

excellent schools. Good special education programs. 

lots of choices, several highly acclaimed schools(duPont Manual, Male, Meyzeek, 

Brandeis) 

In the past it had been the school cluster arrangements, which I felt were truly 

crucial in helping children see others as people with the same needs and wants 

that they have. It broke down sterotypes which some had been taught by closedminded 

and racist adults in their lives. This in turn could only be a asset to the 

community. 

main purpose and goal is to educate our children/ and prepare them for life 

All working for the best way possible to help the children succeed. 

All students are included. This district makes every effort to ensure all students 

needs are met. Alternative Schools, FRYSC, Assessment Center, STOP along with 

the traditional/magnet programs 

the kids,the workers and the teachers 

The Exceptional Child Resource teachers really CARE and put their effort into 

teaching kids. The teachers put so much energy into teaching. 

It's diversity. 

Our size enables us to grab attention of local businesses, both large (UPS, Ford, 

YUM, GE, Humana) and small. This means serious money for JCPS. 

The only strength is the magnet schools. 

Be able to communicate with ALL people. Go to all schools and intertwine w/faculty 

& staff. 

JCPS asset is that we are striving to be the best and we have a huge number of 

great teachers. 

we have one of the best teachers and programs here. starting with the headstart 

program. 

The Traditional Schools should be the standard for all students. There should not 

be a lottery ! 

WONDERFUL TEACHERS, VARIETY OF MAGNET PROGRAMS, TALENTED 

STUDENTS, DIVERSE DISTRICT

Good teachers, well distributed school buildings. Decent class size. 

We need someone to step up and do the right thing even if it is not the popular 

thing. 

Jefferson County Public Schools have alot of opportunities for our children to learn 

and grow. Students have a wide choice of studies and are able to explore a variety 

of career choises. 









it's sports 

The strengths of JCPS lies within the dedication of it's staff and students despite 

the lack of support from outside of Jefferson County for the school system. As the 

largest school population in the state of Kentucky, JCPS has been able to 

encompass a population that has grown in diversity. It has used unique 

approaches to address low-performing schools, that with the appropriate amount of 

time would be widely successful (i.e. single gender schools, networking, etc). The 

community rallies around the schools and is headed by a strong mayor and Metro 

Council. 

Not sure what the strengths are anymore. So much well deserved publicity. 

Diversity is a strength. Test scores are improving. Many public schools outrank 

private schools. 

Good employees that care for our community and our schools, most teachers are 

excellent and those that need help get it. Our elected school board seem to work 

together for the good of the community. The district/schools get lots of support 

from business and community leaders. 

A large and challenging district. The system here is not broken it just needs strong 

and genuine leadership to take us to the next level. 

Diversity of students; constantly seeking ways to improve; vision 

Our district has numerous educational options and programs available to students 

within our magnet and even nonmagnet schools. These schools are left to 

advertise their opportunities on their own except for the Showcase of Schools 

which doesn't reach enough working or out of touch parents. I happen to work at 

a Montessori school at this time and have worked in Montessori education for 

many years. I would like to see schools that offer these opportunities "highlighted 

or showcased" in various media and all areas of the county. This includes 

elementary thru high school. Each school should have an opportunity to highlight 

it's benefits, and how its been a good match for various students. Perhaps videos 

made that can be pulled up or a spread in the newspaper, etc. I had 3 children in 

JCPS and my last child graduated in 2003. We didn't know anything about 

Waggener HS until a counselor spoke to us about the size and opportunities it had 

to offer. It was a match for my daughter because of the small population and close 

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proximity to our home. How can we promote more of what the county has to offer 

is the question for a new superintendent? 

JCPS is dedicated to the educational needs of all students of all cultures. Principals 

do all they can to accommodate parents of different cultures. They do this to the 

best of their ability, with the financial resources given. 

The District provides all kinds of professional Developement for employees, there 

are many resources for teachers and students. We have great schools with some 

great teachers. 

The Traditional programs should be the standard. This should be the expectation 

for all schools. 

There are some great people who work in the system for the most parts. 

Same as above. Although it is a large district, the District is small-town friendly. 

Strengths include great training for new teachers, state of the art technology for 

staff and students, working in conjunction with the public library system to provide 

incredible research resources. 

I thing the number one concern for this upcoming candidate is to focus on what 

HAS to be done rather than what HAS been done. 

large # of dedicated employees willing to work for the students' benefit 

administrative staff who CARE and want the best for the students resources and 

talent Board of Ed who take their positions seriously 

JCPS is the largest district in Kentucky. The budget is ample to operate schools 

effectively. There are many dedicated board members, administrators, teachers, 

and support staff. 

No comment here. 

Offers education to students at all levels (gifted/talented to special needs to lifeling 

learning for adults) Innovative educators 

Staff that really care about their students. Potential for greatness. 

community building through "Care," prevention education re: bullying, youth service 

centers, striving for excellence in student education 

Our diversity. 

The teachers and their attitudes 

The willingness to be so flexible no matter who is in charge and what changes are 

made in this district. 

HOW TO PUT A WORKING AND KNOWLEDGEABLE STUDENT ASSIGNEMENT 

PROGRAM TOGETHER TO HELP JCPS BE A STRONG ROLE MODEL IN THE 

NATION 

The diversity of the schools. I do not believe the neighborhood school concept is 

realistic nor will it benefit the scholastic growth of our students. 2.The hard work our 

system provides to solve problems in our schools and increase educational growth. 

3. The creativity and willingness to try new methods for such growth as magnet 

schools. 

committed staff, stable residents 

Teachers from early childhood programs through high school. Good support staff. 

The dedication of most employees who truly care 

Quality educators 

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Most schools work hard to create good students excelling. Most educators are 

working hard because they love children and want the best for them. Good support 

system in place for everyone. 

Teachers, staff, willingness to change, Care program 

The Diversity of our student population is one of JCPS' greatest assets. 

The most exciting thing about the school district at this time is the assigning of 

magnet programs so that are young students can focus on their areas of interests. 

Size, diversity, expectation of high achievement. 

wonderful career opportunities, many caring teachers 

Strong, good listener, problem solver, loves children, and can take someone ideas 

into consideration. 

People committed to making a difference in education. 

many options, committed staffs 

The teachers and staff in JCPS are a great asset to our district. 



candidates.) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

thick skin 

The next superintendent needs to be firm and resolute in making decisions - and 

especially not one who caves in easily to the non-sensical, anti-educational whims 

of parents and the board. 

Recognize worthless PRINCIPALS AND ADMINISTRATORS in HIGH 

PERFORMING SCHOOLS. 

Thick Skin, Willingness to stick to their guns, Not scared to shake things up, but 

make sure the can be proven to work later. 

ORGANIZED,FREQUENTING THE SCHOOLS TO KNOW WHAT IS NEEDED 

DIFFERENTLY(NOT ALL THE SAME),BULLYING GOES ON W/ADULTS AND 

PEOPLE IN CHARGE AS MUCH AS STUDENTS. 

A leader who is not afraid to make positive changes for fear of public criticism. 

Flexible, have a backbone to make a stand to give his beliefs for progress that may 

not be the same as the school board members. Who have no idea what it is really 

like in a classroom these days. 

Fair to all; equal opportunities; outgoing personality. 

caring & kind to students & employees 

caring & kind to students & employees 

Strong leadership capabilities, forward thinking, someone able to take criticism 

well, a definite problem solver, a person that can fight for education, and someone 

who will work for the betterment of all the children the district serves. 

Strong backbone. The vocal parts of the general population are incredibly negative 

and not very informed. They WILL make up whatever they can to make their point 

(check out education voodoo, Page 1 Kentucky or the comments of the Courier- 

Journal.) It is important to remember that although these people are very vocal, 

they are no where near the majority. The new superintendent must be prepared to 

deal with all varieties of students. They must be prepared to tackle the student 

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assignment plan, while still managing to oversee every other project. The 

superintendent must be smart about who they align themselves with and trust. As 

evident in the past few months, the Board of Education has no loyality and no 

honor. They will turn their backs and place the blame where ever they can to save 

themselves. I want someone who is going to stand up to the teachers' union and 

demand they have some accountability. JCPS is one of only a few districts where 

teachers are not paid based upon performance (and I don't just mean test 

performance.) It allows teachers to become complacent and entitled. A major 

problem with our teachers. Speaking from an employee's perspective in Central 

Office. .. there needs to be a MAJOR overall of all departments. Many of the 

departments are run by long time employees who are given free range to do what 

they want. There is favoritism, complacency and out and out disrespect and 

unethical behavior going on. I believe if you look at the research, there is high turn 

over in new employees, because it is not a welcoming or friendly environment. 

Most importantly, I want a superintendent who is not focused and driven my test 

scores. I believe the way to improve over all performance is NOT to teach to the 

test, but to teach to the children and encourage them to think independantly. When 

they do that, they are able to figure a lot more out for themselves, and their test 

performance will improve. I want someone who is a fighter and a straight shooter. 

I really hope the superintendent is someone who will call others out on their crap 

(although I realize that is not always PC.) 

Find the best candidate,but they need experience with large school districts. Also, 

need to look from within JCPS. 

Be objective to parents issues over busing kids from neighborhood schools to 

distant ones, long bus rides make kids antsy and lose control, take in consideration 

if it was them riding the bus for that long, how would they feel, amke sure kids learn 

disipline and respect in school because they have lost this completely and get back 

to the basics of reading, writing and arithmetic that is what is most important in life 

to know how to read and write and know math, be able to listen to parents 

throughly without jumping in before they are done, have a open mind about 

people's ideas. Think about what kids deserve and be creative in teaching them, 

like using songs to teach certain things, they can sing along in a car to music and 

know every note, inclement this pratice in the classroom and see the surprising 

results. Get tougher on the kids who start fights in school and reward the ones who 

are there everyday and do their best to succeeed. 

Fiscal responsibility (no $300 lunches, ever), integrity (if you say something, mean 

it), "the customer is always right" might work for restaurants but not for schools: 

you HAVE to back up your employees both verbally and in writing. 

someone used to dealing with varied population of staff and student body and used 

to dealing with them in large numbers. 

Someone willing to listen to your problems and try to offer fixes 

Concern for the education,safety and welfare of the children. Someone who will 

truely listen to the teachers and make decisions based on what works and what is 

desired to make this school system one of the strongest in the nation. To lead 

blindly will debilitate all that we as a community have worked so hard to build up. 

One must lead with insight and the willingness to truely hear others and work within 

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the realm of possibilities that we can achieve alot and break down the barriers that 

divide the community. 

Experience in a large, socially and culturally diverse school district. Dedicated to 

ensuring that every child receives a quality education. Creative, open minded, open 

to change. Excellent communicator and able to facilitate compromise. 

Flexibility with honoring best practices at schools that are improving, a good 

statistical and analytical mind for dealing with the opportunity costs of making 

changes; someone who is detail oriented: someone who is patient, but also an 

astute commander; someone who has a good vision into the future while using 

past data and present situation info to make decisions. 

Understanding of the challenges created for each student and family in a large 

metro school district. I would like to see the new superintendent put a high value 

on services that prevent or intervene early with these challenges, including school 

social workers, counseling on elementary and middle school level. 

Diverse, Respectful, Work Well With Staff and capable of making decisions that will 

improve the childrens, staff and parents relationship. 

Sensitive to all races and ethnic backgrounds, but firm. Not afraid to stand up to 

trouble making adults who are never satisfied. Set clear and firm guidelines in all 

school matters, but also to bend if the circumstances need. Keep a close eye on 

cafeteria workers who sometimes withhold food to save for favorite teacher 

classrooms. MOST IMPORTANT!!! Allow all building personnel, classified, 

certified, cafeteria, janitorial to fill out semi-annual or whenever appropriate 

evaluations on the principal and how they treat her /his staff. Some of the 

principals are inhuman and brutal, Favortism is wide spread. These evaluations 

should not go to the office where they can be checked and teachers retalied 

against, send them to teacher homes so that they can answer freely. This may go 

a long way in teachers feeling like they are being heard. The next superintendent 

should be female. Lastly. we need a super that will set aside time to physically visit 

each and every school and talk to the little people and really get to know about the 

schools, not just what he/she reads in the Kudos or Monday Memo. They have 9 

months to do this , it can be done with precise scheduling, and back-up scheduling 

due to snow or whatever. 

That they would support THE early CHILDHOOD Program as well. 

Listens to everyones concerns Acadenuc goals for all areas. 

Has to think out of the box in order to correct all that is wrong. Open mindedness, 

ability to talk to all parents, GOOD LISTENER 

to be far and equal no matter what color the person is,to hire workers and teachers 

on their qualification and not for who they know 

Show support for the teachers and allow them to teach. Give them the tools and 

resources (online and offline). Support the counselors who work so hard to change 

behaviors (elementary). Allow them to do their jobs with more support from a 

success coach. 

An ability to be open minded and flexible. Not a dictator. 

Cohesion. This is one of the most crucial needs that we face today. The next 

superintendent should be able to connect with both JCPS staff as well as JCPS 

families, without sacrificing each other. 

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Someone who puts the students first, where every decision starts with "what is best 

for the students". A leader who will give all a feeling of confidence. An honest 

person. Someone who will get involved in the school community and treat JCPS 

and Louisville like his/her home not just a stepping stone or a way for him/her to 

make a name for themself. Someone who is good a problem solving with strong 

moral character. 

To treat everyone fairly, whether you be certified or classifed. 

need to listen to everyone!!!!!!!!!!!! 

gettin along with the community,school broad and staff. having a strong leadership 

and wanting to keep headstart in the front of the public eye 

Should be someone who knows the system and the student assignment plan. 

Someone who knows the problems we are having with the buses. 

A strong belief in ZERO Tolerance of Unacceptable Behavior. A safe enviroment 

students and staff. 

EXPERIENCED IN SCHOOL DISTRICTS OF OUR SIZE AND MAGNITUDE, 

Someone who can change the image! We need an extreme makeover. Not 

everything revolves around "diversity". 

honesty 

We need to have someone who is willing to go into the schools and see what is 

really going on and to talk to staff to see what is needed and offer suggestions on 

how to handle our diverse population of students. 









character 

someone who can stand up to the teachers union 

The most important characteristic in the next superintendent is someone who has 

the ability to address low-performing schools with a REALISTIC approach to 

closing the achievement gap. Across the country there has been an attack on 

progress because people are not willing to address the need for multiple 

benchmarks to show improvement instead of just basing improvement solely on 

test scores. We need a superintendent is going to be willing to stand up for JCPS 

despite recent attacks by Kentucky legislators and the State Education 

Commissioner, but who is also willing to compromise to meet the greater good of 

the students when need be. We need a superintendent who is an advocate of 

JCPS employees as much as he/she is of the students. 

Someone who truly believes that parents are the key to student success. Recent 

administration did not understand. Dr Ingwerson certainly did. He was able to 

motivate principals who in turn motivated parents into getting involved. Don't let 

the super immediately create high paying jobs for their friends back home. 

Someone who believes in discipline. 

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The candidate should be strong in charater and unafraid to make decisions right 

away for improvement.Discipline should be a front runner in consideration. 

Perhaps if this issue was addressed and handled with a firmer hand, more time 

could be spent on actual learning by decreasing classroom disturbances. Parents 

should be accountable! 

Has been in charge of a large district; personable, likes to visit schools 

unannounced and see first hand what is going on; will not be led by any union in 

decisions, is not afraid to admit wrongs and try to make things right. Has worked 

with a district that had different ethnic groups in their schools, Understands that 

he/she will be taking on a great challenge in trying to get our district back on the 

right track and will get the job done right! 

We need a superintendent who will go out into the schools and meet the teachers 

and students without an entourage. Someone down to earth with real life problem 

solving skills. This is a time for a proven track record here at JCPS! 

A real understanding of the issues at hand; studying what does and does not work 

and making changes accordingly; involvement in the community; more presence in 

the schools; seek ways to retain top talent 

He or she needs to be exceptionally social when it comes to the public media. 

Definitely a Good Will Ambassador. This is a uge district and the superintendent 

needs to be seen more than when there is a problem. Could be more than one 

superintendent can accomplish! 

We need someone that understands the increase of culture diversity in our 

schools. We need the finances available to have a Spanish translator clerk on staff 

at each Elementary school. The Superintendent should understand how this will 

improve the educational need of each student. This will allow parents, staff, and 

teachers to have better communication among each other. This will also provide 

better education for our increased Hispanic student population, and it will close the 

communication gap. 

Good listener who will look at all sides in dealing with city officials and Parents who 

are concerned about the busing issues and the safety of their kids. Bus drivers 

have a huge responsibility dealing with and transporting students with poor conduct 

and behavior. Be tough and stick to your guns about the tough decisions that will 

need to be made and probrably not make all parties happy. 

The common standard of courtesy should be the expectation of all students and 

staff. Kindness and compassion and general respect for one another should be a 

rule. There should be consequences for ones behavior if it affects the education of 

another. 

That he/she is willing to really listen to what the staff at each indiviual school feel 

are their needs are. Not to make a policy that is good for some schools, and bad 

for anothers and expect them to follow it. 

Must communicate with employees (at all levels) and state/city leaders. Have a 

goal in mind that the employees can feel that they are working towards and see the 

results. 

A maverick mindset but with a collaborative heart. We need someone who will 

neither bow to unreasonable union demands nor run over our JCPS staff needs. 

We need someone who can work with parents as well as local and state 

government officials to discern and implement what is best for students overall. 

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The status quo is not something we need to maintain when standardized test 

scores are so low. We need someone with ideas combined with realistic paths of 

implementation, and an ability to see if something isn't broken then it doesn't need 

fixing. 

Someone who understands the whole picture and has dealt with this large of a 

community. Someone who can make important decisions and stand up to them. 

fair in dealing with employees strong moral character determined to see JCPS 

students succeed have a vision for growth & change for the better trustworthy & 

honest watch the movie "Stand By Me" with Morgan Freeman - be inspired 

Our next superintndent should be a person of integrity, character, vision, and 

familiar with the issues of diversity, homelessness, dysfunctional families, drugs 

and alcohol abuse, a limited English speaking population and low-income families. 

Honesty and Integrity, leadership, healthy-sized ego, having faith in (trusting) 

Cabinet to know a little bit about education and including them in the education 

process, strong enough to stand up to demands of community leaders, limiting 

community meetings and keeping politics out of education, spending quality time in 

the district on things that matter, like more time in schools, limiting initiatives he/she 

brings to the district (don't need more of the same with a different name), limiting 

demands put on Cabinet (excessive committees) and letting them manage their 

departments without the additional demands of extra committees. 

The new superintendent needs to have the courage to stand up to JCTA. They 

have run roughshod over the District for too long. 

A candidate who accepts a diverse city/educational system One who takes the 

city's class distinctions into consideration Experience in a school district that is of 

comparable size to Jefferson County 

Individual must put the children and their education first in all situations. What is 

best for the students is not always most popular for the person in charge. It is not 

as important for the superintendent to look smart and have a bullet for their resume 

as it is for the system to work for kids and their education. Ability to delegate 

responsibility to cabinet level management team and to trust their input as 

valuable. Allow the district to function in a timely manner without having to wait for 

one person to give approval on every detail. Ability to understand and work with 

various and diverse community groups. 

Honesty,integrity,leadership,experience. 

Holistic approach in supporting the learner in school and an emphsis on the 

importance of family support of the learner. We do want excellent test scores, 

however for this to be the case for many children the parent(s) and extended 

families must realize the importance of partnering with the childs educators to 

achieve successful happy learners. So this can be achieved partly through very 

strong, effective youth services who can provide enough outreach to families in 

need. 

Someone who is academic oriented and finding ways to improve not only test 

scores but student behavior. 

Students-first attitude; communication skills; charismatic; youthful attitude 

(preferably in age but at a minimum in spirit); adaptability; flexibility 

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To be a good listener to the parents and community. You should be willing to 

consider past mistakes, trials and errors and learn from them. 

HAVE A GOOD AND VERY WELL EXPERIENCED KNOWLEDGE OF HOW TO 

RUN A BIG SCHOOL SYSTEM LIKE JCPS 

The same ones our present superintendent Berman possesses. 

Good listener Strong family values. Optimistic, yet realistic Willing to work with all 

staff and value their opinions. 

An intelligent African American! 

Good leadership 

The candidate should have experiance with a community like ours, both in size and 

diversity. 

Willing to stand up the board even when they pressure him for what he believes in. 

Putting children's education first instead of politics. 

Openmindedness, experience in classroom, flexibility, support for teachers, visiblity 

in schools and community 

It is a shame that there has never been a female superintendent of the JCPS 

system. You would think that since the majority of teachers in the district are 

female a female superintendent would be a no brainer. Someone local should also 

be considered for this position. Bringing someone in from an outside community, 

who has no children in the district, is a mistake that should not be made again. 

An understanding of how the magnet programs, international/cultural studies, 

performing arts, health and fitness, communications and technology, visual arts, 

etc.will allow our studentsto be competitive in the 21st century. 

Keep children safe and an safe setting for learning. Bring back the three R's. 

Reading, writing and math so they can make a place in the world. All schools the 

same so you can save gas on the busing and kids aren't on the run for a couple of 

hours everyday and miles from their home. 

An understanding of the diversity of our community, in regard to finance, ethnicity, 

etc. Jefferson County has a large number of ESL students, and the spectrum of 

economic makeup is vast. We have the poorest of the poor and the most well off as 

well. 

We need someone who comes from a large, diverse city that has a school district 

with a population from inner-city, high-poverty suburbs. 

Someone who can think out of the box. Understands how many children we have 

in the county. 

A person willing to listen to all sides and make an informed decision. 

humility, experience with a large district, 

The new superintendent needs to look at the past to prepare for the future. He or 

she needs to look at where we as a community come from. It is one of the hardest 

things the superintendent will have to overcome if he or she is not from our district. 

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144 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

widespread assault on public employees, including teachers. 

Education in the arts in JCPS are lacking. Music programs are not as good as they 

should be with students being bussed across the city. There is little parental 

support or student support for extracurricular activities because they can't be at the 

school to participate in anything. Busing needs to be fixed and neighborhood 

schools should be established. The School Board for JCPS should be full of 

educators instead of wannnabe politicians. 

Recognize worthless PRINCIPALS AND ADMINISTRATORS in HIGH 

PERFORMING SCHOOLS 

Bussing (unfortunately), drop out rate, retention of students and getting rid of 

ineffective teachers. 

POLITICS!! ITS ABOUT EDUCATING CHILDREN, SO LET'S NOT SACRIFICE 

THEIR EDUCATION. 

People who want more than their share of the peice of the pie. 

Student Assignment plan needs to be dissolved, less busses means more money. 

Money than can be used to hire more staff and have smaller class sizes, especially 

for schools at risk. 

Transportation for students; job descriptions; financial opportunities for certified and 

classified staff. 

The high poverty level of the children served and its effect on academic 

performance, the student assignment plan, and the overall academic success of all 

schools in the district. 

I hate to say student assignment plan, because let's face it . .the general population 

is NEVER going to be happy and neighborhood schools is simply NOT an option. 

But parents and the community feel like they aren't being heard (although god 

forbid, they attend an open forum), so we need a superintendent who is going to 

actively listen to the stakeholders and let them know that he is listening. The 

superintendent also needs to force the board members to do the same. (And 

needs to remind certain more members--hello Carol Haddad--that they behavior is 

not acceptable and to behave like an adult rather than an unhappy, spoiled child. It 

was also be nice if someone could make sure Stephen Imhoff stays awake for 1 

whole board meeting. . .I haven't seen that in three years.) But I believe if the new 

superintendent got a hold of the Board and its behavior and actively took time to 

listen to parents, respond to e-mails, etc, that there would be a lot less contention. 

Long bus rides for kids, my child rides for over a hour, which is extrememly to long 

and it wears the child out before the day begins. Earn respect from the community 

by listening to the concerns of the parents without judging them first or interrupting 

them about the issues, don't go in with blinders on, Teach the kids how to be 

respectful to others so they will respect themselves and disipline them, to many 

kids are getting away with bad stuff with a slap on the hand and then it just 

esculates to bigger issues, It times the Adults take the schools back over and stop 

letting the kids do what they want and being in control, Respect and disipline has 

changed since I was young and today even the youngest kids do not have any, 

This is what it starts with, once you have them respecting you the disipline will fall

into place. To many teachers have lost their focus on being a role models for kids 

they come in and do their jobs and rush through the day, they need to listen to the 

kids, get on their levels and try to understand that every child has issues one way 

or another, some more than others and they need to learn how to deal with these 

students one on one and not judge them and give them labels as a bad student, 

every child is a separate indiviual with their own mind and learn at a different pace 

so teachers need to keep this in mind, another thing is the testing, to much pushing 

of the tests gives kids anixety and causes them to do bad on tests, my child is one 

of those, looses it when comes to being pushed to much on tests, teach them but 

don't make it if you don't do great your gonna regret it type thing, it should be made 

fun and interesting then it might change the test scores alot, as a parent of two 

former JCPS students and one in tenth grader I do believe these things are true 

and would help tremendously if someone would just take the time to implement 

these ideas, sometimes looking from the outside in is better than looking from the 

inside to outside. From a JCPS employee in a elementary. school 

Race/class issues. "politically correct" or "culturally competent" are two catch 

phrases that allow bad (and sometimes dangerous) behavior to prevail. Someone 

needs to stand up and say "we're all the same, we all have the same culture 

(American) and there are behaviors that are not acceptable regardless of your 

a)race, b)economic standing, c)religious beliefs or d)country of origin." 

budget cuts and how to do more with less 

Listening to people in the community 

District wide: is the bus situation and boundaries. Parents do not want their children 

riding a school bus for an hour to school and an hour home in the afternoon. When 

their child gets sick they have no way of getting to that school to pick the child up. 

Community: support of teachers and parents State: Funding, to get as much for 

our school district as possible, from all available resources. 

Bussing and the student assignment plan disaster. Ensuring that teachers and staff 

retain collective bargaining rights and are compensated fairly for their contributions 

to society. Promoting diversity and equality within the school district. 

the busins and desegregation/segregation issues: the number of magnet programs 

vs regular schools; low performing schools and students 

funding, raising test scores, removing barriers to learning 

Diversity and how to maintain it in all levels throughout the district, including 

administartive positions as well. He should also be able to complete the student 

assignment plan for next year while maintaining diversity. 

Continuous budget cuts, bus and transportation issues, getting and keeping the 

community involved in school business, irate parents, close screening and 

supervision of adults in the system, so that sexual misconduct an/or physical abuse 

is eradicated. 

Dealing with it on all levels, state and federally 

Busing concerns from the community. Some children are on buses way too long 

and to shorten their ride would help in behavoir on buses. Stress on teachers and 

everyone involved who really need to be listened to as they are the ones working 

with the children in the classroom everyday. 

145

The lack of school and community cohesivness due to forced busing. Student who 

live next door to each other in the same grade going to different schools. 

getting the right pepole in the right places to run the schools to the best of there 

abilty and no matter what to leave race out of it,treat everybody equal! 

Enforce the Code of Conduct!! 

Bad publicity, changes in busing and student assignment. All this needs to be 

redone from scratch. They cannot take credit for it. The new Super needs to test it 

and acknowledge what works and who is responible for making it work. 

Long bus rides and Bulling on the bus. Also, we need to look into either bus 

monitors for the schools that have longer than a 30 minute drive to and from school 

or cameras on every bus to protect our students and our drivers. 

Obviously, the student assignment plan needs to be addressed and revamped. 

Test scores and accountability as well. 

The Student Assignment Plan. It can work along with neighborhood schools. 

He/she should make the Student Assignment Plan work so that all people and 

groups will be happy. No child should be taken to the other side of town if they do 

not want to be taken there. With some hard work you can have it all at JCPS. 

the main thing will be diversity. There are many different nationalites in JCPS 

School District. 

Need to face the growing problems head on and need to be overly concerned 

about our childrens welfare. 

The busing issue and bring the test sscores up in math and science. also keep the 

head start program in all schools. this is where the frist foundertion is layed down 

for our young childern. keeping them interest in school. 

Neighborhood schools bus issues diversity 

Changes to the student assignment plan. Especially on the Elementary level. 

Students need to feel safe in there learning enviroment.Students should go there 

neighbor schools. 

BEHAVIOR ISSUES, BULLYING, LOW TEST SCORES, STUDENTS FALLING 

BEHIND, ESL PROGRAMS 

Good, basic educational standards should be met no matter what neighborhood or 

school you go to. I stress this as someone who came through the public school 

system myself in the 70's. Education should be the focus; not be an experiment in 

socialism. 

We do not need to group children according to economics. The bus rides are to 

long for most students. Children should be able to get a good education no matter 

what school they attend. We need to address behavior problems, most people like 

to pretend ther arent many but most of the time students time in class are short 

because of behavior problems! 

The most significant issues are challenging our students who are not motivated to 

learn and have little or no parental support. We need to get our parents involved in 

their childs education! Parents need to be held responsible for the behavior of their 

children and to making sure their students come to school prepared and willing to 

learn. Our students need to be motivated. 



146







test scores, child performance, and closing of schools 

Reduce bus rides. Neighborhood schools with GOOD options for those who 

choose not to attend the neighborhood schools. 

The two largest issues that the next superintendent will face is addressing lowperforming 

schools as labeled by HB 176 and the current student assignment plan. 

Schools will not be able to be successful until they start receiving support from the 

Board of Education in the form of advocates who are willing to fight for the students 

and staff instead of cowering away from legislators like Rep. David Williams. It may 

be necessary for the next superintendent to take drastic measures in order to keep 

JCPS afloat. We need someone who is willing to see the change through for 

success. 

Neighbor schools vs diversity. Trying to control a board who is uncontrollable. 

Remove the politics and put the focus back on children. 

Discipline is out of control, partly due to ineffective parenting. Language barriers 

are on the rise making communication difficult. Long bus rides should be 

addressed. Neighborhood schools should be considered under a plan that would 

still give all students the right to an equal education. 

Behavior in classrooms prevent teachers from being effective Elementary Schools 

should be teaching basic education skills (Reading, Phonics, Spelling, Arithmetic) 

all the special education should be offered in Middle and High School Student 

Assignment should be by reside school, not the Area A students to Area B. This 

would eliminate long bus rides and behavior problems on the bus, increase parent 

involvement, give students more time to do homework, have dinner and free time 

for family 

Student assignments, reducing long bus rides, trying to keep community schools 

and still meet the guidelines. Trying to keep the of people in this large district 

happy and informed of what is being done and why it is necessary. To lead this 

district you have to like Louisville as we do and you must become one of us; do not 

make us think that you are above us; we pay your salary. 

Obviously we need a plan to counteract education budget cuts when they are 

proposed. 

Diversity; busing challenges; violence; test scores; retaining top talent 

The community is beginning to split apart because of the issue of busing and 

especially with elementary students. Unless the county wants to put a Magnet 

school of one type in each part of the county and repeat that with each program 

that exists, "the neighborhood school issue" will put an end to the programs that 

already exist. Some areas of the county may not have enough population to 

warrent keeping them going or open. 

Elementary Schools are now trying to hire Spanish translator clerks in their front 

offices to help with Spanish speaking parents. There is an increase of Hispanic 

families enrolling their kids into Elementary schools. Teachers at times need to 

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send letters home to parents, parents sometimes call the offices for information, 

and sometimes parents ask for meetings. The problem is that many of these 

parents don’t speak English. A Spanish translator clerk in our schools will provide 

assistance to the parents, teachers, and front offices. Many times Spanish 

speaking parents state they never got certain information, but in fact it’s that they 

never understood information they received because it was in English. A translator 

will be able to verbally translate over the phone, serve as a translator in a meeting, 

and also type letters in Spanish for these parents. Many of the Elementary 

Schools are in need of funds to hire needed Spanish translators clerks. This will 

improve the education of Spanish students by providing the parents with constant 

updates on their child’s progress and school agenda. It will also help parents that 

want to call the school office to get certain information. 

Busing and transportation issues. Conduct of students being bused. Student 

assignments being fair among all schools in the district not just a select few who 

develope a bad name due to the conduct of students being bused to them from the 

west end. 1. We need a super who will straighten out the Student assignment 

mess. Instead of busing kids form the west end to the east end schools we should 

have neighborhood schools. Or at the very least divide the kids who are bused 

from the west end by divided among all schools instead of a few select schools. 

The Free and Reduced ratios are not fair among the schools. The schools with the 

most Free and reduced have the tougher students. Stop allowing parents who live 

in a reside to hardship transfer out when it isn't a true hardship. If the student 

assignments are based on socioecononics this shouldn't be an issue. 2.Stop the 

unions! They use the dues to elect school board members. Our union is supposed 

to use the "Fair Share" only for collective bargaining, not to elect politicians. They 

have raised the fair share this year. Employees who are actually in the union did 

not recieve an encrease in their dues. The reason being, there are more fair share 

employees than Union employees. The collective bargaining being done is useless. 

Being forced to pay fair share is unconstitutional. 

Students should attend the elementary school of the neighborhood in which they 

reside. This builds a stronger since of community and enables monies to cover a 

common delinquincy. This also open up money not spent on transportation to 

allow for educational expansion for all students. 

The Health Care for Jefferson County Schools enployees has gotten worst ever 

year. We keep getting told this a state thing, but if we or the largest district in the 

state why can't we get better benefits 

Budget, student assignment plan, increasing student achievement. 

Undue union pressures and lack of accountability on union performance. Getting 

rid of student assignment and determining how to keep diversity in neighborhood 

schools. Safety on our buses. Parent-teacher relationships and increased parent 

involvement at school. Increasing retention of students and high school graduation 

rates. 

Busing,violence in schools, academic achievement and the need of special schools 

for the challenged. 

implement stronger discipinary actions for students and staff select employees 

who are best for the job - no unmerited favoritism stop wasteful spending manage 

funds in a more efficient manner scrap the Munis System and start over taxes

keep up to date with technology diverse student body, many cultures and religions 

student assignment plan get parents more involved in their children's education 

and school activities 

The student assignment plan and the low achieving middle and high schools are 

the most signigicant issues at this time. 

Approximately six years ago after JCPS received the first GE grant funds under Dr. 

Daeschner, studies were conducted to look at how the top performing countries 

were succeeding in education. The common thread was that they were teaching 

basics and driving them until the concepts were ingrained. The answer wasn't to 

have every school on a different page (magnet) or to have so many different types 

of watered down programs. I spoke with a forty-year educator recently who told me 

this: Fads come and go in education but what has consistently worked over the 

years was a traditional approach to teaching basics until they were learned. It's 

okay for schools across the district to be on the same page, using the same 

textbooks, meeting the same criteria each grading period. If you are a high school 

student in JCPS and need to transfer schools mid-year, it's like transferring to a 

different college sometimes to meet the requirements. For instance, if you are 

taking Latin at Manual and need to transfer to Eastern, you would need to begin 

your foreign language requrement over as Latin is not offered at Eastern. Also, 

after transferring to Eastern, you would have catch up to meet the technology 

requirements which weren't required at Manual. To summarize, traditional teaching, 

driving basic concepts until they are learned, at every school across the district 

would most likely produce consistently higher test scores. Let's educate children 

the same way no matter what schools they attend, by using the same textbooks, 

expectations and requirements. Let's eliminate busing across the city for the sake 

of diversity, which already exists within most resides areas. Chancey Elementary in 

the east end met diversity requirements the first year they opened, without busing. I 

have worked in schools where children miss the bus in the morning, some on a 

regular basis, and it's a major inconvenience for them to find a ride to school 

across town when they are miles apart. Older children may be able to eventually 

get to school via TARC, but often, elementary students miss the entire day if they 

miss their bus as many parents do not own cars. The traditional learning approach 

would not strain the district budget and more funds would be available to provide 

for necessary programs and increasing needs of our district, such as additional 

funding for ESL and Early Childhood Education. Finally, the new superintendent, 

with the help and expertise of Cabinet, and Board members, should be allowed to 

make decisions that are the best for the district, without total disruption and control 

by community leaders. Education and district decisions should be left up to the 

Board, superintendent and Cabinet members, who are the experts. Just as the 

JCPS superintendent and Cabinet do not try to manipulate decisions for LG&E, 

GE, YUM, etc., the community should leave education to educators and the jobs 

they were hired to do. Constantly meeting with, and trying to please community 

leaders takes important time from the superintendent when he/she could be using it 

to be out in the schools, with principals, teachers, and students, among other 

things. 

The emphasis on busing for diversity is taking away from the education of the 

students. 

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The district and state's limited budgets 

Community diversity and continued division despite years of work toward unity. 

Federal and state mandates decide what constitutes success for student learning. 

This is not always the best means for all students to learn. 

UNION CONTROL OF THE BOARD (GET RID OF THE UNIONS) Transportation 

and student assignment plan. 

I think that the two most challenging endeavors will be an ability to facilitate 

understanding and support for what is necessary for students to achieve; again 

emphsis on inclusion of familiy. Also, a commitment toward resolving issues of 

busing to attain cultural diversity in our schools. 

Busing & student behavior. 

The negativity put forth by the media. I think it's imperative to hire somebody with 

excellent communication skills and charisma who can "win" over the community -- 

students, teachers, parents, media. 

Desegregation. Where did we go wrong? We have spent so much time, energy and 

money on this issue and have only gone backwards with helping our children in this 

community. We need to put the students in the neighborhoods to mix them, not 

bus them across town. More has happened in the last 20 years on those buses that 

has been a permanent negative thing in a young child's life than any good from 

busing. How sad. How sad. What the district has turned their eyes from is just as 

bad as what the Catholic church was doing. 

HOW TO PUT TOGETHER A GOOD STUDENT ASSIGNMENT PROGRAM 

TOGETHER AND IMPLEMENT IT IMMEDIATELY. 

A clueless Board. A state legislature that will create mass confusion by attempting 

to create the neighborhood school concept. These people are not thinking of the 

community at large, instead they are attempting to appease a small selfish 

segment. 

Financial - state. Restore faith of employees and parents that JCPS is a safe 

competent school district. Return educational focus on the basic educational 

content.... even if he means dropping some of the elective type courses. 

RACISM, teachers who cannot and will not adapt to some of the different cultures 

of the students. 

testing 

Being able to attend neighborhood schools is very important in regard to parent 

involvement. It is very hard for parents to attend PTA meetings, conferences, 

schools events, even picking up a sick child when their mandated school is across 

town. BUS AND SCHOOL DISCIPLINE !!! 

The state of KY's leverage over our schools. 

busing and whether or not to continue. I believe it should be ended. continuing to 

improve test results without adding more test to be taking. Students are already 

testing too much and not gettting enough content. 

low test scores, school assignments, bullying 

The busing issue. 

Our current assignment plan appears to still have issues. There is also the funding 

issues that everyone is facing at this time. The innovative programming that has 

been put into place needs funding in order to be properly implemented. 

150

Fairness to all employees and help for employees to succeed instead of setting 

them up to fail. 

Student Assignment: at long last finding a solution that meets JCPS needs while 

addressing community concerns; operating within a budget; comprehending the 

size and diversity of our district in relationship with the relatively modest size of our 

city. 

redistricting, parent involvement 

The budget to get it where it needs to be so the children do not lose out. 

Busing of students 

student assignment plan, disparity between schools, legislators who don't 

understand education needed for all students 

Some of the issues that will be new, is if the state passes the new laws. They are 

18 years of age for dropping out and end of course exams. Since we are the 

biggest district in KY we need to be the role model for the state and not be left 

behind on these and other new laws that come into effect in the near future. Also 

the current problem of the student assignment plan will continue to be a problem if 

we continue starting from scratch every year. These are only a few issues for the 

new superintendent. The new superintendent needs to have an idea of what he or 

she plans to do before we hire them. We as a community can not take a year off to 

let the new superintendent to catch up. He or she has to be ready to go when he 

or she is hired. 

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Community Members 



The greatest asset of any community is their ability to recognize their God-given 

strengths and abilities when working together as ONE body of people who offer 

DIFFERENT strengths to the community as a whole. 

Some of the greatest assets of Louisville, Ky are being headquarters of KFC and 

Yum brands and having major industrial plants like Ford and GE. In addition, 

Louisville is home of the Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby. 

One of the most livable cities in the US. Most cultural, sports, entertainment 

opportunities of large metro area. 

Arts, Parks, Low Cost of Living, International Community, Highlands, Frankfort 

Avenue 

Big city conveniences with small city charm. 

the childern 

A small town atmosphere even though the population is large. 

Schools, business support of schools,Metro government, community support of 

major events such as the Kentucky Derby, Thunder Over Louisville, the State Fair, 

college sports, University of Louisville, YUM Center as a community draw to 

downtown, a vibrant downtown, great parks and libraries, Louisville Orchestr, 

Actors Theater, The Kentucky Center for the Arts, museums, the zoo, the 

Belvedere, the Bell of Louisville 

The city is growing and changing for the better. The downtown is thriving. There 

are many things to do here from watching a play, outdoor concert or walking in one 

of our many parks. 

diversity b.) a strong desire for better quality education 

The diversity in its community and business. 

Louisville is a great metropolitian area with quick access to the rest of the country. 

We have great parks, businesses, arts, and social services. 

the wonderful arts we have also the carring community 

Parents 

The vast non-profit community which must be working in lock-step with JCPS to 

improve lives of its citizens and children. The success of the child is much more 

than what happens in the classroom. Why are we not being asked about 

weaknesses? 

Diversity, geographic location and culture (a touch of Southern influence wtithout 

being the land of Dixie. More like the "new" South) 

Local loyal community 

Louisville's greatest asset is that it has many of the positive features of a much 

larger metropolitan area while retaining the feel of a smaller community. The 

colleges, museums, restaurants, etc are primary drivers of that. 

Its diversity and restaurants! 

The wide variation in culture and places to go for entertainment 

Great place to live and raise a family. small town atmosphere. 

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the children 

Beautiful and growing city with a lot of genuine people who love the city and the 

state and care about its well being. 

We have a very diverse city, our sports programs are very good and we have good 

university's that we can tap their expertise but don't. 

Our greatest asset is the diversity of the community. 

good question..! This is a great laid back community in that we talk growth but do 

nothing about it. We are controled by a wealthy group that has their nose into 

everything. If someone comes up with a good idea that is beneficial for everyone 

but it doesn't favor them , they poop poop on it. They control our political leaders 

and most commissions. 

YUM CENTER 

The Young Professionals especially those with children (age 25-40). They are the 

future leaders of this community and they are the ones that will stay in this city and 

help provide resources to our education system and to your children. 

Diversity in cultures, diversity in arts (theatres, museums, opera, orchestra, etc.), 

multiple church denominations, fantastic parks system 

Friendly, welcoming people. Great restaurants and entertainment venues 

Too many buses on the roads 

SMALL TOWN ATMOSPHERE IN A MAJOR CITY 

Supportive of quality public education in Louisville Diverse in race,economic 

status, 

Healthy tax receipts for schools and tremendous teachers with terrific pay and 

benefits combination. 

Arts, volunteering, diversity. 

Spirit of collaboration among public sector, private sector and social sector 

organizations. (2) Community focus on education. (3) Vibrant arts community. 

It is a great place to raise a family, large city ammenities, with that small town feel 

Very livable community -- has arts, sports, medical facilities, good private schools, 

easy to get around in, welcoming to newcomers 

parks, restaurants, arts, quality of life 

people who care about people and children AND The Neighborhood Place 

Concept 

A wonderful place to live and raise children. People friendly and lots to do. A new 

political page now maybe the city can get on right track. The entire public school 

system needs to be overhauled from state to county. 

Southern hospitality....one of the best park systems in the country....heritage, ( 

louisville slugger, muhammed ali, diane sawyer, maggie lawson, humana 

etc...)....weather is usually moderate, not too extreme hot or cold...housing isn't too 

expensive. 

Location. We are the gateway to the South. This community cares about it's 

students. 

Friendliness, pride in the area for the natives. 

It is family oriented and many activies to attend. 

The people of Louisville,the arts 

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Low cost of living...wide range of entertainment, sports, arts and everything in 

between. 

There are no assets. Long commutes. Taking students out of schools close to their 

homes does nothing for community involvement. 

Small town atmosphere for a large city. Multicultural events and great arts 

community. 

We are a close knit community with strong historical ties to our community. 

Families that have lived in Louisville care what happens to their Louisville family. 

Basketball, Football, The YUM Center, great restaurants, The Kentucky Derby, 

The Bat Museum 

Students that are willing to learn 

Its people and their talents gained from a JCPS education. 

The problem with this survey is that it doesn't include that large amounts of people 

who sold their homes and left the county or signed up for Private School. JCPS is 

not even a valid education choice in this county and people will leave it if they have 

any way possible. 

Its diversity 

A large city with small city values. 

Cost of living, small-town vibe with big-city amenities, a variety of good schools 

arts, parks, location 

The willingness to work together to solve a problem such as our schools. I am 

embarrased and thankful I do not have children in the JCPS district. The new 

superintendent will have a huge job and will need to be creative in how to solve the 

problems. 

Small town feel in a larger city. Up to date thinking besides our school system. We 

need someone motivated to bring our school system in line with the best in the 

country. Busing is imposing the 1960's view of race today. Focus on education, 

parent involvement, children, and not politics of peoples bad view of our west 

end.... Its bringing the entire community down, not only our childrens education, but 

educated people do not want to move here or bring jobs because our school 

system is a disaster. 

Small town feel in a larger city. Up to date thinking besides our school system. We 

need someone motivated to bring our school system in line with the best in the 

country. Busing is imposing the 1060's view of race today. Focus on education, 

parent envolvement, children, and not politics of peoples bad view of our west 

end.... Its bringing the entire community down, not only our childrens education, but 

educated people do not want to move here or bring jobs because our school 

system is a disaster. 

No input here as I could not market this great community better than your search 

committee. 

Cost of living. 

Small town feel of a large city. 

The number one asset is our community involvement in numerous issues. 

The close small hometown feeling it has for a town it's size. Community 

involvement. I actuall volunteer at our Elementary schools with Junior 

Acheivement and Every1Reads.









Louisville is a great mid size city with all the arts, etc. You can do most anything 

here. 

Someone that will stand up to the teachers union and do the right thing. Back bus 

drivers in their endeavor to get rowdy kids off the buses 

the friendly citizens 

culture; cost of living;climate 

Diversity, 

I guess the tax base is fairly healthy. Honestly, I'd have a hard time "selling the 

city". It is not a very forward thinking area. Outwardly, people seem very caring 

and giving, but when push comes to shove ... this is a pretty greedy little city with 

several special interests. Better figure out how to conceal that. 

Our diverse community, the various Arts groups, the sports teams from 

neighborhood Little League to college, our parks, top notch local restaurants, the 

Zoo, the business community 

Diversity Arts Sports 

We have a diverse community from all races and nationalities but focus on this 

instead of the common goal of education has been a disaster 

Lower tax rates and lower cost of housing than many communities; small town 

atmosphere with large city conveniences. 

Our Children are our greatest asset. 

Parks system. I believe we need someone already within the system that KNOWS 

what is needed in this community instead of shipping in someone who has to learn 

the needs of this community. 

Louisville is an innovative city. It is a community that believes in the arts as well as 

dedicated to the businesses we support like UPS, FORD, GE, and a wealth of 

small businesses. We are a strong community centered on character and 

commitment. Louisville is forward thinking and ready to expand our horizons to 

open opportunities for citizens, employers, and employees. 

Not many, those who contribute and work for a living moved out years ago when 

forced busing came in. 

Experience running a huge school system 

The strength of her individual communities. 

Central location; low cost of living. 

The vibrant attitude of innovation through activities such as Nucleus, GLI, and 

private companies has become, I think the hall mark of the New Louville. JCPS will 

play a crucial role in the development of talent for this process. 

Friendliness, ease of getting around town, creativity, and wealth of things to do. 

People, neighborhoods and parks 

155

Quality of life and cost of living. Great neighborhoods. Easy place to live. 

We have a community history and identity. We want to keep Louisville weird, 

meaning, encourage diverse and unique people and businesses to be here. 

One of the greatest the Ciy of Louisiville has is that it is a small community rather 

than a big city. 

The new diversity in Louisville with all of the different nationalities. 

1. Friendly people who care 2. Kentucky Derby 3. Relatively low cost of living 4. 

Pleasant weather 



Principles, teachers , parents and community leaders who work in concert with 

each other to assure quality education for our children. 

One of the greatest strength of JCPS is being the largest in the state of Kentucky. 

You can only get better. 

Diversity, Magnet Schools 

We have a once proud public school system that has been decimated by busing. 

good teachers 

Options for all types of learning styles and diversity within the schools. 

Families have a wide spectrum of choice of schools for their kids, including 

neighborhood schools, 22 elementary magnet programs, magnet schools, 

Traditional schools, 15 high school career tech centers that produce young people 

career and college ready, though we hope to move our 62% graduation rate to 

90% by 2020 and our college-going rate from 31% to 85% by 2020. JCPS has 

outstanding teachers and school leaders who are up on the latest practices that 

individualize instruction and personalize students' learning experiences. All 

schools are good schools, just some have more challenged kids being taught in 

certain buildings, and that accounts for the differences in each school's average 

percent proficient. I love the aggressive renovation going on in all of our schools, 

depending on the availability of funds 

Large school district. We are in need of a strong leader who can pull together a 

team and get things done. We have some very strong schools with great programs 

that need to be expanded to other poorer performing schools. 

a.) 

That it has expanded since Metro Louisville created. It covers more ground so it 

has to have a great Public school system. 

Size, Community Resources in the Louisville area, Diversity, Teachers 

Thirty year old countywide school system. If you look at other large metropolitian 

districts they are a mess due to the white flight of students to suburban districts. 

This forward thinking many years ago has truly saved our downtown, the 

Highlands, St. Matthews, and Old Louisville. Do not move magnets like Brown, 

Male, and Manual from the downtown areas. Also add Central as a magnet. 

the teachers and the staff they are dedicated to the students and their future 

Location 

Committed teachers CHILDREN - human capital WEAKNESS - the School Board 

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Diversity among student and employee population. 

Great teachers working within a flawed system. The testing methods for evaluation 

of performance are mis-guided. 

I moved to the Louisville area in 2000 and intentionally settled in another adjoining 

county so that my children would not go to Jefferson county schools. Now that 

they are all in college, I have moved into Jefferson county. The answer to your 

question should be implicit in my actions. 

Some dedicated teachers, magnet schools 

Right now, I don't think they have any except for a few quality facilities 

Many quality cring teachers. Good older buildings. 

placeing children in right schools 

I am not familiar enough with JCPS to comment. 

I feel some areas have very good parent support but we need to make site based 

decisions 

There are pockets of strength that are being far outweighed by the negativity and 

the media coverage. 

Apparently from the news reports, there are none. However we have students that 

want to learn and are hampered by the in fighting of the school board and the 

current superintendent. I believe he was in over his head but it would be hard to 

work for a board that directs you and they are inept, too. 

Some good teachers 

Strength:From the few that I have met and known our teachers want to spend time 

with our children and actually teach them. Weakness: Our bussing system. I'm 

from California and I actually learned about bussing from my history book. When I 

moved out here I didn't even know bussing still exsited. Now when I talk about 

bussing I am talking about bussing our children across the county. Busing exists in 

California, but you are ALWAYS bussed to the clossest school to your home based 

on availability. 

There are some really great teachers. Great facilities. 

Magnet schools 

too many buses on the roads 

Quality programs Quality people 

Healthy tax receipts and tremendous benefits for all staff. 

Traditional Schools, after school care, caring teachers, extra ciricular activities 

Dedicated teachers. (2) Willingness to try new things. (3) Varied school 

opportunities/magnet schools to meet differing needs. 

The upside of the school system is enormus. The right leader could turn this 

district around and become a model for school districts across the country. 

teachers 

people want neighborhood schools again!!!!! Some Great teachers. 

There are good teachers and principals, they do not have support from school 

board or supt. 

not too small or too large......our schools are in pretty good physical 

condition......we have U of L...top sports overall university in country with one of the 

top atheletic directors, girls and guys basketball coaches and top cheerleading 

coach...... 

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Great Teachers. Great Students. Both teachers and students want to suceed. All 

they need is direction from the top not special interest groups. 

There are NONE. JCPS is a joke. 

We have no strengths with our school district. We need to halt busing and use the 

money we spend on gas to go towards new schools and change the student 

teacher ratio. 

Hopefully that there are more good teachers than bad 

good tax base, roads, and equipment 

None 

Plenty funds, resources and staff to provide quality education for all students. 

Caring parents of students. 

Many dedicated teachers that work very hard to teach students. A community that 

is willing to work together to see that our students get the best education possible. 

Quality Teachers 

The teachers are the greatest strengths, supported by the parents. Sadly, there 

are no other strengths, and the school board itself is the weakest link. 

None 

variety of innovative academic programs, quality staff, large numbers of engaged 

parents, sound finances 

scale 

Right now those are far and few between. I feel the district has good teachers who 

receive very little credit for the work they do. 

Qualified teachers, but inadequate support including the school board. 

Dedicated and qualified teachers. 

If my grandchildren do not get into their home school, I encourage them to go to 

private schools. 

Unfornatunely there not very many strengths that I have seen lately. If I could say 

that the greatest strength is the dedecation of most, but not all, our teachers. 

Certainately not our present school board. 

I am hard pressed to think of any after the results of our school system and the 

dismal failure. We do have good teachers and principals but we need to get rid of 

those that are non performers. 









Jeff Co has some awesome teachers--they need the curriculum to use to do their 

job. Resourse people need to be in the schools more to evaluate teachers and 

weed out those not doing their job. 

At this point, I feel we need all the hekp we can get. We need someone who can 

shape this system back to it was before busing. 

none

none 

well none ... we need to get our schools back on track and competing with other 

districts. 

I don't really know. There are many great teachers in the system. However, many 

of them have been beat down by bureaucracy. 

Good teachers, students & administration 

Diversity 

Diversity of the community 

My observations at my grandchildren's schools indicate we have many quality, 

caring teachers and principals. 

Many of the dedicated teachers and administrators are a part of our assets and 

strengths. Infrastructure is another great asset of JCPS. 

There is enough collected in taxes to have a first rate school system instead of 

what we have. From what I watch on my grand daughters facebook videos is not 

class its mayhem which is allowed to continue. The kids run the class not the 

teacher in a great many of our schools. 

Unsure, this is a weak area of the school system. We hear about all the problems, 

but never see the GOOD. 

You don't have many. You are not educating the kids, merely being custodians 

during the day. 

The capacity to change, once leadership realizes that KDE will take over the 

overwhelming number of failing schools should trends continue. The Department 

is practically chomping at the bit to slice up JCPS. 

Corporate support/investment. An unwillingness by the community to tolerate 

continued poor performance. 

JCPS is huge but is, at present, a well organized and managed business. My 

recent interaction with JCPS leadership as well as the principal, some teachers and 

students as well as a dynamic volunteer in the health careers program showed me 

that the entire system knows and "gets" the mission of JCPS. The new candidate 

must not lose this attitude of mission. 

Sports 

I worked for JCPS for 10 years and my son recently graduated and I would say that 

there are a few people that truly have the interest of students at heart, for the most 

part there are few strengths of the JCPS district... 

Magnet programs. County-wide district. Diversity. 

We are used to having school choice within the school system, as it should be. We 

are not interested in having charter schools cherry-pick our students and reinvent 

the wheel and claim to work miracles. 

The city has good buildings, good teachers,good diversity throughout our schools, 

good programs 

I don't really know. I help with homework and there are many kids who cannot read 

on their grade level. Also many times homework is sent with little or no 

instructions. 

(There are not many) Magnet programs 

159



candidates.) 

Integrity, morality, wisdom, knowledge, tenacity, patience, and a genuine love for 

all people of every background. 

The characteristics that the next superintendent of Jefferson County Public Schools 

should have are: Educational Experience, Knowledge, and a Proven Track Record 

in Handling Diverse Cultures. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Focus, organize and complete tasks. 

More collaboration amongst JCPS and the community including community non 

profit organizations. JCPS could realize significant cost savings by collaborating 

and utilizing existing resources. Early childhood comes to mind immediately. 

Able to work with parents and community partners. Experience with school district 

this size 

Stop busing,start educating.Send children to their neighborhood schools where 

their parents can be more involved. 

good attiude 

Listener, problem solver, communicator, able to see the large picture and explain 

the short term steps to accomplish the long term goals for the district. 

He/She must have experience leading a large urban district, and that experience 

must include having been a principal. We need a manager of public relations, a 

great communicator, and a visionary leader who can articulate that vision simply 

and inspirationally. He/She must be well-versed in reform efforts because he/she 

will inherit a district getting clobbered by HB 176 that requires every year the state 

identify its bottom 5% of schools that can't keep moving their percent proficient 

upward at the pace required by NCLB and HB 176. The new superintndent must 

be an expert educator, labor-relations manager, an anaylist, a problem-solver, a 

manager of systems, and a friendly person who gets to know staff and spends 

some casual time with staff, especially staff from Van Hoose.He/she must get out 

into the community and not be afraid to stand in front of crowds and answer 

questions.He/she must be totally supportive of the programs in our career tech 

centers because the development of these are key to the jobs future this 

community expects. I expect a strong leader at the state capitol, one whom 

everyone respects and one capable of persuading others. Not only should he/she 

be visible in the community, but he/she should become well-connected to the 

business and political leaders of Louisville. 

Leader and team builder. A person that can set clear, consice goals, and get them 

done. Great communication skills and can work well with people to get things 

done. 

Proven results in improving the quality of education in public schools b.) One who 

understands the value of having students from diverse backgrounds learn from 

each other 

This person has to have a broad point of view, open to new ideas and mainly 

crative to set goals and meet them in education for all, serve the greatest needs of 

the community. 

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Ability to fix problems quickly, but to still keep the long-term vision in mind; Ability to 

unite community groups with differing opinions 

We have had two non dynamic leaders. Both of which were outstanding leaders 

and truly cared about children. We need a face and voice for our schools in the 

community. We need someone that has competed with private and charter 

schools in the same community and went neck to neck with them in student results. 

to be able to talk with teachers and staff not to be so secreative this last one really 

was! just check to see when "the deal was done" when he told the public i dont 

want the job continue looking =[ 

Toughness 

TO ACT with knowledge and do so SWIFTLY 

Used to working with an "urban" population; meeting the needs. 

Commitment to community inclusive of consideration of community schools 

We need to stop hiring "world class" educators. What a system the size of JCPS 

needs is an effective administrator which we have not had. We need to quit 

chasing every educational fad that appears and try some things that have a proven 

record of success and we need look no further that the very successful private 

schools in Jefferson county. 

Open mindedness, creativity, willingness to take risks, and deep respect for 

diversity. 

That he will put education first and NOT the teachers and NOT politics and NOT 

political correctness 

Caring about integrated schools. Concerns about poor children who need 

additional assistance. Dedication to surviving and working with both (quality 

education versus neighborhood schools) groups. 

You need to find someone who genuinely cares about youth, common sense, 

practicality and being fiscally responsible. Also someone who is willing to get in 

the trenches and actually go out to the schools and talk to the people that do the 

day to day work with the kids to have a broad understanding of the tools they are 

working with. 

Has to have a very strong personality and be able to take bashings for both sides 

and stay strong but be flexible not fixed on one idea. Do Not give into the unions. 

Ability to deal with the Teachers Union and the Board - to find common ground for 

the better education of the students in this community. 

Someone who is not a "my way are no way" leader. They may know what's best 

but if they can't communicate and lead the board and wealty towns people to think 

everything is their idea....they are in trouble before they start. 

against all forms of busing 

Caring/Consideration for our children and how long they have to spend on the bus. 

Activities: after school programs for all children to be involved in throughout JCPS 

system. 

Leadership from a corporate perspective, not an educator perspective to deal with 

the teachers' union which must be broken. They have too much power and "say" 

and no leadership to benefit our children. 

results-oriented Not afraid to change the current system 


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COMON SENSE 

The next superintendent should be Honest The next Supt. should be a valued 

member of this community and school system and is not using us to negotiate 

other deals with companies for personal gain. The next Supt. should have 

knowledge of struggling schools Pre-K -12 The next Supts. should have 

experience in a large school district The next Supt. should be able to connect with 

people and reestablish our relationship with our communtiy The next Supt. must 

be able to raise administrator and teacher morale The next Supt. should be one 

who can manage public relations and restore confidence and pride in JCPS The 

next Supt. will need to be able to unify the board and build a respectful and 

meaningful relationship between the Board, Supt. and community. 

Honesty. Integrity. Good listener and discerner of priorities. Financial acumen to 

understand where money spent will benefit needs of students. As I suggested 10 

years ago, track the expenditures in each core content area against outcomes on 

testing to see where investments should be re-balanced to benefits students. 

Collaborative ability. Positive moral compass, not a reader of dirty novels. 

Conservative with others' money yet creatively honest in allocating among 

students' needs. 

Good listener (to teachers and parents.) Good communicator Experience with 

large school districts Cares about students actually learning and being in a 

learning enviroment 

Ability to work well with a diverse group with different goals and ideas. (2) Open 

and outgoing personality reflective of a true interest in meeting new people and 

learning form their experiences. (3) Familiarity with the Louisville community and 

the interconnectedness we feel with each other. We would benefit greatly form 

consideration of local candidates with the right credentials. Having experience as a 

superintendent is less important than knowing Louisville. 

Kids first. Not afraid to buck the status quo of this community. Leader who can 

pull this system out of the early 1970's 

Needs to be someone whose focus is on striving for excellent academic outcome 

that can be measured in performance of students. Not focused on diversity and 

other politically correct stuff but on actual educational results. 

support teachers, help students learn and grow 

Open to NEW ideas...lets try something new!!!! They know some new ways to 

deal with bullies in schools. 

Have enough backbone to help these children. Care about them more than your 

paycheck. 

character/integrity/loyalty......well spoken/clean cut/christian morals and values. 

That he or she is not influenced by special interest groups. Student achievement 

MUST be the prevailing interest of the Leader. 

Put students FIRST!! Discipline is necessary and busing is not. 

That he can make good decisions about the welfare and education of our children. 

commitment to the kids and not just making money. It can't be a job it has to be a 

vocation 

conservative approach, back to basics of learning--math, reading, writing, science 

... I don't beleive in so many insignificant subjects 

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That he abides by the will of the people listen to our communities we are right. 

Someone who is honest, admits there are persisitently low-performing schools, 

develops a plan for improvement, monitors implementation of the plan and gets rid 

of administrators (including central office leaders) who can't deliver. 

Someone in their fourties or even thirties. Young enough to have vision and 

enthusiasm and willing to try new directions and not be worried about political 

support. We need someone and not necessarily someone with a lot of educational 

degrees, who will do what is intellectually correct for the students and economically 

correct for the community. Perhaps they should not be married with family 

encumberances in order to focus on unpopular choices to get our schools back on 

track. 

Willingness to listen to parents, grandparents as well as teachers and 

administration. Someone who is not opposed to neighborhood schools. A 

man/women that will make it a habit to visit schools in the district (unannounced) 

and sit in some classrooms. Someone that will create programs for parents in the 

neighborhoods that teaches them how to assist with homework, test preparations, 

etc. Someone that will revaluate the teacher/students ratio. Someone that will look 

at the dangerous bus behavior and make changes immediately. Someone that is 

creative enough to come up with an alternative place for suspended to attend when 

they are suspened from school/buses. 

Fiscal Responsibility 

Direct school involvement; election of a new school board, demanding top-notch 

education. 

someone with experience in a school district as large as JCPS and can make us #1 

instead of where we are (near the bottom) 

Honesty, responsibility to the people not to their own career, the board members or 

any other unimportant influences 

Have a thick skin to face the JCTA union. 

Forget the diversity. We want our students to be able to get a good education from 

quality schools. It seems JCPS is only concerned with assigning students to 

schools so we can have diversity. It has been 25 years and they have diversity but 

schools are failing. 

Needs to be able to bring diverse groups of people together, ability to bring his/her 

visions to life, understanding of urban/suburban school districts 

ability to raise achievement 

To maintain the current nursing plan that has been instituted by Dr. Berman. 

Having nurses (preferably RN's) in the schools can boost the health of the 

community. We need to get the parental control out of the schools and let the 

schools run as schools should, not fearful of the parents. The bus circustance is a 

prime example. 

open minded to move out of the 60s, think of our children and increase parental 

involvement by getting rid of busing and allowing children to attend schools close to 

their homes. 

open minded to move out of the 60s, think of our children and increase parental 

involvement by getting rid of busing and allowing children to attend schools close to 

their homes. 

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Ensure this person is qualified to run a school district of this magnitude. Current 

superintentent runs short of this qualification. 

Someone who is willing to try new approaches to old problems. Someone who is 

familiar with this region. 

Open minded, not tied to the teachers' union, professional, places students first 

and then teachers, for charter schools 

The most important point of the next superintendent is to listen to our community 

leaders, parents and last, the school board. 

I am thinking he/she should be a local resident, and someone from outside the 

JCPS system. We need a new perspective. An effective manager would be the 

primary asset of this person' 









He/she needs to have been Supt. in a district comparable in size to JCPC 

Hard nosed, no nonsense, able to stand up against outside groups and do the right 

thing 

firm leadership and the guts to stand up for our students instead of the teachers 

union 

courage 

weel rounded experience... open to knew ideas not just the same old we have 

know...someone who can lead out teachers and administrators. who loves kids and 

want our to sucessed 

There are no simple fixes for the JCPS system. The new superintendent needs to 

have the fortitude to strip away all the "band aid" patches and treat the core 

problems. They need to be upfront with the public about the problems of the 

district and community. The new superintendent must be willing be prepared to 

empower the teachers. She/he should have a willingness to put resources directly 

in the hands of the people that have the most direct contact with the students. 

To be able to relate to an urban school disctrict 

Appreciates diversity Instructional leader Experiences working in urban areas 

Community advocate Evidence of effectively involving families 

Solid understanding in basic education and not buying into experimenting with the 

lives and futures of our children. KERA has been a disaster and I want someone to 

foster school vouchers and basic education so students know where Libya is. I 

want the focus to be on the student not the teachers benefits. 

Leadership abilities: Must be able to communicate and articulate effectively. Must 

be a someone who can bring the community, the school board, and teacher's 

unions together and have them committed to a new and sustainable course of 

action to address our many school problems. 

164

The next superintendent should be open minded to new ways to educate children, 

in Louisville. We don't need the same old song and dance we've been getting. 

honesty, open minded, a team leader who listens to those beneath him/her. Not an 

elistist who in my opinion seems to be the qualifing characteristic in the past two 

superintendents. 

Must be dedicated to the community, and to the students of the community. Must 

be open to the public and not an "ivory tower" administrator. Must make quality 

education his number one priority. Someone who is willing to make tough 

decisions and demand quality from the faculty and students. A leader by example, 

and someone the community feels they can trust. Additionally this individual needs 

to have the ability to assess the current platform and make changes as required to 

streamline JCPS with the national stage for education. This means assessing the 

student assignment plan and deciding if we are concentrating too much on 

transportation and not enough on education, and reversing that role. 

Transportation of students is a means to get to education not a replacement for 

education. Are we spending too many dollars focusing on the wrong thing? 

Concern for the whole child. That is, supporting and providing resources for 

educating the whole child. THis includes concern and allocating resources for 

physical education, physical activity, and health initiatives. 

Creating neighborhood schools; reducing or eliminating busing; reducing dropout 

rates of black males; supporting charter schools; reducing administrative staff; 

increasing student scores; getting ineffective teachers out of the classroom. 

To be able to stop busing. The rednecks will line up behind that. Then if he / she 

can get a basketball program going they will be nominated for sainthood. 

A strong leader with a strong family background who is raising successful children. 

Someone willing to change the current system.to teach students better discipline. 

Flexibility, and a willingness to show humility and respect for those who will remain 

after (s)he is no longer aprt of teh district. 

Concern for accountability from all stakeholders; strong manager of 

funds/resources to make the most of the funds and assets available. 

The qualities of our current superintendent should be the model. The candidate 

must have a vision that public education in Jefferson County is going to continually 

improve and will be the "desired" primary and secondary education "product' in the 

region. 

The superintendent needs to listen to the public, especially when public opinion is 

at odds with the board of education and teachers' union. He or she needs to 

understand that educating the children if far more important than achieving social 

goals. The superintendent needs to look at the cost of busing and determine if 

there's a better way to use money currently spent on transportation. 

-Vision for the future -how to meet the needs of all students, and particularly those 

that are not in the hight end magnet schools. -someone who is not so focused on 

test scores that he/she loses focus of the needs of students beyond testing. -A 

person who is not afraid to stand up and speak our against teachers that are not 

qualified or that have stayed beyond their usefulness -a person who can work with 

a wide variety of groups and personalities and is able to make effective decisions 

165

Public prescence and charismatic leadership. Appreciation for the history of the 

school district's desegregation efforts. Knowledgeable and skilled educator that 

understands the importance of student / teacher relationships. Ability to Delegate 

Abilty to navigate / direct the School Board Innovative and progressive ideas 

regarding student engagement. High expectations and standard of excellence 

Abiltiy to challenge those around them (the students, parents, board, staff, 

community) to greater achievement... the abiltiy to raise expectations. 

Resist wing-nut pressures to re-segregate our schools. Expand school choice to 

appeal to at-risk groups. Like sports academies! 

We need a superintendent that can treat all of our schools equally. Male vs 

Fairdale, Male is traditional and everyone in the country wants to get in and the rest 

of the people have to settle for wherever they can get in. We also need a 

superintendent that knows how to deal with gangs crossing lines. We have kids 

going to schools on long bus rides and playing sports, these kids can be high all 

day long and by the time they get home the parent dosen't even know it. It's the 

schools responsibility to fix this. Drug dealers are the smartest students, all we do 

is show them that it's okay, this is not a black and white issue, our parent's need 

our schools back. We need strong PTA's. We also need a superintendent that 

knows about drug and alcohol abuse. Schools need to be close to home. We need 

a superintendent that can lead the board and not let the board lead him. Right now 

the Board is looking for a puppet, Superintendent needs to face the fact that 

diversity is not helping- nothing has changed in 35 years. Problems have been 

moved around and not taken care of, the board has had 35 years to fix them. The 

superintendent needs to listen to our bus drivers. 

Should be able to communicate and connect well with teachers and parents, 

understand the current school syste, and be able to incorporate some innovative 

techniques into the system. 

Open minded, listen to families, focus on college readiness, let the kids have fun 

while learning, be strong enough to weed out the bad teachers, take the time to 

visit classes and listen to students and parents. 




The issue of examining and hiring teachers that have a genuine concern to 

educate children of every ethnicity and environmental background, without being 

bias to those who excel academically. We need a superintendent who will create a 

work force and plan that will bring our educational system to a higher standard of 

expectation among students, parents and teachers alike; and enforce equal 

rewards and repremainds for those who fail to conform to the mandates given for a 

more viable learning environment. 

The most immediate concerns will be school assignments and placements for the 

upcoming school year and starting the year off with academic achievement 

(including instructional staff) to be of high priority in obtaining the end goal. 

No district plan. Weak Board and strong union. Flight of good students. 

Higher graduation rates and more students furthering education after graduation. 

166

The issue of busing. He or she will have to deal with all of the liberals that think this 

failed system if great. 

Immediate desire for large improvement instead of slow steady growth. 

Must get up to speed on this community's student assignment plan, its two-tiered 

school system that separates students into buildings serving high-percent proficient 

kids and buildings serving low and lower-percent proficient kids. Must know how to 

deal with a horrible state law 176 that identifies the state's lowest-performing 

schools based on their rank order of percent proficient. Since our middle and high 

schools are in two tiers, the bottom tier falls at the bottom of the rankings of the 

state's schools. This bottom tier is continually punished by this law for serving the 

lowest percent proficient kids in these schools, making these schools most unlike 

other schools in districts that serve a range of abilities within their schools. We 

have set ambitious goals for college and career-readiness, but we also must be 

very focused on helping each child be successful. That is the only way we have a 

chance of achieving our goal of a 90% graduation rate for all of our diverse 

population groups - homeless kids, special needs kids,English language-learners, 

poor white and African-American kids, and the rest of the minority population that 

now makes up 49% of our school children. One of the reasons we need 55,000 

Degrees is to attract modern businesses to Louisville, providing them with a skilled 

workforce that can sustain their businesses. Growing poverty in this community 

and in the state is contributing to a loss of state revenue that is needed to fund our 

schools and career tech programs. With the rest of the state dependent on 

Louisville's tax base, we must have support for our schools instead of punishment 

for serving high-needs kids. 

Busing/neighborhood schools versus diversity. Budget cuts (stop busing and use 

the money saved to improve failing schools with extra tutors and other after school 

programs) 

State/city governments lack of commitment to adequately fund education 2.) A 

lack of parental involvement in the education of their child in poor communities 3.) 

A school board that doesn't appear to understand what is needed to prepare 

children for the jobs in a global society 

Allocation of funds, curriculum, diversity needs - more services for Hispanic and 

their families. More bilingual services, specially bilingual employers that can 

answer to Hispanic parents in their native language - Spanish. 

wide disparities in schools across the county in many areas (student preparedness 

for learning, teacher experience, student performance, parent involvement, school 

resources, etc); increasing issues with student discipline; high-stakes testing 

Staff, student, and parent accountability. More money doesn't necesssarily 

the children on the busses for so long. 

Teacher Union 

DROP OUT RATE Legal drop out age of 16 Lack of preparedness of incoming 

kindergarteners Lack of quality preschool, Pre-K Lack of quality child care centers 

Lack of organized out of school time system Ineffectiveness of School Board 

Issues of homelessness rate of JCPS students Poverty 

Transportation; bussing issue, diversity, urban population, down sizing central 

office, 

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Evaluation and provision of a bussing solution the address the potential for 

community based schools. 

Like all public school systems today, dealing with federal and state mandates is 

probably the largest issue. 

The whole school assignment issue--how do we have quality broadly diverse 

schools when our housing is segregated. How do neighborhoods interact with 

schools when most of the students in the urban neighborhoods attend schools well 

outside their communities? 

see 3 above 

surviving state mandates. Creating a learning situation without cont5inuing to 

"teach to the test." 

Equal distribution across all communities and trying to bring the bottom schools up 

closer to the middle vs worrying about distancing the middle and upper schools 

farther apart. 

Stop the bussing, the neighborhood schools are so much better for parent support, 

kids to be able to participate in extra cirricular activities. This not only helps the 

parents and children we have to look at fuel cost. Cut adminstration cost put more 

money into the class room. 

Assignment plans, Fiscal responsibility, Common ground with the union and board, 

fairness in spending across all schools. 

They will have to realize that most of the people involved really don't know or even 

understand what they are talking about. They are all political appointees that want 

to make a name for themselves by being contrary to whatever is suggested or put 

into place. If they are against it but it works, they will find a way to take the credit. 

NO tenure!! Bad teachers need to go. NO free ride 

There is a split demographic with regards to bussing. And tackling this issue will be 

tough for anyone. With regards to the parents the new superintedent will be 

damned if they do and/or don't. I just ask we think about all the children in our 

community and focus more on improving education rather than trying to make 

bussing work. If the education is there then bussing doesn't even come into play. 

Teachers' union. "Busing" issues. Encouraging qualified people to be on the 

school board. 

student assignment plan is ridiculous. Eliminating it. Controlling and diverting 

students that are disruptive to learning 


THE CLASS DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE HAVES AND THE HAVENOTS 

School busing plan State reuglations regarding non successful schools and 

punitive actions 

Gain the collaboration needed among students, staff, communities to guide and 

balance the Board's actions, acknowledging the small part that the Superintendent 

actually plays in the overall system. 

Discipline of students Students that lack parent involvement Students right to 

attend neighborhood schools Ability to hold back students Implement more 

"geniune" Traditional Schools due to waiting list. 

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Student assignment plan and the frustration over long bus rides. (2) Budget 

restrictions that continue. (3) Challenges with the teachers' union and the 

relationship with the School Board and JCPS Administration. 

Nieghborhood schools, ending busing, catching up to the private school 

counterparts. Closing and restaffing failing schools. Stop letting the inmates run 

the school system 

There is an urgent need to stop the madness of busing and return to neighborhood 

schools. 

The current school board....time to clean house...or should I say school. Lack of 

funding, budget cuts 

OVER HAUL SCHOOL SYSTEM DO NOT REMOVE TEACHERS, REMOVE 

DISRUPTIVE CHILDREN. BRING BACK DISIPLINE. IF THE PARENTS WON'T 

CORRECT, AND THE SCHOOLS PASS THEM ON, THEN THE COPS WILL 

TAKE CARE OF THEM!!!!!!! 

get parent/teacher/students all on same page and inspire to be the best school 

district in the country bar none. 

Union influence in instruction and teacher retention. teachers that are NOT 

effective need to replaced and not just moved to another school. 

Eliminate busing, fire incompetent teachers, have neighborhood skills. 

To go against the school board and stop busing. 

The busing issues and the issue of dicipline in both the schools and on the buses. 

Making teachers/facualty accountable for their actions 

school board members who do not seem to be interested in the best education, 

more political cronyism... 

Bussing 

District-top leadership who won't admit there is a problem. Community-very 

diverse and difficult to get strong parent involvement. FYI-I did not attend the 

public meetings because I did not want my face plastered all over the TV. Many of 

my acquaintances feel the same way. 

BUSING for social equality. Equality will not be achived by busing. It has become 

too expensive and continued taxing will not correct the problem especially in a 

community where economic growth and taxing base are shrinking. The community 

will not support anyone who is not willing to reduce expenses. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Busing, bus behavior, and low test scores. 

Fiscal Issues. The next candidate needs to reign in spending starting with spending 

not directly related to education and the administrative personnel to student ratio. 

The first order of business should be to remove spending authority from schools. 

To be able to send any child to their school of choice and not spend half the day 

trying to get there. 

discipline in classroom and buses, busing schedule issues 

student assignment....parents, students and teachers keep having to change 

schools to fit the needs of diversity. 

Improve student/school achievement, revise student assignment plan, raise the 

graduation rate/lower dropout rate 

student achievement 

169

I feel the long busing is an issue, students need to go to school within a few miles 

of their home to develop relationships and friendships. The discipline in the schools 

needs to improve and not to use PE class in high schools as the dumping grounds 

for students who do not cooperate in other classes. Increase PE in the grade and 

middle schools to reduce our #1 status of childhood obesity. With the busing 

situation students do not have play time at home and need the exercise in school 

to reduce obesity and sharpen their minds while in the classroom. 

getting rid of busing students, focus on teaching and not politics 

getting rid of busing students, focus on teaching and not politics 

S/he understands the diversity issues (ie bussing), be visible in the community 

(visiting schools) and not just at School Board Meetings, active in the community, 

prudent on spending while making sure our students get the educational 

opportunities they deserve. Our students are not prepared and should not be 

socially promoted to a higher grade without the proper skills. Embarrassing!! 

The person should want to make school a place the children want to go to learn. 

Getting parents involved with the school and their children would result in 

immediate improvement. 

Failing schools, school choice, charter schools, busing, tenure 

Have an open mind in regarding the busing of our school students. I order to have 

a better school system overall, we must have community involvement. One of the 

biggest things that folks look at when relocating a business is the school system. 

Our community cannot grow, and at the present time, I do not think the school 

board wants a bigger metro area. We certainly won't the way the school system is 

now. We have got to do away with sacred cows like busing our students all over 

the metro area which doesn't appear to be woking. 

Our busing situation. The fact we don't have alternatives such as charter schools. 

Disipline problems and lastly the KEA that needs to be removed from the process. 









Getting our schools back on track 

Not having support from the majority of the parents. Some parents just don't give a 

damn about education. 

the time wasted busing students all over town instead of using that time in a 

classroom close to their home 

busing fiasco 

busing and student assigmnet plan 

Well there is your problem: "to be effective immediately". Seriously, is this what 

the board of education wants? They want to hire someone that foolishly believes 

that they can come into the position and start making a difference without studying 

the problem? If I were given the job, I'd first look at the revenue sources and 

170

decide how to keep those funds rolling in with the least amount of personal. Often 

federal money comes with so much baggage that the benefit is lost and the 

monetary gain is little. Next I'd look at the magnet/traditional/options program. In 

reality, these programs exist to allow schools to recruit students so that they have 

an easier time keeping their scores up. STOP spending money to recruit students 

from one school JCPS school to the other. The "diversity" problem is not best 

solved by busing students across the city. Diversity was pushed as an excuse to 

get disadvantaged students out to schools that had better funding and better 

teachers. How about instead of moving the students, we move the teachers and 

resources. Schools that serve parts of the community that are impoverished 

should get more teachers and more funding. You'll have some highly motivated 

and effective teachers begging to teach out in those schools where the class sizes 

are small and the resources are ample. Over time (10-15 years) things willl start to 

balance. Oh wait... the community wants immediate results. 

Budget issues, the long bus rides for students, low test scores, 

Equity in teacher placement, resources, etc Evaluation of leadership staff May 

want to consider an overall personnel audit 

School Vouchers. 

I believe the selected person must be able to face the fact and deal with the issue 

that the major cause of our failing schools and discipline problems are the home 

environments where too many of our children exist. We must stop saying "we can't 

do anything about the parents, so we will change the things we can." This seems 

to be what is occuring now, and it isn't working. The person also must deal with a 

busing issue that is too expensive and transports kids too many miles around the 

county. There is also a safety issue with excessive busing mileage driven. 

Problems within JCPS: (SOME) sorry teachers and administrators; lack of student 

supervision in many schools; inadequate handling of behavior problems by most 

schools; no sense of urgency to fix problems with test scores, reading levels of 

graduates, drop-out levels, and graduates who are unable to perform at the next 

level. Where will operating funds come from given the current shortfalls? 

poor test scores, costly bus system which takes away from monies that could be 

used for education 

Quality of Education is poor in JCPS. We need to concentrate more on 

EDUCATION for the students, lower drop outs, and quality output students ready 

for college. 

Childhood obesity and educationally relevant health concerns such as physical 

education, health education,and initiatives to support these areas. 

busing, dropout rates, school budget 

High crime emanating from the west end and the inability to make those people 

obey any rules they don't like. 

Quit spending money on gas and use it for better teacher student ratios 

Student assignment; in spite of what the flawed survey methods show, assignment 

is an ineffective method of ensuring equality, and will hopefully be struck down by 

the Supreme Court like JCPS' last idea. 

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Resolving issues surrounding transportation and neighborhood schools to 

maximize student instruction time and achievement and minimize student travel 

time and expense. 

Division among the Board of Education and the community on the issue of 

"community schools" or diversification by student assignment. The funding 

mechanism is a big issue. Based on property taxes with a declining property value 

base is a death spiral. Corporations, who benefit greatly from the activities of 

JCPS should be included in the tax base to fund the schools. Finally, we are way 

above agerage in free and reduced lunch, homless children, and families who are 

living below the survivial level of spending less than 30% in household income on 

housing. This social burden has been put on the shoulders of JCPS more or less 

as a mandate with out funding or resources. 

Busing and its impact on the overall budget. How to improve "failing" schools - 

including adding more staff to schools with underachieving students. New ways of 

looking at academic results -- for example, track the progress of individual 

students. It's not realistic to expect a child who has underperformed for 7 years to 

suddently overachieve. What's important is that each individual student makes 

progress relative to his/her past performance. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

-low test scores -achievement gap -in-fighting in the system between teachers 

and administrators -poor families have limited access to the same things..i.e., it is 

often difficult for some parents to take off work and come to parent-teacher 

conferences or it is hard for students who play sports who have to take TARC 

home after events because no one can pick them up -there is an inequality in the 

type of education that is available to all students. our school system is unable to 

meet the needs of students when there are not enough schools with particular 

attributes for students to attend,,,for example, Brown school, Manuel, etc... 

Number of children on lunch programs. Transportation. School Board issues 

(entrenched members, inept, parochial) Community culture of passive parenting. 

Community / state culture of low expectations for education 

Remember, there's a strong correlation between collective bargaining and student 

achievement! Teachers and their unions are your friends. 

The busing for diversity- the busing plan is being forced on us after they have been 

advised not to. Another issue is the financial crisis our government is going 

through, it is apparent that JCPS does not care about our fuel crisis wth the long 

bus rides. We have great kids and parents. So much potential in our schools. We 

are teaching our kids that it is okay to be a criminal, nothing is being done to teach 

our children to respect our society. 

Placement of students in schools, and re-segregation. 

District, community, state issues... I don't know. 

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Parents 



Diversity, creativity, work ethic 

Diverse, quality public schools; strong arts community; active civic activists; strong 

commitment to the betterment of the city and outlying communities; See ourselves 

as a "big city" with small town loyalty; largest number of people born and raised 

here. 

Louisville is a city of many different kinds of people, but we get along pretty well. 

We have great cultural assets, as well. 

Giving, caring, and understanding. 

community of hard working, honest people 

The support the business community and others give to the school district. The 

partnerships that the schools have with the community. 

The diversity of all races and nationalities that we have here. 

Parks, the arts, restaurants, the people, can get anywhere in 15-20 minutes... 

its people, the friendly atmosphere, variety of things to be a part of from arts to the 

zoo to museums to parks, etc 

Louisville's greatest assets are our arts. I think we are known as an artistic 

community and we have many arts events in our area. I think a superintendent 

should be aware of the importance of the arts in education and willing to foster 

artistic endeavors of our young people as they will be the future artists of our 

community, if given the opportunity. 

Great community spirit and generosity. Strong family ties. Multi million dollar 

companies 

Park system, the arts, college sports 

A wonderful public library system, fantastic arts and culture, the riverfront, great 

schools, terrific restaurants and a truly diverse community. 

Louisville feels like an overgrown small town 

diversity. 

Community Involvment, Family Value, and Education 

The arts, waterfront development, family activities. However, it can be a very 

narrow minded place at times. 

One should have had experience working with a large school district. 

We are a diversified series of communities, neighborhoods and populations united 

not only by the city name we call home, but by the goals we all share to "Greater". 

To make our children greater as well as their futures'. We all want superior 

educational opportunities for our children with an administration, staff and teachers 

who still believe they can make a difference everyday. We live in a city that is rich 

with tradition, pride and a sense of fellowship that while our zip codes are different, 

we choose to call Louisville home. 

Parents are genuinely interested in the education of their children 

small big-city 

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174 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Good community, friendly people, lots of corporate growth 

Diversity, Arts-centric, Neighborhood Identities, Parks, Downtown Economic 

Development, Kentucky Derby/Churchill Downs, a part of the 

Indianapolis/Cincinnati triangle 

People have a strong sense of community and want to help schools provide 

students with a great education. 

Not too small, not too large. Great parks, sports, and art. Nice downtown. Distinct 

neighborhoods with character. Four seasons. River city. 

Though we are a fairly large city, we treat each other like we are from a small town. 

We have many attractions, sports teams and good neighbors. Our schools should 

be as tight knit as our communities. 

Big city qualities with a small town feel. 

diverse community with much to do. 

Great Place to live, Low Traffic compared to other cities, Great varity of things to 

do. Louisville and Kentucky are cetrally located in the US. East to get to many big 

cities and states in less than a day's driving. Louisville is made up of many cities 

within a city, so there are many choices of places to live and visit. 

Very high quality of life with all of the opportunities of a big city--arts, shopping, 

sports,--but the crime rates of a much smaller city. 

Greatest asset could also be viewed as a big challenge and that is fact that 

community is so diverse, especially with immigrant influx in recent decade. The 

distinct neighborhoods encourage sense of community & belonging. 

Geographically, Louisville is very attractive location in mid-west. 

reasonable cost of living, vibrant arts scene, great restaurants, moderate political 

climate, short commutes 

Its people, history, arts. 

low cost of living, small city vibe but with big city opportunities 

Diversity of people and neighborhoods Location within 3 hours of Nashville, 

Cincinnati, and Indianapolist Parks System Cultural offerings - ballet, Louisville 

Palace, etc. 

The culture. 

River, our park system and the arts community 

A new mayor who has excellent potential for bringing together the metro 

community in a positive, working relationship. 

The people, and how we all come together when the needs arise 

Lots of activities for families with young children (zoo, science center, Bernheim 

Forest, city parks with fountains for water play, river front activities, Falls of the 

Ohio, amusement/water park (?), etc. Temperate weather with beautiful springs 

and falls. Lush greenery with well-planned parks and green spaces. Unique 

shopping and living areas: Highlands, Frankfort Ave., St. Matthews. Colleges and 

universities that draw young adults to the area, as well as graduating highly 

qualified teachers. 

The Arts, beautiful landscape, park system, not a lot of traffic, great neighborhoods. 

Big city feel with a smaller area. Great people. 

We are a community that loves our children and our neighbors. We have pride in 

our city.

Arts & family programs Restaurants River and lakes for water sports & boating 

Small town feel. Large town resources 

The arts, wonderful local festivals, relative safety for a metropolitan community, 

ethnic diversity, reasonable cost of living, progressive research into healthcare 

advances and easy access to healthcare. We have beautiful, scenic lands with 

wonderful parks. The weather is usually not extreme. It is easy to get around 

Louisville as we have largely avoided urban sprawl. 

They recieve half of the taxes our home pays every year and would like to know 

where it goes? 

The problem is this: The lack of structure that ensues teachers not being 

professional or that a Superintendent is not being good friends with everyone. He 

has to know what is needed to get the job done. Going to meetings all day long 

does not constitute "working" but if his/her background is in the classroom and it is 

allowable for additional training but it must be where its equal or more than our 

numbers for Jefferson Co. District. 

Ease of international travel 

Louisville is a great city with a small town feel. Easy to get around and people are 

in general, friendly. The surrounding county schools are really good. 

Diversity 

Big city with small town feel. 2. Ability to get across town in a short period of time 

because of the logistics of the expressway system. 

Good city to live in. Has a small town feel. Most areas are safe. 

Good people, more relaxed environment than alot of large cities 

Diversity of neighborhoods, arts, a variety of ethnicities and cultures, a city large 

enough to have many metropolitan amendities, but small enough to keep a strong 

sense of neighborhoods. 

its growing population of diversity.strong community leadership. location among 

cties its size within driving distance. 

Having moved here from the St. Louis area, I would describe Louisville as having 

most of the ammenities of a large city without many of the drawbacks. There are 

abundant opportunities for art, music, post-secondary education, and multi-cultural 

experiences. Louisville has more natural cultural diversity in many of its 

neighborhoods than I have ever experienced. 

The people, the quality of life 

Diversity and willingness to do what it takes for our children to succeed. 

Location Location Location 

The greatest asssets are the sense of community that Louisville seems to have. 

All the benefits of a large city but feels like a small town. 

Although Louisville is a large city, it still has the feel of a smaller city where people 

support their local neighborhoods and schools; however I believe that busing and 

most student assignment plan continue to remove students from their local 

neighborhoods and isolate them from their neighborhood peers but sending them 

across town. 

Louisville is a wonderful place to live. It has so many wonderful museums, places 

to eat. The zoo is a great asset also. 

The variety of people, the employment opportunities, the community involvement. 

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Rich history, central location, allergies. 

We have alot of activities of a larger City 

We are rich with history and are open to change 

Louisville is a welcoming, livable and vibrant community. It's cultured and 

progressive;safe and green. 

The greatest assests of this community are the people and the students. 

Rich history, central location, allergies. 

Friendly, centrally located, arts community, parks system, restaurants 

Our park systems, our community festivals, our rich heritage as evidenced by our 

museums- our locally owned restaurants and businesses. The unique 

neighborhoods. 

It has a small town feel with the benefits of a mid size city. People are very friendly 

and there are lots of opportunities, no matter your interests. Location is central to 

travel across the country. 

Friendliness & Warmth 

city with a lot of opportunities, things to do 

The community is wonderful, now if we can just get our schools up to par so we 

can attract a more educated workforce. 

Friendly, opportunity for events, community willing to help out when needed. 

Community involvment that is promoted, offers many art/humanities based shows, 

lots of kid friendly activites to attend, provides family centered atmosphere. 

Downtown, Churchhill Downs, Bell of Louisville, Local Parks - but not at the 

expense of accumulating massive deficients in order to maintain them. Stop 

wasting money on fluff such as $35,000 bike racks, etc.! 

Leader, will not back down to unions. 

Lots of resources - financial, community members, volunteers, etc. 

It has the assets of a big city with a small town atmosphere. 

beautiful city, lots of things to do for pleasure, 

It's children 

Families, students and private education! 

Tourism, including Churchill Downs and Thunder Over Louisville. Also, big 

business (jobs) inlcuding Ford, UPS, GE and others. 

Louisville is a great city to work and live. we have lots of great events, history and 

culture while still maintaining our friendly small-town feel. 

It's people. 

Louisville has many cultural activities for a city its size. Our location regionally gives 

us opportunities to experience a wide array of arts, sports, entertainment and 

educational venues close to home. 

It is the arts and entertainment of the possibility City with an ecletic mix of indie, 

local and post modern classes. 

small town feel-great arts program 

The children that will one day run this city. 

Small enough to enjoy the things it offers. 

friendliness 

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LEADERSAHIP he or she needs to be in charge, not someone who is a yes man, 

he need to experience what our school are going through. Not generalize that all 

school are the same. 

Location, Diversity, resources available 

It still has a lot of small town features including low housing costs but also has a 

wide variety of restaurants, good health care, etc, like a large city. 

The Derby, friendly town, overall easy to get around (low traffic etc). 

Churchill Downs, The Waterfront & downtown attractions; University of Louisville & 

the team spirit. A city that has many of the same restaurants/shops as a larger city 

however; still has the "small town" feeling. People are friendly. The inter-states 

make it easy to get around. 

Good housing/living for family life, relatively lower crime rates than bigger cities. 

low cost of living, great arts community, varied climate of 4 seasons, diversity, 

Our city is a culturally diverse community that is rich in career opportunities, 

history, art, music, entertainment, and family centered activities. 

Most people are friendly 

Strong neighborhood communities, excellent arts, many citizens are lifelong 

residents who have strong roots and work for the good of the community 

The community as a whole is a fairly close knit community. It has the amenities of 

a larger city, with the feel of a small town. 

Family oriented community. 

Small Town Feel w/Large Town Amenities & Arts 

River activities, park system, low cost of good sports entertainment, only 2 hours 

from Pro sports and other large city draws. 

Arts, entertainment, sport, culture offerings are much greater than typically found in 

community this size. 

The People: The people from Louisville love their city and are so very proud. 2) 

Some great attractions-Louisville Zoo, Parks, Derby, restaurants 3) A wonderful 

children's hospital 4)Several colleges and universities 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

None,busing is a joke 

Small town feel. Great people and easy commute. 

Progressive mecca, arts, entertainment, sports, shopping, cultural diversity, 

diversified housing opportunities, 

Schools, Childern 

That most areas are already mixed with different races. I believe that the principals 

will take a variety of mixed races from the local areas without being forced to take 

kids from downtown who do not want to be on long bus rides and want to go to 

their local schools. 

I've bee in Louisville since I was 10 years old and am now 57. Having traveled 

around quite extensively, I think Louisville has many unique qualities including (but 

not limited to) friendliness, favorable climate with just the right mixture of seasons 

thrown in, big city amenities with a small town atmosphere, logistically convenient, 

encouragement to those who are senstive to it, extemely charitable people willing 

to be part of the solution than part of the problem (for the most part). 

making sure every child suceeds in their education & getting the proper education 

set for the school year & in a way they understand 

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Friendly People. Louisville is not too large and not too small. Housing is affordable. 

Quality staff at the school level 

Nice Community, good geographical location, friendly citizens, low cost of living, 

excellent medical facilities, plenty of entertainemnt, shopping, cultural venues. 

The people, the arts, the history, the restaurants, and THE DERBY! 

The diversity of the people, cultural and culinary experiences, and our fabulous 

Derby Festival. 

when someone is in need everyone helps out without any questions asked. 

The Arts, Jefferson County Living, Parks system, Libraries, Nature... 

Diversity. I don't think we need to zone in on it 

It is a small community with the potential for growth. 

Small town feeling 

Louisville is a very nice place to raise a family 

The parks, arts, local restaurants, ecclectic neighborhoods, diversity. 

I think the school should check into the bullying that is going on at steven foster 

and stop the shit that is going on my son was attached today on the bus and i am 

upset about it ........ 

Our big city with a small city feel. Diverse neighborhoods. 

Hmmmm.... That is really difficult all that comes to mind is violence, drugs, 

ignorance, poverty, homelessness, I guess the greatest assets would be food 

stamps, medicaid, section 8 and 4 c's 

Ford, JCTA, JCPS, Mayor Fischer & the Aldermen 

Low costs of living, arts and cultural activties. 

The people, resources, and values of the community 

Location between St Louis, Indianapolis, Nashville, Bowling Green and Cinci. 

Nice size town with good opportunities. Louisville is kind of like a well hidden 

secret. 

Louisville is a great place to raise a family. You have the entertainment 

opportunities of a big city (ie..Ky Center, Actors Theatre,etc.) but the benefits of a 

small town (ie...close-knit community, not to large, everything is in reasonable 

driving distance) 

we are diverse in most areas from culture to financials. we have many attractions 

that other places do not have such as churchill downs and farmington. there are 

many educational places to visit and even more fun places to go! 

The people and community. 

Size, parks and green spaces, arts and educational opportunities 

The people, diversity, & arts. 

It's diversity. We are diverse in culture, race, class, and experiences. 

community, cost of living is low, safe, fun & family friendly 

It is a growing and thriving city. There are many large businesses and 

headquarters here. There are wonderful parks located throughout the city. The 

city does a great job maintaining the city and offering family friendly events 

throughout the year (Thunder over Louisville, Light up Louisville, etc). 

The People,the parks, the arts,the colleges, if you can get out of public schools 

without getting to screwed up. 

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Diverse, hard working community. 

Our community is the perfect size. Not too big not too little. As Goldielocks says, 

"it's just right". We have supportive churches and ministries that help families and 

support schools. 

Our children who will grow up and hopefully lead this community instead of moving 

away. Our parents and families who want their kids to have an education and are 

sadly choosing private schools because their kids can not attend their 

neighborhood school. Many, many private school choices! Thank God there are 

so many because if something doesn't change we will take that route as well in 2 

years. 

Arts community Size and flow of the city Sports teams/attractions Quality facilities 

Cost of living Crime rate 

Louisville could be a national leader by strengthening all schools regardless of 

location with qualified teachers and academic programs. 

Reasonable cost of living, Hard working citizens, Local colleges/businesses and 

Room to grow. 

1. Friendly city 2. Strong neighborhoods 3. Low cost of living 

Small Town feeling/good ol'boy w/ big city amenities. 

People, businesses, arts, liberal lifestyle, culture, small town mentality, Great 

private schools 

The cultural diversity and the arts. Despite claims, the neighborhoods are much 

more diverse than when I attended JCPS in the late 1980's. 

The Greater Louisville Community is a great place to live and work. Louisville offers 

many of the same opportunities as larger cities but it still maintains a smaller city 

feel. 

The children are our greatest asset of the Greater Louisville Community. 

great park system, small enough to be easily navigated yet large enough to have 

lots of resources, excellent corporate citizens (Ford, UPS) 

The Arts, different pockets of cultures in the neighborhoods, Waterfront Park and 

Metro Parks in general 

Parks, people, possibilities! 

cost of living, things to do, arts, everything is in close proximity but still spacious 

Louisville community is caring and the city has many things to offer. 

Arts & Culture - we are a very diverse community with great performing art venues, 

art galleries, museums, etc. 

Caring community 

Louisville is a wonderful city with a diverse group of people who all seem to 

genuinely care about the community and the children attending the schools here. 

We are very passionate about a great education for all of the students enrolled at 

all of the schools. 

strong on discipline. make rules and insist that sutdents follow them. 

It's people 

Louisville offers the opportunities of a larger city with a small town feel. Louisville is 

a metropolitan area with a diverse population. Louisville is home to Fortune 500 

companies, small local business, and strong colleges and universities. The 

community of Louisville will embrace a new leader and also hold them accountable. 

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UPS, GE, FORD, Belle of Louisville, Louisville Slugger Museum, Slugger Field, 

Frazier Museum, Bellarmine University, University of Louisville, Riverfront, Parks 

System, Churchill Downs, KY Derby, Derby Festival, Thunder over Louisville, Low 

Cost of living. 

Parents that want to be involved. Students that want to learn, and teachers that 

want to teach. 









The greatest quality of our community is its diverse population. Anyone can find 

their nitch here. 

One of the greatest assets in Louisville is to see it becoming a very diverse melting 

pot right before our eyes. (i.e.)As reported in the news from the latest census the 

hispanic and asian population as grown leaps and bounds. We all want diversity 

and the need to send children across town to experience diversity is diminishing! 

The citizens of this community are versatile, open minded and want to work 

together. 

I think Louisville has a lot to offer. Yum center, Louisville Bats, Science center 

Nicest people ever 

Big city benefits with a small town feel 

The Louisville community is the best you will find. We have some of the nicest 

people possible here. There is so much to do and offer here in Louisville. 

We are a community that cares about our schools, who want to see them succeed 

and to give our children every advantage and opportunity available. 

It has a small community feel, but the opportunities of a large city; the arts, sports, 

variety of industries, etc. 

Location in the USA for Businesses, UPS Transportation (World wide), still has 

manufacturing jobs, High Tech Jobs, good medical center, med range housing, top 

University, cost of living below the east and west coast; within 200 miles for a great 

vacation 

Lots of diversity, fun activities for school age children, for the most part. Lots of 

family friendly fun as well. 

Lifestyle 

Close knit communities 2. Not too large but large enough to accommodate 

population 3. Opportunities readily available for youth 

There are too many things to list here, but a major asset is the community itself. 

We are a large community who is willing to help 

There are alot of places for education out of the classroom. 

Louisville has a rich arts community. It has minor traffic issues, and the city is filled 

with great neighborhoods. The park system is one of our strong points. 

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The diversity. We have many different places to eat, worship, learn about different 

cultures. We also are one of the few cities that have all 5 of the arts. 

The Lou. Zoo and Lou. Science Center, Ali Ctr and many historic sites for 

educational attractions; strong arts community, both performing and visual; 

wonderful neighborhoods (Highlands, Crescent Hill, Middletown, J-town) and great 

sports 

Vibrant arts scene, great restaurants, diverse housing types, sports, easy to get 

around, 

The size, the easy commute, the diversity and the fact that the community does 

come together in trying times to help each other out. 

A true metropolitan city with easy commutes, cultural arts, several post-secondary 

educational sites, great outdoor activities, city-wide events, and weather to suit 

everyone [sometimes within one week snow lovers, sun bathers, spring and fall 

lovers alike are satisified]. 

We are fairly friendly, have a lot of nice parks and are diverse. 

The richness of the diversity of the population. 

Low crime, beauty, small community feel within a large metro area. 

The fantastic city we live in..its size is small, but activities are great. Very easy 

place to live. 

Louisville is the biggest small town you will ever live in. There are lots of family 

activities. From Arts performances to a great parks system, I enjoy all that 

Louisville has to offer. 

Location, entertainment, job opportunity, continuing education opportunities 

We are a diverse community that has a lot to offer to singles, couples and families. 

There is always something to do from basketball, baseball & football to 

musicals/plays to museums and various other events. 

A lively local arts scene as well as touring productions, beautiful parks, great 

restaurants and access to the world via Louisville International Airpot. 

Small city feel, big city ammenities. 

We have a small town feel with big city attributes. So many unique and wonderful 

things to experience 

The greatest asset to the GLC is its people, their passion to live in a great city; thier 

friendliness towards locals as well as those from other areas; thier giving spirit to 

help others in need. We are a diverse group of people who seek what is best for 

our communities. 

a lot of things to do no matter what kind of fun you like to have 

Diverse population, strong arts community 

Large city with small time feel. Louisville is rich in resources for struggling families. 

Louisville's greatest assets is that it can be a very livable city. For a city of our size 

we have exceptional parks, restaurants and arts. 

Diversity of cultures * Many cultural opportunities (museums, art galleries, artistic 

performances) * location on the riverfront 

Its diversity 

Ability to deal with all the School Board BS 

Diversity 

Friendly southern (kind of) community. 

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An active arts community; beautiful neighborhoods and a rejuvenated downtown; 

low unemployment; civic pride. 

Our diverse and growing community 

Louisville is a world class city that lures a quadry of world class individuals. We are 

strong and resilient yet vulnerable in certain areas and within certain 

demographics. We are fiercely loyal to those in power (think about our mayor for 

life). The cost of living is comprarable to similar size cities and lower than larger 

metropolitan cities. The crime rate is rather low in my opinion and we have a 

certain southern charm that is second to none. 

Fantastic parks system, Strong arts community, Great Universities 

Excellent city to raise kids. A big city with a small town feel. Great Parks system. 

Not sure 

Louisville Metro is an up and coming city that host international and national events 

annually. Our downtown is growing rapidlly and offers many opportunities for 

entertainment, arts, and business. We have several parks and attractions in our 

area. We are centrally located between several other large metropolitan areas, 

great for day trips or weekend getaways. This is a strong community commerce 

wise with several national employers operating out of Louisville, There are also 

several execellent universities within our state and locally. 

Diversity; arts culture; sporting events and venues; family events; downtown 

revitalization. 

DIverse opportunity to participate 

As a non-native resident for 12 years, I have found Louisville to be a welcoming, 

very livable place. It has the amenities of a larger city without some of the 

headaches (cost, crime, etc.). I believe there is a community-wide desire to make 

Louisville a better place, from its economic development to the development of 

community amenities like the arts, parks, etc. 

Although not quite as pronounced as it once was, there is still an advantage as far 

as cost of living is concerned here over other similar as well as larger sized metro 

areas. The weather is also moderate enough so that you experience all 4 seasons, 

but not as severely as places either north or south of us. 

Small town attitude with mid-size town assets. 

Size - not too big, not too small Neighborhoods - Louisville has many older areas, 

each with a unique flavor and style. Central Location Lots of activities 



We have so many wonderful school choices/magnets! Traditional, self-directed, 

college prep, arts curriculum - the choices are outstanding. 

Providing strong diverse, educational environments; developing and providing 

programs geared toward various gifts and talents; focusing goals on national 

educational goals 

JCPS has excellent teachers and mostly successful intergration of its schools. The 

district has not yet gone down the road of full test prep instruction, and retains 

some creativity in its educational vision. For example, the montesorri elementaries, 

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the arts and sciences magnet programs, the care for kids program: these are all 

examples of our committment to educate the whole child, not just produce a test 

score. 

We have awesome students who unquestionably can achieve at higher levels. 

Diversity in the schools 

JCPS can make great improvments under strong leadership, if changes are 

made... 

There are many high quality and caring teachers who go above and beyond for 

their students without a lot of recognition. They are not only teachers but often 

friends, confidantes and stand in parents for some very troubled kids. 

Again, diversity and meeting the needs of our students with Special Needs. 

So many different options for parents. 

the students opportunity for arts and music to children varitey of programs 

JCPS strengths lie in our magnet programs. I think these programs are integral in 

helping students explore different aspects of various careers. 

Strengths are close staff....caring staff members willing to go above and beyond to 

better all students. 

great resources for children (EBD etc) for elementary school children 

Great teachers, beautiful buildings- some gorgeously historical ones that are still 

operable. A healthy budget and innovative programs. 

Lots of options, school choices Good teachers who care about their work 

some very dedicated teachers 

Family value, Education, and Community Involvment 

teachers who care and will do anything in their power to help children learn 

principals who work with parents to help the children achieve 

I think the size could be an asset if it's dealt with in a proactive manner 

The assets of JCPS are its ability to incorporate a wide range of services for 

students with learning disabilities and developmental delays that the private system 

isn't able to provide on such a wide scale. JCPS has assets in that is covers and 

reaches every community across our city and provides access to each and every 

child. JCPS also offers continued training and development opportunities for 

teachers and staff. As a whole, JCPS is a huge undertaking and serves and huge 

area and range of children. 

Some schools have great teachers. 

So much money to spend. 

There are VERY few. This school district is determined to ensure that the inner city 

schools are diversified by making students from other parts of the city go to them 

as well as inner city students being shipped out to schools far from their homes. 

This brings down all the schools, since the majority of inner city students do not 

have enough parental supervision at home, they don't do their homework, thus 

teachers give very little and have the students do it in class so they don't have to 

deal with the apathetic parents and students from the West End and the students 

from the East End are losing out by not having the opportunity to go to the school 

closest to their homes. They actually have to APPLY like its college, and then if 

they are not ethnic enough they get turned down because the school district cannot 

possibly have too many Caucasian students in their school or they would not be 

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diverse enough for the liberal based board. Instead of doing this, why not put all the 

money spent on busing these kids around the city into the under-privileged schools 

and make them a place these kids can actually learn something besides how to 

bully, mug, beat up, and rob each other? So simple. 

Choice and Diversity 

There is a strong emphasis on bringing all children up to mandated academic 

levels.There are rewards and consequences for schools that fail to achieve 

requirements. 

School choice keeps people in the system despite strong Catholic/private school 

competition. Magnets attract diverse populations and give students a chance to be 

with students with similar passions. 

JCPS needs a lot of work. I think a superintendent that understands this up front 

would make the best candidate. Many (dare I say most) parents are very 

disappointed in our school system and changes need to be made.The busing issue 

needs to be addressed. Parents do not want their children on a bus for hours upon 

hours. We also value community and would like our children to attend their home 

schools. It has been shown that busing our children across town does not work and 

I'd say the majority of parents are not for it. 

Traditional schools are wonderful. If all schools could mirrow those, we would be 

better off. 

great teachers and advanced programs. 

Unfortunatley, I do not have much good to say about Jefferson County Schools. 

We do have some dedicated Principals and Teachers, but there are equally as 

many that are not. Everything (education, disipline, Childhood friendships with 

neighbors, is suffering all for the sake of one word - DIVERSITY. Jefferson 

County barely has 3 schools in the top 75 in the state. Look at Lexington. I lived in 

Lexington for over 5 years and was bored in the city. I love Louisville in 

comaparison. What are they doing right 60 miles away that we can't grasp??? 

The Jefferson County School District as the largest in the state gets the most state 

support to assist them in their responsibilities. 

For the right candidate, the size & challenges of JCPS would be very attractive. 

Diversity of programs is asset. 

magnet programs that work to achieve diversity. Many dedicated teachers and 


Some schools are able to produce college ready students. 

It is free. There are many programs to help your children succeed. 

Diversity of students Quality of School facilities Quality of teachers 

Quality teachers. 

A merged city/county district that has prevented white flight to the suburbs. This is 

changing as more and more families move to surrounding counties 

diversity among staff, students, and programs strong ECE department, although 

the open position for the Executive Director of ECE may be a problem in recruiting 

both a superintendent and candidates for the ECE position. 

Those teachers who really are concerned about the students! 

A district that recognizes the critical importance of integrating schools in a way that 

offers excellent education to children of all socio-economic backgrounds. A wealth 

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of magnet schools to meet the needs and interests of every student. An emphasis 

on creating community within schools through intentional class meetings that allow 

each child to feel known and valued. I have loved how my (white) children have 

learned, worked, and played with children from many differing backgrounds at 

Kennedy and Coleridge-Taylor Montessori schools while receiving an excellent 

education that has prepared them to enter highly selective middle and high 

schools. 

I like the fact kids can go to schools which match their strengths. 

For the most part we have teachers who really do want to teach. They just aren't 

always allowed to with the way things are now. 

Committed base of parents that can be engaged Teachers and administrators who 

can be inspired Students who want more from life, but need to believe 

Diversity of education opportunities 

The beginnings of a strong diversified magnet program. I believe integration of 

populations is an asset. If properly nutured, the SBDM structure can really be an 

asset. I note you did not ask about our challenges/problems. We need to stop 

shirking from serving our strongest students. Make our IB programs real - not just 

a small selection of what it could be. Parents hunger for chalenging curriculums for 

their children and we spend all our energy trying to drag kids and families who do 

not care to expend the energy into minimal compliance with testing instead of 

growing the core of our population. Every year, Manual has four applicants for 

every spot - that means there is a deserving population for at least another 3 

"Manuals" in JCPS. Make that happen! Noe Middles turns away applicants every 

year - follow that model; expand GT and arts education! There are parents who 

care about education and just want to have a place to send their child that is more 

than mediocre and JCPS is not responding. Instead it is spending all its energy 

trying to DRAG families who don't care along and sacrifices the education of the 

majority to pander to the lowest denominator. 

None that I can see,Kids are given the answers to tests to study,instead of studying 

for the test,no fun time,the middle schools sit in class all day and they expect them 

to be good,what happened to gym???? 

Strengths? Please. The weakness of JCPS is the lack of making the children feel 

safe. We are considered bottom feeders to other districts in the other 49 territories. 

There needs to be taking down the Magnet Career Academy stigma...its not a dang 

college. Kids being forced to go across town for 6.5hrs of instruction plus another 

60-min ride both ways is ridiculous. The teachers need to be all fired and start 

over. A good leader will emphasize the importance of that. Re-screen those 

background reports because the predators as teachers are coming out. Isn't that 

HR's job? The new person needs to versed to know that just because you think 

you know more than someone else does not make you a good candidate 

(education). I am referring to actual experience in rough inner-school districts that 

have a successful turn around in kids learning and getting their education without 

fear. Security present in schools springs kids to bring weapons. Bullying needs to 

be handled. 

Strength is definitely specific teachers and staff at my child's school. 

The teachers. 

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Traditional Schools - we need more when there is currently waiting lists at both 

Audubon and Great House 

There is a large budget in place. Much of it being wasted but it is in place for 

someone to do good things with. 

Variety we have decent local neighborhood facilities 

Diversity of schools/student population, magnet programs, non-academic programs 

addressing the various social needs of students 

ITs size, the diverse population. The school options in terms programs. 

Again there is a natural diversity in most areas of the city that spills over into the 

schools. The city and the business community are very supportive of the public 

school system. Cultural opportunities in the communiuty are available to 

supplement classroom education. 

Not many strengths / assets with this school district to be honest. We need 

someone who will come in and focus on the children and education, not the unions 

and bureaucracy 

Diversity of students. Not necessarily diversity of staff. 

We have a lot of school buses that could be converted to something productive. 

The desire to help each student achieve his/her potential. 

Large student body to work with 

JCPS is lucky to have the many dedicated teachers and assistants that go the 

extra mile for their students. 

It is very large and has lots of resources. We have many teachers and other 

personnell that have wonderful ideas and strategies of how to teach children. 

Teachers who truly care about the children. Nice buildings and a large surrounding 

areas. 

Diverse and rich programs not offered by other school districts, such as the highquality 

magnet programs and head start. 

We have resources to make a great school district if used correctly 

We have so many people working in our school system that care about the 

education and well being of out children. 

The staff is willing to go out of their way for the studens in thier building. We, 

JCPS, are great with geeting local community members and businesses to help out 

with the need of our under privledged population. 

JCPS has been a district committed to high quality education for all our students. 

It's been supported by the business community and parents and has provided 

quality education. Having a consolidated school system that serves the whole 

metro city is valuable. 

The strengths of JCPS are the teachers, parents and students. I am fortunate to 

be a part of the Traditional program and think this is a great assest. Would like to 

see this program expanded. 






magnet programs and head start.



Size, diversity, Jump Start program, Traditional Magnet program. 

We have many teachers in the system that we could draw upon their experience to 

improve the system. 

Our shear size- the ability for someone to come in and make a huge difference with 

an enormous population of children. Our magnet programs. 

It is a diversified district that offers an option for everyone. They have been 

working hard to bring math and science innovation to the classroom and be a 

leader in this area not only in KY, but in the US. The system offers opportunities to 

all students and tries to think and act globally. 

Great teachers 

The educated parents who know that the current school board needs to be 

eliminated. 

Size, resources, community we live in 

Promotes the good of our schools, understands teacher, student and parent needs. 

Waste of money. Too top heavy of administration. Too many retire early & then go 

back & make more money while drawing retirement. 

size great city 

They could have a lot of strenghts but they choose not to 

for the most part great employees, good education for the students 

I don't know 

Broad access to programs and activities. 

There are some excellent schools in the system, including duPont Manual. 

We have many quallity teachers and schools that serve the public well. 

Unfortunately at this time, whatever strengths or assets it has is shadowed by it's 

lack of concern regarding declining success. The apathy of the community due to 

a small LOUD group of people who insist this community is craving diversity over 

arts and neighborhood schools is out of control. 

Strengths are the magnet schools (not necessarily the magnet programs) and ECE 

services 

The JCPS is totally flawed due to the assignment plan. It is archaic and 

fundementally stupid. 

none-this will be their challenge of a lifetime 

No child isn't given the chance to learn; JCPS does emphasize parent involvement, 

they do attempt to find solutions 

Teachers 

Lots of Money, in such poor condition it can only go up. 

some of the schools are great; and the ones that are great excel in everything. 

know that all schools are not the same each school has their own unique problems 

address them not just a general answer . listen to the parnets but do the best for 

the schools. 

Resources available to the schools (taxpayer dollars, surrounded by world-class 

Higher education facilities, diversity among students 

Money. Large workforce available for teachers and other workers. 

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There is a lot of money already allocated to the system. 

Despite the negative light that has been shed on some schools performances, I 

think the vast majority of JCPS schools are doing well and teaching our children. 

The staff are committed to teaching and have not given up, despite what I can only 

imagine to be, a very poor morale amoung the staff. JCPS has a large amount of 

resources to assist their students. 

Any strengths are dwarfed by BUSING. 

varied school environments; lots of choices that are really different from each other, 

exceptional teachers like Ms. Cron at Atherton HS who respects student's abilities, 

and expects high achievement through treating them like the responsible young 

adults they are, which makes them want to achieve even more. 

We have highly qualified teachers that are eager to help students learn and 

achieve at their highest. 

Great opportunity for improvement 

Many dedicated teachers work long hours to provide quality, research based 

instruction. 

Some great schools with diverse class offerings. 

Technology, Size for barganing with companies for best use of public monies 

Magnet Programs 

Requires teachers to obtain Masters degree. 

Adequate fiscal resources Community involvement and support 

Some schools have wonderful teachers and real learning going on. I can not 

speak to the district as a whole. I am happy with Wilder Elementary. 

Private schools are 5 times better than JCPS 

The fact that there are quality alternatives. 

Teachers and faculty that care about the childs education 

It used to be that many of the elementary schools were good, until a couple of 

years ago when the schools had to take kids from areas downtown. Many of these 

kids do not behave, do not do their homework, have no parental involvement in the 

school, and say things that frighten my kids. I want to get back to how it was a few 

years ago. There are plenty of kids from different races in the surrounding areas 

that want to go to the local school. 

My experience has been highly motivated teachers dedicated to their core values 

of helping our youth become intelligent, relevant, motivated lifetime learners. We 

are too top heavy at the administrative end and with many individuals who get paid 

way too much for what they do. But this is a minor issue compared to the strengths 

exhibited by dedicated teachers who work long hours. They take on more 

responsibilities than they should, parents need to be parents and not expect the 

teachers to do the parenting. Teachers need to be given the chance to teach in an 

environment where the children are motivated at home to respect the opportunities 

and privileges they have in this school system. . 

I believe its their no left behind program or their sucess in elm. Schools, but again I 

would need more information 

Most of the school buildings seem to be in pretty good condition. 

Outstanding facilities. 

Very good facilities, adequet funding.

The magnet schools. 

The biggest strength are the variety of programs and educational opportunities 

offered to students and families. 

Teachers are always there for the students when they are in need of anything from 

a laugh to a shoulder to cry on...our teachers care. 

Large system that can offer many different programs Different schools teach to 

many different styles of learning... 

I have yet to find a strength 

Strengths of JCPS are kids want to learn, parents are concern, and teachers want 

their students to succeede. 

Great teachers 

Variety of magnet programs, variety of school sponsored activities, communication 

with parents. 

Our students. 

I can't think of one single assets or strength only problems and ignorance. Until the 

current board is completely removed the problems will never end and finding a 

superintendent is a waste of time and resources. 

It's teachers are the greatest assets, and are frequently overlooked in aiding to 

improve schools. 

The superintendent that turns this system around will be an icon in education. 

There isn't many, and I'm a product of JCPS 

Room for promotion and growth professionally 

Currently I'm not seeing many. The School Board tries to shove ideas down 

people's throats; they want us to think that the School Board is all knowing and the 

'Almighty' with all the answers. The School Board needs to think outside the box 

and not be afraid to admit they make mistakes. 

Diversity is one of the strengths of the JCPS school system and amidst that 

diversity one can find lots of oppportunity for learning and growth both in the 

classroom as a student and as an employee/educator. 

there is a variety of courses offered. we have some really great teachers and 

schools with lots of potential. 

Parent Involvment. 

single school district in county with a long-standing committment to racial and 

social integration; range of school choices within the district 

The teachers, administrators, and support staff and their focus on teaching the 

whole child. Also, the ability to have choices and choose magnet schools etc. 

based on individual children's needs. 

The diversity of its students is the strongest asset. They have a lot to teach as well 

as learn. 

Has some excellent schools. Just needs more. 

There are a few very good and academically strong schools in JCPS (the 

traditional schools). 

I know there are decent teachers in the system, also wonderful principals, there is 

no one to listen to them when they are the ones in the trenches with the little 

heathens!!! You said it right this AM, disrupt class ONCE go to the school where 

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you learn to dig ditches, that will be your life without an education! These kids are 

not stupid, it is the parent or parents. 

Good teachers, students and parents. 

As a parent, that is difficult to answer. Right now, with the poor test scores, 

teachers being reshuffled (not fired) and out of control students being on the news 

ever other day--its difficult to find the good. It is very disappointing. 

It's size Some great schools! openness to discuss change, although little has 

been done The amount of parents that want to be invovled in their children's 

education 

Traditional program is the strongest asset; Male, Butler, Barrett, Johnson, JCTMS, 

Audubon, Greathouse-Shyrock, Schaffner and Carter only. Other schools who 

have "traditional" in their title are not included. JCPS misled parents by allowing 

other schools to use this word. Children who graduate from this program have a 

better chance of attending college because of the demands and structure of the 

program. Same goes for DuPont Manual, Ballard and Eastern; they have 

produced top-notch students. Optional/Magnet programs have also been 

beneficial for students interested in a particular college/career path. 

Knowledgable and patient staff in the Options/Magnet and Student Assignment 

departments. Eventhough they cannot give the answer we might be looking for 

they express empathy for each situation as if it might be their own. 

Parent participation, High enrollment, Eager students, Many great teachers that 

could help improve other teachers. 

Access to large budget that could be managed more efficiently to better benefit 

students 

good quality people from all walks of life 

We have an elementary, middle, and high school in each neighborhood. We do 

have a couple of really outstanding schools in each category. ie. Male, Manual, 

Greathouse-Shyrock The members of our board that knew the bussing wasn't 

working, heard the parents, and voted to let the last superintendent go. 

Crosby Middle, Male, Manual, Ballard, Eastern High, Hite and Lowe Elementary. 

Whatever these schools are doing needs to be replicated across the district. 

There are no visible strenghts in the Jefferson County Public School District at this 

time 

A lot of potential for growth in our schools. This district is a real opportunity for a 

candidate who wants to make a difference. 

Student choice 

Zilch! Focus on diversity= funding! Forgot about education and common sense.It is 

in the crapper! 

active, involved community 

It is diverse and a large school district 

Teachers are the strengths/assets of JCPS. 

teachers in the classroom 

Right now, I can not answer that in a positive way, I am not happy with JCPS as far 

as the whole program. I am happy with the school my child is fortunate enough to 

attend and I believe the teachers at this school really care about the parents and 

the children attending.

i see no strength in jefferson county schools 

None currently, but that could change with the right person in charge. 

The schools offer a variety of magnet and traditional programs. The schools have 

many teachers and staff that are dedicated to student success. 

???? 

Parents that want to be involved. Students that want to learn, and teachers that 

want to teach. 

Variety of schools. 









Strengths: advancing in technology 

My child will be starting Kindergarten this fall so I cannot speak from experience yet 

but have faith in public education in this country and city and want to see it 

succeed. I am a parent that will be involved with my child from start to finish 

because I know it all starts at home and with the parents responsibility too. 

I know this is a terrible thing to say, but there aren't any at this time. I am very 

disappointed in JCPS schools. I don't have the answer, but it has alot to do with 

lack of disipline in schools. The children control the schools. Until that is 

addressed, nothing will ever change.. no matter how good a superintendent is... 

Very diverse 

The only strength I see in the JCPS schooling is the Traditional program they offer. 

Children are able to receive a great education and the behavior is top notch! It is a 

shame that we can not have more traditional programs here in Jefferson County 

We have many opportunities at our schools. Very diversed curriculum to meet 

many needs. 

As a parent of children in the Traditional Program, and having gone through as a 

JCPS student myself..I honestly cannot think of any strengths that stand out. I 

know there are good teachers..but just as many bad. I think the Traditional progam 

is wonderful, but you have schools claiming to be "traditional" (Moore, Fern Creek, 

etc.) that muddy that name. 

The asset are the children, the strengths thru teachers and principles no longer 

exist, ????? 

UMMMMM, right now, I don't know of any. Haven't known of any for the last 14 yrs. 

It seems to keep getting worse. 

It has plenty of money 

Easily accessible 2. Good with dissimilating information 3. Tries to incorporate 

parents/guardians in the decision making process 

There are many successful school personnel that have made such an impact at 

their respective schools. I feel perhaps their actions or innovations could or should 

be duplicated at other "troubled" schools. 

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We do have good schools and parents that are willing to help. Our transportation 

is good for the most part. 

I think most people want to make the JCPS a success. 

JCPS has some excellent community partnerships. 

Overall we are not bad, but we do not play up our strengths. We are divided. The 

BOE vs the superintendent (or each other) vs. administrators vs teachers vs 

parents. 

Proud that we are still finding ways to keep our schools diverse despite the 

problems; many quality teachers; some terrific magnet programs for those who are 

interested 

Lots of high acheiving kids /large tax base? All the adminstrators seem to be paid 

HUGE salaries (compared to the actual teachers). Good resources 

The dedication of 'some' teachers, the variety of specialties offered by some high 

schools, the ability to have Special Ed classes. 

An awesome framework to build/operate from. 

Nice teachers, counselors and principals. 

We have a strong network of schools providing quality education, and a vast array 

of educational options and opportunities (prepare for college, the workforce, etc.) 

The teachers and administrators. 

Greatest strength is school "choice." 

Wide variety of programs and schools. 

Strengths are high attendence rates for students, percentage of schools that have 

high rates going on to college, schools of excellence, parent involvement 

A large percentage of our teachers and school staff are more highly trained today 

and they carry the energy and enthusiasm needed to focus on educating our 

children. These teachers continue to further train themselves in areas needed to 

benefit the ever changing needs of the children. We definitely need to pay them 

more and weed out the teachers that are not making the necessary progress. 

There is a certain amount of parental choice and I think the district is working to 

recruit quality teachers. 

The current system has driven parents with means to remove their children from a 

system dominated by JCTA that fails the students. 

Many opportunities and resources. 

A large body of teachers that truly want to see its students be successful. 

teachers that care 

Large population of students making us a very large and diverse student group. 

Too many people have a say in our education that makes things difficult to 

manage. Students sometimes are not the first priority with situations that arise. 

Too many boundaries for districts, which makes it difficult to manage. 

Lots of options for children. 

Because of its size, JCPS has the ability to try different approaches, experiment 

and customize educational programs for its students. 

Diversity of cultures * rigorous academic curriculum * great magnet programs 

NONE. Except for Meyzeek, they should be the model for all other schools with 

regard to staff, teachers, and policies. I have had kids at Lowe, Noe, Crosby, 

Meyzeek and Eastern - Meyzeek is HANDS DOWN the best school I have had a

child to attend. PROACTIVE teachers and administrators at Meyzeek - all other 

schools should take notes on how to run a school. 

Its commitment to provide opportunities to learn about the many different kind of 

people in our community 

strong intelligent students 

Qualified teachers with master's degrees 

Ours is a diverse district. There are many strong academic schools. The 

challenge is helping more schools in the district obtain strength. 

Combined urban/suburban district that attempts to meet goals and priorities of all 

sectors of hte community; school and program choice; some excellent schools, 

especially in the east end and those that are magnet schools. 

Choices (however, keep in mind that some "choices" are FORCED based on the 

current student assignment plan (Elementary). 

JCPS is one of the most diverse districts in the country. It offers its students the 

opportunity to meet others from othre countries, learn other languages, with almost 

one hundred languages represented within the almost one hundred thousand 

student body. We are also very economically diverse. We have those in extreme 

poverty and we have those who have no concept of what poverty truly is or consist 

of. Some of students come from very supportive homes with parents who are 

willing to volunteer their time and energies on various committees for the good of 

their respective schools and the District as a whole. 

Not many. We put all of our money into a useless busing program and short cut 

the needs of all of our children. I cannot imagine anyone wanting to lead this 

pathetic excuse for a school system. 

Diversity of student population. Collaborative within the JCPS system and with out 

in the community. Magnet schools and parental choice are assests. 

Some of programs are great. Too much money wasted on Busing kids. 

The school district is fortunate to have plenty of teachers whom are interested in 

excellence of their profession. The community on a whole takes immense interest 

in the school system. We all have a strong desire for our school system to be the 

best it can be. 

Diversity; commitment by most teachers and staff. 

Dedicated faculty and staff yearning for leadership that understands the challenges 

JCPS faces in educating our diverse population. 

JCPS, like Louisville, has the benefits of a larger urban district, especially diversity, 

without some of the serious problems that plague districts like Kansas City, MO. I 

think the district's teachers, by and large, want to be successful and want their 

schools to be successful. The district also benefits from the relatively good 

relationship between the administration and the teacher's union. We've all seen 

examples of what happens when a district's administration and its unions are 

adversaries--it's a race to the bottom. It must be a partnership. 

It is a large district that is rich in diversity across all grade levels. There is a lot of 

choice as far as what a student can concentrate on, while still getting a basic 

education. I think the district is moving in the right direction as far as math 

curriculum is concerned. 

Magnet school program The whole county is under one program 

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candidates.) 

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Respect for teachers, willingness to try new things, doing it for the students and not 

for money/cronyism/power. 

Assertive with the board of education; driven toward national improvement w/ 

research based instructional practice; strong leadership and support to all 

educators; involved in the community; willing to address the Kentucky State 

Legislature as needed to protect the interest of JCPS and it's unique community. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We need someone who has spent serious time in the classroom teaching. We 

need someone who has been held accountable for 28 students learning over the 

course of 186 days -- the real deal. We need someone values intellectual rigor so 

much that he or she holds the highest degrees in their fields of study. We need 

someone who sees educational outcomes in varied ways - -graduation rates, 

retention in school and post-grad, creative problem solving at all levels. 

Believe that ALL students can learn AND at higher levels. Create positive/trusting 

working environments for students, parents, and teachers. Make teachers feel like 

they truly matter in the art of education and motivate them to continue to be better! 

Be able to show all stakeholders that they are appreciated. Make community based 

activities a priority. 

ability to work with a diverse group of people flexible 

Stron sense of financial accountability and transparancy; desire to promote 

moderization of processes to eliminate waste. 

An understanding of the racial and economic diversity in this community and 

equalizing opportunities for all of our children. 

Experience with a district this size or larger that understands the needs of Louisville 

and Jefferson County Public Schools. 

Don't underestimate Louisville and the needs of this very large and very diverse 

county. The ability to be flexible and work well with others. 

hard worker good listener love of education not a numbers pusher quality over 

quanity 

The next superintendent should be willing to listen to his staff, teachers, parents 

and students. All persons of influence and management need to listen to the 

people who their decisions are affecting. 

Caring, Understanding of building Neighborhood schools with the surrounding 

neighbors!! 

understands the needs of the community, understands what has been tried in our 

school system in the past, has prior experience in a similar school district. 

Experience and proven track record in leading schools that have a high success 

rate of high school graduates. 

Supports diversity Maintains various options for school programs Allow choice for 

various programs 

Ability to have vision, and not get bogged down with warring factions. 

Puteducation back into school, remove social parenting 

Family Value, Community Involvement, Edcuation with In-School Involvement 

flexible, open minded, and thick skinned.

Will change current assignment plan. 

One who is proactive about going back to neighborhood schools. 

The next superintendent needs to believe that JCPS can be "greater" FOR 

Louisville and provide a solid and attaintable vision for the future. They need to 

understand we are vast community with differing popoulations around every corner, 

but we all believe our children deserve the best education. He or she needs to 

understand the operations of a business from finance to human resources to 

workforce planning. They need to be a voice for our children, not just a sound we 

hear in the distance. They need to be relavent and involved in the community at a 

grass roots level and have a strong background in education and actual teaching. 

They need to be able to make tough decisions that are based on sound 

judegement and reasoning. They need to come prepared with a plan and the 

resources to start yesterday. They need to hold teachers and staff accountable as 

well as parents and students. They need to have integrity, ethics and the creative 

can do attitude to turn this into the well oiled machine in can be. 

One who will listen to those in our community and take the opinions seriously. 

kids first, unions last 

Conservative, with the ability to understand the lunacy of the current school board's 

policy on busing and student assignment. 

History of success with minority students/communities, must have formerly been a 

teacher in a real public school classroom, high level adminsitrative experience in 

an urban public school district (not just an urban school), History of risk taking with 

much success, great mediation skills to deal with the union and the school board. 

Not from Kentucky! 

We need a superintendent that can manage a large and diverse district and all of 

the good and challenging qualities that comes with it. The new super must be able 

to convince parents that he or she is listening to their concerns and is working to 

make the system better for every one. Not just one group of people. The current 

superintendent may be a highy qualified person however he came across as cold 

and arrogant with regard to issues surrounding student assignment plan. I cant 

count how many times he was on the news stating bus rides were less than an 

hour each way. If he thought the bus rides were so acceptable he should have 

done a PR campaign and been on the news showng him ride the longest bus every 

day for a week. The super lost all support when he came across as cold and 

indifferent to parents concerns about their Elementary age children and their school 

assignments. The transportation director didnt help things either, he always 

appeared on the news with a negative attitude and a chip on his shoulder. This 

prevalent negative attitude just carried over into everything Berman did. I was 

angry and upset about the transportation and my children are walkers not bus 

riders. 

Experience with a large district that has a record of turning around under 

performing schools. An ability to engage the community in the school system; 

parents of all economic levels and businesses. Belief in economic diversity within 

schools. Belief in holding the same high expectations for all students and for all 

teachers. An ability to work with other members of the community to improve the 

home situation or support structure for struggling students. A gift for motivating 

students, parents and teachers to do their best. 

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He or she needs to be strong, straight forward and fair (not weak, but fair). 

Teachers should be held accountable, just as the students. Students who wish to 

succeed shouldn't be held back because of those who don't. We need someone 

who isn't afraid to reward success and address (or even recognize) failure. 

Strong leadership. Not afraid to help at any level. Persistant. 

get rid of school assignment program. it doesn't help children who live in the area 

of their home school to have kids bussed in who don't care about their education. 

A proven track record from a SUCCESSFUL school district. Putting childrens 

educations FIRST. Quality Teachers and Staff, A believer in disipline! And way to 

help troubled and disruptive kids early and get them the special attention they 

need, rather than disrupting the entire class. Ending BULLYING. Already our 2nd 

grade girl has been subjected to this and nothing was done by teacher when made 

aware. Had to get Priciple involved. Should never get that far. No one seems to 

care about addressing this and having a plan on how to help and/or deal with 

disruptive and abusive kids. Everyone deserves the chance to a good education 

regardless of their home life and living conditions. Help these kids with a few hours 

a day of special attention adapt instead of throwing them in a class and ignoring or 

accepting bad behavior. It hurts everyone. 

Our children need more physical education in the schools, with every school having 

a pe teacher.....our children's health and academics suffer when they do not get the 

quality pe teachers.....When will some people realize the connection between pe 

and brain activity and how it helps a student with their academics. 

Stong leadership skills. Empathetic and a willingness to speak directly to parents, 

not just the board. 

Ability to discern what is the will of the majority of people vs. the volume of the 

minority of people. The ability to determine what is a wise use of funding to drive 

true educational results versus use of funding to appease the minority. There is a 

way to address busing within the current student assignent plan to maximize 

efficiencies and minimize the commute time. Minimizing transportation costs and 

ride times could help appease the concerns of most parents who favor diversity 

goals but oppose the reality of the student assignment plans--too long on the bus 

where safety problems occur. My children ride the bus to their resides school and 

it still takes 50 minutes--too much for young children. 

Thick skin and being a true leader who can cope with the politics and BS. Ability to 

be firm but not abrasive. Not afraid to make changes. Good communicator. Stay 

focused on core purpose of public education - to educate all students. Not just the 

top 5% or the bottom 5% but all of them. 

experience in school district with underperforming schools. Ideal candidate would 

have some existing knowledge re: our community. 

Understanding of the need for traditional schools. Understanding that some 

parents are NOT happy with their reside school and would do anything to keep 

their kids out of that school, even if it meant going private. 

A flexible person with experience in running a school system of our size. 

An understanding that diversity is important in a school system but that parent's 

voices must be heard. Willingness to listen to the teachers regarding issues they 

encounter in the classroom. 

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Willingness to make children and education a priority OVER diversity (JCPS 

current number one priority). 

Apparently the ability to kowtow to the board. Also will need to ensure that 

transportation is safe and as efficient as possible 

openness to listen to all, (no more "good old boys" attitude which was evident 

before Daschner, emphasis on student progress (and NOT test scores), rewarding 

teachers for their skills/talents, a desire to maintain the Care for Kids program, a 

strong backbone who can address the school assignment issue with clarity and 

wisdom. 

Personable, and very aware of the "needs" of the students and parents. 

We need someone who will continue to work to provide the best education possible 

to children from all areas of the county: children of differing races, cultures, 

economic status, and languages. The superintendent should continue to utilize 

magnet schools as a way for parents to voluntarily integrate our schools, but 

should also use districting to make sure that we do not become a segregated 

community. Our children will grow up to become the leaders of Louisville, and they 

must learn now to understand and respect those who differ from them. Both of my 

children ride the bus, and I am much less concerned about the length of the bus 

rides than I am about what is happening within the schools each day--I want a 

superintendent who can eloquently articulate the big picture, rather than allowing 

us to become bogged down in the details of (admittedly) challenging schedules. 

Honesty. Integrity. True desire to improve our education model. Enthusiasm. 

Availability. 

We need someone who has a special needs background and someone who has 

been in charge of a large district (successfully). 

Vision that inspires everyone (student/parent/staff) Excellent communicator - 

translate ideas; engaging Optimist - believes & makes others want to too 

Strong firm leadership 

SBDM - if adminstrators and parents were properly trained in its potential - could 

be powerful. Berman has viewed the structure as a nuisance and has wasted 

energy trying to force his will onto schools. The new superintendent needs to 

understand how the system works and learn how to make it work for themselves. 

The new superintendent should be focused on excellence - not merely on making 

adequate test scores. Understand you are dealing with parents who often did not 

attend college and have not come to grips with the fact that it is essential for their 

children to succeed. They need to come from an urban system so they can 

address diversity and they need to speak the hard truths about the fact that 

teachers and schools cannot make up for shortcomings in the home. There needs 

to be a focus on educating our children as a team effort between community, 

schools and parents! A commitment to economic diversity in our schools 

Someone that brings the system back to the way it was when we went to 

school,make learning fun,not just staring at books all day!!!! 

Got his game on -- knows from day one what has to go down as far as what 

teachers are qualified to keep their jobs and show that they have sufficient 

knowledge of what they can teach effectively. Homework assignments/Books do 

not make sense to a parent who cannot help their child out. A teacher has many 

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styles of teaching (from where they got their teaching certification from college) and 

its not consistent to where the child can comprehend that knowledge effectively. 

The new person has to reassess ALL Principals/Counselors because no kid is 

going to ask for assistance if their teacher is not doing thier job. The teachers 

these days only care about the check and just go through the motions. Hire more 

TA's for the classroom because its needed. Its a tough job really but the overall 

thing is this -- someone is around to supervise the classroom when the teacher is 

out. The new person has to be upfront to ACTUALLY CARE abt his people. Not 

sugar coat it unlike the one going out. Re-election should be with standard election 

board so that everyone is allowed a voice. Too many times the parents are 

silenced for speaking the truth -- hiding stuff from the public is happening too much. 

Pedophile teachers has to go. 

To lead by example, see the problem clearly and fix it. 

-Open minded -Willing to listen to parents, teachers, and staff. -Not afraid of the 

Board. -Willing to look at the big picture, and the impact on the students. 

A leader that isn't afraid to stand up to the board and address this obsurd bussing 

plan. we're addressing that the same way we are addressing underperforming 

schools. Don't shuffle the routes...create a new and unique plan. Don't shuffle the 

teachers...help them improve or help them out the door. Don't ignore disruptive 

children...correct their behavior or get them out of the class. If a child can't perform 

successfully at their grade level let them repeat the grade. Passing them on to the 

next grade only sets them up for failure and creates the problems we're dealing 

with now. The idea of not flunking any child in grade school is a lame attempt to 

disguise the problem rather than deal with it. 

Assertiveness 

Worked in a school district as large or larger than Jefferson Co. 2. Has a history of 

improving graduation rates and test scores. 3. Has a history of doing more with 

less and reducing the cost per student - i.e. trimming "the fat" in the administrative 

area. 4. Will put student achievement first. 5. Will put discipline back in the 

schools, 6. Will do away with the student assignment / busing plan if it will help all 

students. 7. Will work with local gov't officials realizing that a strong school system 

will help attract businesses to relocate to our city. 

Be responsible to the tax payers for not wasting tax money on the next big idea. 

Someone that has the personality to get everyone working on the same ship and 

get rid of those who won't get on board. 

results oriented person, able to promote good teachers, good ciriculum (that the 

teachers have flexibility on how to impliment...provided they get results) and only 

reward students when accievment is attained 

Communication skills; accessibility; willing to learn about district's current strengths 

and build on them 

Someone who understand the need for service to all students. some who 

understands the need and how to bring about systemic change. 

Our new superintendent MUST be willing to get out into the schools. Meet the 

students. Sit down with parents. Have open conversations with staff. Listen to 

concerns and be willing to move away from the party line and be willing to think out 

of the box. They must be willing to give honest forthright answers in response to 

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parent and community concerns. Communicate and listen. I think that those are 2 

of the most important characteristics of any job, big or small. 

Honest, strong, effective, visionary, focused on education as opposed to social 

services 

Someone who is able to see the whole picture. From Birth through Graduation. 

Early Childhood programs, Early Intervention, Gifted programs for strong students, 

and etc. Also, someone who is able to identify poor performing teachers, not 

necessarily poor performing schools. Someone who will recruit staff from 

Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The average black male child has one 

male teacher in their 13 year career. We need more males and definately more 

teachers of color. Our classrooms have Asian, Hispanic, Kenyan, and many more 

faces. It is time out for an all white female staff at every school. 

One who is more in favor of education than bussing! 

Not sure...have not lived in this city very long, however one that cares about the 

future of our children, sense of community and the long term goals of education 

Someone who believes education and discipline are the most important things. 

He (She) should appreciate the value of attending a school close to your home and 

having classmates that live in the area. He (She) should have a desire to reduce 

the time student spend on transportation. 

Someone who has worked with a large school system before. Someone who cares 

about children. 

We need a superintendent who cares about the children, and not about making 

budget and or upsetting people. I think JCPS needs to be shook up a little before it 

gets any better. The next superintendent needs to be VERY involved with the 

parents of the students. I don't think the previous superintendent looked at 

anything from a parents point of view. 

A background of raising the test scores and educational attainment record in a 

LARGE school district. Fiscal responsibility AND individual educational attainment. 

Someone NOT solely interested in the 'diversity' doctrine and the local political 

impact. Someone focused the proper allocation of assets to help prepare our kids 

for the next level. For example, cut the busing, remove the administrative bloat, 

use the money to create a smaller child-teacher ratio which, in the end, is THE 

SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT FACTOR IN EDUCATION. It's not about 'diversity' to 

appease low socioeconomic groups or the state. Someone who understands that 

you cannot force social equality through the school system. A young person that 

understands the value of creating strong neighborhood identities and focusing on 

raising struggling areas up through education in the local community instead of 

shipping the kids across town to foreign areas. 

To have knowledge of Early Childhood Education and Helping ECE and Learning 

challenge children 

There is a great need for disipline in the schools so that teachers can teach and 

students can learn without behaviopr disruptions. 

We need to fix the bussing issue that is seperating families. We need a stronger, 

less vague, policy on bullying AND harassment. 

We need a transformational leader who is willing to embrace a turnaround 

situation. We are not heading the right direction. So we need a leader who will set 

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high, transformational expectations, work with the board to get everyone 

commitment to those outcomes, shape a leadership team that is up to the 

challenge and implement the strategy with quality. This means the leader will be a 

change agent and have excellent executive ability, knowing what to focus on, what 

to delegate and to recruit, select and develop a top team. 

The next superintendent needs to have a vision for future students. We need to be 

willing to change how we educate our children. The next candidate needs to have 

a clear vision for the future and needs to be a champion for moving forward and 

trying to approaches. 

A background of raising the test scores and educational attainment record in a 

LARGE school district. Fiscal responsibility AND individual educational attainment. 

Someone NOT solely interested in the 'diversity' doctrine and the local political 

impact. Someone focused the proper allocation of assets to help prepare our kids 

for the next level. For example, cut the busing, remove the administrative bloat, 

use the money to create a smaller child-teacher ratio which, in the end, is THE 

SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT FACTOR IN EDUCATION. It's not about 'diversity' to 

appease low socioeconomic groups or the state. Someone who understands that 

you cannot force social equality through the school system. A young person that 

understands the value of creating strong neighborhood identities and focusing on 

raising struggling areas up through education in the local community instead of 

shipping the kids across town to foreign areas. 

I think we need a superintendent that will take on the teacher's union. The 

superintendent would put in place real teacher evaluation methods and rid JCPS of 

poor teachers while rewarding the good ones. Evaluation methods should 

somehow include parents and students experience of all teachers each year and 

be taken into consideration when for evaluating a teacher's effectiveness. 

Understanding that diversity in the classroom has little to no meaning on the 

success of students in that classroom. 2.)Understands that children must be 

taught self respect. Self respect in how they act and how they treat others at 

school. 

Someone who understands the importance of high quality teachers and can 

respect everyone's desire for their child have equal access to opportunities. 

Someone who understands the challenges of educating children from all 

socioeconomic backgrounds. Someone who can go straight to the source of our 

issues- which unfortunately has to do with parents. How do we get our parents to 

understand that they need to follow through? How can we help parents if they are 

struggling to meet their basic needs? 

Cares about the students. Innovative and forward thinker. Leader. Great 

communicator. One who has the ability to connect with teachers, administrators, 

law makers, students and parents. Visionary. Fiscally responsible and able to 

manage a tight budget. 

Strong Leadership & previous experience 

Integrity; good interpersonal skills; open minded; 

The person needs to be more interested in educating the children instead of being 

so focused on diversity. 

willing to work with ALL members of the community, truly look after the best 

interest of EVERY child, be a leader and not a manager.

Knowledge of our greatest needs in our school system, Great leadership skills, 

great commuication skills, the ability to see issues and address them quickly 

Being conservative. Having values. Not allowing disturbances in classes. Put the 

disruptive children in a special school so they don't disrupt kids who behave 

properly. Go to the voucher system. 

Must be a strong INSTRUCTIONAL LEADER, unafraid to shake things up. What's 

been done so far has not worked. In addition, he or she must have some skill in 

managing the business side of the district. 

A candidate that will ask the parents in it's schools "what is the primary purpose of 

education" Is it transmiting knowledge from one generation to another? Is it 

creating a workforce for Kentucky? Is it creating social equality? The new 

superintendent must know this answer because the instructional methods used and 

curriculum to achieve these purposes are very different. Then be honest with the 

parents with the answer. 

flexibiltiy, being persistent to get results 

Moral values relating to children, capital punishment for/nay, strong sense of 

urgency in rebuilding our school system. 

Parent/Family - neighborhood sensitivity. Forward thinking programming. 

That they understand how parents feel about having a say in where their children 

go to school. I moved to the area I want my children to go to school, not on a one 

hour unsupervised bus ride to an unfamiliar area. 

Student achievement first! If we put diversity of any kind above the primary goal of 

teaching our kids we fail on all fronts. 

Strong education success. Extremely high leadership skills to make the hard 

decisions that need to be made in JCPS. Although diversity is important it needs to 

take a back seat to educating the next generation. Teacher's union needs to be 

addressed. Teacher's need more pay, but they are in desparate need of 

accountability. It will take a strong leader to address these issues. 

Experience with a large district and the logistics involved; Experience, and, 

hopefully quantifiable results, in working with a district with disparate school 

achievement. 

To be able to change the current system so that my kids don't have to fear for their 

life while boarding a bus across from crack houses in the West End. 

led a large district (100,000+); have shown marked improvement in the district they 

are currently leading 

Compassionate but firm, puts the needs of the students first; will listen and 

consider the opinions of the parents, don't be a "YES" person just to stay in good 

with certain politicians; Not scared to stand up and take a stand; Do whats right no 

matter what; Respectful to all; Considerate; Able to handle stress; Strong and 

Dependable. 

Must listen to parents!!! Need to know how to run a large Metro school system. 

Doesn't believe in busing, but favors neighborhood schools. 

leadership, knowledge of a system such as ours, diversity 

The sense to realize that our children are our future, our future doctors, lawyers, 

teachers, clerks, and board members. The knowledge to be able to devise a plan 

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that will hold parents more responsible for their children's education and behaviors. 

A plan that introduces incentives for our children to succeed. 

To be subjective and not a pawn in the hands of the teacher union. Who thus far as 

shown no care or concern for their students. 

Leadership find out the answer not just think you know find out, be flexable 

Ability to pinpoint the reasons this district is failing and address them head on 

Look at Ms Rhee. You might need someone even tougher. My kids went through 

these schools and now my granddaughter is in one and they are if anything gettign 

worse. It hurt my sons' college performance. We had to teach our granddaughter 

(an A student) multiplication over the summer. 

true leader that is not afraid to stand up to the union. A person that can look at the 

last 40 years of mistakes and see that continuing down the same path is absurd. 

Someone who sees that giving a child a good education is the biggest step you can 

take toward diversity. Discipline has to be the number one quality. 

Someone who is willing to listen to both the parents AND the staff of the schools. 

The candidate must possess a strong personality, without appearing to be arrogant 

or confrontational. This person must be willing to hear from all sides & implement 

changes that will be least restrictive to the students. I also think an important 

characteristic is finding a way to engage the parents in their child's school, 

homework etc. I don't agree that the teachers are solely responsible for teaching 

our students and making them successful individuals. Too many parents lack the 

interest in their children's work or encourage them. If I did not open my 2nd graders 

back pack daily and sit down with her to do her work, or show that I was interested, 

I do not believe she would do her work on her own. Parents need to be held 

accountable as well. (And also accountable for their children's behaviors as well.) 

Be able to find out who he truly is serving. The committees/groups/unions or the 

taxpayers (students and parents of the community)? Anyone taking active 

participation with any groups and unwilling to meet/speak with the public IS NOT 

WHAT LOUISVILLE NEEDS. 

That they are a team builder, know what's really going on in the schools, and that 

they are in favor of getting rid of CPM math. (College Prepatory Math), it insults 

our bright math students' intelligence, and rips them off of a quality math education 

in many different ways. 

*Needs experience with leading a LARGE metropolitan district. *Must be strong in 

decision making and willing to do what is right for children, not what looks good on 

paper. *Must be willing and ready to make large changes to our district that is best 

for students---students need to go to schools near their homes. It's simple...if we 

want to develop community within the school, we need to provide schools where 

families can easily get there for activities, conferences, lunch visits, help in the 

classroom, etc. Many families don't have transportation or may feel intimidated 

going into a school that is in an area of town that they don't feel comfortable going 

into. 

People friendly, conservative, willing to work with the community 

Strong background in curriculum and instruction - MUST be a curriculum leader if 

schools are to improve. Otherwise, the other stuff doesn't matter. Needs to focus 

on teaching and learning that is research based. Should NOT be obsessed with 

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test scores. If teachers are given support to work as professionals and teach 

students according to their needs, the test scores will follow. 

Someone who isn't afraid to be bold and creative in their approach to education. 

ALL kids can learn. It just often takes finding great teachers and strategies to 

reach them where they are at. The next superintendent must foster an atmosphere 

where all kids feel safe to learn, not just the high achievers. When kids feel safe, 

they can and will learn. Teachers need to feel that they will have to meet high 

expectations, but given the support to meet them. The school district needs to 

completely change its frame of mind. They work for the citizens, especially the kids 

and their parents. 

A thick skin to do battle with the Board, experience with large district, a spine to 

stand up to an obnoxious Board. 

Student achievement FIRST 2. Success with low socioeconomic student 

achievement 3. Not beholden to the unions 4. Record of success in large urban 

district 5. Results based, not theory based. 6. Willing to shelve the busing plan if it 

would help students. 7. Sense of urgency about failing schools 8. No fear of 

making difficult decisions decisively 9. Discipline is a priority! 10. Attention to 

vocational and technical programs 

Must set a high bar for discipline, quality of instruction, quality of instructional 

environment, and if possible plan new regional schools throughout county to 

eliminate busing. 

focus on educating children, belief that children can learn no matter who is sitting 

in the next desk, belief that that what is right and wrong does not change based on 

what the person looks like, wilingness to tell the school board and teacher's union 

when they are taking the wrong course 

Open-minded. We do not need an yes-man for the board and union. Vision. How 

do we take JCPS to the next level. We need new ideas and plans. Strength. A 

good superintendent is going to have to make hard decisions and stand by them. 

One who will stop busing and end this diversity program for neighborhood schools. 

Open to new ideas. 

Needs to be totally committed to academic enrichment NOT racial diversity in the 

classroom! Needs to be a forward thinking problem solving individual not bound by 

out-of-date plans that aren't working. Needs to listen to parents, teachers, students 

and solve problems inherent in our classrooms (like bullying, overcrowded classes, 

lethargic apathetic teachers and uninspired students) . Actually someone like 

Michelle Rhee would be great! 

Someone who will stand up to the School Board members. Have some backbone 

To have experience in large school districts and not force kids to go to schools that 

they do not want to go to, and have long bus rides. 

Exhibit and engage in leadership at all levels to pare adminstration numbers and 

salaries, reducing cronyism, slothful, and entitlement attitudes. Expect 

forebearance & accountable attitudes from those expected to do complete work on 

time, with excellence as one of each individual's core values. This must be done at 

ALL levels : Administrators, teachers, support personnel, parents and students. 

We are in a competitive world, it must be understood that life is not fair so you'd 

better be about giving yourself and those around you an edge to succeed. 

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I need to know more information on a superintendents job to answer properly 

Tough, experienced, not afraid to make enemies. Someone who can turn our 

system around and enforce standards. 

To Be: Honest, Fair, Intelligent, and have a pair 

Have the fortitude to face diversity and end it. The next leader of the schools will 

face opposition from many powerful forces ending busing. The next superintendent 

will need to know this coming in 

Someone who has all students best educational interest at heart. Someone wtih 

the past experience of being an administrator in a larger school system. Someone 

that is willing to work to improve students ability to stay in school and graduate. 

Student achievement FIRST 2. Success with low socioeconomic student 

achievement 3. Not beholden to the unions 4. Record of success in large urban 

district 5. Results based, not theory based. 6. Willing to shelve the busing plan if it 

would help students. 7. Sense of urgency about failing schools 8. No fear of 

making difficult decisions decisively 9. Discipline is a priority! 10. Attention to 

vocational and technical programs 

The ability to deal with a large, diverse population of students as well as handling 

the political pressures involved with a large school system. 

GIVING CONTROL BACK TO THE TEACHERS AND ALL STAFF IN THE 

CLASSROOMS AND SCHOOL...BRING BACK DISCIPLINE IN THE SCHOOLS!! 

Ability to communicate effectively, Team player, Ability to bring "all the people to 

the table" Ability to make sure all the kids are getting a great education... 

Strict disciplinarian; give more power to principals to discipline students without 

threat of investigations; willing to work with the community to achieve goals 

important to parents; willing to get to the matter of educating our children and 

what's best for them rather than prioritizing diversity over the needs of our families-- 

parents are less and less involved in the schools because they live too far away; 

strength to fire ineffective teachers/principals 

A strong leader that the board can't push around like the others 

Knowledge of JCPS school system Diversity Culturally aware Knowledge of 

Organizational Development Importance of success by 6 Be able to implement 

measurable tasks 

I would like to see the superintendent go into as many schools as possible and 

speak with the principles to hear their concerns. 

Someone that is willing to listen to the parents and vow to change the present 

school system back to the child being able to attend neighborhood schools and 

END BUSSING!!!!! 

Experience with a large urban school district. Success with improving school 

performance. 

I would like the next superintendent to have a child in the school system. 

Someone who can improve the discipline problems and return corporal punishment 

to all students. A person who can put the board members in their place and stop 

all of the busing ( let children go to their neighborhood schools. 

Respects diversity, is against charter schools in KY, supports teachers, knows that 

reading & math test scores are not an accurate reflection of the overall success of 

a school 

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An open mind. He/she does not need to do things just because it is the way it has 

always been done. Obviously, the current system doesn't work. The changes we 

need will be radical. They need to have experience dealing with a school system 

that is extremely large. 

Thick skin and willing to stand up to the JCTA....period 

Planner who takes in input, no political ties, sound background 

Someone who will think outside the box and not let the school board influence 

them. 2. Their number one goal should be to educate the kids. Improve not just 

standardized test scores but really educate the kids. Get them ready for tomorrow, 

today. 3. Don't let desegregation be more important than education. 4. Be willing 

to allow REAL choices when selecting schools. Yeah, we have 4 or so choices 

now but those choices are not the schools I would pick for my child. Those 4 

choices are somebody else's choices, not mine. 5. Recognize that if we want 

parents involved in their children's schools don't make us travel 20 miles to our 

children's schools. 6. Realize that OUR tax dollars are paying their salary and 

there are many unhappy taxpayers whose voices are not being heard; they are not 

being listened to. 

Someone that is comfortable forging alliances/cooperatives with the business and 

post-secondary communities. Someone with the foresight, creativity and strenght 

to change the systemic issues within JCPS in efforts to bring about real change. 

in my opinion as a single mother i would rather have someone with experience 

BUT still a parent with kids in the system...not an older person with grand kids in 

the school, i feel they are a little out of touch with the classroom. we need someone 

who is still familiar with actual classrooms and what it is like to have a kid in school. 

it would be nice to see the new super. visit ALL schools in the district on some sort 

of regular basis! i just want someone who is connected into the schools and knows 

each of the schools on a person level of some sort. 

Getting things done. 

Have a back bone, dont be a puppet of the school board or JCTA 

Supporting teachers and children FIRST before bowing to political pressures and 

pressure to increase "testing" as a way to "accountability." 

Someone who understands that the process of educating children begins at home. 

There must be a focus on early childhood education and developing home/school 

connections where parents feel heard and supported. 

We need a person who can embrace our diversity and understand the importance 

of meeting kids where they are. We have people in top positions in our school 

system from teachers to administrators that do not welcome the evolution of our 

cultural shifts in this community, and it shows in the way our schools are run and 

how our kids are taught. We must have a leader that possesses the skill to 

communicate with people on different levels and backgrounds. And, we need a 

leader who understands how to "flex their muscle" to get the work done. In the 

past I think we've had superintendents who were scared to step on the toes of 

others. Their priority should be the well-being of our kids, not making friends in the 

system. Also, the candidate should have experience in a system that is 

comparable or larger than the size of our school system. 

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Have expertise in improving failing schools. End busing. Have schools that are 

can be proud to send their kids too. Let everyone go to school in their own 

neighborhood like all want. 

They need to come in with fresh ideas and desire to see a change and to follow 

through with those changes that so desperately need to happen in such a lacking 


That is to listen to the ones in the classroom trying to teach. Back them up on 

disipline, take that ridiculous paperwork they have to do off of them. Evaulate the 

teachers, listen to them through the intercom system, or any way feasible so they 

don't know. As Mandy said BUS the teachers not the children, it is not there fault 

the school system is so screwed up. 

Someone who will ensure the safety of our children. Someone who will help to 

bring our county up to its fullest potential. 

We need someone that will: --be a part of Louisville --speak on TV about pressing 

issues --follow through --know inner city children 

1) Realize that behavior issues & bullying plague our schools today & make 

learning impossible for the bullies/behavior problems & those around him/her. 

Hopefully, we can find a candidate who has dealt with these issues successfully in 

a previous job position. 2) Creativity for developing processes that can make 

learning a pleasant experience 3) Intolerant of teachers (& other school officials) 

who aren't passionate about teaching & insuring that the students are successful in 

the learning environment. 4) Intolerant of disrespect of school officials toward 

students. 

Openmindedness to change. There are a lot of people involved in the process that 

want to keep transporting kids all over town because they think it's best. We need 

a leader open to all sides of the discussion and have the heart to make change 

where needed. Also, please force the new superintendent to move to j-town. 

hopefully they will have small children and want them to attend Tully because it's 

right down the street, and then they will realize it's not even in their cluster and their 

kids can not go there and they wlll have to send them across town instead. Tully is 

in the wrong cluster. no one around that school can attend! event families that 

can walk there. it is the closest school to my house and not even in my cluster! 

Someone who understands that children of all color have the ability to learn if the 

right principal, staff and teachers are put in place AND funding is provided for 

technology, field trips and other programs. Diversity is of NO importance to me; it's 

the parents' job to teach diversity. Someone who is a visionary and thinks "outside 

of the box." Someone who views education like Mr. Ted Boehm at Male. Students 

are expected to show up (on time!), do their best work, be respectful of themselves 

and others, and represent their school well. Someone who understands the direct 

tie between parental involvement AND good students. Characteristics such as 

trustworthy, smart, inclusive, leadership are a given. 

Honesty, integrity, not only hearing the parent community but in good faith taking 

our concerns seriously and implementing for all schools regardless of geographic 

location. 

A Local candidate that is already an expert on the district OR an assistant from a 

successful and similar district. Open Compassionate Team Player. The district is 

diverse and the ideas of many are necessary. One person can not do it all.

1. Experience overseeing a large school district 2. Creative approaches to 

problem-solving 3. Desire to hold student learning as top priority 4. Focus on 

education NOT diversity exclusively 

morally upright; honest; financially responsible 

Has experience, not working way in to a system this large. Proven success at 

making ALL schools successful regardless of location. Need to Overhaul our 

special needs programs, with an understanding of the variety of special needs, 

therapies out there, an education is attainable. 

To be visable, non-political, and to take responsiblity for the problems and work to 

actually fix them instead of blowing them off. Berman took to the media and denied 

a lot of problems existed. JCPS needs someone like Carlos Aballi, who was my 

former principal in Indiana. He was caring, visable to students and parents, 

motivational, honest and expected results. 

The next superintendent must be a strong leader and be willing to listen to input 

from the parents and community. These characteristics will be important as the 

superintendent must re-evaluate the JCPS student assignment plan. 

The ability to not be persuaded by the board to change any policies implemented to 

better the Jefferson County Public School District, including the Student 

Assignment Plan. 

Must have someone with a track record of turning around failing/underacheiving 

schools. Must be able to win over parents/community. 

I feel the most important characteristic is someone who is not afraid to come in and 

select their own administration, assistants, etc. to start with a clean slate and new 

beginning. Be Innovative - realize that you cannot make everyone happy, but don't 

be afraid to try new ideas/things. Be visible and engaged with the community - visit 

all of the schools so teachers, students, parents know you're accessible and feel 

comfortable talking to you, and not be afraid to talk to you. 

Someone who can think for themselves and be allowed to without fear. 

willing to get rid of current student assignment plan 

One who will look at finding real solutions to the problems in the school system, ex. 

looking at neigborhood schools and getting kids going to schools closer to their 

homes instead of this crazy bus assigment plan that puts kids on the buses for 

hours. need someone who can better manage the school system financially, 

someone who will listen to the needs of the kids and their families 

Who has demonstrated record for improving education for the children of low 

income group. 

Leadership and someone who can handle criticism. 

fiscally responsible, willing to stand up to the teachers union,prior experience in 

district the size of Jeff. County or larger with proven success record, diversity is not 

his/her main objective 

We need someone that will stand up for the children and parents. They need to 

put the children's needs and wants first. This board of education is a mess and it 

needs to be changed all the way around. We need someone that is not afraid and 

will make positive changes in the schools that really need the help. We need 

someone that will not be afraid to make change happen and they need to be willing 

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to face tough challenges with bussing, residential schools and poor performing 

schools. 

a strong disciplinarian and a very strong person 

Change the current administration, lower cost and get progressives out of the class 

room and real teachers in. 

I would like to see candidates that has: Experience improving schools that exist in 

an urban environment Experience in turning around low performing schools 

Experience in reforming teacher placement and evaluations- having salary 

increases not tied to just "showing up" but tied to student performance and student 

and parent evaluations Experience working WITH a teacher's union, NOT being 

BEHOLDEN to it Experience working in a neighborhood schools district and 

willingness to explore this type of student assignment plan in Jefferson County 

Proven results in increasing high school graduation rates and college readiness 

Students first. Education first. 

Innovative and embraces change. Trusting- trusts his teachers to teach and take 

care of the kids. The district hired them - not trust them. Embrace and support 

technology. Fight the unions for our kids. The union is for the teachers, their 

priority is not my children. Prepare our kids for THEIR future, not our past. 

Decisive. Strength of character. Proven ability for not only leadership, but 

success. Someone with school aged children that has a personal interest in 

achieving success for the district. 









Not only experience with Urban districts, but experience with an urban/suburban 

district together. The needs of our urban and suburban areas are quite different 

and we need to find someone who can make the best decisions for our children 

rather than the image of our county. 

A person wanting to teach and keep kids safe before all other issues. Busing kids 

all over shouldn't be on the top 20 of the things that matter!! 

Courage and strength to stand up to the challenge within the JCPS student 

assignment/ busing plan, knowing it is going to be a struggle and risky. Also to 

have strong team building traits that will grow better parent, teacher, principal and 

school board relationships!!! We need to work together to repair the system. 

Someone willing to REALLY listen to parents concerns. I feel it should be 

someone local if possible. It is hard for someone to come from another city and 

just step in and be expected to change everything without really understanding the 

issues we are facing. I also feel the superintendent should be more visible in the 

schools( not just at a school board meeting). Come to a PTA meeting or hold a 

forum at certain schools, similiar to what the mayor does, to visit different 

community schools and see what difficulities each school is facing. Or visit a school 

during school hours. It is hard to sit in an office and just make decisions. I feel

anytime you see things for yourself it makes you understand the challenges that we 

as parents face as well as teachers and staff. 

Will implement discipline. Will use creative solutions. Has a track record of 

success turning around failing schools Put the education of the children above the 

wants of the Reduce busing and increase access to neighborhood schools/school 

choice Encourage charter schools 

He or she needs to be most concerned with the children and what will truly benefit 

them, not what seems politically correct. My child will benefit from going to school 

close to home so that we are able to attend school functions and stay involved. 

With two full time working parents convenience is important. 

One that listens to the tax payers! 

To have experience with a large urban school district. Someone that is associated 

with poor test scores, that has innovative ways to turn around struggling schools. 

That will look at schools for what they are and not just a diversity issue. Who will 

realistically see busing kids all over, in the name of diversity, does not help anyone 

but the board. 

Someone who is proactive. They should not wait until "poor" test scores come in. 

They should also be open to using methods that have already turned around other 

districts and not try to reinvent the wheel. There are districts that work! They 

should also not be afraid of the teacher's union!!!!!!!!! 

Strong in management, stand up to the teacher's union, go back to math, english, 

reading, and science , slow down on high tech teaching 

Someone who cares about ALL of the children. Not just the poor in bad 

neighborhoods and not just the rich out in the east end. Care for the ones in the 

middle range as well. Someone down to Earth, not on a power trip because they 

are "in charge". 

Competent would be qa good start, as it has been a long, long time since that 

office has been held by someone that actually believed in education over politics. 

commitment to student achievement 2. commitment to student advancement in 

higher education 3. commitment to working with outside organizations to ensure 

student preparedness for "life" issues 4. commitment to working with 

organizations such as the PTA and FRYSC to connect with parents and students 

Not only should the candidate be a good leader, but must also know when to be a 

good follower and listen when parents and school staff come to him with 

suggestions or problems. 

The superintendent needs to be hardworking, understanding to parents, business 

oriented 

They listen to the people. Listen to what we want. Have a knowledge of a 

curriculum that will get our children back on track. Have a better plan for the 

student assignment. No child should have to go to school clear across county. 

JCPS needs a superintendent who puts students first. His or her primary concern 

must be the well-being and education of every student. This person should have a 

track record of achieving literacy and math success. This person should be a 

leader who is not afraid to reject school board ideas that are not in the best interest 

of students. 

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Bring all parties to the table to build concensus, administrators, teachers and 

parents. 

Commitment to diversity in our schools, however it needs to be achieved; ability to 

withstand petty criticisms and attempts from the school board to micro-manage the 

system 

Someone who will connect with the community and live here full-time. Someone 

who will not focus just on the lower-income/less acheiving kids realising that a 

successful school district needs the higher achieving kids/ A good communicator/ 

someone who can weed out the useless programs currently in place (care for kids) 

Dedication, confidence, accountability, the willingness to possibly make people 

mad, but to be confident in those decisions being the right decisions, persistent, 

expectations of school principals should be clearly laid out with severe 

repercussions for violations, compassion and above all a willingness to LISTEN. 

*an academic leader to inspire and lead the leaders - aka principals. *willing to put 

effort into "harnessing" JCTA and work towards producing education second to 

none. *artful in speaking the truth - not rhetoric addressing education for all, 

where the student is and measuring needed data from that point 

Has taught numerous years (10 plus) 

The most important characterisitic of the next superintendent is "common sense" 

within the district. We need a candidate that can take a step back and look at our 

current assignment plan not only from the board's perspective but of the student, 

parent, and neighborhood. Our schools do not have a sense of "neighborhood" 

because the children who attend do not live close to the school, they commute. 

Most of our students commute longer than the average worker within our city. If we 

reduce commute times than we would decrease discipline problems on the buses, 

fuel charges and payroll expenses. Every school in the district should be held to 

the same standards of learning but within context of the school's population. We 

need our schools to be involved in our neighborhoods so our whole community can 

benefit. I personally do not participate in school functions because the schools my 

children attend are not close to my home and their bus rides are already too long to 

take up more time in the evenings to return to the schools, this saddens me. 

Someone willing to step forward and bring necessary changes proactively...without 

waiting for schools to shop up on a list. The problems our schools faced were 

there all along and everyone knew. Why wait for someone else to point them out 

before anything gets done about it??? 

It is imperative to find a leader that has the education of the children at the forefront 

of each and every decision. Concern for the safety of the most valuable asset of 

the community should be the second most important factor in the new 

superintendent's decision making. It is time to consider these most important 

common sense factors and leave behind the ways of the past. 

Someone who values neighborhood schools and can see the benefit of uniting our 

community one neighborhood at a time, while using resources currently wasted on 

bussing toward development of core education stamdards. 

Being able to create an educationally successful district despite the noneducational 

pander of such PAC's as the NAACP and ACLU. 

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Somene that will listen to the community ie..parents, JCPS employees, community 

leaders before making major decisions. Someone that has experience with a 

school system of this size. Preferrably someone from the state of KY. 

Experience in large school systems in cities similar to Louisville. Experience in 

helping troubled schools -or the ability to quickly recruit a team to adddress the 

schools. An understanding of the local dynamics in Louisville. A charismatic 

person that can build rapport quickly in a community. 

Education, work experience. success rate with another comprable school system. 

I believe the next superintendant should come from a diverse background like 

many of our students and be able to relate to people on all levels, including an 

understanding of the struggles of students from lower income families and those 

who speak very little English. This person needs to be organized, a strong 

manager, and able to "listen" to others. This person also needs to be open-minded 

and flexible to be able to make changes as the needs of the school district 

changes. 

The next superintendent needs to understand how to work in a poor state, how 

poverty affects education and to be willing to do that. The next superintendent also 

needs to be able to communicate with parents in a way that makes them part of the 

process rather than an afterthought. Obivously, he/she has to be able to work with 

the board. 

Stand up to JCTA and implement reforms that focus on the students. 

Must be strong, able to handle adversity, creative thinker, problem solver, 

experience managing large scale operations, sense of urgency coupled with 

patience 

We need someone that is dedicated to the idea that our schools are meant to 

educate not raise/parent our students. Someone willing to cut away all the 

unnessary agendas and focus solely on the basics of education and then begin to 

add from there. We need to have someone that does not care if he/she looses 

their job if they believe they are truly acting on the best interest of our students and 

not cow towing to one group or another. I would like to see someone that is able to 

respectful put others in their place and take control of a largely floundering school 

district. 

the person needs to do what ever it takes to get parents involved and make sure 

nkids get a good education 

Open minded, someone who wants to look at what is BEST for the students and 

not parents. a researcher that is willing to look at alternative ways of educating our 

youth, working with those students that are less fortunate and know what it means 

to be less fortunate. 

significant racial/economic diversity experience! Experience with large school 

distict, community oriented, willingness to make a decision that is morally right for 

the majority vs what is politically correct. Understand the need of a diversed 

cabinet, have a connection with the community at large. create equitable learning 

environments for our inner city schools 

The next superintendent must have a singular focus on student acheivement. Over 

the past decade, JCPS has suffered from an embarrassing slide in test scores and 

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parent satisfaction, largely the result of the district pursuing agenda's outside its 

core mission: educating the county's children. 

* A dedication to maintaining quality of schools. * Dedication to maintaining 

diversity in our schools. * Maintenance of magnet programs, especially the 

gifted/talented magnet and those that encourage students' expression through the 

arts. * ability to nurture and challenge very high-achieving students (i.e., 

academically gifted); these are our future leaders, and sometimes I think they are 

ignored when so much focus is placed on the failing students (who obviously also 

require attention). 

Integrity and the ability to eliminate the ridiculous student assignment plan before 

everyone moves out of Jefferson County. 

Must have a commitment to diversity. Our children must learn how to get along with 

others who have different families, cultures and incomes from their own. 

Strong independent thinker. Someone willing to stand up to the board and its bully 

tactics 

Willing to LISTEN to teachers -- they know what's going on day in and day out. 

Strong, up-to-date knowledge of research on effective strategies for achieving 

academic success across a range of schools as well as the ability to work 

collaboratively with teachers and administrators. 

Someone with experience successfully running a large, complex urban district; 

sensitivity to racial and economic issues in our community; commitment to equity 

and diversity; someone who can lead and manage effectively; ability to build a 

strong, positive and accountable culture; an instructional leader. 

Focus on quality and excellence for ALL schools; Strong Leadership 

DIVERSITY, DIVERSITY, DIVERSITY. The district is becoming more and more 

diverse yet the candidates stay the same. Older white men from predominately 

white, affluent school districts. This is NOT Jefferson County by any stretch of the 

imaginiation. I would love to see the superintendent be interviewed from DC who 

turned that district around before the teacher's union had an opportunity to get her 

out. I want to see someone who is more serious about the children, more diverse 

whether by gender, by race, etc. We need a change. We need someone radical 

who is willing to make some good changes. We need someone who has had some 

sucess in a similar size district with similar demographics. We do not need a 

sucessful superintendent from Maine who has 5,000 students and 97% of them are 

affluent and white. I am more than willing to sit on EVERY committee. 

neighborhood schools. improve under-served communities school so that all 

schools are equal in academic success, admin/teacher quality, programs available. 

Listens' to the public since we pay his/her salary. Greater commitment to quality 

education than to supposed value of a diversity program that has led to more 

disagreement than unity. Emphasis on education and nothing else. Doesn't act 

like he/she is too good to consider what public thinks. Is visible and active at all 

schools--not just those in the eastend. Someone not afraid to actually experience 

a school, teach classes, and spend time seeing what real educators (school staff) 

face daily. 

teachers and principals need support 

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Committment to diversity. Willingness to be innovative and try new things but only 

after careful evaluation of what is going on. Ability to articulate and communicate a 

direction for district, especially in "layman" terms. Willingness to meet with all role 

groups in JCPS on an annual or bi-annual basis. Willingness to start something 

(iniative, etc.) and give it time to take root and grow. Someone who keeps in mind 

the urgency placed on schools due to testing, but has a big picture outlook that 

sees success as something that you build over time and not over night. 

Its a big job need a strong can get the job done type person 

Our new supeintedent needs to have a proven track record of success in a school 

district with similar characteristics. He or she has to have a vision of how to 

achieve the success' we are striving for in this community, not just a few good 

schools, but all of the schools need to be equally successful. An understanding of 

the safety of our children is crucial, be it from bullying or safe and timely 

transportation, this is most important to us as parents, as we entrust our children to 

you, we need to be sure of policies that will ensure their safety. Be willing to hold 

those in positions of safegarding accoutable when they don't meet expectations. 

Stong leadership skills. Not afraid to change the status quo, even if there is 

resistance to change. 

EXPERIENCE!!!!! We need someone who has experience in a large district. 

Ability to continue diversity plan; commitment to the students first; someone who 

will return accountabilty to the students and parents. 

Wanting to keep students in their neighborhood schools and thus promoting 

community relationships. 

The next superintendent obviously must work towards improving struggling 

schools. Unfortunately, the mandated remedy of wholesale removal of teachers 

from struggling schools probably just makes things worse. More than anything, 

though, the next superintendent needs to be a highly visible, vocal, and articulate 

salesperson for JCPS. He or she has to inspire confidence and enthusiasm from 

the districts' many stakeholders. Why haven't parents shown up for meetings 

related to the superintendent search? In part because the last two superintendents 

have been largely invisible. Parents are not inspired by uninspiring leadership. Nor 

are other community leaders, teachers, etc. 

He/She must continue to embrace diversity. They must also have a committment 

to quality math and science instruction and curriculum. 

It is important that the next superintendant be well trained in law. It appears that 

the JCPS system is not run by the superintendent or by the school board. The legal 

system which does not have to deal with budgets, parents, or student education 

has veto power over any and all programs. 

Be a strong leader. Work with union to give principals the right to choose school 

staff. Give us a school calendar that make sense. Get rid of the day here day 

there. Add a fall and winter break. Don't return to school until after Labor day. This 

will mean going to school after Memorial day 

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Pushback from conservatives who want to siphon public money to private 

companies in the name of "school choice" - only the students suffer. 

State "pretends" Louisville challenges and assets are the same as those 

throughout the state; Issues of maintaining a diverse, integrated district are 

complex and tied to issues of various ingrained community cultures 

(neighborhoods of south end, east end, west end, and far reaching southeast), 

socioeconomic levels and faith based influences. 

The superintendent will have to face the confused and misguided thinking brought 

on by NCLB which insists that we don't have to solve poverty in America, we just 

have to make poor kids fill in the correct bubbles on tests. Our superintendent will 

need to work with the Louisville community to address the issues of poverty rather 

then pretend that they go away when teachers do test prep and kids score higher 

on tests. The superintendent will have to stand firm and refuse to panic over the 

"urgent" need to raise test scores. And we will have to stand by her. 

Equitable learning environments and Accountability School assignment plan 

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SB1 

The next superintendant needs to understand how to balance the integration vs. 

neighborhood schools issue. Providing equal and excellent levels of education to 

students needs to be the priority, not focusing on the demographics of our student 

population. Even more importantly, the superintendant needs to be willing and able 

to streamline the school board administration to eliminate waste and redundancy 

above the school level. JCPS needs to modernize student registration and data 

recording processes. (Example: Why are we still filling out 6-10 separate forms 

consisting of the same information for students who are attending the same school, 

an unchanged process from the 1980s or earlier?) 

Dealing with the growing poverty student population and finding ways to grow 

neighborhood schools so parents can be more involved. Dealing with the falling 

test scores and drop out rates. 

Low test scores, student assignment plan 

We have many underperforming schools. It is surprising that Jefferson County with 

all of it's resources is underperforming other rural schools in the state. Working 

well with other state superintendents and state legislators will be key. Jefferson 

County Schools need to fight to keep the dollars generated within the county - or at 

least a more equitable split. The addition of many trade-focused schools is 

outstanding. Let's make sure our students (if not college bound) have skills to get 

jobs right away. 

preparingour children for their future with a quality well rounded education 

teaching to more than just the test less red tape in understanding how JCPS runs 

and responsiveness to parental concerns 

Most significant - the districting of our schools. Students bussed from far away to 

school have parents who are less involved because of transportation 

issues....these are the students who most need parental involvement and attention. 

Our schools are in crisis because of student apathy and lack of parental support. I 

believe teachers do their best and responsibility for students actions starts at

home. Cleaning house at various low performing schools and getting rid of 

teachers and administrators does nothing for the apathetic student. If parents had 

better access to schools (being at the school nearest their home) they may be 

more involved and have more respect for the teachers and what they deal with on 

a daily basis. 

Busing! Shipping students halfway across town to a school they don't know and 

having them be on a school bus for hours!! Unacceptable. 

educational competency, encouraging parental involvement (i.e. no more busing. 

no one that lives across the other side of the county will be very likely to be 

involved in the school), committed to a strong volunteer base, allowing discipline to 

be administered in schools. 

The budget, busing (children not being allowed to attend the school closest to their 

home), drop-out rate, taking care of bullying and promoting an atmosphere that 

embraces diversity. 

Unrealistic expectation on neighborhood school attendance and transportation 

options Funding limitations Unrealistic expectations regarding academic 

performance in light of limited funding & parental support 

Get rid of the waste and dead weight. To be immune to the latest "innovation in 

education" schemes 

Community Involvement, Family Value, Education 

A very political school board and a very narrow minded, me-centered community. 

Assignment plan turns people off living in Jefferson County 

Distribution of monies, bussing, and improvement of learning in the classroom. 

School Integration/School Clusters - My kids are going where? Curriculum - Are 

our children really being prepared and for what? Outdated school facilties 

Administrave and Teaching incentives based on parent/peer feedback and 

qualifications Poverty, homelesness and parental involvement in high risk groups 

Internet safety Community involvement 

We need neighborhood schools with more money given to those schools in lower 

socioecnomic areas. The current situation is not working. Many people in the 

community would agree with this statement. 

get the board and the union in control 

Bussing: long distances, switching of busses at depots (if you have that far of a 

ride that you have to transfer busses, it is too far of a ride), inappropriate use of 

Buechel Metropolitan High School as an elementary bus deport (a high school for 

children with disruptive or misguided behavior), long bus rides (still an hour and 15 

minutes for what is 10 minutes in a car), lack of parent involvement for students 

bussed long distances, lack of family event participation for students bussed long 

distances. Violent acts at schools and on the busses, even at the elementary 

school level. 

The repeal of the current student assignment program. 

High expectations and benchmarks with very little resources. Fickle school board 

members who have probably not stepped foot in a public classroom since their 

high school graduation and will not be pleased with anything the new 

superintendent does without their blessing. Community schools versus choice 

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debate and Ted Gordon. Frankfort General Assembly who dislike all things 

Louisville/Jefferson County. 

The superintendent must listen to all of the community and not be seen as just 

trying to satisfy one segment. Socioeconomic status should not determine the 

quality of public education. Funds should be spent on schools and students that 

need assistance, not on busing children to try and mix up the student population 

and even testing scores. 

Improve underperforming schools. Narrow the achievement gap within and 

between schools. Set high standards for all schools. My Son who attends a 

magnet school does hours of homework every night but his friend who is in the 

same grade and goes to our neighborhood school has very little homework. This 

indicates a different level of expectation that should not be allowed. Hold 

students,teachers,administrators,parents, politicians and the business community 

accountable for a top notch education system. 

Too many political issues are inserted into our school system and its decisions. 

And therefore our children. Our children go to school to learn so that they may 

succeed in the real world. Refusing to give grades, making everyone think they are 

just like the next person and not letting children see their peers succeed only sets 

them up for failure when they become adults. They expect to be and have the 

exact as their neighbor. In reality, this just doesn't happen and young adults are 

shocked and surprised when this happens and unsure of what to do because it is 

something they're never had to address. 

Race and bussing. Not all schools are created equal. Money shortfall. Not enough 

money to get the schools up to par. 

school assignment/bussing!!!! 

How to do more with less, budget shortfalls. Of course dealing with JCPS being in 

the news and court system every week. Finally perhaps an advocate against 

Teacher Unions. I realize NO teacher would be behind this individual, but the days 

of Unions have come and gone. Merit pay and reward good teachers! Get rid of 

the deadbeats! 

Shady district polls regarding bussing and student placement. EVERY parent I've 

spoken with does NOT agree with bussing or with how the placement is decided. 

NO ONE knows my child better than me and NO ONE else should have the power 

to place my child in any school of their choosing except my husband & me. There 

are far better ways to integrate schools, like school of choice (Michigan). I know 

several parents of preschoolers who are moving out of the county w/in the next 2 

years to keep from being a part of the crazy JCPS system. 

Low performing schools are the biggest issue that can't be solved by just spreading 

those poor performers to more schools to dilute the true issue--not proficient in 

reading and math. This is critical for success in life so we don't do them any favors 

by trying to dilute the test scores vs. addressing the students needs. 

Transportation issues associated with the student assignment plans--spending too 

much on transportation vs spending those funds helping the students that need it 

the most. 

Shrinking funding. Student assignment plan has to be improved - please let's 

decrease transportation expenses and use that money to reduce class sizes!! 

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Needs to find acceptable balance in sometimes competing interests of diversity vs. 

school choice and implement an assignment plan to remove current uncertainty. 

Need to work to obtain greater rights to remove ineffective teachers. 

Busing Reside school assignments Budget cuts School violence 

The Jefferson County Teacher's Association has too much power and authority. 

The board needs to end the student asisgnment plan. Children should attend the 

school in their neighborhood. The plan does not work and the costs far outweigh 

any yet to be realized benefits. It's a waste of time, energy and taxpayer money. 

Transportation under the Supreme Court imposed standards Skepticism of parents 

who have children with transportation issues 

The public's desire for neighborhood schools vs. JCPS's desire to continue bussing 

(which was found unconstitutional by the supreme court) all so they can spread the 

problems (and required resources) across the whole district. 

The student assignment plan personally I think it works well for the vast majority of 

students, but some very vocal parents do not share this view 

An extremely dysfunctional school board (these people have created this mess and 

now the community of Louisville has to pay for it). They never should have 

dismissed Dr. Berman in the first place! I would appreciate it if the JCPS board 

had listened to their constituents before taking such drastic and damaging actions. 

Dr. Berman has done a great deal for the students in JCPS, especially through the 

CARE for Kids program. 

The geographical areas of the "home" schools, and bus transportation. 

A division over the importance of maintaining integration vs. neighborhood schools. 

Dealing with tax payers who want excellent schools and bus service, but who'd 

rather not pay for it themselves--especially during these difficult economic times. 

Frustrated teachers who have more and more responsibilies for paperwork, 

discipline, and standardized testing, in addition to their most important task of using 

creativity and real-world situations to educate their students 

Drop out. Obesity. Getting children outside every day in every grade. Offer good 

tasting healthy foods with no perservatives. Teach healthy eating. 

We need to fix our busing issues, and do more for children who have special needs 

that are not currently recognized by JCPS as learning disabilities even though it 

affects learning. Sensory Integration Disorder is one of those. 

Relationship between board & union broken Politics trumps our children every time 

Belief in gov't institutions at all time low 

Ending busing! Without a doubt the most problematic and crippling program of 

JCPS. 

A culture that does not value education; that does not see college education as a 

given. Many schools are in economically challenged communities that are not in a 

position to provide extra financial support to the schools. Our legislature does not 

value students or education and does not fund them appropriately nor do they 

adopt appropriately rigorous measures of "success". Finally, there needs to be a 

recognition that schools where teachers do only what is required by the JCPS 

collective bargaining agreement are not the schools where excellence occurs. The 

contract needs to provide more flexibility to the schools. It needs to allow teachers 

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who are coasting to be fired. We are in a struggle for the future and we all need to stop 

just fortifying our selfiish interests and work for the students and the future. 

STOP the bullying,monitors on all buses.helpers for teachers in all grades, 

Then long bus rides for one. More schools built in home neighborhoods and 

make the special programs available in ALL SCHOOLS not just a few in each 

cluster. Do you have any idea what it costs per day to transport a child that is 

considered within a district where the transportation department tells you that if you 

switch schools, you must transport them yourself? Messed up personally and a 

slap to the tax payer who is being offended. When there are snow days that 

"online schooling" be accessible for each and every child and that means tax 

money we pay in to fund computers & wifi internet in all areas so that if it does 

snow school work can be captured and finished online. We lack understanding 

that it took JCPS 30+ years to get online with other schools. And no webcams 

turned on either for privacy violation only during school time.* No one has the nerve 

to admit that JCPS could look into other prospering districts around the US and 

make REAL CHANGES and lose that draconian playbook they call 

RULES cause it treats our kids like criminals and they act like it too. 

The correct the student placement program, running all over town to go to school is 

not acceptable. 

Student assignment program is the MAJOR ISSUE facing the next Superintendent. 

An issue that impacts parent involvement in their child's school, students on buses 

entirely too long, parents inability to reach a sick child across town, the financial 

impact of the fleet of buses, as well as the disciplinary issues that arise. 

The teacher's union. An hour off for planning? A day off school for the St James 

Art Fair? Wearing sweats and stretch pants while teaching class? Grade schools 

teachers wearing tight, low cut tops? Very few of the teachers use Infinate 

Campus and openly resist parents being involved. My child in middle school has 

two teachers and not one week since Christmas has either one of them has worked 

five days in the same week! How can learning occur when this shuffling of 

teachers and substitutes happen every week? These work habits outside of the 

school system would result in their termination is a very short time. The schools 

need to focus on the children rather than perks for the teachers! 

The school board 

A powerful Teacher's union. 2. An unpopular and complex student assignment 

program. 3. A mindset by The School Board and the administrative staff that's set 

in the 1970's. 4. A community that is against change, charter schools, & a voucher 

program. 5. A state that views Louisville as the "evil big city" so we don't get a lot 

of support from Frankfort. 6. A current School Board and Black community that 

views diversity as more important than student achievement. 

Student assignment. Absurd testing both state and district mandidated. 

figure out how to make progress for the kids when so much of what effects our kids 

education is dictated by the teacher's union that doesn't necessarily have the 

students or teacher interest at heart or as a #1 priority. 

Addressing the issues of a flawed accountability testing system; re-building lines of 

communication between district level and local school; restructuring of allocation of 

resources for 'safety net' strategies to more adequately address the non-academic 

needs of students

The opposition to change. culture of the community and the size and diversity 

among the employee. the importance classroom diversity 

Many of our schools are struggling. Our principals and teachers are not given the 

support they need to manage behavior and to create safe classrooms conducive to 

learning. Students are being advanced through school whether they are reading at 

grade level or not because retaining students makes the numbers look bad. We 

are mired in theory and refuse to look at and deal with real issues. We keep doing 

what we have been doing in Jefferson County despite the fact that it hasn't been 

working. We must confront the school assignment issues, the community 

dissatisfaction with the plan, the cost of the plan and whether or not the results (if 

any) justify the cost. Our district faces losing millions of dollars if our failing schools 

are not turned around and our answer it would appear has been to shuffle art and 

PE teachers around. It makes no sense. Someone needs to be willing to take on 

the big problems and make the difficult decisions. Our children cannot afford less. 

Lots and lots -- Namely, declining state of public education in our community - I 

have two daughters and to date we won't even consider JCPS for their education 

unless things dramatically change - we are homeschooling now 

All students deserve the BEST of JCPS. Not just the students in certain schools. At 

this time, there are certain schools that receive $$$ and attention while other 

schools are allowed to wither away. Every elementary school should have a 

playground. It shouldn't be up to a PTA to raise funds for a playground. EVERY 

school deserves at least ONE technology lab. EVERY school deserves to be safe 

for teachers and all students. If students are misbehaving, remove them, deal with 

them, so that the teacher can continue teaching the students who want to learn. 

Get the ratio of teachers / administrators into line i.e. eliminate 75% of the 

administrators! 

N/A have not lived in the city very long 

Parental involvement is not there. Community can not afford an increase in taxes. 

People are living paycheck to paycheck and things are getting worse everyday. 

Schoolboard needs to figure out how to do things with less money like everyone 

else these days. 

The need to allow existing students to remain in their current school while 

implementing the student assignment plan. The need to end or reduce bussing and 

allow student to attend their neighborhood schools. 

I think that the biggest issue is the issue of reside schools and children being 

bussed all over the city. My child rides a bus for an hour but I chose to send him to 

a magnet program but there are many others especially in the elementary schools 

that are being bussed from the far west end to almost Oldham County. That is way 

too long for a child to be on a us for twice a day. 

Bussing, Community Schools, Non-English speaking families (should be combined 

to 1 school), Technology in the schools (School administration and faculty need a 

more advanced system for communicating with each other (a server system, new 

email system, updated laptops), Recycling, Poverty Levels. Direct contact with the 

PTA and parents in general. 

Busing vs. Neighborhood schools. The ruling, minority elite and their 

'Colemanesque' stranglehold on the community Keeping under-performing schools 

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220 

 

 

 

 

 

open and improving by retaining and improving the students in the LOCAL 

neighborhood. 

The student assignment plan to help make all parents happy. Chidren can go to 

schools near their homes. 

Putting a stop to the outrageous school assignment plan. Kids should go to the 

schools in their neighboorhoods to reduce bus ride time and cost, as well as enable 

greater parental involvement. 

Bussing, bulllying, harassment 

JCPS is headed in a failing direction. We are not on course to meet our goals. 

The school board has lost the confidence of the public and have not adopted best 

practices for governance. As a board, they are divided and they are not melding 

their differences into a cohesive direction. We are not providing "best in world" 

education for all our students and we must. There are many contributing factors to 

this situation, many outside of the direct control of JCPS, but too often these 

factors are used as an excuse for nonperformance. 

The most significant issue is diversity and all the money spent shipping students 

around the county. I do think diversity is important, but it should not be the primary 

reason for student placement. Education and what is best for the student/family, 

should be the priority. Diversity should be managed as a secondary priority. 

Busing vs. Neighborhood schools. The ruling, minority elite and their 

'Colemanesque' stranglehold on the community Keeping under-performing schools 

open and improving by retaining and improving the students in the LOCAL 

neighborhood. 

 

 

 

 

The strength of the teachers union will need to be dealt with and diminished in 

order to make real progress in addressing the challenges facing this district. 

Rewards and dismissal based on teacher's performances/results would be great 

motivation to be effective at their jobs, or be dismissed. Little can be done about 

uninvolved parents...the Superintendent can only motivate the teachers. 

To eliminate the need for busing children all over the county for the sake of 

diversity. The money to bus children for hours could be spent in the classroom 

instead of on fuel. 2.) To eliminate the mangnet school system. We need a school 

system that concentrates on the fundamentals first and foremost. Extra curricular 

activities, or magnet programs should be after school. 3.) The magnet school 

ideas could be incorporated into a vocational shool concept the last two years of 

high school: half day at school and half day at vocational school. 

Basically the same answer to number 3 above. Someone who can go straight to 

the source of our issues- which unfortunately has to do with parents. How do we 

get our parents to understand that they need to follow through? How can we help 

parents if they are struggling to meet their basic needs? How is it helpful to make 

children who may or may not have eaten breakfast to spend an hour on the bus to 

and from school each day? Our person will undoubtedly face numerous issuesfrom 

test scores to underperforming schools- but until we address the real issues of 

helping families that struggle and helping teachers with differentiating instruction for 

sometimes up to 30 kids at a time- we may fall into the same trap as before. 

Funding may always be an issue as well. 

The student assignment plan for middle and high school students will need to be 

remedied. 2) Budget cuts. This is a major issue with the system and will be in the

years ahead. Lawmakers are great at thinking they know what's best, but the 

reality is, they cut the funding and increase the requirements. The US cannot keep 

up if educators are not involved in the direction of education. As one of the larger 

districts in KY, the superintendent needs a strong voice in this area. 

Student Assignment Plan that is fair and beneficial to ALL students not just one 

area of the district. 

The school assignment plan. Managing the budget without significant cuts to 

staffing and programs. 

Answer the question : If diversity and busing children across the county and city is 

so "beneficial" then why do the test scores continue to decline? I am now ashamed 

to admit what high school I graduated from because it has been ruined by the 

policies of "diversity". 

school assignment plan needs to go, we say we are diverse but are we really, 

increase school/community relations. 

Inadequate Student Assignment Plan currently in place in Jefferson County and 

declining performance in many of our schools. 

Get rid of busing. Costs way too much money. Why can private schools provide a 

better education for almost half the cost! Waste of money to taxpayers!!! Go to the 

voucher system. 

quit worrying about diversity teach the kids to succeed in life 

Student assignment plan. This has been an abject FAILURE. Instead of bringing 

up the quality of lower performing schools by equalizing resources, busing has 

resulted in bringing ALL schools (possibly with the exception of some of the 

magnet schools) to the LOWEST common denominator. Many, many parents want 

neighborhood schools for a variety of very good reasons. 

Communicate honestly about the status of the schools and stop trying to force feed 

Kool Aid to parents and the community. Stop trying to distort scores and stop 

hiding the problems. Both these things can start immediatly and don't cost money. 

the busing situation and allowing students to attend their home school if desired. 

Bussing, bullying, crimes within the school. Also it is my strong belief that in most 

classes, the students run it...not the teacher. Teacher's need to take control of the 

room and more training is needed for this! 

Retraining poor performing teachers 2. Rethinking student assignment plans 3. 

 

 

 

 

Having an aggressive plan to involve more parents in the education process 

Quality of teachers. Student Assignment Program 

Busing. 

The status quo is not working. Redistricting needs to be put on a back burner and 

focus more on teacher accountability, more arts and extracirrciular actiivity to 

create school spirit. 

The new superintendent will need to accept that the current assignment plans have 

a lot of vocal critics and acknowledge that fact. S/he will need to look for ways to 

improve all schools and find ways to improve the resources at schools that are 

struggling. The school system cannot change the economics of a neighborhood by 

bringing in children from other areas, but it can improve the school itself by 

focusing resources where they are most needed. By improving the school and the 

education provided, that will improve the neighborhood and the community at large. 

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Read above. 

stop passing students on to the next grade if they are not proficient in math and 

reading; provide after school program to help at-risk kids with their homework and 

to improve their reading and math skills 

The Assignment Plan; Violence on the buses and in schools; Snow Days; 

Teachers/Principals need to be able to enforce discipline or consequences when 

needed like in the days of 70s but with discretion; 

Transportation and Neighborhood Schools. 

Breaking up teachers union, so he can fire poor preforming teachers. Cutting 

support staff. 

Safety! Make each school as good as the great ones so that we can end busing. If 

someone wants to go to another school then let them apply. All schools should be 

equally as great as the next one. 

All districts are equally important since we are busing children hours away from 

their homes to go to school. 

To get rid of busing and the HUGE expense and pain in causes. Stop filling the 

pockets of gas companies and consider the fact that "busing" is something the rest 

of the country reads about in their history books. 

budget, find more money support early childhood, and after school activities. 

some children this is the only experience they may have. 

Teacher tenure, issues with the union, curriculum designed around school test 

scores And not necessarily what students should be learning 

Too much dead wood in admin and teaching. All-powerful teachers union. Too 

little discipline and low expectations for both staff and students. Absurdly low math 

performance and expectations. 

Stop busing kids all over town for hours a day. Make every school great school by 

making kids proud of their schools again. Academics should be the FIRST 

priority...NOT DIVERSITY!!! We need our kids to be educated, not socially 

engineered. 

Busing is #1. I have lived in Louisville for nine years and have never understood 

nor agreed with children having to wait for a school bus at 6am or slightly later, in 

the dark & cold. I don't think diversity is the single most important factor here. I 

think most every area of town has a range of minorities that could attend their 

home school. I do not think it is fair to have children transported across town to a 

school because of "diversity." Many people in these "minority" areas do not have 

cars, so if their child misses the bus, they don't get to school, which then leads to 

educational neglect issues, the lack of interest in attending school, due to long bus 

rides etc. Funding is always an issue as well. 

They need to skip the publicity, kumbayas and face the 2 ton elephant in the room 

that most general public wants eliminated - BUSING. That is tied into school 

performance (what they can do to turn schools around, bring discipline in) and set 

some milestones to track the progress. Major issues with bullying - 8 year old 

almost died in Frayser Elementary. Transparency in setting these strategic goals is 

ideal. Finally, show leadership, build trusts with the parents/public, and get some 

positive motivation into the system. 

no comment 

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*Student assignment needs to be changed---we must get back to neighborhood 

schools to develop community and allow the families to be more able to become 

stakeholders in the school if they are closer. *Discipline and consequences for 

misbehaviors need to be addressed without worrying about what the numbers look 

like for suspensions, referrals, etc. Our students need protection on the buses and 

in schools. 

Low graduation rate and college attendance. District is too bureaucracy heavy 

Bullying in the schools. Student assignment plan. Providing differentiated 

instruction for all learners, including special needs students and non-English 

speaking students. 

Putting JCTA in their place. Education is about educating kids first, not keeping 

teachers who don't do their jobs. I don't mean the good teachers, there are lots of 

them, they want the bad ones gone too! I also don't feel that any superintendent, 

principal, union leader, teacher, etc should out of hand dismiss the idea of charter 

schools. The data bears out that our kids are not being educated at the level their 

peers throughout the state and country are. This is unacceptable. We cannot be 

afraid to take a more creative approach to education. It may be charter schools, 

varying curriculum, requiring schools to provide the positive behavior supports 

training to faculty, fostering a safe environment where kids feel free to learn should 

be the most important thing they do. 

Dealing with the Board who seem to want to do what they please no matter what 

consultants or professionals tell them. 

#1 Student Assignment Plan #2 Failing Schools Identified in 2010 

Establish a disciplinary standard and sell it to the community and demand 

adherence at EVERY school, every grade level. Establish an uninviting 

environment for undisciplined students to waste their days away until they are 

ready to return to a normal environment. Rule! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

poor middle schools, variable school quality primarily due to policies to appease 

1)school board's belief that a child will be smarter if the kid next to them looks 

different, 2) some parent's desire for choice and quality while other parents don't 

care or don't have the resources to fight for better schools, and teacher's union 

demands that allow quality senior teachers to flock to quality schools while poor or 

inexperienced teachers end up at poor quality schools. 

Busing and the 1950 attitude that this is working. 2) Budget: Someone has to 

make cuts. The school board should not be making tax increases every year 

without cutting some fat. Stats show that money is NOT the answer to better 

schools. 3)Unions: The stangle-hold the teachers union has on the schools. 

End busing and diversity, we need neighborhood schools, or I will beg and steal to 

send my kids to private schools to avoid 2 to 3 hours of daily bus rides. 

Improve disipline proceedures. Focus on quality education rather than diversity. 

A failing education program, low test scores, a school board that won't give up on 

the student assignment plan even though it is bringing down everyone's opportunity 

for academic achievement. Basically, a school board that won't admit the student 

assignment plan is causing nothing but problems! 

Busing. The school board 

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To stop the long bus rides in the Jefferson County school district. To let principals 

mix the schools up without being forced to take kids who do not want to be there, 

but want to go to their local schools. If kids in the downtown area are not doing well 

at school make the classes smaller, get good teachers, and encourage parental 

involvement. 

Cronyism, Racism (too many play the "race card" both ways, funding, wasteful 

spending ( primarily on salaries of too many individuals at the administrative who 

are unqualified to serve at their level, but have "arrived" somehow through 

nepatism, cronyism, or because of quotas, get the best person to do the job ! 

Closing the gap in education when a child leaves elm. School 

JCPS has declined so much. We just moved back after 6 years in NC and I am 

heartbroken that my child can't get a decent education here. He is in all advanced 

classes and doing work that he did in a prior grade in NC. JCPS needs a toug 

leader who is not afraid to clean house and make the schools better and safer. 

End Busing, Stand up to the Teacher's union. Put the student first. 

Busing/diversity needs to END. Let kids go to schools that are close to home. 

Parents can be more involved that way. Our schools are obviously 

underperforming state wide and nation wide. It has gone downhill steadliy since 

busing was implemented. Next superintendent in order to be succesfull will have to 

END busing 

Improve achievement and test scores of students. Find a way to be diverse without 

subjecting our students to ridiculous long hours on a bus, wasting their time and 

our tax $ trying to achieve something that has not suceeded in over 35 years of 

trying. Finding a way to improve the quality of teachers, not the quantity. Working 

with budget restraints. Holding administrators responsible when policy and 

departments fail to do their jobs, (i.e disipline, not meeting goals) 

Student achievement rates, graduation rates and college preparation rates versus 

these rates nationally. How do we bring JCPS out of the cellar in a bottom dweller 

state? 

Bussing, student assignment, and the large number of failing schools. 

The students....giving control back to the teachers and putting discipline back into 

the schools!!!! This is wrong with is whats wrong with the schools..teachers arent 

allowed to control the classrooms without discipline. I'm not talking about beating 

children, I mean if a child or teen gets out of control and disrupts class then let 

them be put out of the classroom and if a child needs to be reprimanded then so be 

it. The schools has to go back to the way it was when we were growing up and if 

the parents dont like it then let them homeschool them...the kids that doesnt want 

to learn then put them all in one school!!!! Teachers arent even allowed to take up 

for themselves if they are being hit by a grown teen!! 

Busing, Below average schools, Lack of Parental Involvement, Classroom size too 

large, Quality teachers at ALL the schools... 

busing/student assignment debacle; parental involvement; lack of discipline in 

schools; bullying; 

Busing 

Parents fustrations No unity of the education system test scores 

more structured classrooms 

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FORCED BUSSING!!!! 

School assingment plans, long bussing issues, poor state test performance in 

many schools. 

busing issue. I want to send my child to my local school. 

The ridiculous student assignment program. 

Discipline- teachers can't teach with out of control children disrupting 

class,Corporal punishment is needed. Busing - If children went to the school 

closest to home there would be more parental involvement and less bus ride times 

would reduce the excessive behavioral incidents. ( fighting, bullying, sexual 

assaults, just to name a few ) Teachers need more freedom in the curriculum - All 

children learn differently and only the person who actually spends time with a child 

can determine the best way for that child learn. 

It is completely wrong to be busing kindergartners & 1st graders an hour or more 

one way to go to school, which is happening most often. The busing plan should 

start with older children, not babies to school. 

There will be complaints no matter what changes are made. Decisions need to be 

made for the good of the community, not the few who are most vocal. 

Neighborhood schools and end bussing. It has failed this community for 30 

years.....look at the results statewide and nationwide 

The current state of JCPS with schools on the failing list, Bus issues, Quality of 

staff, etc 

I think the most important issue is a school system (board) that believes that it is 

more important to be sitting next to the 'right' color person rather than what or if our 

children are learning. Education is sub par in JCPS. That is the number one issue 

in Jefferson County. Desegregation is not more important then a good, strong 

education. 

Student assignment and the strength to challenge the systemic issues which allow 

for particular public schools within the system to operate as elitist (off public 

money) while other schools are allowed to struggle. 

again this is a personal thing to me....id like to see kids going to school in their 

neighborhoods instead of putting them on the bus for a 2 hour ride. to me if you 

want your kid to go to a certain school 20 miles away thats is when a hardship 

transfer should come into play. i feel the teachers, bus drivers, custodians, who 

ever would be in or around the school should be screened harder and should be 

held to a higher standard of anything. tenure? oh that should not be a factor for 

anything other than pay. honestly i dont care if a teacher has taught for 20 years if 

they arent doing a good job and you are getting a lot complaints GET RID of em, 

put in the board office or something just get them away from teaching our kids. 

we need to nip this bullying thing before it gets any worse.....i say loads of 

counseling then detention then expel them.....yes my kids have been bullied, 

complaining to the principle did no good. diversity can be a good thing. my 

thought is to accept difference and move on. i have told my kids not to dislike 

somebody because they are different from you but to embrace those differences, 

your differences can help you work better together as a team. i have also explained 

that you do not always like everybody on your team [ i used examples of a office 

crew or construction crew] you just have to work together then go home to the 

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people that you want to be with. i dont shove the diversity thing down their throats. 

sometimes i feel that is how it happens at school. if my kids comment on some 

group of mexican kids smelling funny i explain it as well mexicans eat some spicy 

food. it kinda comes out of their skin.....in other words i try to give some kinda 

reason as to why people r different. my 8 yr old chimed in as to is that why italians 

smell like garlic cus they eat lots of spaghetti? for me as a mom this works. my kids 

are not prejudice- its like they dont see peoples color at all. this is good- it took 6 

weeks of school before i realized my kids teacher was black-this is an awesome 

feeling. which brings me to this.....i know its a federal thing about taking GOD out of 

public schools as well as everything else in the usa BUT i push the one about 

treating others the way you want to be treated and to bless your food wherever you 

are before you eat and to talk to your GOD [creator, higher power...whatever] 

whenever you feel like it.....is it to much to ask school to do this? we can surely do 

this in a way not to offend somebody. 

Student assignment plan, budget, bussing. 

Fix the bussing issue 

Homelessness and poverty in the student body, and the ways testing distort the 

value of schools and education. Ability to work with board that bows to political 

pressures. 

Of course the busing/diversity issue. But the focus must go back on the child and 

what is best for the child and their family. I understand making racially balanced 

schools and I believe diversity is imperative in our schools. However, I believe the 

child's needs are being neglected when a kindergartner must sit on a bus for an 

hour so that schools can be racially/socio-economically balanced. 

The busing issue in Louisville will be the top priority. It has race and class 

undertones, which will be very difficult to manage. Also our testing/performance 

standards are at stake. We are the lowest performing district in the state. 

End busing. Fix the failing schools. Let everyone go to school in their own 

neighborhood like all want. I can't stress this enough. Putting an elementary kid 

on an 45 min to hour busride is insane. I believe strongly in public schools & want 

to feel strongly in JCPS. This is the main reason JCPS is loosing so many great 

families to the private school system. Everyone deserves a great education. 

The busing really needs to end. JCPS and Raleigh, NC are the only school 

districts in the US that still bus. We are spending way to much money on buses, 

the drivers, and fuel. The millions of dollars that are spent to "shorten" bus routes 

should be invested where it matters the most - the classroom. I live in an east end 

neighborhood and my neighborhood has diversity. We should stop worrying about 

making it a race issue and start investing in the lives of all our children no matter 

what their ethnic or cultural background might be. There is no community in my 

neighborhood because everyone goes to a different school and gets home at a 

different time. My children have a hard time making friends since there isn't a 

school that ties them all together. The largest city in the state should have schools 

that are performing just a well if not better than the other school districts. 

To make every child, parent, teacher, principal, and MAINLY the school board, 

then YOU the superintendent, accountable to the voters, the ones who PAY your 

salary!!!!!! 

Budget issues, safety problems and failing schools.

Student behavior 

1) Chronic & out of control behavior issues in the classroom need not to be dealt 

with by the teacher. This is a rampant problem in schools today, especially in 

elementary grades. Get the behavior problems out of the classroom so that 

teachers can teach & behaved students can learn. 2) Bullying needs to be dealt 

with more harshly. Those being bullied don't want to return to school. 3) Figure 

out a way to make school in all grades a more pleasant & desirable place to be. 

Perhaps developing a buddy system for new students or students starting school in 

the lower grade of the school (K & 1st grade, 6th grade, 9th grade) to help students 

feel more secure & not so alone. 4) Teachers & other school officials must be 

expected to respect the students just as the students are expected to be respectful 

of the authority figures at school. My granddaughter's grade school has nothing 

but nasty, disrespectful adults (including the principal) & constant yelling over a 

microphone throughout lunch. Horrible place to be Watterson Elem). She now 

attends a different school. 5) Teachers need to be able to assist students who 

need extra help or arramge for/recommend help for these students rather than just 

passing the students up grade after grade, not learning what they need to be 

successful in later life. 6) When I attended school (I am 59 years old) there were 

lower levels of math classes or English classes that were primarily for those 

students who didn't plan to attend college or who weren't able to master higher 

levels of these classes. These classes no longer exist. Would it be possible to 

bring these back for students who might feel overwhelmed by college prep type 

classes? 7) Weed out the bad or "I don't really care" attitude teachers. If a 

teacher is just there for a job & really doesn't care what is being accomplished then 

he/she shouldn't be a teacher. 8) STOP THE BUSING!! Education is more 

important than the diversity issue. The definition of insanity is doing the same thing 

over & over again & expecting different results. Busing has gone on for 30+ years 

with unsuccessful results. It doesn't work & is unbelievably expensive. This money 

could certainly be put to better use involving the education process. Perhaps 

parents could become more involved in their child's school if it wasn't so far away. 

Neighborhood schools. this is a HUGE problem and getting bigger every day. 

Parents want to be involved in their kids education and PTA but if it's too far away 

they are less likely to do it. and the satisfaction rate for parents and children will be 

much lower if they can not go to the school they pass every day! 

BUSING! Students SHOULD be allowed to attend school by their home. Parents 

are strapped for time and they would be more willing to get involved if they didn't 

have to travel on the other side of town; we did so for 7 years before our youngest 

child got into the school of our choice. It was VERY difficult having three children 

in three schools in three parts of town. SPEND the money on teacher 

development, technology, facility upgrades, drug/alcohol awareness programs, 

college and educational field trips, and QUIT spending our money on buses. It is a 

WASTE of taxpayer dollars and busing has not worked. Neighborhoods have 

become more diverse on their own and not because of busing. Allow schools to 

think more creatively on how to raise funds for their projects. For instance, there is 

a UK student who has developed a program called OuiBox that allows people to 

make online purchases from major retailers; items cost the same going through 

OuiBox as they would if you went on the retailers website. Retailers kickback a 

227

portion of sales to OuiBox for "advertisement" on their website. Those funds are 

then donated to charity, which could include school districts. Currently, they are 

working with Fayette County to use the program. Thinking outside of the box 101. 

Of course, if (WHEN) busing goes away that would free up millions of dollars that 

could be poured into schools. STOP the NONSENSE! Thanks! 

Traditional schools should follow the non-traditional sibling policy. This is currently 

a huge hardship for my family. How do you explain to your child both partents 

an/or family members cannot attend an event because their sibling has one at their 

school for the same day/time. PTO involvement is also hurt as it is impossible to 

be at two schools at the same time. Not to mention the fact that one elementary 

school opens 10 minutes later than the other. After so long the boss does not care 

that you have to deliver children to not only two different schools but at different 

times. Thank you for allowing my the opportunity to provide feedback. Good luck. 

Standardize the basic/advanced curriculum for all schools, Open enrollment at all 

schools, Use proven programs from across the globe instead of starting from 

scratch everytime (High achieving student-led small groups, talent-based 

education, and Encouragement instead of criticism. 

http://www.barackobama.com/pdf/issues/education/Fact_Sheet_Education_Reform 

_Speech_FINAL.pdf 

District size 2. Budgetary problems 3. Interacting with Jefferson County Teacher's 

Assn. 4. Dealing with Board of Education that is unduly influenced by Teacher's 

Union 5. Mechanism to remove low-performing teachers 

busing; schools in crisis; way to many TR's and administrators in all schools; 

Allowing children to attend their home school and giving them an equally great 

education. No child should be deprived of an education or made to travel 4 hours 

each day to and from school. The bus wrecks are beyond ridiculous at this point. 

We have UPS in Louisville that has shown how to cut down on travel and accidents 

through their logistics. Why has JCPS not consulted or partnered with them? JCPS 

needs to provide a quality education for all children, including those with special 

needs. Autism has had a great increase over time and our school system has not 

kept up. With the great number of autistic children out there this is an ever growing 

population that must be actively educated. We are losing a great number of people 

due to the school system. 

The current assignment plan vs guaranteeing each child the right to attend their 

reside school should they choose to. Bullying and how JCPS refuses to reprimand 

students with their own zero tolerance policy. Its worse than when I attended JCPS 

and was bullied in the late 1980's. Student achievement. Many schools do not use 

text books which makes it difficult for parents to help students study when they 

don't understand a homework/test question. The fact that JCPS has a billion dollar 

bugdet but lacks text books is irresponsible. 

The most significant issue that the new superintendent will need to deal with is the 

JCPS student assignment plan. The current plan needs to be fundamentally 

changed. JCPS doesn't need someone who will step in and continue the status quo 

of busing kids all over the county allegedly to provide them better learning 

opportunities. The outgoing superintendent (Berman) was either not willing to listen 

to the community or did not have the will to address the problem. 

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The School Assignment Plan, Diversity, and the current issues aboard the 

Jefferson County School Busses. 

Busing. Busing busing busing. The board seems bent on busing, particularly at 

the elementary level. They have made diversity the #1 issue, despite the fact that 

a number of our schools are failing. The next superintendent needs to either 1.) 

have the courage to challenge the board on this or 2.) prove to the community that 

busing/diversity is the single most important factor in improving educational 

outcomes for all our children, and therefore worthy of single-minded focus to the 

exclusion of all other factors. In my opinion, a successful candidate must at least 

be OPEN to the idea of neighborhood schools, despite what some members of the 

board think. 

One of the most significant district issues is bullying on buses. Elementary kids 

bullying their peers and drivers, really?? Find a way to get behavior on buses 

under control. 

Student assignment, drop it and allow children to go to schools close to home! 

the student assignment plan 

Bussing problem. It is not effective now. A small number of teachers are not 

suitable for the job due to lack of knowledge. 

Low performing schools, busing, top heavy administration and the teachers union. 

Eliminating the current student assignment plan to comply with the Supreme Court 

ruling 

Bussing, failing schools. Schools and children are not benefitting from being 

bussed all over this city. I strongly believe that students should have a right to go 

to their reside school first and no matter what. I believe that once those students 

are enrolled, then open it up to others that want to come. I want my child to go to 

school in the neighborhood where I live. And I want to be able to move anywhere 

in the county and know exactly where my child will attend school form Kindergarten 

on. The schools that are failing need to be corrected so that they are just as 

appealing as any of the other schools. That is the real problem. Millions of dollars 

are spent bussing kids all over town and shuffling kids all over the place. This is 

not going to improve any schools or anyone's education. Good students are not 

going to be able to "fix" failing schools just because they attend that school. 

Children that are bussed across town also can not participate in their school 

functions that are held on the weekend or after school. How does that make a 

child feel? My child's teacher has specifically told me that parents are upset 

because their children can not participate in any school activities, the parents can't 

come get sick children because they don't have a way to get there. The children sit 

in the sick room all day with fevers and can't go home, their only way home is the 

bus in the afternoon. There are major bullying issues on the busses where children 

are being bussed all the way across town and have a lengthy bus ride. I think this 

is a major issue and problem that needs to be resolved immediately. 

the person selected should be very strong and realize he/she will have to stand up 

to the teachers union as well as the naacp. our schools need to return to teaching 

and educating students not on social restructuring. our neighborhoods are very 

diversified. there is no need to bus children all over the county. move some of the 

teachers from successful schools to the failing schools and then these students will 

have the better teachers. 

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Education of studets without bankrupting the community. A school board that 

listens to all of the comunity instead of a slect few who serve their own agenda. 

High stakes Testing Student Assignment Budget issues Increasing HS 

graduation rates 

Managing funds. Eliminating busing. Equitable distribution of funds throughout the 

district. 

Busing - busing must stop. Neighborhood schools and pride in neighborhoods will 

cause a ripple effect of wonderful things. Give teachers more credit - there are 

some who do want to teach the difficult populations, it is not a fairness issue it is an 

issue of our future. Prepare our children by giving them community pride to begin 

with and then the tools to improve it. 

The power and control of the teacher's union. Underperforming teachers. 

Dangerous conditions on the school bus. Bullying in schools. The lack of 

parental involvement, esp. in low-income schools. The unsuccessful PTA. I 

believe the PTA president only is involved in schools in wealthier neighborhoods, 

and there isn't any effort put forth in schools where a PTA could make a bigger 

difference in children's lives. Get the parents involved and scores will improve. 









The most significant issues will be student assignment and student achievement. 

We must improve support and resources to boost student achievement to build 

excellent schools. We need to stop focusing on where a child goes to school in 

order to achieve a certain image, keep them close to home so they can reap all of 

the benefits our schools SHOULD provide - a superior education with the aid and 

benefits of school/neighborhood communities and activities. Bussing should NOT 

be our priority, as it is now, educating our children Should be the priority. 

A person wanting to teach and keep kids safe before all other issues. Busing kids 

all over shouldn't be on the top 20 of the things that matter!! Your boss's (the 

board) can be replaced. teach the kids and the people will keep you 

A need to revise the assignment/busing plan to put the financial resources in the 

school buildings for resources to educate the students and not into fueling buses 

across town!!!! Set goals with accountability for high performing schools with fixedterm 

contracts with educators to achieve excellent results. Terms then may not be 

renewed if learning goals are not met. 

The student assignment plan. Disipline on buses..which I feel these go hand in 

hand. Any child on a bus for an hour is going to misbehave because it is such a 

long day for them, especially the elem. and middle school students. I feel 

neighborhoods are already diverse around the county without having to bus kids 

halfway across town. 

Discipline Too much power in the teacher's union Too many failing schools 

Busing - failed school assignment plan

I'm sure that the budget and test scores will be top priority. It seems to me that we 

would save a significant amount in gas and bus driver salaries if we weren't busing 

children from one end of the city to the other. I also feel that parents are as 

responsible as teachers for ensuring there children are learning and if they feel 

there is a problem they need to address this with the school. We live in a diverse 

city and should not move children from their neighborhood schools. 

Bring the children back to their home schools. In doing so the parents can be more 

involved in their childs education. What needs to happen is bus the good teachers 

to the less performing schools that need help. Make all the schools even as far as 

education goes. Bussing is NOT the only option! It needs to be stopped! 

Immediately deal with the low performing schools and get community pride back in 

our district. We need to have neighborhood schools that each neighborhood can 

embrace and be proud of. Instead of worrying about busing kids all over, figure 

ways to make these schools work so they can stay close to home and parents can 

get involved. 

EDUCATION QUALITY!! Right now it isn't there throughout the county (or the 

state). 

Student assignment plan, busing, work with the State on testing changes, take 

ownership of the position 

District- all schools should be have magnet resources. Make the adults travel, not 

the children. Community-involve the businesses with the NEIGHBORHOOD 

schools; something needs to be done to help the parents who work and can't 

attend school functions because their child's school is on the other side of town. 

This would help with the students feeling more like a community. Students who live 

in the west end going to a school in Okolona don't feel any community because 

after school they are in a totally different enviroment. ALL schools need to be able 

to take more field trips, not just magnet schools. All schools should be able to have 

plays, not just the "rich" schools where all moms stay home. State-I don't really 

know..... 

Forced busing 

controversy relative to disproportionate opportunities for minorities 2. controversy 

over changing schools to neighborhood schools resulting in potential segregation 

The student assignment plan I thought was already deemed un-constitutional by 

the US SUPREME COURT, so why is it still being utilized? The assignment plan 

needs to go and let parents choose where they send their kids! As a child, I went to 

the school that I was close to, not where the "board" felt I should go. There is a lack 

of discipline in the schools that are making their way onto the buses as well. I see 

horrible things on buses while I am driving, but when I call it in, I get smart aleck 

remarks and told to call 911. I would love to send my children to public school, but 

until these issues are resolved and I can send them where I WANT THEM TO GO, 

I am forced to have to pay expensive tuition rates for private school. My children 8 

and 6, should not have to ride the bus if I don't want them to, we were told they had 

to ride the bus, what is up with that. Kentucky's largest city should have the best in 

public education, instead, we have nothing short of a mockery of the educational 

process! 

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The new superintendent needs to immediately deal with the student assignment 

plan. This plan is not working. You have children on the bus for too long because 

they are shipped halfway across the county. It needs to be changed!!! 

Long bus rides which cause a wide range of problems, including student saftey. 

We want neighborhood schools. This would help parents be more involved in 

school. 

The student assignment plan is a joke. By sending children across county, you are 

actually hurting them. What if they want to do extracurricular activities? Alot of 

people will have to tell their kids, "Sorry, I can't afford the gas or have the time to 

drive all the way over there all the time". Yeah, this is good for the children. 

The student assignment plan is THE biggest issue the new superintendent must 

face. Parents have unnecessary anxiety about where their children will be 

assigned to school. Busing across the county is unacceptable for elementary 

students--education is most important, not diversity. I believe Louisville loses as 

many jobs as it recruits because people don't understand and don't want to 

navigate the student assignment plan and take their chances on where their 

children will attend school. Teachers unions will provide another tough challenge, 

as the district tries to improve low-performing schools while keeping tenured 

teachers. 

Busing and diversity. I don't mind my child's bus ride. I am glad she is getting a 

good education, but others are. We also need to make parents aware they need to 

step up and take responsibility (all parents). 

The vocal group in the community that favors neighborhood schools at the expense 

of diversity will be the greatest challenge. Lack of adequate funding is a concern 

as well. Not caving into the cries for charter schools. 

BUSING MUST BE CURTAILED! Simply moving around the lower acheiving kids 

will result in all but a few magnets/traditional programs who can select their student 

becoming *failed* schools. The state will eventually have to take over and the BOE 

will be fired. Parents who care about their kids educations will go private or move 

out of county. Long bus rides/late buses into schools and lack of ability to be 

involved in after school activities is not good for any student. Make the busing 

program totally VOLUNTARY. A busing scheme that forces wealthier higher tax 

paying families to send their children to lower performing schools in lower socioeconomic 

areas will NEVER be a success. 

CLEAN HOUSE! There are entirely too many double-dippers. The majority at the 

Van Hoose Center, need to go. They go through the motions, push the papers, 

they're past teachers, administrators, etc. and it has become a stagnant good ol' 

boy network. They've been there done that, they have been the cover for too long. 

The new superintendant is to address education as #1, not diversity. If the city is 

doing it's part in community development, diversity will be in place and represented 

in the schools! 

Getting rid of student placement also known as busing. It is way too expensive the 

way it is planned out. The kids are also on the bus way too long. My daughter's 

home school is close but the closest school to us is not even in our cluster. I am 

also for reduced lunch at a higher base income. We don't qualify at an income of 

$41,500 but a friend whose income includes bonuses (that Jefferson Co. does not 

count) and gets reduced lunch and their income is $55,000.

Poor student assignment plan that is currently in place. 

District: Bringing all of our schools up to an appropriate level. Every child 

deserves a top-notch quality education. Parents should not have to be so thorough 

and picky about which schools their child goes to. There is too much dichotomy in 

the quality of education students in the district receive. Community issues: 

realizing that busing and diversity in schools is VITALLY important, regardless of 

what a few loud voices and frivolous lawsuits may say. Just because they are 

LOUDER doesn't mean they are right. Segregating our children will only lead to 

further segregating our community. 

There is significant community unrest as to the lack of importance placed on the 

education and safety of our children. Diversity has long been the focus and 

therefore has resulted in many of the Jefferson Co. residents (myself included) in 

finding private schooling for our children. This is due to the lack of concern 

regarding community parental views and has led to ridiculously long bus rides 

where children are consistently getting into trouble, buses are having accidents, 

and parents are unable to partake in school activities. 

Quit wasting our resources on diversification and use money toward EDUCATION! 

Recognizing that creating diversity will NEVER lead to successful schools. Getting 

parents involved in the education of their children is what will turn around failing 

schools - not diversity, firing teachers, or replacing principals. 

Student assignment and the bussing problem of JCPS. 

Issue #1: Bus rides are way too long. Zero tolerance for disruptive kids on the 

bus. Issue #2: Zero tolerance to disruptive kids in the classroom. It all starts at 

home. Parent needs to take ownership of their child's behavior. It's not the 

teachers' job to teach kids right from wrong, its the parents. I believe students who 

misbehave take away quality instructional time from other students. It's not fair to 

the students who are there to learn. 

Busing & Assignment - ability to communicate their plan for addressing community 

concerns. 

School assignments, busing, teacher paticipation in the childs education. 

Bussing our students all over the school district - we need to go back to 

neighborhood schools! 2. The fast growing ESL population and their needs for 

education. 3. Being able to put together a successful plan to meet the needs of 

high achieving students, ESL students, high-risk students, students from low 

income areas, and special needs students. 4. Getting parents to be active 

participants in their child's education. 

Poverty!!! Although the superintendent cannot impact the poverty rate itself, 

he/she needs to focus on how poverty affects children in the classroom and 

beyond. The JCPS lunch is terrible! The next superintendent needs to realize 

that for some students school lunch is the biggest and most reliable meal of the 

day and it needs to be quality food. Fresh produce, good quality meats--no 

chicken nuggest, fries, jello, etc. The greening of the district--everytime I walk into 

Brown school and see the mural that says Brown is green I cringe. No school in 

JCPS is green. We have got to realize that we can do things to make our district 

greener that could possibly save us money. The Brown School--the highest test 

scores in the state and yet Brown is woefully lacking in space, technology, etc. 

There was bad blood between Brown and the Board years ago but many of those 

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people are gone. The community at Brown school is active and wants the best for 

our children and just because our children don't cause problems doesn't mean they 

should be ignored. 

We need a leader willing to stand up to those who have perpetutated this failing 

system and work in the interests of the students. 

BUSING!!!! Put the money back into schools to develop stronger programs and 

educational opportunities. "Diversity" is not helping educate in our failing schools. 

Dealing with the neighborhood school issues/student assignment issues. 

Illiminating positions/people that are unnessary Dealing with the state budget and 

what it means for our district. Dealing with our failing schools. 

they wil have to be strong and do what is best for the education needs of the 

children 

Boundaries of the districts, keeping our schools diverse, travel time to school, 

keeping students in their local districts, helping the low learner achieve higher 

goals in life, knowing that anyone can learn if given the right opportunities to learn 

in a environment that is conducive to learning. Busing, economic stability, using 

the money set forth from the tax payers in an appropriate way. Many cuts need to 

be made in the Administrative capacity. More money going to the schools then to: 

driving cars for those who could use their own vehicle, gas for those cars, 

purchasing of those cars, etc! Older buildings been updated and taken care of! 

the list goes on! 

budget, change the climate and perspection of the district. the image is terrible!!! 

address the bussing issues, create a safe environment for our children on the 

buses. 

The superintendent must address three separate issues which can all fit under the 

heading of accountability: 1) Overcome the objections of the JCTA and THEIR 

Board of Education and institute teacher accountability for educational progress; 2) 

insist parents accept responsibility for the behavior of their children; and 3) change 

the culture of JCPS that sees parents as inferior to the district in determining what 

is best for the children. 

Busing issues (although we've not had any problems) * School failure - which I 

believe is not the fault of the schools and teachers themselves, but rather a 

breakdown of parenting and community involvement and support. 

To eliminate busing kids all over the county and the mass exodus of students from 

JCPS schools, tolerating an indecisive school board, the laughable "zero tolerance" 

policy when it comes to bullying and or other abuses by students, and putting bus 

monitors on EVERY bus to ensure each student and driver has a safe ride. 

They need to able to educate the people in our community who whine and 

complain about every decision made by a superintendent and their staff instead of 

trying to appease everyone's demands. They need to focus on what will help the 

majority of the students and not the people in the minority screaming the loudest. 

poor tax base to fund schools. 

STOP ALL THE TESTING!!! 

The obvious issue is the ongoing districting debate. Everyone I know prefers 

neighborhood schools. This is, unfortunately, a segregated town. Our children do 

not need to fix this concern. Parents should have easy access to their children's 

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schools. Also, there is the issue of how to improve underperforming schools, which 

often translates into more of a sociological issue of getting parents more effectively 

involved. 

A district that is integrated on the surface but racially and economically segregated 

within schools and classrooms; low expectations for poor and/or minority students, 

including affluent minority students; very negative district culture; lack of 

accountability; lack of focus on schools with greatest needs; inattenton to 

community infrastructure needs.. 

Student Assignment Plan (especially at the Elementary level) 

School equality,I have a college degree and I am a homeowner and make a decent 

household income yet, my school choices consist of the poorest performing and 

most dangerest schools in the district. I don't have the option to sell my house and 

move to a better neighborhood because of the housing crisis. It's a catch 22. The 

bussing issues are also significant, it is very dangerous on these busses for these 

young students. The KCCT scores are truly the last of my worries because the 

scores mean NOTHING to me. I worry becuase my child only learned the things 

that were going to be covered on the test. The teachers are teaching to the test 

instead of teaching for tomorrow. I can go on about ten pages if you would like to 

write me or call me again and I can keep going. 

Trying to level the playing field across many schools will be difficult. Initially higher 

pay and other incentives may need ot be given to admin/teachers so they desire to 

work in underserved neighborhoods to bring up the quality of education to those 

kids in need. If parents can walk to their kids school-their would be more parental 

involvement. 

STOP RUINING THE SOUTH END OF LOUISVILLE BY FORCING OUR 

CHILDREN TO ATTEND SUBSTANDARD SCHOOLS. Take real action--be 

involved directly in the necessary changes that schools in transformation are 

making. Hire some new people and get rid of the same old same old way of doing 

things. Stop hiring people who created problems back as consultants. STOP 

BUSING--STOP REGIONALIZATION OF SCHOOLS--I LIVE IN THE SOUTH END 

NO MATTER WHAT PROGRAM YOU PUT IN WHAT SCHOOL, THEY WILL BE 

SUBSTANDARD. STOP BUSING EVERYONE EXCEPT THOSE WHO WANT TO 

GO TO THE HIGHER QUALITY SCHOOLS IN THE EAST END. 

behavior issues at school and on the bus, parents need to be held accountable and 

principals need to have the authority to suspend/expel unruly students who exhibit 

serious behavior/mental challenges and threats to the general school population. 

District - 1. A school board that will let a superintendent due the work and trust that 

with input, goals are being meet and moved towards. 2. A recognition that the 

district may need some new "blood" to go along with the staff that have been 

around a long time. Community - 1. Oppostion by a vocal minority about 

displeasure with student assignment plan and diversity. 2. The ability to rally 

support from various parts of community in support of school district. State - 1. 

Unfunded mandates that make doing the job of educating already difficult(from 

both state and federal govt.). 2. A hostility about Jefferson County due to its size 

and perceived unwillingness to cooperate with state education iniatives. 

Bullying in the schools. Zero tolerance No busing!!!!!!!!!!! 

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We definitely have issues with safety. I hear stories of bullying(some in the media), 

assults on students and teachers alike, classroom distractions from children with 

behavior issues. Teachers having to deal with these distractions day after day 

from the same children. This steals from every other child in that classroom the 

opportunity to learn. Shouldn't we be addressing the cause of the distractions? 

Addressing learning disabilities more effectively? My sister had to take her child 

out of JCPS due to bullying, because after repeated attempts get help from the 

principal of that school, she just gave up and put him in private school with a safer 

enviroment. All of our schools need to be desireable, not just a few as it currently 

is...the choices program is a joke and only offers advanced children the opportunity 

to attend one of the "better" schools in Jefferson County. I've said it before and I'll 

say it again, the Networks are not equal in the fact that there are three failing 

highschools in one network, two in another, and none in the last. How is this a fair 

options for a JCPS parent/child??? It's lacking in vision for the future. I hope that 

the goal will be to bring equality to all the schools and take down the barriers until 

we reach the fairness of equality. 

Budget restrictions; ensuring diversity in all schools. 

Establish that the Superintendent is the leader of JCPS and the Board of Education 

role is to guide and offer suggestions, not use the Superintendent as a puppet for 

their personal aggendas 

The biggest state issue is the unequal distribution of dollars at the state level. 

JCPS never really gets its fair share. Kentucky is also plagued by a general 

indifference towards academic success. I do think the next superintendent should 

be more engaged with Frankfort and what goes on there, being an advocate not 

just for JCPS, but for KY schools in general. In the community, the tensions over 

the student assignment plan need to be addressed in a positive, proactive way. 

Always maintain the commitment to diversity, but see if plans can be tweaked to 

reduce the long bus rides, etc. that some parents protest (although I suspect many 

of these protests about bus rides are socially acceptable stand-ins for parents who 

really don't want diversity in their neighborhood schools). Again, a visible, inspiring 

leader could help smooth the issues regarding student assignment plans. 

Getting students ready for entrance into college and instilling a want of more 

education. Too often students are worried about their grades rather than how 

much they learned. I see too many students enter the university where I teach 

woefully unprepared for the rigors of college. Make sure they know how to be 

students! 

Continued interferance in the educational system by the courts. 

School assignment 

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Teachers 



The flexibility, diversity, strength, and intelligence of this community. We stand 

together. 

This is a community that pulls together in time of disaster or need. Example: 

Crusade for Children 

Diversity and Entrepreneurship 

interest in the arts; good place to raise a familu; compared to other cities -- 

possible to buy a house 

We have a diversity of oppportunities for growth, we have a strong international 

community, and we have a community supportive of JCPS. 

arts; low cost of living; big city resources with small-town feel; generally good 

political, racial, and ethnic relations among people 

The green space, outdoor festivals, small city with a large city feel, excellent 

restaurants 

cultural diversity, availability of programs and attractions that large cities generally 

offer (museums, university/colleges. organizations) 

Our diversity and history 

diversity, as in the diverse composition of our neighborhoods 

diversity 

arts, low cost of living, city of neighborhoods 

Arts, culture, universities, s 

Big city with a small town feel 

The Crusade for Children, the arts community, the commitment from business 

leaders to keep both of the above active 

Diversity, Universities & Colleges, Parks & Entertainment, Companies & 

Businesses supportive of the community. 

diversity, metro parks, thriving art scene, minimal traffic, variety and wealth of 

dining experiences, relatively low crime 

great culture, hassle-free lifestyle 

Committed people who strive to make Louisville a better place for ALL members of 

this community. 

Affordable housing, sports and arts abound, crime rate is low, beautiful seasons, 

and near to larger cities, such as Chicago. 

Our Youth, Our River, A dedicated work force. Good families. 

Everything 

Big city offerings (theater, museums, arts, sports, good restaurants, park system) 

w/small town atmosphere (friendly people, interesting and diverse neighborhoods, 

safe, lower cost of living) 

Commitment to new and alternative ways to live in a changing world. 

Location; arts community; vibrant civic life; good medical care 

We have a small town feel but big city venues and activities. 

237

Support getting jobs, Attention in entertainment 

Arts Community, Ethnic Diversity 

Great community with many attractions and activities that represent science, 

history, the arts, sports, tourism. 

Diversity of thought and interest. 

diversity, the arts, friendliness of the people, dedicated educators 

the Arts, big city with small city feel and maneuverability, reasonable cost of living. 

Widespread school system offering a variety of subjects. 

Diversity 

Diverse 

arts, entertainment. small town feel but in a large city 

Businesses, Politicians, Religious Groups, and Community Groups working 

collaboratively on educational concerns. 

Parks, recreation, size, proximity to attractions, great universities, buisness 

involvement in the community 

Great quality of living Great Education Opportunities Diverse Population Great 

Dining and Nightlife Nice Neighborhoods Great Park System 

Cooperation, Derby, Big city, small town living. 

Louisville is a growing community with great leadership. 

Great Place to raise a family. Centrally located 

commitment to diversity in schools. small town feel with big city diversions. heart of 

basketball country 

The greatest assest should be parent involvment. The next person needs to stand 

tall and bring out the elephant in the room,which is parents must be held to a 

higher standard. 

Has a wide range of experience with an urban school system. 

good neighborhoods, reclaimed downtown good restaurants 

Someone who realizes that neighborhood schools are what is best for students and 

the community. Use the money saved on transporation expenses to reduce class 

size! 

The arts, the river, the health industry 

metro city, derby festivities, new housing in downtown, the great lawn/features of 

downtown waterfront, parks/recreational areas in the outlying areas, new arena, 

UofL Cards!!!....there are too many things to list. 

arts, theater, sports, availability of good jobs, variety of churches, strong 

neighborhoods 

The safety and friendliness of the community. 

Business community, entertainment, diversity 

Louisville is a Big City that simultaneously thinks it is New York City AND doesn't 

exist beyond the next neighborhood. 

diversity geographic location, many beautiful areas are in easy reach Excellent 

cultural resources ie theater, as well as the other arts. 

The people..down home and hard working. The community has great arts, fun 

events and local tradition with the Derby. 

238

For the most part, its a safe, family-oriented community--folks are friendly and 

willing to help out others-- 

Large community. Lots of diversity. 

Diversity, Civic Pride and Participation 

Our diversity of the population that is served here. 

Large diversity. An artistic community. 

We have a diverse population in all areas of the city. 

The resources that we have available to use 

cost of living, growth potential 

diversity, environmental values, tradition, creativity 

Diversity, The Arts, big city with lots of resources 

It is a developing city. It entwines the old and modern buildings to show that 

Louisville is not stagnate. 

We are a growing city. We have numerous resources and suppliers of locally 

grown foods, merchandise, and other valuable resources for an eclectic and varied 

community. We have unique theatrical venues, museums, and free public events 

for all of the Louisville community to be proud of and share with surrounding 

counties and cities. 

There are so many wonderful opportunities in this city. Museums (speed art, 

science, baseball, derby, KY arts and crafts...). Churchill Downs, Papa John's, 

Center for the Arts, Actors Theatre...these are just a few. Kentucky Derby Festival 

is so much fun. 

The Derby festivities, affordable living, great community 

Louisville has a small town feel considering we're a fairly large city. Central 

location creates a blending of midwestern and southern values. Residents love 

local businesses. There is a fairly low cost of living. 

-public school system -hospitable people -cost of living -quality of life -arts 

community 

Unknown at this time 

The greatest assets of the Greaer Louisville Community is the diversity. The level 

of diversity is a great tool for teaching our students compassion by having to work 

next to students who are not from their ethnic group. I believe that compassion will 

decrease the amount of bullying that occurs within the school walls. 

Diversity 

lifetime residents with a love for the city 

The diversity the community offer and the opportunity to tap into various resources 

diverse cultures and respect for them 

diverse population, growth of new business/industry, access to 

entertainment/educational resources 

Big city assets and attractions, small town feel. 

The arts, zoo, museums. 

diversity 

Individual's throughout the community are interested in the education of ALL 

students. 

Individual's throughout the community are interested in the education of ALL 

students. 

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Fine Arts (ballet, museums, orchrestra) Park System Waterfront Ky Derby 

Entertainment Magnet Programs offered 

community's educational is one of its greatest assets in this city. 

The GLC has a diverse student population. 

well rounded population lots of variety old established neighborhoods lots of fun 

traditions 

Louisville is a diverse community with many opportunities. We have an active arts 

community as well as many sporting events. The park system is fantastic. Yearly, 

there are many entertainment events for both adults and kids alike. 

Wonderful arts opportunities, interesting architecture, good school system, and 

wonderful people. 

Racial connections 

One asset of Louisville is the vibrant, active community of citizens anxious to make 

our community stronger and smarter! Another asset is the new leadership in our 

local government with a commitment to making Louisville an even better place to 

live, work and play. 

Our greatest asset is the Arts (Actors Theatre, Stage, Blue Apple Players, other 

small theatre companies, Opera, Ballet, Symphony, Speed Museum, Louisville 

Visual Arts Association), myriad galleries, and a vibrant artistic community). Our 

exceptional non-profit radio, Louisville Public Media, with its thre stations is 

informative and entertaining. The Universities and colleges as well as public and 

private pre-K through 12. Louisville has a cosmopolitan feel without the rush of a 

big city. 

We have a very diverse community. 

Bardstown Road, Independent businesses and restaurants, Park System 

The arts, YUM center, U of L and Bellarmine Sports, Derby, Thunder Over 

Louisville, parks, zoo 

The Center for the Arts The New Arena Sports Housing 

Diverse community Large appreciation of the arts 

As a community, we truly want our students to succeed. We want our city to be a 

place that people want to visit frequently. 

Local community involvement. 

The wide difference in the people. The way they work together when there is a 

need. 

The Greater Louisville Community is friendly and works together better than most 

other communities. 

Our Students 

Parks Entertainment University of Louisville Humana GE Ford 

In spite of continuous growth, Louisville still has the feel of a small town. There 

used to be a sign, "The Gateway to the South" as you crossed the Ohio River into 

Louisville. Our many Victorian homes and southern mansions are beautiful year 

'round. We love our old trees and continue to plant new ones. Our park system, 

created by Frederick Law Olmstead, is magnificent! We have fabulous medical 

doctors and facilities. Louisville has many cultural centers, sports arenas, and 

museums. In general, Louisvillians are very nice and caring people. It's great to 

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travel and see other sites, but it's always great feeling to get back to our Ohio 

Valley river town! 

Good community resources Diversity 

there really are'nt any that come to mind this is basically a 1 horse town 

Arts 

The ethnic/racial and economic diversity. Many cultural events (theater, orchestra, 

the ballet) at a much lower cost than what is charged in larger cities. Easy to get 

around the city/suburbs (average 20 min.), Great place for children to be reared. 

Cost of living here is lower. Great restaurants! 

The sense of community from the number of parks, community events, and 

yearning for togetherness. 

Diversity Community opprtunities Cultural opportunities 

Low cost of living. Vibrant arts scene (KY Center, Ballet, Opera, Symphony, etc). 

Architecture (visible history). Old world feel. Festivals from spring through fall. 

We are not a small town or a large city - we are a combination of both. We have a 

lot to offer as far as a place to live goes: the Arts, Churchill Downs, many 

museums, etc. Even with all of those things that would be found in large cities, we 

are small enough to have some of that small-town feel - like coming together in a 

crisis or coming together to support a local cause (WHAS Crusade for Children). 

small town feel with all of the big town benefits; accessibility, community pride 

The Highlands, The Yum Center, our people, small town environment, Sports; 

Churchill, UL, Bats etc. 

The community has great leaders that want to help. 

It's a "big, small town" in every sense. I've lived on the West coast and the East 

coast. There is no place like Louisville and that is a good thing! 

tradition and innovation, strong arts organizations and facilities, large student 

population and the challenges that go with it, local colleges and universities 

A small town atmosphere in an urban setting. Everyone knows everyone almost. 

Passionate about their schools. When you meet someone new the first thing 

someone asks is where did you go to high school? It's important. To everyone. 

We are strong in the arts. There are many opportunities to experience the arts 

here. It is a college town and especially a college sports town. 

The community has a wonderful balance of diversity that needs to be celebrated. 

There are also neighborhoods that are strong in community and family focused 

activities. 

It is a "small", "big" town that is friendly. Our medical facilities are 2nd to none. 

Small town feel....big city benefits. 









Everything a big city needs with the feel and speed of a small, southern town. 

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Louisville is filled with diversity, but it is in a period of change. Times are tough 

with all of the changes with student school assignments, leadership and the 

economy. 

We are small enough so that we know each other but big enough for lots of 

diversity. 

Louisville is a small/big town. We have the Arts and Entertainment venues of a big 

city, but are a very welcoming community. Many people move to Louisville and 

never leave because they love it here so much. 

People - Therefore, we must educate people to their fullest capacity - in their area/s 

of strength. 

Diversity and culture 

community support for JCPS 

diverse population, arts, large business 

The arts, Kentucky Derby, great parks system 

parks an cultural resources 

Central location; low property rates; strong arts community; national, regional and 

local universities; strong private school system and traditional public school 

options, numerous medical facilities 

Diversity 2. Natural Resourses 3. Many big industries 4. Many educational 

resources 5. Great Universities to train new teachers and seasoned ones as well 

can show change for the better in current school system. All schools in the current 

job district are not behind 

We are diversified. 

Many parents want good schools for their kids, but some look at school as a free 

daycare. For example JCPS holds 2 PTC days and for almost 20 years the parents 

of the kids I have the most problems with never come. In fact, I have been told 

more than once that its my turn to put up with them because they have to when 

they gets home. Parent envolvement is a constant battle. 

We are a caring community that has a lot of resources. 

strong arts community 

medium size population common beliefs and attitudes easy access to resources 

friendliness tourism cost of living 

We are culturally diverse and rich in all the arts. 

Education, children and adults with good role model and values 

The city's increasing diversity of population, variety of activities,location, relative 

ease of transportation; variety of entertainment; variety of educational venues 

1.The diversity of the community 2. Strong arts community 3. Strong desire for 

good educational opportunities 

A great place to live 

diversity 

tHE ARTS, THE PARKS, UOFL. 

Louisville is a large, diverse community that supports a large range of 

The community really works together to get things done. 

The arts community. The parks system. The museums and learning centers. 

Diverse, cultural neighborhoods. 

Cost of living; friendly,warm people; a community ready to be led and not duped!

The Natural Parks The Arts/Theater/Music/Dance 

Beautiful downtown Great hometown spirit Awesome Arts opportunities available 

Good roadways Good police, fire, gas and electric and waste management 

services Great zoo Good public schools 

Access to many colleges, universities, arts events, sports events, medical facilities 

and good weather. 

Louisville has a lot of culture for the size of the community. We have many perks 

of living in a city but without all of problems larger cities have. 

Our Arts programming is exceptional for a community of this size. 

Why are we (teachers) never asked what specific steps we feel are needed to 

improve scores in every classroom in the district? Student improvement is made 

through small steps in the classroom, not from asking what are the greatest assets 

of our community. We have a wonderful community. We have recruited and hired 

great superintendents. Here is what specifically needs to be done: every parent 

who sends their child to a public school needs to be required to spend 3 hours a 

month IN HIS CHILD'S classroom. All ages, all grades, no excuses, no exceptions. 

First, students would see that their parents and teachers are on the same 

wavelength wanting them to succeed. Secondly this, by default, lowers class size 

as the parent can assist the teacher, and in some instances help maintain 

discipline just by being in the room. Employers must value the concept of giving 

parents time off to do this. Parents who have a bad taste about school because 

they were unsuccessful themselves might get over this once they see what schools 

are actually about. I'm sure you will disregard these comments as they don't fit in 

the box. I have taught for 25 years. Jan Lowe 

support of schools 

Small city is easily accessible. Great sports teams to support. University campus. 

Speed Art Museum. Strong support for all the arts, esp. drama- Actors Theater. 

Unique geographical setting- between East and West, North and South. 

right size city which supports the arts 

not a crowed town but, still growing 

big town with small town friendliness; offers arts, sports, other activities found in 

large city 

Our track record in seeking diversity. Outstanding leadership by elected officials. 

Location at the center of the midwest on the Ohio. Our Churches. 

Attendtion to detail as it relates to tradition. 

A keen interest in horse racing and basketball...historical buildings...arts and 

culture - Actor's Theater, environmental movements..access to services for families 

in need 

Arts grants and programs 

growing multiculltural community 

Diversity, small town feel and repsect for others 

people, history 

Louisville Ignite program, is a leadership program that strengthens Louisville 

Community leadership. 

It is a Community! 

New Mayor, medium size city, family oriented, waterfront park attraction 

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Pride, diversity, and southern charm eventhough we are a large city. 

We have a fantastic arts community and a community of people willing to help out 

to improve things. The corporate level supports community improvement efforts. 

Louisville has a large and diverse representation of the arts available. It has 

several colleges and universities. 

The diversity of people and talents. Many institutions of higher learning 

We have all the benefits of a big city without being a big city! We are small enough 

to share many resources between a large amount of people. We have big hearts, 

people are always willing to help 

We have a very diverse cultural community to offer much international exposure, 

we also have a business community that is very willing to get involved and help the 

school system to become one of the top tier systems in the nation. 

We are a well diversified community with lots of good opportunities. 

good public schools, community support for public scools, diversity, fine arts 

community 

All the parts of a big city, yet still kind of has a small town atmosphere. 

Parks, arts, and the Irish Rover's fish and chips, 

Nice sized city, fairly nice people, moderate economy without too many severe 

peaks and valleys, good roads, central geographic location, good medical services, 

and a good group of media outlet. 

out-of-state people move here because of our resources, our arts, the small-town 

community feeling (several "transplants" have said that) 

Louisville is such an eclectic, accpeting place with business and social 

opportunities for everyone. 

Many resources, community pride 

The people 

Diversity of the community; large enough to be interesting while being small 

enough to not create headaches in getting around. 

Courage to make badly needed changes without fear of hurting feelings. Kids 

come first. 

the fine arts, sports, great parks, great neighborhoods, revitalized downtown and 

riverfront, historic homes and sites 

DIverse cultural groups, activities, and opportunities for involvement at multiple 

levels. 

understanding the diversity and culture of the urban setting 

Business and Industry, such as Ford, UPS, Humana. Entertainment, parks, and 

recreation. 

We have an excellent community with quality people. 

Good people, revitalized downtown, wonderful communities within the larger 

community 

Mix of urban and suburban appeal. Lots of cultural events. Great restaurants. The 

Derby. Basketball. 

greatest assets are; cosmoplotian community ,with a deverse population and a 

small town feel. 

Potential of community. The Arts, history and culture of city--chance to build a 

better system.

We have a pretty good school system. Well maintained, without the urban decay 

seen in alot of big systems. We have an excellent arts community and music 

scene. We have affordable housing. Good parks system and green space. Very 

friendly and hospitable residents. 

We have a pretty good school system. Well maintained, without the urban decay 

seen in alot of big systems. We have an excellent arts community and music 

scene. We have affordable housing. Good parks system and green space. Very 

friendly and hospitable residents. 

The people and their willingness to get involved to make the community better. We 

also have great cooperation from local businesses and national corporations based 

in Louisville. 

Many world-class medical facilities. Great community events (Derby, Thunder Over 

Louisville). Variety of parks. Low costs. 



The flexibility, commitment and professionalism of its teachers. 

Strong and caring group of teachers. 

Diversity, dedicated teachers 

Because of some high-quality, demanding high schools, public education is often 

better quality than private and parochial schools; 

We have a diversity of educators from a variety of backgrounds. 

commitment to diversity; adequate funding; talented teacher pool; talented student 

pool 

The diversity of our student population 

cultural diversity, a wide variety of specialized magnet programs to interest all 

students, highly qualified teachers 

That we ably teach a broad range of students from a variety of different social, 

racial and economic backgrounds. 

the willingness of those employed bu JCPS to work hard for a strong leader with 

vision and the willingness to follow through 

resources 

They serve everyone because they have to but they do a poor job 

Big district with many resources 

The quality of its teachers, the commitment to excellence in education, the 

commitment to educate the whole child, the commitment to provide quality 

education in all fields 

Diversity, dedicated teachers 

diversity, misson to serve all students and prepare them for future success 

We educate everyone free of charge. 

District who values each individual student and creates a community within the 

schools and classrooms where students can achieve in all areas of development-- 

socially, emotionally, and cognitively to become contributing citizens of our 

community. 

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Computers labs, musical programs, sports programs, many after school 

opportunities for children, child care after school, head start, traditional schools, 

magnet schools, computer education, foreign languages, advanced and honors 

programs, ece programs, and large amount of educators with National Board 

Certification. 

The district is very large so it has lots of resources, money, diversity, depth. The 

many colleges and universities provide great resources for beginning teachers. 

There are many teachers with years of experience still working hard and sharing 

that knowledge. School buildings are by and large in good condition. 

There are none. The only assets are the teachers and the kids. Leaders have long 

left JCPS which is now ruled by the agendas of a select few 

Established partnerships with the community and businesses such as GE, UPS, U 

of L, Water Co., environmental companies; diverse school curriculums/offerings; 

improving schools and endless possibilities 

Distributing information and communication 

diversity of students, most schools have strong parent support, except for the west 

end where I teach 

Our diversity makes us strong. we have a little of evryone so no one should be left 

out or discriminated against. 

Commaraderie between schools a great home atmosphere. 

Equal employment 

We have great resources and people with ideas. 

Technology, teacher-protected time, innovative teaching approaches, community 

involvement, diversity 

commitment to maintaining diversity, dedicated teachers, strong teachers union, 

early childhood programs 

Some really good principals leading their staff to do great things, great teachers 

who are held to high standards (highly qualified, etc) 

Excellnt teachers who are willing to go the extra mile but are being blamed on 

student low performance. 

Size and diversity 

Diverse population - real life situation Teachers are qualified/caring Reading 

Recovery for low achieve students in elem 

Diversity 

I genuinely feel that JCPS is totally dedicated to doing that which is in the best 

interest of students. One major asset is the variety of choices available for 

students to be successful. 

The quality of the teaching staff. 

Desire to meet the needs of children and their families, desire to give the best 

education available, variety of resources available to children and families to 

support family life and education 

Diverse Student Population Dedicated Teachers 

School Budgets are steady. NO one is losing their job like in Indiana school 

systems. 

JCPS has a growing, diverse population. JCPS recognizes the diversity of its 

students and respects such divesity. JCPS recognizes the importance of Early

Childhood education and its benefit of providding early intervention for at-risk 

students. 

Excellent teachers who truly care for kids. 

huge size/budget. diverse populations both ethnically and economically. many 

business supports 

It is not about recruitment as it should be about holding the parents to a higher 

standardand have ownership of our scores. 

We have a diverse population and above average teachers. 

Interest in diversity CARE for kids program 

None at this time, too big, and inefficient. More concerned with political 

correctness than with educating students. 

integration--but we have gone too far with busing. Bus rides should be no longer 

than 30 minutes! Almost all excellent staff and leaders. Students who excel in 

academics. 

Most schools and teachers give everything they have to the students. Many 

students come from such a troubled background that education isn't at the top of 

their important list. I believe most teachers truly care. (I say most, because I have 

personally met several teachers this year who no longer belong in a classroom!) 

quality teachers and staff, progressive thinking in education, up-to-date technology, 

quality math, science and reading programs 

The diversity of the schools and the variety of programs offered in high school 

Diversity, variety of programs & magnets 

JCPS has an incredible bureaucracy that CAN assist in implementation of 

research-based, state-directed, and commonsense change. 

Large district 

People who choose this profession are usually dedicated and hard working 

Many good teachers and strong administrators--some particularly good schools 

w/solid parental support- 

Large, Diverse in people and educational opportunities; Differentiated instruction 

Very organized when it comes to the business of running a school system 

Diversity. Emphasis on the arts/performing arts. Quality education for every 

student. Magnet schools. 

The instructional staff at the board are always looking for the best practices in 

educating students. 

The diversity and quality of education in so many of our schools 

potential 

size, quality of classroom teachers, diversity, instructional support resources 

First and foremost we care about our students and the type of education they 

receive. At one time the district also cared about its employees, but that has 

changed in the past few years.We try to be family oriented in everything we do for 

our students. 

We serve a diverse group of Louisville's young residents. They range in 

individuality based on culture, ethnicity, religions, abilities, and so much more. 

The strengths are our diversity. We have so many wonderful academic programs 

through out the district. There is something for everyone. 

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Quality middle schools with a variety of programs to meet the diverse needs of the 

community 

JCPS is a very large district with a lot of really wonderful, dedicated employees. 

District pays very well compared to others surrounding it. 

-eager, dedicated emplolyees -commitment to diversity -financially sound: up-todate 

facilities, instructional materials & technology 

Creating student diversity in the schools. 

The strength of JCPS is is the ability to be mobile. As an educator, it is important 

that there are options for when changes need to be made. Since most teachers do 

not work at the same school their tenure in education, it is vital that teachers have 

the ability to change as they need to. I also believe that the next superintendent 

needs to place seasoned teachers in "failing" schools -- new teachers do have new 

ideas and techniques, but they do not have the experience that those schools 

need. 

Diversity in both student population and classes 

JCPS alumni 

The diversity it can offer. 

Professional Learning Communities designed to increase teacher effectiveness. 

Many teachers who are very hard working and open to change if it is in the best 

interest of the students 

diverse population, many teachers who are competent and who want to do what is 

best for students, innovative educational programs, technology 

Large district with qualified leaders and teachers. Close bonds with area colleges 

for recruitment of highly qualified employees. 

Dedicated teachers. 

Committment to a quality education. 

A strength is the district is we are willing to test the latest research and methods to 

enhance and impact student learning and student achievement. 

A strength is the district is we are willing to test the latest research and methods to 

enhance and impact student learning and student achievement. 

Dedicated teachers and staff. Variety of schools 

providing appropriate educational experiences to all students no matter whate is 

thier color, language and backround. 

They provide free education to all students from many areas of Jefferson County. 

Dedicated teachers who want to creatively teach, not read a script. 

Highly qualified, dedicated teachers/other staff who work hard. 

Diversity, magnet schools, a union that is dedicated to improving learning for 

children, very strong support for teachers and librarians (Gheens, Professional 

Library, Library Media Services). 

Technology 

One strength is the strong leadership at the local school level to help implement 

educational opportunities for all kids. JCPS has made a major commitment to 

caring, learning communities and to educating the whole child...this an important 

asset. 

We are at a pivotal point with our schools because they serve rich and poor alike 

with an ever increasing diversity. It is our challenges that offer our assets.

The greatest strength is the effort made to meet the needs of our diverse 

population (ECE, ESL, DLL) and listening to educators and community. 

Our old superintendent Berman was a strength. The majority (not all) teachers are 

a strength. 

High level of diversity amoung staff and students. Caring staff and students, 

especially at the struggling schools where the kids need staff to help them in all 

areas of their life. 

Our great diversity. 

The wide variety of programs and choices 

Very diverse school populations in each building (both racial and socioeconomic). 

JCPS offers a variety of program options and magnets for parent choice in 

selecting a school. Our district is known as a trendsetting district (i.e. roll out of 

KCAS, magnet programs, KERA, GE Math and Science program, etc.) 

We will do absolutely everything in our power to help our students succeed at high 

levels- as teachers- it would help to be told that every once in a while, by a 

superintendent who really means it. 

Having some good schools when they bus in kids who don't care about school, and 

neither do their parents. 

JCPS strive to give the students the best education possible. The leaders, 

teachers, and staff give countless hours to make our schools the best! 

Someone who can understand the economic diversity of the student body. This 

person needs to understand the imbalances between the schools within the district. 

Excellent resources for teacher, parents, and staff 

Providing quality education for students in poverty. 

Teachers and staff are willing to work for students to achieve at high levels. I work 

for a top notch principal. Every school needs to have such a leader. 

Strong teaching staff Diversity 

there are no assetts in the public school system they take your children all over the 

county to attend a school and this is to promote racial equality in the schools and 

yuou can see by the failing schools that this has been a big waste of taxpayer 

money some "children" simply don't care to learn and use schools as social 

gatherings to recruit more gang members 

teachers 

Dedicated teachers, central office resources available to help employees/staff. 

Technology used in classrooms/offices. 

Forward thinking in technology, preparedness for the workplace, and a wellrounded 

education. 

The teachers and the students and their intense desire to make JCPS a better 


The teachers and the students and their intense desire to make JCPS a better 


Magnet programs and the variety of programs to choose from- traditional, 

Montessori, etc. Advanced Placement and IB course offerings. Alternative 

programs, like TAPP. 

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Many strong, good principals, teachers and support staff who care about students 

and work really hard to help them progress. (Unfortunately there are MANY, but not 

ALL.) A diverse population brings a world view to our district. 

diversity, dedicated staff members, push for quality, inclusion of all in the school 

community 

Large, great potential, engaged community. 

Teachers want to teach! 

JCPS tries to have a program for everyone so that all children feel successful. 

traditional schools and magnet programs, a core of qualified and dedicated 

teachers and professors in our universities, a community that wants improvement 

in our schools 

The science department continues to make strides with the help of the GE grant. 

Scores have improved significantly. Jefferson County High School provides 

opportunities for drop out students to come back and get their degree. It is 

nationally recognized as one of the best in the nation. The teachers are great. 

There are many people who are teaching at the same school they attended. They 

are invested in that school and want it to be better. 

Once again diversity is a strong asset. Students also have many resources and 

choices of programs available to them. 

Strengths: number of students; diversification of population; teacher/pupil ratio; 

technology in education level; we have an online HS that serves the country. 

Diversity of programs. Schools are well supplied. Many services for those who 

need them. 









Tri-mesters gives our students the best possible chance to succeed. 

It is a very large district where there are many opportunities for students to have 

some choice in what they pursue, especially at the high school level. Technology 

is available and there are continuous upgrades and PDs to stay current in 

technology. 

The Care for Kids program, small learning communities in high schools, and 

teacher research projects are all assets in our district. We care about raising 

citizens, not test scores. 

We have wonderful principals, teachers and staff. Our technology education 

program is recognized as one of the best in the U.S. Integration has been in place 

many years now, so for the most part our students get along with each other. 

Whites, Blacks, Hispanics, and other races get along, have friendships and don't 

see color when they are at school. 

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We have a public that will get behind our school district, when we shed our old 

ways and look for a new direction in being a successful educationally focused 

community. 

Teachers, art integration 

many programs to offer 

None. Totally broken system 

There are many hardworking teachers, principals, and counselors in our district. 

We are in front of much of the educational research that recommends curriculum 

programs or models. We have up to date technology in our buildings and utilize 

it to enhance instruction. 

its diversity of teaching areas 

Dedicated teachers; traditional school options, united district, strong support for 

special needs; many high performing schools, and potential. 

Diversity 2. Many resource people who know how to do what is needed for all of 

our students 3. An alert public who know what they want for their kiddos 4. 

Excellent schools and others that just need to be updated 5. A concerned JCTA 

and helpful School Board 

diverse caring and well educated teachers parents who care what happens to the 

schools 

We utilize technology. We are diversified. We allow for differences. 

We have a lot of money. I just found out yesterday that our school has $88,000 

extra from not hiring a teacher and a teacher assistant. We have the highest ratio 

of teacher to administrators to anyone in KY. We can afford to sent 4 kids on a 73 

passenger bus all the way from Jeffersontown to the West End. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

resources available to teachers and parents unique programs at the schools 

(magnets, etc.) 

We are a district that believes in diversity, that has an excellent early childhood 

program, and respects and values parents. 

teacher quality resources and programs facilities strong PTA 

We are a magnet school district that encourages individual student selection and 

diversity. 

Planning as a group to achieve a common goal. 

Diversity of staff, fully integrated schools, the union 

Good teachers and support staff 2. Multiple resources to aid the teaching process 

large number of resources; staff 

TALENTED TEACHERS 

Our programs such as "Care for Kids", the Reading Workshop, Math Investigations, 

and the Science Modules. PLCs are also helpful to build community among staff 

and to promote professionality. 

Magnet programs, great teachers! 

Care for kids has made a huge difference in our student's behavior, social skills, 

and ability to cooperate with others. I would like to see this program continue. 

Visual and Fine Arts award winning programs. Diverse group of students. 

Excellent teacher and student dedication to sports and extra-curricular activities. 

Its teachers.PERIOD! NOT ITS ADMINISTRATORS OR POLITICIANS 

Diversity Dedication of the Teachers High Expectations Global Awareness 

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Come one, come all We have the best education of all students at heart We 

provide for the interests of all our students' interests in afterschool activities. 

People. Lots of volunteers willing to put in extra hours to help kids succeed. 

Successful arts programs and sports programs that are always growing stronger. A 

LARGE district that is on the brink of a new era with the right leadership. 

JCPS is large and diverse. I believe many programs (magnets, small learning 

communities, social workers in buildings, extended ESS) put us in front of other 

districts in terms of educational theories put into practice. 

The arts are important in our school district and should remain so irregardless of 

budget issues. Our students deserved the best and most well rounded education 

K-12. 

willing to try new programs to improve schools 

We are committed to making equal public education available to all children in all 

parts of the city. Struggles with creating diverse school populations present 

ongoing challenges while the demand for neighborhood schools grows. 

strong and dedicated teachers, cultural diversity, district support of the arts (even 

tho' inconsistently supported in individual schools) 

Staff within the JCPS school system and people always willing to help. 

reaching variety of student needs, especially in drop-out prevention 

Our district presents a great challenge with administators, teachers and other staff 

ready to support innovation. The racial demographics are exciting. 

Diversity. 

Strong elementary literacy department...Incredible new social studies program 

being developed - One Community One Nation...Strong English as a Second 

Language program and department 

The endurance of teachers to put up with uninvolved, delinquent parents, violent 

students, mandatory overtesting on a weekly basis, and endless red tape with 

getting low-level students tested. 

growing growing ESL student population adds diversity 

Diversity, willingness to try new programs 

dedicated teachers 

The strengths are the teachers that support the chidren and the administers that 

support teachers. 

Teachers want what is best for students 

Developing leaders within the organization, rich data source and average in 

research-based studies of our own programs. Works hard to meet the needs of the 

community. 

We are committed to continous improvement and learning for all students, faculty, 

staff, and the community. 

Frankly, you need to look at the weaknesses. This system glosses over failures 

and tries to hide them instead of dealing with them. 

A belief that all children can learn. Willingness to embrace diversity. 

We reach a ton of kids and have many, many schools. We work hard to ensure 

that all children learn at a high level and continue improving communication 

between parents, schools, and leadership of our school system. 

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We have a very diverse population of teachers and administrators whose main 

concern is putting students education first and focusing them to look at their future 

and work toward accomplishing all they can. 

The Early Childhood Program provides our youngest children with a good start 

before kindergarten. It provides and opportunity for at risk and special needs 

children to have an extra boost to catch up. I think it does not get the support and 

recognition that it should considering the importance it plays on giving children the 

right start. I think the teaching and related services in Jefferson County (SP, PT, 

OT,etc.) are effective, caring and hard working. 

The Early Childhood Program provides our youngest children with a good start 

before kindergarten. It provides and opportunity for at risk and special needs 

children to have an extra boost to catch up. I think it does not get the support and 

recognition that it should considering the importance it plays on giving children the 

right start. I think the teaching and related services in Jefferson County (SP, PT, 

OT,etc.) are effective, caring and hard working. 

strong teachers, diversity 

Diversity 

Our focus on CTE. 

Several good programs, most the teachers are superb and care, good sports 

programs, a well structured defined work day and excellent school lunches for the 

most part on most days. 

pretty good resources for teachers, good professional development opportunites 

we've used innovative strategies, are not afraid to try new ideas, have programs to 

interest a variety of student interests (magnets, etc) 

JCPS is the leader in curriculum development, PD, and career themed programs. 

Good magnet programs 

The money that has great potential. 

Large numbers of public schools that can offer a diverse approach to education. 

Economy of scale--That is really about it. The PD, Gheens, Student assignment 

and general attitude of the district is outdated and impotent to the point of 

negligence 

some great schools, fairly strong community support 

An incredible faculty and staff dedicated to the education of children, who are ready 

and able to raise above issues to follow a superintnedent ready to impliment 

change. 

Faculty and Staff are second to none. The majority are dedicated to educating and 

working for kids and the community. 

We have some good employees. 

Many talented teachers, leaders, and students. There is also potential/opportunity 

for great growth and improvement under great leadership. 

Interesting that you don't ask about weaknesses! Strengths - size and diversity 

offer unique challenges. Weaknesses - size and diversity! 

the ability to have vibrant alternative schools along side the traditional schools. 

Diverse, our resources, teacher pool, communities involvement 

Despite the state's assessment, we have a lot of excellent dedicated teachers. 

Well maintained buildings. 

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Despite the state's assessment, we have a lot of excellent dedicated teachers. 

Well maintained buildings. 

The quality of staff--teachers, support/clerical staff, bus drivers--everyone plays a 

role and helps. 

The needs of the diverse cultures of the community are addressed. 



candidates.) 

The candidate SHOULD be selected from the talented, knowledgable people who 

work in JCPS and understand the complexitites and challenges of this school 

district. WHY DO PEOPLE FROM OTHER STATES KEEP GETTING HIRED FOR 

THIS POSITION? 

Superior organizer, strong character to stand behind teachers, and common sense 

about what's really important to kids and their education. 

experience in a district that is LARGER than ours; any district larger than ours will 

have the same problems as we do. A smaller district, might not and will become 

unwielding to a superintendent not used to so many schools, students, and 

dysfunctions. 

academic leader; has vision and is able to share that with the public and JCPS 

employees 

She needs to be culturally sensitive and be able to hold ALL district leadership 

accountable for the integrity of our educational system.Teachers in 

underperforming schools need SUPPORT! We don't need our heads beaten in 

because of scores. We need and deserve SUPPORT. These are very difficult 

places to wrok. 

talent in hiring well-qualified, effective people; strong ability to cut through psychobabble 

and ed-speak and figure out what's really going on; focus on objective 

measures of success 

Must not have a political agenda. Must not ask his/her employees to do something 

he/she would not do (i.e. continuing his/her vacation when the school year was 

extended due to weather - his employees were required to reschedule/cancel their 

plans) 

MUST have experience with a high-poverty district that's as large or larger than 

ours, and must have successful track record with turn around schools 

Someone who will focus on meeting the unique needs of our student body and who 

believes that creativity, innovation, the arts, and a diversity of disciplines is the best 

way to meet the needs of students in the 21st century. 

vision, leadership, action, discipline, fairness 

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leadership (servant), cultural sensitivity, objectivity, ability to change. 

KEEP THE ARTS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS, supportive of keeping diversity in our 

public schools, support for teachers, support for special education, support for 

schools in low income neighborhoods 

Someone who will CHANGE the way we educate children and challenge the 

integrated system.

A person who has recently worked in low preforming schools 

Diplomace combined with honesty, integrity in personal, professional and academic 

life, commitment above all to students, and advocacy on teachers' behalf 

Openness to talk and resolve issues, experience in the classroom as a teacher, 

experience working with a very diverse population, experience with transportation, 

experience living outside the U.S., ability to compromise & listen to differing 

opinions 

strong leadership, intellect, past experience in a large urban school district with 

similar student population, ability to balance all sides of an issue 

realistic, honest, courageous, posses the ability to compromise 

Experience in working with a large, diverse and urban environment. Person that 

values higher levels of learning, problem solving, critical thinking, creativity--not 

focusing exclusively on basic skills. 

Educational leader, we are not here to teach diversity, we are here to teach the 

traditional subjects. To do away with busing, bring schools back where parents can 

come and be a part of their child's education. Do not promote students without 

accomplishing certain standards in each grade. 

Our superintendent needs to stand up for these schools. They are not failing. The 

new superintendent needsd to reopen our vocational education and push for 

schools to train our electricians, auto mechanics, carpenters, and garbage 

collectors without expecting college for all. No Child Left behind does not mean 

every student needs high level Math and Science. It means preparation for their 

life. The Superintendent needs to test the future doctors and lawyers differently 

than the future plumbers. 

that they take the initiative to get rid of busing and corruption of the administration 

and the board members. Unfortunately they will be in a no win situation. JCPS will 

not be able to get anyone of great skill due to the whole nation knows of the issues 

that hold this school district back. We will get someone who will take the job 

because they are a yes man to the board and will not have the necessary skills to 

make change. 

Experience with a large district (not necessarily as large as JCPS but comparable 

on some level); ability to negotiate with a union; openly communicates with ALL 

stakeholders; a good listener; responsive to needs of all students K-12; visibility; 

will relocate (with family) within a reasonable amount of time 

Being fair and knowledgeable about the decisions he or she makes; taking into 

consideration the opinions and repercussions inflicted upon the people that his or 

her decisions affect 

Have the bravado of a "Zorro" to slash away the deadwood at Gheens, on the 

school board and at the non teaching administrative level-dismiss those who 

command high salaries and have few duties in the classroom, but take up office 

space and occasionally wander into a school building with a clipboard and watch 

the teaching staff work 

Having experience with a large, diverse school population; being pro-early 

childhood; being flexible and able to rool with the punches. 

Passionate about his people sound judgement. 

open minded, hard working 

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Needs to look at the whole child....physically, emotionally, academically....need to 

see the importance and relevance of physical education in a child's life and how it 

helps increase academics. 

flexibility, accountability, creativity 

a person of vision, quality educator, team builder, commitment to diversity in the 

schools, good listener, able to relate to people from all walks of life, good 

communicator, commitment to early childhood programs 

firm disciplinarian 

hire good leadership - administration - a school's performance starts at the top - 

you can have great teachers but if they don't have a good leader, they will fail - just 

like any good corporation. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Increase the parent involvement in student eduction. 

Understanding of needs of large school districts 

A people person Caring Great Communicator Curriculum knowledge Connection 

with the Community 

improving scores for lowest performing schools. 

Great Communicator Committed to Diversity Charismatic, but sincere Willilng to 

listen and consider other points of view 

An individual who is willing to support teacher efforts to hold students accountable 

for being responsible. An individual who will not pass students on when they are 

not ready and who will support teacher expectations of safety in their classroom. 

Be aware of the needs of the whole child, not just academic achievement but also 

social emotional, family life as programs are set up for support and progress within 

the district. 

The next superintendent should be prepared to meet the needs of the diverse 

student population enrolled in Jefferson County. 

Effective communicator Visibility in schools Open to changing School Assignment 

Plan 

Special education background, previous experience in a big system, a commitment 

to technology in the classroom, Understanding of our LEP populations and creative 

ways to deal with the issues facing it. Keeping arts in the schools. 

Understands the importance of providing a quality early childhood education 

program. Able to build community within schools AND within the district. Able to 

build relationships with the school board and unions. 

Honest, hard working, positive, understanding of diversity. Experience with a large 


excellent communication skills with community and board Totally has experience 

with huge district and diverse/urban students. can figure out how to make school 

board happy/not divisive 

The next superintendent should see the problem as not enough parent 

involvment/parent ownership of their childs education or the lack of their education 

Open to a variety of approaches as we have a variety of students. One size does 

not fit all. 

not a bean counter, someone who will stand up and fight against NCLB 

Somenone who will see things through to their positive conclusion. Someone not 

afraid to make waves for positive change.

He should be able to come up with a plan for improving failing schools, that can 

immediately be implemented. This can be done without a complete overhaul--it 

has been done in other school districts! 

Early Childhood Services. EDUCATION begins at home and if the home 

environment is not conducive to learning, then we need to get those children into 

the classrooms as early as possible with positive outcomes. ECE Services are 

vital to assisting many of these children. Our new superintendent needs to be 

aware that when children start school at the kindergarten level with No Prior 

Preschool experience, most cannot recognize any of the letters in their name, do 

not know colors, numbers, shapes...etc, but yet by the end of Kindergarten these 

children are expected to read and write. That is a great deal of pressure to place 

on Kindergarten teachers, UNLESS you have a great Early Childhood Program in 

place to boost those children before Kindergarten. 

visibility at ALL schools, knowledge of the make-up of the schools' populations, 

effective COMMUNICATION 

The new superintendent needs to be flexible and have an understanding of how to 

manage a large and diverse school district. 

Communication to the community of ideas and plans 

JCPS is BIG. Big ego is NOT enough. Having worked in a big district is NOT 

enough. We need a leader who is as capable of speaking as she/he is of 

LISTENING. The loudest voice is not necessarily the correct one, and Berman 

knew that. His apparent indifference to popular will was a big part of the recent 

unraveling. 

Support for teachers and students, even in the face of challenges. Awareness 

that schools must change to serve the needs of our changing client base. Many of 

our kids come from low income single parent families with inadequate support for 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

success. The old school model is not working for them. High standards for 

student behavior so all school people are safe. Willingness to deal with tough 

issues and ability to build consensus. 

Keep a pulse on the needs of the distrcit while balancing fair and equitable 

decisions. Being proactive instead of reactive to tough decisions and situations. 

The ability to work w/many diverse (interest) groups, while still being able to hold 

his or her own ground on significant issues--student discipline being not among the 

least of these-- 

Strict on discipline and academic success; Need to have someone who will set the 

guidelines and stick to them. Require students to perform in order to pass, apply 

penalties when rules are broken 

Commitment to Best Practices; Willingness to listen to and address community 

concerns 

That this person have an open mind, be ready to get in the trenches and put action 

to words. But more or most importantly not come in and change everything all at 

once. 

Developing a Mission/Vision for the JCPS community that will impact student 

acheivement. Strong support for the arts. 

He/She must have experience in dealing with a large and diverse student and staff 

population. The willingness to listen to various suggestions prior to making major 

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changes in curriculum is a must. Visiting the schools and listening to the needs of 

teachers, without judging, will make the district stronger. Teachers are actually in 

the know as to what students are in need of. Using teacher input into curriculum 

requirements and standards will result in buy-in from all parties. 

The willingness to listen to teachers and look for new and inventive ways to meet 

the needs of all learners. 

experience with a large transient population 

familiarity with a district our size, diversity (immigrant as well as natural born); 

strong instructional bkgd., consensus builder 

a leader who can hold parents accountable 

Experience with large district, worked as a teacher for 10+ years, understand 

bussing, empower teachers 

He needs to know how to speak with his teachers who are in the schools and not 

just the principals and assistant principals. He needs to understand that there are 

schools that are trying to deal with the NCLB law, but how can you expect a 

student with an IQ of 65 using his/her accommodations to do the same test as a 

student with an IQ of 95 to 100, and be expected to score in the normal range as 

students without a disability. 

The next superintendent needs to believe in developing the whole child. He or she 

needs to believe in helping children to expand there knowledge across all content 

areas. Most importantly they need to believe in producing students that are going 

to be vital assets to our Louisville community by growing to become caring 

individuals not only meeting numbers and percentages for testing results. Finally, 

Early Childhood is a crucial program to help produce families who are partners in 

their childrens' education and assists students in learning how to become 

successful learners. Without programs like KERA preschool and Head Start we 

are not serving our families of young children in our city and we are not welcoming 

them into the Jefferson County Public School system from the very beginning of 

their lifelong school experiences. 

A willingness to spend time really getting to know the community. Live here, work 

here and become a part of the community. 

leadership, flexibility, drive and determination to meet national standards 

Leadership of many different races, nationalities and socio-economic status. Ability 

to communicate clearly, effectively influence others to take action. 

-treats academic success of each student as a personal responsibility; no fluff 

A vision that one size doesn't fit everyone, meaning that an alternative education 

for students that aren't academically motivated to get a traditional education. Jobs 

in society are more specialized and vocational education needs to be brought back 

into the schools. This will help to address the educational needs of students who 

aren't going to college. 

The most important characteristics are compassion, work ethic and reasoning. The 

next superintendent needs to be able to think of the future of our school system 

and act before it is needed. If we stay one step ahead of decisions that are made 

by KDE, we will increase the test scores and be seen in a positive light. I am tired, 

quite frankly, of seeing JCPS in a negative light in the news when I know that 95% 

or more of the teachers work harder and smarter to make sure that our kids are 

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successful. I also feel that the superintendent needs to be able to listen to the 

needs of the educators and trust that they know that is best. Since the educators 

are in the classroom on a daily basis -- it is important that they have a voice. 

Visiting a school/classroom ONCE is not enough to know what is going on. 

Looking at all content areas, concerning test scores is also important. Just 

because science is NOT as important as reading and math -- it does not mean that 

the it is not important for success in life. Science and social studies matter just as 

much and the students need to know that -- just as much as the teachers do. 

Ability to see the greater picture 

ability to lead; to keep the focus on classroom instruction and student needs; not to 

focus on quick fixes for NCLB issues; commitment to keep the district diverse 

A person wil intergrity, proven urban school record or business background. A 

buisness person might be able to reduce wasteful speading. 

Please help unify the school system with the community. The past year has been 

very difficult. 

someone who puts educational needs/safety of students first, someone who will 

establish standards and procedures that are kept in place (as opposed to 

introducing/changing things from year to year) so that teachers can become 

proficient teaching and assessing students 

Student centered vision. Teacher support. Whole child education, not just testing 

and data hungry. 

Ability to manage a large district. 

Next superintendent needs to set high goals but at the same time not lose sight of 

the fact that we are people educating people. Let's not lose our humanity in the 

process. 

A person with high moral values and character that is interested in the total 

development and achievement of all children in this community. 

A person with high moral values and character that is interested in the total 

development and achievement of all children in this community. 

Good people skills proven leadership former policies and how they effected 

schools and teachers. 

The future superintendent should be a child advocate, a former educator in a large 

district, loyal and relatable. I would like to see a person who is visible throughout 

the community, not just a person who crunches numbers and cares about test 

data. 

Be strong enough to say the Arts, including PE and recess, have more of a place in 

the school day than they currently do. Be versed in alternativce techniques to keep 

all students engaged. Be a listener and observer not an automatic "changer" right 

off the bat. Faithful, honest, fair, monogomous. 

Strong character/morals, willingness to listen, ability to see beyond numbers, a 

desire to uphold not only the letter of the school discipline code, but the spirit of it 

as well (true zero tolerance). Be ready to support/help teachers who are tired and 

overworked yet continue to do their job to the best of their ability. Be willing to "step 

on toes" to do what's best for the schools/students - no more "dog and pony show" 

by highlighting the positives and sweeping the negatives under the carpet or 

denying it even happens. 

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Consideration for teachers and children, interest in literacy and cognizance of the 

importance of school media library programs. Understanding of the vast amounts 

of paper work required of elementary school classroom teachers. 

To make sure that each jcps school has equal and adequate diversity in the school 

system. 

Leadership and experience with large, diverse student population. Commitment to 

maintaining diversity with opportunities for all students to reach their potential. 

Excellent communication skillls to articulate the direction and educational programs 

best suited for our district. Must be willing to regularly communicate with parents, 

JCPS employees, community leaders and students about the superintendent's 

ideas and passion for educational successes. 

One who is well-rounded: Educator, literate, perceptive, politically savvy, good 

communicator with a desire to serve the whole child (holistic approach). Boundless 

energy with heart is also required. 

The most important characteristics are to have experience working in a large, 

diverse community; to have been in a leadership role that demonstrated constant 

improvement, and to be open to suggestions. 

That s/he listens to classroom staff, gets to know the schools. Also that s/he 

considers retaining primary age students read significantly below grade level 

before they get to 3rd grade 

That neighborhood schools would get the children and community behind the 

schools. It would allow parents to attend programs and sports at the school as well 

as volunteer. Our students are shipped across town for over 40 minutes. Some 

parents cannot get to their childrens' schools for conferences, games or just to help 

out. The students suffer and believe their parents don't care when they cannot get 

transportation. Long school rides also lead to behavior problems which no bus 

driver should have to address while transporting our children. 

The next superintndent needs to take charge, and not be afraid to shake things up 

a little. 

Someone with experience with a LARGE school district with a diverse population of 

students and PARENTS (from welfare to doctors and all inbetween) 

We need a superintendent who has worked in a large urban district similiar to 

JCPS. We also need a superintendent who is open to change and new ideas. As a 

district we are continually changing our practices to meet the needs of the child. 

He/She needs to understand the true socio-economic issues that face our county. 

There are kids who only get food at school. They wear the same clothes all week. 

They are left at home, alone. As teachers, we have to attain high test scores and 

try to meet their basic needs. Berman had no clue what our students go through, 

and I really think he didn't care. He was too busy spending X amount of dollars on 

all his trips that our Board allowed him to take- as our children suffer. 

To not be a local politician and union sympathizer. 

A lot of experience with our type of students. We need help getting parents 

envolved and a great behavior plan. 

Someone who can lead and understand the size of the school district. Somebody 

that will be direct and straight forward with JCPS Employees and the people of 

260

Jefferson County. This person needs to use simplified language. They need to 

speak so that everyone can understand what he/she is saying. 

Someone who truely cares for our students and undertstand the needs of a school. 

Someone who has walked in the shoes of the ones they are going to be in lead. 

Well designed Literacy program with nationally known outside experts. Math 

program aligned with core content Monitoring schools in decline 

The new superintendent needs to use a fair way of assigning a high quality 

principal to each school (including input from its faculty). 

Understanding of all levels of education (primary through secondary) 

Understanding of working in a large urban setting Understanding of individual 

student growth versus bottom line test scores 

that he know self defense because the thugs in this school system will take him out 

if he's not careful 

end busing 

The ability to look at similar, successful schools as role models. Always putting the 

students first! not the money amount. 

Leadership, willingness to work collaboratively with the Mayor of Louisville, as well 

as the University of Louisville and the School Brd., a good listener, one who is 

approachable not only by employees of the school district, but also parents. 

Understanding of special education policies and procedures at the federal/state 

levels. Prior experience in a major city school district that has has similar issues as 

the ones we are facing. 

Realization of what it is like to be a teacher, basing decisions off classroom 

implications. 

The strength and fortitude to make hard decisions. The personal involvement in 


The strength and fortitude to make hard decisions. The personal involvement in 


The new superintendent needs to let teachers teach. He/she also needs to build a 

strong and positive relationship with the Greater Louisville Community. 

leader/facilitator of change team player, not a dictator focus on instruction, 

particularly literacy - Without literacy development, math, science, social studies 

and everything else will be impossible. For the last few years, we have had a really 

strong focus on math and science. Those two content areas are extremely 

important, BUT without reading and writing, students can't achieve at high levels in 

those content areas. Our focus needs to be on developing the reading and writing 

skills, especially in the youngest students AND THEN the other content areas can 

be emphasized. 

dedication to the students of JCPS, emphasis of making students work-ready 

citizens of the community, supportive of the teachers, high expectations of parents 

to do their part of the job, 

Persistent, friendly, enthusiastic, knowledgeable, good track record, good 

experience. 

Ability to work with JCTA and parents; understanding how to serve the "whole 

child"; being a superior leader in the fields of teaching and learning; NOT testdriven; 

opposed to charter schools 

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Success with low socioeconomic student achievement Not beholden to the 

unions Record of success in large urban district Results based, not theory 

based. Willing to shelve the busing plan if it would help students. Discipline 

is a priority! Attention to vocational and technical programs 

Knowledge of curriculum and research-based educational practices; experiences in 

a large, diverse, urban, district; willingness to listen to parents, teachers, principals; 

willingness to re-vamp student assingment plan 

Someone who will look at what is best for kids, and then be an advocate for that. I 

don't want to see someone who has their own agenda or who wants to execute the 

agenda of another organization. BE AN ADVOCATE FOR CHILDREN! 

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experience with managing a large district, a positive attitude toward approaching 

challenges, mediation skills to help diverse groups and those with different 

philosophies to work together, understanding of challenges teachers and 

administrators face daily, positive attitude 

The person must have experience in a large school district with a significant urban 

population with many diverse cultures. The main problem with the most recent 

superintendent was he was from such a small district. He had no idea how to 

handle a large population of students and staff. She must be on the cutting edge 

of technology. Technology must be utilized and emphasized in the school system. 

She must be involved in the schools directly with a more hands-on approach. 

There should be an appearance at every school in the district at some time during 

a two year span. He needs to promote the basic skills of reading, writing and 

math. It has to start with the grade schools. Students at risk must be identified by 

4th grade if they are not achieving at grade level and there must be intervention. If 

the grade school children are being successful it should carry over into the higher 

grades. Vocational training needs to be visited again. Not every student can 

attend college and be successful. There are many trades including fixing 

computers and electronic equipment that we have a significant need for. 

Someone that has a wealth of knowledge in dealing with the diverse population of 

students in our district. 

The superintendent needs to realize that teachers are a part of the education and 

that parents hold responsibility as well. Firmness with consequences to one's 

behavior needs to be enforced. Students with constant behavior issues need their 

families to be guided toward help and responsibility. 

Someone with enough backbone to do what is right and not just "cow-tow" to 

political pressure from ANY side. It is more pragmatic to educate students closer 

to their homes - use the money spent on buses and fuel to update those 

neighborhood schools with equipment and staff. BRING BACK THE 

VOCATIONAL schools and programs we used to have - they were successful with 

kids and many kids NEED that type of program and the community NEEDS those 

type of trained workers! 

Charismatic, but with strong opinions. Experience with a large city school district. 




). The survey should consist of what needs to be fixed and what the community





He/She needs to understand that this is the largest district in the state of Kentucky. 

We need our alternative schools. He/She also needs to understand that sometimes 

it is not the teacher's fault if test scores are low. The environment of the school 

MUST be considered. I think it was completely unfair what they did to the 

principals at Southern, Iroquois, and Seneca. These are 3 schools that get kids 

from rough areas. Also, restaffing half the school because of low test scores is 

absolutely riduculous (for the same reasons as before) 

Will get involved in schools at all levels, not just showing up for publicity or to say 

they were in each school throughout the year. Have frequent updates within the 

community about the progress made. Value teacher, student, parent, and other 

stakeholders equally by listening to all of them, not just the ones that are the most 

vocal or the companies that are most willing to give money to try their program. Be 

real - a person of integrity where the way they are in public/on the job matches 

what they do in their personal life. 

Must be supportive of the art programs. 

Classroom teaching experience. Lots and lots of classroom teaching experience. In 

addition, we need someone who sees through the educational jargon of the 

moment and has a deep vision which guides her leadership. She needs to able to 

listen to others in order to genuinely understand their concerns, but she also needs 

to be extremely well educated and a deep thinker herself, so that she is not easily 

swayed. Panic about the "urgent" need to raise test scores is NOT a good 

leadership style. 

The candidate must have good listening skills. He or she must listen to all 

stakeholders as to what is working and what needs to be changed.So often 

decisions are made without input from classroom teachers. Unless you are in the 

trenches now, you don't know what is going on in classrooms. The candidate must 

be willing to listen to teachers, parents, school board members and administrators. 

They must be comfortable visiting classrooms. They must be willing to keep things 

that are working and offer guidance from prior knowledge as well. 

A leader with a futuristic vision. One who will tear away the old layers, so we can 

spawn new, vibrant growth in instructional leadership. 

A superintednent who will not just do what the people in charge for so many years 

tell him to do. The same people have held the same positions for so many years 

and the superintendents come in and listen to them.. The hiring practices for 

principals and counselors is so flawed. The people have picked the person before 

the interviews. Also, certain people are given the questions before entering. Also, 

several schools have hired temps as they wait for certain people on their faculty to 

become certified. What a waste of time for those students. 

experience with large district support of teachers proven record of increasing 

success 

understanding of local issues and appreciation/valuing of programs that are already 

in place that work. 

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concensus builder expresses a vision follow through on details non-political 

(internal and external) 

Someone who will allow teachers to disclipine and stand behind the schools, a 

strong leader to work with diverse groups, a good listener and visionary 

Honor 

someone with experience in a large school district, someone that has experience 

with students living in poverty/low socio economic status, a person that is willing 

and able to visit schools to see what goes on daily, trustworthy, honest, We need 

a leader that does not blame others for our failures but actually takes responsibility 

when mistakes happen. 

providing a diverse education which includes all areas of the curriculum 

A Renaissance Leader with a vision. A person versed in current effective learning 

techniques, not for from the regular classroom. This person must be able 

understand the idea of teaching the whole child using a variety of methods 

including the arts. 

1. Caring 2. Excellent training in problem solving 3. Willingness to LISTEN to 

teachers and families to make schools the best possible 4. Someone who will visit 

schools and talk to the kids for their opinions 5. Help us get more Public Libraries 

and books so our poorer communities have excellent resources 6. Someone with 

teaching experiences 7. Someone who is on the cutting edge in technology and 

can deliver that to all of our schools 8. Someone who knows our curriculum and 

knows how teachers can find resources to do a better job conveying this to their 

students 9. A cheer leader type who can encourage less energized schools find 

their energy 

come from a comp size district showed upward change in scores. strong teacher 

relationship used to actually teach able to address behavior issues able to make 

decisions that may not be popular but are the right thing to do do not let pressure 

affect your decisions 

Honest and Fair. Open and Willing. Supportive and Understanding. 

To be open minded and try to address some of the long term problems like 

discipline, lack of academic stds, morale, and bussing of large numbers of children. 

One problem is we don't try and reduce class sizes. I have been over the limit for 

10 years and nobody is doing anything about it. I don't want a boss who is going to 

try and please everyone. Set a course and lead. 

An ability to see beyond the numbers (assessments) to value the entire educational 

process and develop of students into good citizens and active members of society; 

recognize classroom teachers as professionals and experts on their students 

The person must be a critical thinker that isn't afraid to take risks. They need to be 

a leader who has integrity and does what's right for children no matter the cost. 

They need to understand that we need to educate the WHOLE child not just focu 

on academics. 

communicate with district leaders and have development of whole child in mind 

and every learning style - the importance of the arts to reach each learner and for 

each learner to have an avenue of self-expression 

understanding diversity in large population addressing at risk students willingness 

to move or dismiss personnel- management efficiency in utilizing resources and 

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personnel good communication skills effective listening skills ability to 

compromise and collaborate with others 

They must respect and support our established magnet programs and our SBDM 

committees. 

Honesty, fairness, integrity, humility,... 

Ability to compromise; the ability to make bold yet thoughtful decisions; ability to 

discern truth among the administrative staff recommendations 

Willingness to be truly open to ideas 2. Willingness to stand for what he believes 

in and be open and honest about his beliefs 3. Needs to stop playing politics and 

do whats right for students 4. Willingness to listen to the community 5. Should 

believe in a well-rounded education 6. Should found learning on good, basic 

instruction rather than fancy ideas that don't work. 7. Should be willing to help 

those students who behind by giving them the people needed to help them. 

Personal attention, small classes, tutoring, meeting individual needs. There is not 

one answer for every student. 

Someone who wants safe disciplined schools. Someone who will spend more on 

teacher student ratio and less on gasoline 

flexibility; understanding of large urban school district; willingness to hold students 

& parents accountable to already established rules/expectations even when 

parents complain/threaten to go to media; support of arts and creativity in students 

and staff 

VISION, INSIGHT, POSITIVE ENERGY 

Not to be driven by TEST PREP! We are our students to be thinkers, writers, 

readers, and good citizens. TESTING is not the answer to building the type of 

student we want to develop in JCPS. 

Willingness to listen to teacher/administrator concerns and ideas. Willingness to 

work with schools to solve ongoing problems. 

An appreciation for arts and humanities and a willingness to put adequate funding 

in each school for the arts program. 

That he/she support the arts programs and funding. Strong decision making skills. 

Zero Tolerence attitude and approach. 

HONESTY, SINCERITY,and GENUINE HUMILITY! enough of the BULL! 

Committed to Diversity Understands that the arts are key to education 

Understanding of Poverty CARE FOR KIDS a priority and committment to 

continuing it!! An eye to "leveling the playing field" - in other words NO school 

having the privilege of kicking kids out!!! Not some that do and some that 

don't! :) More attention to learning and progress - less attention on test drill and 

prep!!! 

His/Her core principles and values in life. Strong faith in God, country and man. 

Integrity and Honesty. 

The new superintendent should be soneone with long-term vision and the patience 

to see it through, someone willing to make the district a better place for the kids 

(not to cater to the parents or politicians). Our new super should be someone who 

is strong and can lead without being wishy-washy, someone who isn't afraid to 

support the arts and who will listen to and work with JCTA and teachers. S/he 

should be someone who is willing to stand up to Frankfort (and any Drs there) and 

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who will not let Frankfort run over our district just because it is large and diverse. 

Someone willing to promote the district and is out and about in the schools should 

also be a quality of our next superintendent. 

Understanding of the diversity of our district and the challenges that 

underperforming schools face. 

Providing an equally good education in every school for every student, instead of 

focussing on bells and whistles in different magnet programs 

strong leader, willing to listen and do things to create better managed schools 

Respect for teachers who have proven themselves dedicated, talented, driven 

professionals. 

clear and consistent communication skills, ability to work effectively with a large 

and varied school system, clear vision, value education of the whole child which 

includes the arts 

I personally think we have people in line and qualified to do this job. I would like to 

see someone home grown to get this job a stick with it! I have someone in mind 

and he knows the JCPS school system and the territory of the louisville schools. 

Please look within our JCPS school system. Save time and money by doing this! 

this individual be in tune with raising the bar for standards for all students in the 

district; someone who can appeal both to educator and parent for combined 

contribution to student success 

A "hands on" leader" who becomes a familiar figure in the local schools. A track 

record of working with a large district with many children from low income families. 

Personable and approachable. 

Someone who is going to take immediate action to address the problems of the 

communtiy. 

The new superintendent needs to be a great instructional leader. 

To be on the side of teachers not just students. 

someone who is teacher & student centered over politically expediant 

Focus on early childhood education. The importance of early intervention 

(preschool, kindergarten) with students that are behind their grade level peers. This 

is the key to future success. If resources are more focused on children in their early 

years we will have less students who are not making the grade in High School. 

Early childhood teachers who see signs of learning problems are often told to wait 

and see. In these instances you can "lose" valuable time. I have seen children give 

up by the end of kindergarten and go to first grade totally unprepared. RTI should 

not be used as a delay tactic for children who really need ECE services. 

putting students first, caring for the whole individual -- not just the testing brain, 

understanding employee needs, champion for learning -- not test scores 

A Willingness to fully embrace Early Childhood Education and stand up fr the 

programs of Early Childhood since that is the starting foundation of the school 

experience! 

Organization 2. entrepreneurship 3. well-rounded 4. community involved 

Do what is best for student success, not what is most popular with selected schools 

or people in the community. 

Do what is best for student success, not what is most popular with selected schools 

or people in the community. 

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Utilize research-based decisions, build rapport with community, find funding for the 

district not earmarked by taxes, conduct review of current operations/staffing, etc. 

Consider K-8 configuration of elementary/middle schools to lessen transitional 

problems, minimize staff at VanHoose or reallocate groups to unused buildings. 

Consider better teacher and administrator evaluation process and accountability 

measures tightened for students. Find ways to cut inefficiency in spending and hire 

more teachers to have smaller class sizes in schools that have 50% or more at-risk 

students. Better discipline programs in schools and interventions to prevent drop 

outs, suspensions, etc. Align professional development to focus on one structural 

framework for schools to follow and then tailor it to meet needs more individually. 

Flexibility, innovation, ability think outside the box, and a commitment to advocate 

for students no matter what. 

Friendly, willing to listen to all sides, able to integrate small details into the big 

picture. Someone who understands good educational practices that make sense 

not someone that simply wants to experiment. 

A new superintendent needs to have recent time spent interacting with real 

students in real classrooms in an inner city environment. He or she needs to be 

up-to-date on things that work and things that don't from a verified research level in 

real classrooms not just hypothetical data. 

We need someone who knows our community and our educational history. 

A person who values Early Childhood as a necessary part of each child's 

educational journey. Someone personable, that would be willing to go out and visit 

schools to get input from teachers. Teachers are the best resource in finding out 

what is needed to improve education. Someone who has experience managing a 

large amount of people. 

We need a superintendent that is willing to focus not only on academic success of 

students but also in the rounding of students into useful productive citizens, which 

will require him or her to be to be willing to work with teachers, administrators, and 

community and business leaders. 

It is important that the next superintendent be a big supporter of Early Childhood 

Services and that they recognizes it's importance. They need to be a cheerleader 

for the system and especially for the workers who touch students lives each day. 

We need someone who is personable and able to relate to not only media, but 

those businesses in the community, parents and especially with staff. 

It is important that the next superintendent be a big supporter of Early Childhood 

Services and that they recognizes it's importance. They need to be a cheerleader 

for the system and especially for the workers who touch students lives each day. 

We need someone who is personable and able to relate to not only media, but 

those businesses in the community, parents and especially with staff. 

experience in education, experience in a big school district, understanding that 

front-end loading services in preschool and early primary is the key to stopping 

later failure, dropouts, and behavior issues 

The ability to work with the both ends of the spectrum effectively. The ability to 

work with the high performing schools to keep them on the path of success, plus 

the ability to work with the lower performing schools to assist to bring them up to an 

improved level. 

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a person who is concerned with not only the students but teachers and 

administration as well. The person needs to respect and realize what the job of an 

educator entails. We need someone who is will to support teachers and principals. 

Find a way to be rid of busing... 

The ability to solve all of the problems that no other district or superintendent has 

been able to solve. And they should be able to do it in an extremely unrealistic time 

frame. 

Leadership ability, management ability, ability to work with a strong teachers union, 

an understanding of the nuances of the politics, social, economic and ethnic 

differences of the greater Louisville community. They should have some 

experiance in an urban community, and one that is or has had to deal with busing. 

TESTING IS NOT THE ANSWER!!! We need a superindentent who will focus on 

the whole child- social and emotional well being, as well as academic achievement. 

We need someone who will require parent support and help. We are getting 5 year 

olds in Kindergarten who are angry and fighting with/hurting kids and teachers. You 

cant teach a child who will not listen or want to learn. And as the get older, it gets 

worse- they get farther behind and get angrier! And we have NO PARENT 

SUPPORT a lot of the times, or they dont have a way to get to school. I understand 

the federal govt makes test scores the most important factor to success, but they 

are wrong. Jefferson county can be a model for change. We are big enough to do it 

and show how teaching the whole child can raise test scores. 

flexibility, broad-picture view, willingness to see that low test scores are from a 

variety of factors---not just the teachers---and need to address those factors; ability 

to see that all students do not have the same abilities or goals and our job is not to 

create cookie-cutter students----in other words, our society is not best served by 

focusing only on academic test scores----some of our students will be in service 

positions where other skills are needed; we do need a minimum guideline for 

academic skills, but not all students need to achieve what students at Male or 

Manual achieve----of course, I'm talking about magnet programs such as the tech 

program at Southern High School 

Open & honest communication, transparency in decision making, and REAL 

solutions to fixing issues related to student learning and success. 

Honesty and integerity and doing what is BEST for the students. 

Thinking out of the box, looking at the root issues students face and working with 

the issue so it doesn't make it to the school level 

Must be aware that discipline plays a major role in educating students. Allowing 1 

or 2 students to steal 28 others education has to stop. We should care more about 

those students who want an education. We are educaors 1st not parental 

disciplinarians. 2. That Jcps should be one team of educators. Stop using the 

union as an excuse for student behaviors and grades. 3.Understand city students. 

4. Strong enough to stand up for whats right against the board or union. 

 

Someone who will recognize that schools can and should offer diverse approaches 

to education. We need to make JCPS a viable alternative to expensive private 

education, and this superintendent should recognize that. He/She should not try to 

make all schools the same. 

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I want a real academic who is also a leader. Military background is a plus. I also 

want a proven track record of success with turn around schools, particularly in a 

metro area. Gender and race are completely unimportant. Hey JCPS! If you don't 

get it right and soon, the state will pull those schools and you will be out the tax 

base and all kinds of other nice little perks that seem so important as to structure 

an entire district around them i.e. student assignment, nonsensical magnets and 

the like 

someone who realizes that until discipline is restored in our low performing 

schools, teachers will not be able to teach and improve instruction 

Willing to embrace the true issues our schools face which have lead to failing 

schools. (If students are unable to read, add, and follow simple rules when they 

leave elementary school their success rate in middle and high school are greatly 

deminished unless parental support for the education process is strong) 

understanding of the urban school setting is essential experience in it even better 

Politically savvy with the ability to listen and react to the needs to all stakeholders. 

That they realize that social engineering is not the key to education. 

Someone who has strong, practical ideas about how to fix the significant problems 

in the district. Not simply educational philosophy. 

Most importantly you need to look for a candidate who possesses the innate ability 

to see the big picture and the details of the smallest elements. He/she also must be 

assured and confident without being cocky. A person who thinks before making a 

rash decision, who speaks to everyone with respect, and who understands that this 

position is about everyone else more than it is about him or her. 

the next superintendent should be in close communication with clssroom teachers 

who work with students daily. 

*Has a background in Education and knows research-- *Understands pitfalls and 

the cycle of reform-- no easy fixes *Has worked with larger district AND has LONG 

TERM VISION. (not short term gains) * Understands current efforts and what 

actually can work--not the rhetoric. Data supports his views-- so much of what we 

are doing we know DOES NOT work. 

 

 

 

We need someone who will visit the schools and really get to know what really 

goes on and what the challenges really are. - Someone who will reduce the top 

heavy administration and red tape. - Someone who will question what he/she is 

told and get behind the insulating layer of "assistant superintendents" and find out 

what is really going on. - Someone who can see beyond standardized testing to 

really educating our students. - Someone who values our libraries and the arts in 

school and understands how valuable they are to students. - Someone who 

respects and values teachers. 

Communication with district employees, students and parents/community. 

Understanding of the complex nature of schools and assessment--changes do not 

happen overnight but build over time. 

The Superintendent must have a broad knowledge of programs already in place 

before making changes. 

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THE TRANSPORTATION PLAN WHICH IS TERRIBLE! Children should not be 

spending the amount of time they are spending….on a bus! 

Bussing, school assignment plan, and stop the money wasted on insignificant 

things. 

Prejudiced to Jefferson County within the state and large gaps in socioeconomics 

within the community. 

failing schools 2. assignment plan 3. avalanche of dead weigfht middle 

management and above who insulate the super from what is going on and reinterpret 

issues the way they want. I think everyone above principal should have to 

reapply for jobs -- the great ones keep, but the dead wood and those who 

perpetutate beaucracy just to keep their high-salary jobs -- do not rehire. This 

cabal drains the budget. 

You will have to deal with the adult problem of racial oppression in this district, from 

the main office building all the way to the custodial staffs. It's time to be real about 

what's really good for children and what's really good for positive, authentic, and 

meaningful growth for an organization of this size. 

a severely bloated central office bureaucracy; a culture of grading based on effort 

rather than competence; huge achievement gaps within and among schools; 

maintaining student diversity while minimizing transit time 

The next superintendent needs to make the state realize it's hard for a teacher to 

set high standards for students when the state has set the bar so low - no required 

GPA and AYP assessments not tied to grade advancement nor graduation. The 

superintendent must also help the state realize we are failing a large population of 

students, those students who will not being heading to college due to identified 

disabilities. We need to offer more techinical and vocational programs for these 

students. 

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changing the student assignment plan and raising test scores 

The most significant issue is going to be dealing with the wrongheaded ideas 

propagated in the name of "school reform" who care more about political posturing 

than what is best for kids. Failing schemes like charter schools, pay for 

performance and other measures will surely be put forth and hopefully our new 

superintendent will forgo these awful ideas in favor of proven methods like lower 

class sizes and before and after school programs. 

student assignment, bus assignment, discipline 

bussing, lack of parental involvement, lack of motivation, need for vocational 

programs. 

keeping our schools diverse, supporting the student assignment plan 

Bussing, low test scores, bad teachers, poor administration 

How to improve low performing schools 

The drive of some state politicians to destroy public education. It is our greatest 

danger and our least talked-about issue. Everything, from the current harrassment 

of teachers to the issue of who is in control of student assignment, to advocacy of 

vouchers for private education, is in aid of destroying public education. I am a

stakeholder as a teacher, parent of JCPS graduates and as a community 

membwer. Number 5 should be a multiple selection question. 

Working toward changing the state's witchhunt to audit and crush low performing 

schools. Merely moving (and removing dedicated teachers from schools and 

students they have relationships with) from the "bottom" schools each year will only 

result in schools that have new leadership & staff that, not only have to work to 

raise "scores" but also have to work to unify the staff & leadership and build a new 

community of learning. 

closing the achievement gap, improving college attendance rate, better preparing 

students for college especially with critical thinking, reading, and writing skills, high 

free/reduced lunch rate, need for more parental involvement, busing 

closing the achievement gap, reforming the "lost years" of middle school and 

making them productive, making sure kids don't leave elementary school not 

knowing how to read 

Schools in crisis--low achievement. Student assignment plan. 

Schools not meeting standards, gas prices, busing, achievement gap. 

We need to return to community based schools. Yes our community is segregated 

by economics, race, region. But too many resources are being spent on buses and 

too much time is spent transporting kids. Our schools lose the support of the 

parents who cannot attend games, come to conferences, see band performances. 

We lose the edge when the local community has no interest in the school on the 

corner. 

Being able to kiss the rears of the board member and teachers union. Any person 

taking this job will fail with the situation that is there now. They will not have the 

freedom to fix things and will work in a very closed environment as far as being 

able to implement change 

Student assignment plan Priority school issues Community perception of JCPS 

Relationships with KDE and JCTA Relationship with KDE 

Busing, re-districting, behavior issues at struggling schools 

Shake up the status quo- kick out the so called "resource teacher" who does little 

more than sit on a swivel chair and scroll down on a computer screen all day, 

commands a hefty salary and has little or no interaction with the schoo or the 

classroom- this is a layer of nepotism and incompetence that should be exposeda 

real resource teacher should be at work IN the classroom aiding and encouraging 

those teachers who need support. I have seen this for years, as a classroom 

teacher- it is an insult to the profession and a disgrace to those who labor in the 

trenches of the classrooms 

Budget cuts. It affects everyone across the board. Everyone wants more f a 

shrinking pie. The next superintendent needs to know how to fairly divide what is 

available. 

Choice of schools; busing; neighborhood schools 

ethnic diversity, lack of parental involvement 

Obviously the bus issue and how to keep schools integrated but help with bus 

rides....that seems to be an issue...also helping with the test scores and new 

solutions because replacing teachers doesn't help with children's home situations 

and lack of support. 

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Budget, state testing, math and reading needs 

maintaining diversity in schools in spite of opposition from some parents, low 

performing schools, increased violence in schools and on the buses, bullying; long 

bus rides for some children, especially for early childhood students who often don't 

get home until 5:30-6:00. 

behavior issues in classrooms are out of control and teachers are so preoccupied 

dealing with behvior problems that teaching effectively is very difficult 

deal with neighborhood school issue - still should be seriously considered, don't 

transfer K-3 students on lots of buses - spend the money more wisely, elsewhere, 

consider trade schools again - don't expect everyone to go to college. 

Unfairness of the current KCCT test. It does not accurately measure student 

achievement. 

Making sure all schools are able to be effective 

Test Scores Diversity Failing Schools 

Transportation and Equality State Assessment results Confidence (or Lack of) in 

Public Education 

student assignment, student achievement, qualified quality staffing in all 

classrooms, student behavior as it relates to positive school environment 

It would be nice if the next superintendent would look at the performance of the 

school district and see what practices are working and what practices should be 

changed. I feel as though the schools in Jefferson County have become political 

battle fields, and not the nurturing learning environments that they should be. Our 

new superintendent as well as the school board should take a hard look into what’s 

going on in schools, and make sure that administration, as well as teacher are 

more than qualified, that they are also capable. 

School assignment plan Low test scores Low performing schools 

School assignment plan 

School Assignment Plan, students on long unnecessary bus rides. Schools are 

need to be the same in elementary schools. Same curriculum, same standards, no 

magnet programs. Schools more equal with 50% free and reduced. No school 

should be over 50% free and reduced. Increase the school day because students 

need more time learning. 

Student assignment and bus issues. 

New standards for learning 

bus ride length. how get along with board. failing schools how to fix testing 

standards 

The biggest issue facing not only this district but all across these United States is 

the lack of Parent involvment and parents being held to higher standard. 

Diverse population with a variety of issues. Low test scores and assignment plan. 

busing huge amount of poverty/dysfunction affecting academic performance 

Student Assignment Plan that is poorly designed and does not promote student 

learning. 

Negative attitude toward school by those living in poor school districts. Teachers 

not performing either need to be given PD to improve their teaching skills or given 

administrative jobs, or told to retire, etc. 

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Teachers who need to leave the classroom. The union agreement protects the 

wrong teachers. Budget- Early Childhood should not be a bargaining chip for the 

union contract, yet it is nearly every time. PARENTS- People are having children 

(egg and sperm donors) but they are not raising their children. WE NEED TO 

MANDATE PARENTING CLASSES FOR PARENTS OF CHILDREN WHO 

CONSISTENTLY RECEIVE REFERRALS OR OTHER MEASURES OF 

DISCIPLINE. 

getting qualified and quality people in all administrative positions and dealing with 

unfair suspension rules for elementary schools 

The assignment plan, the NCLB and KDE requirements, and the budget crisis. 

assignment plan and the interest in neighborhood schools 

We are not sinking as quickly as would the general populace think. We need 

someone to communicate that yes, we are struggling, but we are a COMMUNITY 

and need to act it. We also need someone to demonstrate that NCLB, etc, ARE 

NOT HELPING STRUGGLING SCHOOLS AND STRUGGLING COMMUNITIES. 

Yes, there are MAJOR exceptions to the contrary, but they are fleeting and rare. 

Tight fiscal resources Children in poverty Not all kids will go to college so 

education needs to diversify to offer everyone what they need. Lack of successs in 

some student populations Awareness tha 

An outspoken group of teachers and community leaders. 

Will and ability to instill accountability and discipline, among students and parents 

as well as school personnel--this is the "400 lb. gorilla" in the room that has been 

ignored and swept under the rug for too long--and recent events (i.e., unsafe, 

unruly bus behavior) indicate these chickens are coming home to roost-- 

Diverse population; Differentiate instruction 

Growing number of district employees that don't have direct contact with students; 

Public Schools with no "Resides" areas; Student Assignment Plan; Budget 

concerns 

class sizes, how to get test scores up, and recruiting quality teachers who actually 

want to be in the classroom as opposed to someone who just needs a job 

Busing. Budget/Expenses. KCCT scores within JCPS. 

The school assignment plan needs to be readdressed---not by an outside agency, 

but by all parents, teachers and students. Often times when surveys are done, 

results can be skewed due to the way the questions are worded. 

Busing, the achievement gap and the appropriate use of funds in schools. 

parent satisfaction, assignment plan, failing schools, sense of community within 

schools 

conservative/reactionary populace, issues of poverty, JCTA entrenchment, $$$$$ 

declining test scores teacher apathy/disappointment 

Budget cuts, fighting for teachers 

The budget, higher medical expenses for the employees, updating the out dated 

schools, busing, pay raises or lack of them (if you get a pay raise then an 

insurance increase, in reality you didn't get any raise, In fact, you have less take 

home pay than before the year started. Parents who want what they want and will 

fight tooth and nail to get it just because it sounded good. 

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They has been a lot of challenges with the community arguing over what is the best 

way to transport students to their schools. Should there be charter schools? 

Neighborhood schools? Also, there are a lot of wonderful educators in our very 

large school district and all teachers a facing a lot of stress and concern about 

meeting test score percentages as well as having their accountability measured by 

these same tests. 

The national standards, the effects of testing, and deseg issues. 

meeting the national standards 

The ability to encourage and influence parental involvement and accountability. 

Too many parents feel that their children are to be raised by the staff and 

administration at school. Parents need to be reminded of how often children 

should be reading at home and appropriate bedtimes and food for their child. In 

addition parents need to be on board with the programs offered by JCPS. The 

Care for Kids program is a great program that helps students learn ways to handle 

their aggression and learn to be team players, but when students go home parents 

don’t support the practices at school and children are confused or takes steps 

backwards. In addition, parents should be required to attend an informational 

session on the programs offered through JCPS. If the KCCT scores and results 

are so important, then speak with parents at the beginning of the year to explain to 

them what it consists of, what it means to the district and how they as parents can 

help boost their child’s score. Parents complain that schools do not communicate 

enough but maybe the district should be offering more forums and opportunities for 

parents to learn about the district as a whole in which their child attends. 

schools in decline -satisfying a variety of interests from diverse stakeholders 

Creating alternative education programs like vocational education and trying to 

eradicate prejudice and racism toward minority children in the school system and in 

the classroom. 

I believe that the most significant issue is the amount of testing that is done in the 

schools. This year, there is the KCCT, KCAS, ITBS, and MAP testing -- that 

equals one month. We want to create more successful and prepared students, we 

need to be able to have a chance to TEACH. I did not go to school to learn how to 

give a standardized test -- I went to college for an education degree. It would be 

nice to have a chance to show the students that they are ALL successful. 


HOW to focus on improving classroom instruction NOT quick fixes to NCLB issues; 

Student assignment plan...having it make SENSE for all students (no hour or more 

long bus rides); clear house of ALL the extra, non-contributing VanHoose 

personnel (trim the FAT) 

Plan to deal with student misbehaviors- offerng more alternative placements or 

options to reduce the number of distractions in the classroom. Plan to build or 

improve the facilities of the schools to offer better choices to downtown citizens 

Creating more intervention programs to close achievement gaps that will make 

students more able to contribute in the classroom and test will improve 

Chages in the transportation need to be made without sacrificing diversity in the 

schools. There is a strong disconnect between the people who support this new 

transportation policy and many parents in the downtown community. 

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ussing students long distances, failing schools, ineffective teachers being shifted 

from place to place instead of being dismissed, changing over to national 

standards, changes in core content and testing 

The changes in the state testing and accountability. 

districting: home schools/cluster schools 

Very limited resources. Too few people where the rubber hits the road in the 

classroom and too many in positions outside the classroom. 

The students assignment plan is extremely important to our community. After thirty 

years it is time that students stopped being bused acrossed the city and county. 

The busing experiment was a failure! Another critical issue is the budget. It is 

important that programs like Early Childhood, Reading Recovery, etc. are 

adiquately funded. 

The students assignment plan is extremely important to our community. After thirty 

years it is time that students stopped being bused acrossed the city and county. 

The busing experiment was a failure! Another critical issue is the budget. It is 

important that programs like Early Childhood, Reading Recovery, etc. are 

adiquately funded. 

Student assignment. Test scores Discipline problems in schools 

Address parent accountability! STOP blaming teachers and fingering failing 

schools. We should be hiring, not firing, teachers in order to reduce class sizes and 

reach all students. There MUST be Zero tolerance on violent/agressive student 

behavior in schools and on school buses. Allow schools to have higher suspension 

rates, so that the majority of students can learn. Invest in quality programs like 

Reading Recovery, school nurses, Everyone Reads and fund after school 

programs so that children are engaged in healthy acadamic and social outlets. 

Many schools in Shively and other southwest neighborhoods are in desperate 

need of updates and rennovation. 

Need for more Arts and Humanities. Need for more implicit learning. Need for 

tougher zero tolerance for disciplne issues to make work a safer environment for 

teachers. Need to call for more PTA involvement. 

The lack of discipline within the schools. Teachers are working hard to educate 

students who are out of control and don't want to learn. Parents of these students 

are not cooperative with the school community. These types of students derail the 

learning environment of classrooms to where no one can learn yet, at the school 

level, we have almost no enforceable sanctions to preserve the classroom 

environment. 

Diversity vs. neighborhood schools: relative costs in treasure and community 

relations. Discipline problems in the schools. Need for fair and honest teacher 

assessment; perhaps done by disinterested peers. 

The most significant issue facing this district is the socio-economic makeup of our 

school population and the many different needs facing students. Another issue is 

the challenge of working with students who lack significant role models in their 

home life who can guide and direct the students to value their education and its 

potential for their personal growth and development as future citizens of this 

community.Also school assignments need to address the distance and time 

children will spend going and returning from school. 

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The achievement gap (and the necessity of parental, guardian, grandparent, 

community, and business involvement). To be able to deal with the shoals of 

"Race to the Top" as well as respecting the incredibly challenging work the 

teachers face on a daily basis. These are all district, community, and state issues. 

One of the most significant issues is improving transportation,making schools equal 

in educational opportunities, revamping neighborhhood schools, and embracing 

diversity. 

How to meet standardized test progress goals without sacrificing the arts, wellness 

and individual strengths of student and teachers 

Busing, bullying, indifference to education, drop out rate, poor tasting food due to 

cooking and shipping to schools 

There needs to be changes in transportation of students, and there needs to be 

redistricting of schools so that some schools don't have all the students with the 

greatest needs. Make all of our schools equal because they are not equal now, 

and current administrations knows it. 

BUSSING, BUSSING, BUSSING 

Student Assignment Plan Safer transportation for students 

Kentucky's budget is a complete mess, and education is taking the back seat, yet 

we have more and more demands placed on us daily. We are expected to have 

high test scores, and if we don't meet these goals- it's always the teacher's fault. 

When are others going to help us teachers with the severe poverty issues that our 

children deal with? When are people going to start holding parents more 

responsible? I don't want to hear exuses anymore- I want action. My daughter said 

she wanted to be a teacher when she grew up, and of course I said, that's an 

excellent choice- But in my heart I pray that she chooses another profession where 

she is respected and treated like a professional. I have taught for 15 years. I have 

always loved teaching. I love to see the look in a child's eyes when they learn 

something. But when we don't have proper resources for learning- they see that 

we truly don't matter at all. Where are our state's priorities??? 

BUSSING. The schools are stuggling because of the types of kids they get. Not 

because of the admin and teachers. Send Valley's kids to Manual and Manuals 

test scores will go down too. 

Dealing with the cost of transporting students out of the neighborhood schools and 

facing unhappy parents. 

The student assignment plan. It is 2011. The busing system is outdated and does 

not work. Most major cities across America have done away with this system. Most 

teachers are against the system. It is not fair. 

Issues in which address ways in which students, teacher,parents, and schools are 

held accountable. 

Parents upset with students assignment plan, low tests scores, and unity among all 

levels of employees 

*Teachers feel overworked and overloaded by testing and paperwork. *Parents 

and students need more accountability for student success. 

clustering student achievement 

ending this awful busing plan-it's been a proven loser 

behavior problems are out of control in the schools and on the buses 

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Low performing schools and negative opinions 

Keeping classrooms racially and economically diverse while keeping busing at a 

minimum. Closing the achievement gap. 

The district is too large. Pointlessness of KTIP. Lack of TRUELY highly-qualified 

teachers. 

The recognition of the range of challenges (urban to suburban ) of the educational 

community 

The recognition of the range of challenges (urban to suburban ) of the educational 

community 

HB 486 is causing undue damage to faculty and student morale. Getting the state 

to back off and protecting the district from this misguided legislation should be a 

priority. 

*budget *a relatively large district with several struggling schools *student 

assignment (keeping diversity without *sending students across town on long bus 

rides) 

making students ready for the next stage of their academic careers be it middle 

school, high school, college or the work force. working with the diversity, budget - 

and making the dollars work for the true "customers" the students of JCPS vs 

cutting money from student needs because the administrative portion is so 

expensive, teaching the student - not the test while closing gaps 

funding distribution, student evaluation, teacher accountability, parental 

accountability, student accountability, union involvement, school board and 

administration accountability, student distribution, 3 hour bus rides to and from 

school, lack of standards. 

diversity/student assignment plan, priority schools, state legislature that is antipublic 

education 

Our children are a direct reflection of our society and the downward spiral that is 

taking place. What would their plans be to fight this battle? 

Implementation of the Kentucky Core Academic Standards, low-performing 

schools, student assignement plan 

Test scores, drop-out rate, busing, classroom size, parent involvement. 

busing is a big issue--no child will be at his or her best when an hour or two of 

transportation is added to the school day, people are dissatisfied with the general 

perception of the state of education in the JCPS, the need to improve test scores 

(through ethical means), recruiting dedicated teachers for special needs, gifted and 

talented, high-risk kids, etc., implementing some of the practices proven to be 

successful in high-achieving schools in schools seen to be at-risk 

Budget I am sure. All the above mentioned require funding. Busing will continue to 

be a major issue. Community schools are not feasible financially yet and I think 

segregation would arise again. There are 10,000 homeless students in this 

district. One in every ten students is living in a shelter, in a car or with a friend or 

relative. 200 students transfer within the district every day! We need stability which 

would come from parents being satisfied with their child's assignment. We need to 

summon the help of the community to help these students. 

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Someone who with deal with discipline problems that are increasing within our 

elementary schools. Someone who will not blame the staff but support us, and 

seek swift action by the parents to help solve such problems. 

The biggest public issue will be test scores. The superintendent needs to realize 

that we are more than just test scores. In order to raise the scores we need to look 

at the problems of poverty in our society. The schools are simply showing the 

symptoms of these issues. There are many issues involved but I think a few of the 

main ones are a lack of work ethic and pride in a job well-done, a lack of being in 

touch with the earth-meaning the outdoors, working with plants and animals. This 

cultivates a sense of a respect for life. The arts still need to be focused upon as 

well. For some students this is the only thing they have any success at. The arts 

help students express themselves and learn to work hard. These are habits that 

carry over to everything. 

Be ready for JCTA and "community activisits" to immediately begin to persuade 

you to see things "their way." 

Transportation and neighborhood schools issue. Dissatisfaction from teachers with 

emphasis on high stakes testing. 









EFFECTIVELY bridging educational gaps 

Finding a way to hold elementary and middle schools accountable without testing 

to make sure students are prepared for high school. Too many students come to 

high school without knowledge that should have been acquired in the lower levels. 

Get the school district budget under control where everything is documented 

clearly (no ambiguity or vagueness) and it is readily available to all stakeholders. 

Build positive opportunities for teachers from all schools (can be by grade level) to 

interact with one another to build a sense of camaraderie and support across the 

district, not just in each school. 

Need to be in favor of neighborhood schools. 

1.Poverty. High poverty rates in Jeffererson County contribute to many of the 

problems in our schools. A good superintendent works with the community to end 

poverty so that students come to school prepared to learn. 2. Teacher 

Recruitment and retention. A good superintendent understands how to select and 

maintain an excellent teaching staff. She understands that teachers are motivated 

to see their students succeed and work for that satisfaction more than for money. 

So good working conditions, small class size, resources, support for struggling 

students, rich curriculum full of choice are all necessary features in a district which 

intends to keep good teachers teaching. 

No Child Left Behind needs to be repealed or significantly modified. We should not 

be making decisions to solely improve in the eyes of "No Child Left Behind" as it is 

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seriously flawed. The student assignment plan needs to be looked at. Parent input 

needs to be the dominate factor in changing the plan. 

Lack of true accountability on the part of parents and students in education. 

budget constraints busing issues failing schools 

student assignment/diversity issue 

Lobby strongly, at all levels, against intrusive and pointless testing. Quit blaming 

teachers for all of the problems. Hire and promote better administrators. Place 

more responsibility for student success on students and parents. 

student assignment plan, failing schools, teachers who feel over-worked and 

blamed for everything 

Stop busing. 

JCTA and its heavyhanded involvement in instructional programs in our district is 

huge concern. The new leader needs to stand strong against the union and not 

become a friend of the president, which can cause a conflict of interest. The new 

leader should begin looking at each job description in the district central offices and 

decide which jobs can be eliminated based on their direct correlation to student 

achievement. Our top heavy adminstration offices cause money to be spent for 

programs other than STUDENTS. The student assignment plan is a significant 

issue for the new leader. Our superintendent needs to be willing to review the plan 

and make necessary adjustments for the good of STUDENTS. The public's 

opinion of JCPS is incredibly low right now. The new leader needs to work hard to 

fix the problems that are causing the negative feelings. 

budget and pensions 

Recognizing and maintaining those programs that show promise and work; walking 

the line between state requirements and low schools; keeping effective principles 

and teachers. Busing. 

Our schools need more funding for textbooks, infrastructure upgrades, and 

technologies 2. We need to have all teachers and staff on board to welcome and 

support our new superintendent 3. Our bus problems MUST be solved. Less time 

on buses, PLEASE. 4. Celebrate our diversity 5. Teaching our kiddos to have 

more tolerance for one another 6. Help us GET UP OUR TEST SCORES! 

failing schools ways to increase scores transportation issues bully in schools 

and on busses misbehavior in classrooms and no one does anything 

Busing issues not fixing what was stated would be successful. For example 

acheivement gap has not lessened as stated it would do. 

JCPS has had 4 superintentdents in 20 years. The politics eat them up just like its 

eating up America. I would get rid of bussing and have neighborhood schools. 

Parents would not have to travel across town we could spent money on education 

instead of diesel fuel. I would look over the budget and anything that did not teach 

a child something I would cut to the bone. We have too much fluff at Newburg too 

many are going on paid inservice vacations for weeks at a time staying in 5 star 

hotels all expense paid. How does this teach a child? WE need to get back to 

discipline while we still can. 

school assignment plan efficient use of limited budgets 

The need for continued diversity supported by our magnet programs and continued 

busing to achieve that diversity. 

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using - school assignment. Hint: bus all you want (or can afford in gas) at middle 

and high - neighborhood schools/parental guardian choice for elementary 

economy accountability testing system funding working with labor groups and 

legislature 

The school assignment debacle! The horrific cuts in educational funding! The No 

Child Left Behind disaster that needs to GO AWAY if they want to truly address the 

"achievement gap" !!!! 

Accountability 

The achievement gap 

Gather people around you who share your vision. The status quo is not working. 

2. Talk and listen. To teachers, students, the people in the classroom. They are 

the ones who know. 

Money spent on gas and advisory consultants for transportation issues should be 

spent on more teachers per pupil. 

assignment plan that pleases all stakeholders or at least ability to "sell" it to 

everyone 

TRIMESTERS SCHOOLS THAT HAVE BEEN AUDITED. TRIMESTERS DO NOT 

WORK!!! 

The Assignment Plan (The JCPS Board let Dr. Berman take the fall for that one.) 

The poor Media issues Failing HIGH Schools Behavior Issues in Middle Schools 

There is a lot of mistrust among the BOE, school administrators, teachers, and 

parents. Nobody seems to trust anyone else to make the right decision. Good 

Luck with That! 

We need a better solution for student assignment plan. We have overcrowded 

elementary schools while other are practically empty. Cluster 3 schools have very 

low numbers and are loosing teachers because of lack of funding. 

We have failing schools, we are failing our students by taking the time to deal with 

state audits. Legislature does not represent education, they have little to no 

experience and yet they make the decisions that effect us all; students, teachers, 

community. We have little to no parent/gaurdian support at these failing schools 

and without a change, we will not improve. Failing schools need smaller class sizes 

in order to make a difference. The busing and neighborhood assignments are 

broken and are failing our students. Fix it! 

What he/she intends to do to address this political butchering of schools based 

mythical test scores. 

Innovation in creating schools that nourish the whole student. Engaging young 

people to help change the world for the better. 

Understanding poverty and how it applies to learning. Schools with free and 

reduced lunch populations of 70% + have issues other schools in the district do 

not deal with and should not be compared. It is apples and oranges. Neither 

should schools with the "privilege" of "kicking kids out" [traditional and true 

Advanced Program schools] be held up as "typical" or " overachieving"!! If every 

school could kick out low achiever and misbehaving students, we would all be able 

to do well. Unfortunately, this is not this district's policy. Some of us have to love 

and teach ALL students to the best of our ability, and others DON"T!!! Yet we 

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have to hear constantly how "excellent" these schools are and how "underachieving" 

we are! :( 

A positive public image (PR) and to increase teacher morale and confidence in our 

leadership. 

Money, state audits of our schools, student assignment plan/bussing, IMPROVING 

THE REPUTATION OF OUR DISTRICT, OUR SCHOOLS, OUR TEACHERS, AND 

OUR CHILDREN! 

Managing buget issues but keeping arts strong. Student assignment. 

Focus on academic success for all, instead of political correctness 

discipline issues, transportation issues, test scores 

l. Finding the balance between meeting federal/state mandates and creating a 

positive/creative school environment for students AND TEACHERS. 2. Create 

strong community schools which will encourage more parent involvement. 

attacks on public education/teachers, budget cuts to public education while 

increasing demands and expectations, cutting the arts in neighboring districts 

Budgeting Maintaining school buses/keeping drivers keep good people in 

leadership positions support all staff cafeteria ladies, custodians and teachers and 

administrators Maintaining our school buildings. Many have roof issues. Getting 

hold of discipline in our schools 

VERY IMPORTANT: we need to produce students with a high education level to 

attract large business and industries to the Louisville community 

The relationship of the Board of Education with the Jefferson County Teachers 

Association and with the press. The relationship of the Board with the State 

Department of Education and the evaluation of our schools. 

Being able to break from traditional norms and adrress issues that are important to 

the succes of the students. 

The most significant issue on all levels is aligning with the new Core Standards and 

getting the kids up to speed without putting undue emphasis on testing 

Parents in jail, on drugs, abusive, or not involved and the effect it has on their 

children. 

improving academic scores for all students without putting the blame on teachers, 

maintaining diversity in schools without outlandish bussing 

He/she will need to address the student assignment plan. 

student discipline (or lack thereof), busing fiasco, new state standards 

Student achievement 2. Gaps in student achievement 3. Retention at elementary 

level 4. Drop out rate at High school level 

Obstacle will be to avoid what appears as inequitable student assignments. 

Ideas may not be consistent with political power force of school board/community 

and state. Resistance to change. Negative image as more schools are labeled 

low-performing according to NCLB. The number of homeless, at-risk, low SES 

families served by the system and the educational needs they bring to schools 

requires not being so rigid in how we allocate staffing (population), and provide 

specific program track aimed at getting these students on grade level with their 

peers. Don't be afraid to change the system, but be sure to think through the 

process and allow for clear, upfront and timely communication to all stakeholders. 

Don't start anything new until everything is in place to do it right. We do too much 

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working under capacity in one way or another and this weakens morale and hurts 

public perception that their tax dollars may be used on things versus their children. 

To ensure that all students make progress, can read, write, and do math at a 

proficient level rather than teaching and learning based off of state assessments. 

The JCPS Van Hoose staff is dysfunctional and not realistic about what is 

happening in the schools. They ignore the real data and make data fit what they 

want it to be. 

We have an extremely large percentage of students in most of our schools that 

aren't getting what the support they need from home to be successful students and 

our classrooms, our teachers and our content need to be structured to meet these 

students needs in their reality not just what some politician or administrator thinks 

they need. 

How can we integrate our communities to better insure our diversity in schools. 

Encourage parents to show more interest in education and set higher standards for 

learning and behavior with their children. students. 

The school assignment plan, safety of children and adults on buses, lowperforming 

schools, test scores overall. Improving the morale and figuring out the 

most necessary initiatives and getting rid of some of the "busywork" that we do 

now. 

The candidate will need to affect changes that will help all schools to succeed and 

not focus solely on creating or maintaing a select few schools that are essentially 

elite at the expense of all the other schools, also there needs to be more emphasis 

placed on career oriented classes, especially with regard to skilled crafts such as 

those of the building trades because each of these areas are getting more highly 

technical in nature and are requiring a more highly trained workforce, as well as the 

fact that the average age of workers in those industries is approximately 42 years 

of age and will need to be replaced by younger workers in the not so distant future. 

The continued issue of busing, low performing schools and the lack of decreased 

funding. The emphasis must always be the best for the students and supporting 

the workers out in trenched each day. 

The continued issue of busing, low performing schools and the lack of decreased 

funding. The emphasis must always be the best for the students and supporting 

the workers out in trenched each day. 

busing issues, diversity, dealing with the school board who doesn't understand that 

time is a key element to successful change 

How to help the lower perfoming schools increase it's achievement. This must be 

done while allowing the productive schools the ability to maintain its status. The 

idea is to not punish the lower performing schools. One must assist the lower 

performing schools and praise the schools that are performing at a higher level. 

Students' behavior is a major issue principals need the authority to suspend or 

expel students who continually disrupt the learning environment, parents need to 

be held accountable. We should not be verbally or physically abused weekly by k-5 

students. 

Poverty and social alienation. Also, the nutritional disaster that is our lunches. 

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Busing for diversity, high stakes testing with its consequences, student discipline, 

employee morale, funding issues for future infrastructure work and repairs, dealing 

with the KDE. 

Neighborhood schools- we NEED them so we can have more parent involvment in 

schools. We need more resources to deal with behavior problems- more behavior 

coaches for schools that are struggling. Some schools are BUSTING at the seam. 

We need more space!!! If a building in your cluster has open space- send kids 

there instead of causing overcrowding at other schools. Also, decide how we can 

help special needs students more- resource teachers, for example, are trying to 

work with kids and juggle IEP minutes- imagine how much success and 

achievement we could have if there was a resource teacher for every grade or 

more in a building so we could help more kids- even just struggling kids. Test 

scores could go up while student self esteem would go up too- they would find 

success. And not taking so long for special ed student placment 

the issue of neighborhood schools, low test scores, the focus on teachers being the 

only key factor when environment and parental expectations also have such strong 

influences on students 

The busing/neighborhood schools issue, achievement gaps between schools. 

Getting parents involved so students come to school to learn. 

Bussing, student assignment plan 

Discipline in the schools. Allowing teachers to do their jobs. That the state has 

issues that go beyond education with JCPS. 

Busing vs. neighborhood schools will continue to brew and be an issue for the next 

several years. In the early years, it makes sense for children to be educated closer 

to home where parents and families can be involved in their young child's 

education. As students get older, they should be more able to travel distances to 

schools that offer unique educational offerings. 

Fix broken schools. Get out of bed with the Union. Clean out Van Hoose. Get rid 

of bad teachers and administrators who are not getting it done. 

too many cooks in the kitchen and trying to please all of them-needs to have a 

strong idea of what a good school is and demand that even if certain parts of our 

community feel that it is too demanding-needs to stop accomodating those who say 

they want better schools but do not support the efforts to create those better 

schools 

The JCPS Board of Education and JCTA's misuse of power. 

community support in-depth knowledge of how urban school districts operate 

Student achievement and student assignment. 

Neighborhood schools are important to improving schools. 

The most significant problem is a confusing student assignment plan that drives 

great students and families into surrounding counties and parochial schools. A 

significant problem that is causing many failing high schools is the "pecking order" 

where certain schools like Manual cherry pick the top students from every school in 

the district then creating a cascade affect of students and schools jockeying for the 

best position leaving some schools stuck at the bottom without very many talented 

students or involved families. 

Be willing to implement changes immediately 

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First, he/she has to find a way to implement federal and state laws without placing 

so much blame on teachers, AND he/she needs to lobby for changes to those rules 

so that they more accurately assess which schools are in crisis, offer more diverse 

and constructive courses of action, and impose more accountability on the students 

themselves. 

equal educational opportunities for all students ! 

The question is framed poorly-- effective immediately means what? The idea 

someone can fix years of economic, social and racial inequity is silly. These 

schools are "failing" for a variety of reasons. The assignment plan is a difficult 

issue and needs someone that can use the media to garner support. Schools can 

improve, but IF YOU HIRE a a "fixer" we will all regret it. Statue quo is 

unacceptable BUT long term change is required. Media and Public relationships 

Diversity & Current assignment plan Reform: How to do what works & 

understanding reform is a long term effort 

The largest challenge is positive parent involvement. I have been a teacher in 5 

different school for over 30 years and the one factor that trumps poverty and all 

sorts of other ills is parental support. If the parents do not value education, then 

their children face an uphill battle. We need to find a way to teach parents how to 

positively support their children. And students need to have some stake in the 

evaluation process. As long as the process focuses only on teachers, there won't 

be significant process. Education is a communal process and you cannot continue 

to ignore two-thirds of the stakeholders and expect optimum progress. 

The largest challenge is positive parent involvement. I have been a teacher in 5 

different school for over 30 years and the one factor that trumps poverty and all 

sorts of other ills is parental support. If the parents do not value education, then 

their children face an uphill battle. We need to find a way to teach parents how to 

positively support their children. And students need to have some stake in the 

evaluation process. As long as the process focuses only on teachers, there won't 

be significant process. Education is a communal process and you cannot continue 

to ignore two-thirds of the stakeholders and expect optimum progress. 

Assessment--dealing with an unclarified assessment system still in development 

and what it tells us about our students and schools. State laws--helping the district 

deal with laws passed by legislators who have little to no understanding of the 

educational process. Transportation issues--which the community seems very 

focused on. 

Transportation concerns Neighborhood schools Low test scores 

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Stakeholder Input Report For - Jefferson County Public Schools

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