My name is Laurence Pender and as a candidate for the office of Superintendent of Schools in Jackson County, I would appreciate your vote on August 20th. I am a life-long resident of Jackson County and still live in our family home in Greenwood. My wife, Kim, is a 2nd grade teacher. We have two sons: Laurence (a junior in college) and Ike (a junior in high school). We are members of the First United Methodist Church of Greenwood. I also enjoy having a role in helping the Jackson County Educational Foundation raise money to provide classroom grants for teachers in our district.

I graduated from Marianna High School, Chipola College, Florida State University (bachelors in Social Science) and Troy State University (masters in Social Science and Educational Leadership). The last 30+ years have been spent helping children experience success and obtain the skills necessary to attend college or enter the work force. I have served as an administrator in 9 schools in 3 Florida School Districts: Jackson, Franklin, and Holmes. During my administration, every school had improved academic achievement, student attendance and graduation rates with a decrease in discipline referrals. Because of improved school scores, I was designated by the Florida Department of Education as a “Turn Around” School Principal. During my time in Franklin County, we achieved the highest graduation rate in school history. Upon departure, each of these schools were left in sound fiscal shape.

It takes a community to ensure that children are successful. Believing that it takes all of us, my administrative style focuses on students, parents, and faculty/staff. As a student-centered leader, my decisions and actions are based on the best interest of every child in each unique situation. Student safety as well as their academic, emotional, and physical success will always be my top priority.

My main purpose is the safe education of our children. Parents want to know that their children are safe at school and receiving the best education possible. School safety is essential. I am committed to providing a safe and engaging learning environment for all children. I greet every student daily as they walk into school. Valuing the worth of each student and their capabilities, progress reports are personally discussed with students every 3 weeks. Report cards are checked and signed by hand every 9 weeks. The students know that I care, want them to be safe, and achieve to the best of their ability. This is how I build a trusting relationship with each student. My promise is that I will be an advocate for all children.

Teachers and staff are integral to student and school success. We are the heartbeat in the life of an educational institution. Employees should feel valued and supported. As a former classroom teacher, I know the challenges that a day at school presents. My work will center on creating a goal-driven environment that fosters the best possible classrooms for motivating students, teaching skills, and making life-long learners. As principal, my role is that of a servant leader. I visit classrooms daily, modeling for and molding students to produce successful citizens.

I would appreciate the opportunity to serve Jackson County and will work hard to improve our schools. Ensuring safety, improving academic achievement, student attendance and graduation rates have always been my focus. Helping students see their worth and value will decrease discipline referrals. Student-centered leadership meets children where they are and gives them the encouragement, confidence, and skills necessary to be successful in life. Caring about our students after graduation is a priority as well. Nothing is more gratifying than a former student letting you know how you made a positive impact in their life. If you would like student-centered leadership with a servant’s heart and proven success, I would be honored to serve Jackson County as Superintendent of Schools. Your consideration is greatly appreciated. If you would like to speak with me personally, my cell number is (850) 209-8964.