Candidate: Jill R. Rudd

Hello, I am Jill Rudd, and I want to be your next Superintendent of Schools.

I have over 20 years of professional experience in education, having served in various roles such as a classroom teacher, Assistant Principal, Principal, Director of Special Programs, and currently as the Director of Instruction. My professional educator certificate includes endorsements in Reading and English for Speakers of Other Languages and Elementary Education grades K-6, Educational Leadership, and School Principal. Notably, I have a successful track record in school turnaround, having transformed a D-rated school into a C-rated school in less than 1 year! This experience has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of the education system, a crucial aspect of effective district leadership.

In addition to all my years in education, I have a degree in Business Management and Administration, a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, and a Doctorate degree in Curriculum Design and Instruction. I was appointed by the former Chancellor of Education, to the Committee of Practitioners. I am currently the Vice President of the Committee. Before any publication, the Committee of Practitioners must review proposed or final state rule or regulation pursuant to Title I. This committee also provides advice and support to the Bureau of Federal Educational Programs on implementing Title I programs. This review includes, reviewing technical assistance documents, templates, and other tools that support the quality implementation of Title I. This experience and leadership role provides me many opportunities to advocate for our districts, have sound knowledge in how the federal grants system works, and consult others regarding federal laws and state spending.

I am a graduate of the Dr. Brian Dassler Leadership Academy. This academy is a year-long, job-embedded, and research-based program designed for principal professional development sponsored by the Florida Department of Education in partnership with the University of Washington’s Center for Educational Leadership and the Northeast Florida Educational Consortium. The program has three anticipated outcomes: 1. Deepen school leaders’ knowledge and skill in identifying high-quality instruction, along with the professional learning necessary to support teachers’ learning; 2. Deepen school leaders’ skills in observation and analysis through on-site support, coaching, and modeling; and 3. Develop school leaders’ skills in providing targeted feedback for teacher growth. This academy allowed me to grow as a leader and to have a deeper understanding of how to develop teachers to be the absolute best they can be.

As your Superintendent, my priorities are to:

•  Increase the fund balance by being fiscally responsible and transparent, seek state and federal grant opportunities, and identifying grant spending to see where we can prioritize the needs of our students
•  Implement high-quality instruction and interventions
• Support teachers and staff through providing professional learning, teacher mentor programs, and focusing on pedagogical goals in all classrooms
•  Develop a district strategic plan to guide instructional focus’ based on district expectations
•  Increase student and staff attendance rate
•  Increase student enrollment to bring our students back to Franklin County School
•  Foster a partnership with the Fl Department of Education Bureau of School Improvement to assist our schools in closing the learning gaps and identifying ways to increase student proficiency
•  Ensure students will be college or career, military, or community ready and prepared to compete in a global economy

My proven leadership skills are a testament to my abilities and dedication as a lifelong educator. As the Principal of FCS, we achieved the highest scores in the Panhandle on SAT school day and received recognition from the College Board. Under my leadership, FCHS had the highest number of students to graduate with an AA degree prior to high school graduation. I also played a key role in creating the medical and nursing academy, welding program, and an aviation/drone’s program.

While I am not a current resident of Franklin County, I have had the privilege of serving in the district for 6 years. During this time, I developed a deep affection for the students, staff, and community, and I am eager to return. My heart is with Franklin County, and I am committed to seeing its school system thrive. I am confident that Franklin County can have a school system that we can all be proud of.  I am excited about the opportunity to lead the district in this direction.

I am eager to hear your ideas or address any issues or concerns you may have. Your input is invaluable to me. Please contact me at ruddforsuperintendent@gmail.com or (850) 895-6712.

I respectfully ask for your support in providing a high-quality education for all Franklin County students. Please vote, Jill Rudd, on November 5, 2024, for Superintendent of Franklin County Schools!