GREENE COUNTY
Dr. Otho Tucker, the former head of Lake Oconee Academy, recently announced that he is running for Greene County Board of Education Chair with a mission to put Greene County students first.
Tucker is a Republican and the Republican Primary will be held on May 21, 2024. Perry Lee currently holds the position after being appointed by the school board.
Tucker said in his announcement, “It’s time for a new direction and elected leadership on the Greene County School Board. Throughout my career in education, I have made putting students first my priority, and I have helped build high-quality schools that deliver real results for students. I am running because it is time to get focused on a common mission and vision to put students first, respect parents, and move Greene County Schools forward, together, in a way that ensures success for our students – now and into the future.
“I have a proven track record of getting the job done that includes taking Lake Oconee Academy from its meager beginnings of 11 kindergarten students to a school with over 1,100 PreK-12 students that has become known for its ability to prepare young women and men for college, the workforce, and military service and has consistently been recognized for its high level of performance. That is what we should expect from every school.
“With our current school board, we have no clarity of communication. There is no common vision to improve outcomes for all students. There are no efforts to improve the perception of our schools through high results to attract economic development. Parents feel disrespected and voiceless, and many board members continue to try to divide us into ‘two school systems’ when there is only one school system that also contains an autonomous charter school whose charter needs to be renewed now. There is no reason for the hostility towards LOA by some on the School Board or any excuse for playing games with its charter. These schools should work together, share students, and collaborate for the benefit of all the students in Greene County. Anything less is unacceptable.
“As your chair, I will use my experience, leadership abilities, and proven track record to bring everyone within our school system and throughout the community together around one mission, one vision: to put students first by improving academic results in all of our schools – for all students. I am ready to get to work for your children and you as your next school board chair.”