Eldridge Gives Final Director’s Report For Clay Schools Before Retirement

Clay County Director of Schools Matt Eldridge attended his final school board meeting Thursday night.

In his final Director’s Report, Eldridge thanked the board members for their patience, kindness, and commitment to the students.

“The past five-and-a-half (years) y’all have worked with me,” Eldridge said. “Guys it’s been my pleasure. Y’all have been so wonderful to work with. The staff, the principals, everybody in the school system has been wonderful to work with. Y’all want the best for the kids, and it’s been evident to show that.”

Board members also thanked Eldridge for his dedication to schools and their students. Nathan Sherrell said that Eldridge had done an excellent job.

“I’ve been through three different directors while I’ve been here on this board,” Sherrell said. “And you came along at a time we really needed you. You was a breath of fresh air, you was a change of pace, and it benefitted everybody in this whole county from the taxpayers, to the faculty, to the students, and it’s been a pleasure to work with you. Someone that will listen. And we didn’t always agree on everything, but we always felt common ground. And I appreciate you very much.”

The school board members voted to ratify Incoming Director Diana Monroe’s contract. Board member James Hatcher questioned an element that stated that the incoming directing will receive all vacation and sick days earned in the state. Eldridge clarified that is a normal policy to have in the education field if employees were to move districts.

The board approved the contract unanimously. Monroe’s contract will officially begin on January 1st, 2022.