Whatley a visionary as school superintendent

My name is John Culbreath and I am a longtime citizen of Dougherty County.

As a citizen I am very proud that Dr. Sally Whatley served as superintendent of the Dougherty County School System for nine years. She was a visionary leader, a committed instructional leader, and a champion of excellent learning opportunities and facilities for all of the children of Dougherty County. She envisioned a special theme for each school whereby students from around the county could select a themed school. Dr. Whatley, her staff and the Dougherty County Board of Education not only made this vision a reality, but they also transformed school facilities so that they could accommodate. This not only resulted in extreme makeovers for the four high schools, but brand new facilities for Radium Springs Middle School, Jackson Heights Elementary School, Lincoln Fundamental School, and Live Oak Elementary School. Construction was also completed on new buildings for Albany Middle School and Robert Cross Magnet School.

Dr. Whatley’s vision was not limited to new and modern school facilities. Her constant vision for all academic areas was high expectations for all students, a consistent curriculum for all schools, and emphasis on reading. The Reading Intervention program grew out of her recognition that reading is fundamental to success in all academic areas. Dr. Whatley supported fine arts, athletic programs, and career/technical education as forcefully as she did regular academic programs. She could be found regularly at concerts, plays and sporting events.

Dr. Whatley performed her duties with dignity and with a high degree of personal and professional integrity. She constantly appealed to the larger community to support our children and support our schools. She was never too busy to address the concerns of employees, parents or students. I am proud that Dr. Sally B. Whatley was our superintendent and I wish her and her family well in her retirement.

JOHN W. CULBREATH, Ed.D.

Albany

EDITOR’S NOTE: Dr. John Culbreath immediately preceded Dr. Sally Whatley as superintendent of the Dougherty County School System.