Superintendent will not seek re-election

To the citizens of Gilchrist County:
I want to take this opportunity to announce my intention not to seek another term as your Superintendent of Schools.
I want to thank the people of Gilchrist County for allowing me the opportunity to serve as your Superintendent of Schools for sixteen (16) years. I consider this experience an honor that I will always treasure. Gilchrist County Schools have been very successful over these sixteen years. I give the credit to the outstanding teachers, support staff, and students for making our schools one of the best school districts in the state. Gilchrist County has the only school system in the state that has maintained all “A” and “B” grades in all schools for ten (10) years in a row.
When I was first elected in 1992, Gilchrist County Schools looked very different both inside and out. Trenton and Bell Elementary Schools did not have a separate facility, but were tucked onto the edge of the high schools. There were no high stakes state assessments like the FCAT (Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test) and EOC’s (End of Course exams). In fact, schools didn’t receive a school grade. However, there were music and art programs in the elementary; paddling in the principal’s office; and kindergarten was fun.
Over time, we were held to the federal “No Child Left Behind” requirements; both elementary schools received their own school sites; and programs were put in place like our successful Health Academy, Criminal Justice Program, JROTC, and Building Construction / Engineering program which provides our students with academic and employment skills for when they exit high school. Dual enrollment opportunities are in place allowing a student to graduate from college prior to high school graduation and never leave the high school campus. The graduation rate in Gilchrist County is among the highest in the state.
Our teachers and staff show resilience like no other and have been willing to take on any challenge the district, state or federal government sends our way. My goal has always been to make decisions based on what is best for students and would help our students reach their full potential.
Again, my family and I want to thank you for your support and encouragement over the years. I wish the new administration the very best and look forward to watching the continued success of our school system.
Don Thomas