Ronnie Dotson - FlaglerLive … · Ronnie Dotson Superintendent of Schools (Superintendent 021317)...

Ronnie DotsonSuperintendent of Schools (Superintendent 021317)

[email protected](606) 316-7342

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Contact Information

First Name Ronnie Last Name Dotson

Middle Name Allen Email [email protected]

Primary Phone 6063167342 Alternate Phone

Preferred ContactMethod

Phone

Address

Street 409 Riverwood Dr City Grayson

State Kentucky Zip Code/Postal Code 41143

Equal Opportunity Information

Providing this information is strictly voluntary. You will not be subject to adverse action or treatment if you choose not to provide this information. If youchoose not to provide this information, please select 'Decline to Identify.'

Ethnicity Not Hispanic/Latino American Indian orAlaska Native

No

Asian No Black or AfricanAmerican

No

Native Hawaiian orOther Pacific Islander

No White Yes

CERTIFICATION

Certification Information #1

Certification Area Other: School Superintendent Certification Area Type Professional Certification

Grade Level Certification State Kentucky


Certification Area School Principal Certification Area Type Professional Certification

Grade Level K-5 Certification State Kentucky


Certification Area Elementary Ed K-6 Certification Area Type Professional Certification

Grade Level K-8 Certification State Kentucky


Certification Area Other: Instructional Supervision Certification Area Type Professional Certification

Grade Level Certification State Kentucky


Certification Area Certification Area Type

Grade Level Certification State

Application Date: 3/13/2017 3:12 PM

mailto:[email protected]

ADDITIONAL CERTIFICATION AREAS

Certification Area

Details

Certification State

Computer Skills

Years of Experience 20 Keyboarding Words PerMinute

100

Word Processing Yes Spreadsheets Yes

Database Yes Web / Internet Browser Yes

E-mail Yes Graphics Yes

Microsoft Windows Yes Apple Macintosh Yes

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

Present Position

Present Title Superintendent of Schools Name of Employer Carter County Kentucky

Start Date 07/01/2011 Supervisor Name Carter County Board of Education

Supervisor PhoneNumber

6064746696

Duties and Responsibilities

Oversee all aspects of education in Carter County, Kentucky. Supervise instruction of appx. 5000 students and 800employees. Manage a budget of $45,000,000. Serve as a leader in the community and as an advocate for education.

Reasons for Leaving

I have enjoyed my time in Carter County. However, my family is planning to relocate. We have always viewed Palm Coast asa second home to us and we would be honored to join the community on a permanent basis.

May we Contact thisEmployer

Yes

Experience in Education #1

From (mm/yyyy) 06/1997 To (mm/yyyy) 06/2011

Employer Name Pike County Schools Assignment Principal

Reason For Leaving Career advancement Supervisor Name Freddie Bowling


606-433-9201

Duties and Responsibilities

Served as principal at largest elementary school in a district of 10,000 students. Oversaw instructional practices and of 100employees and budgeted according to the needs of students.


Yes


From (mm/yyyy) 07/1988 To (mm/yyyy) 07/1997

Employer Name Pike County Schools Assignment Teacher

Reason For Leaving Career advancement Supervisor Name Freddie Bowling


606-433-9201

Duties andResponsibilities

Worked as a middle school teacher teaching a wide array of subjects


Yes

Job Title: Superintendent of Schools Candidate: Ronnie Dotson



From (mm/yyyy) To (mm/yyyy)

Employer Name Assignment

Reason For Leaving Supervisor Name




Work Experience #1

Employed from (mm/yyyy)

Employed to (mm/yyyy)

Employer Title



Supervisor Email



Work Experience #2

Employed from (mm/yyyy)

Employed to (mm/yyyy)

Employer Title



Supervisor Email


Experience Summary

Actual experience in a scholastic environment (with the exception of non-academic experience).

Years of teachingexperience

10 Years of studentteaching experience

1

Years of administrativeexperience

19

EDUCATION

Secondary/High School Information

School Attended Belfry High School City/State Belfry, KY

Activities/Honors

Degree High School Diploma or GED

College/University/Vocational Institution #1

Name of School Other: Morehead State University Attended From (mm/yyyy)

06/2013

Attended To (mm/yyyy) 05/2016 Degree Other: Ed.D.

Subject Educational Leadership




Name of School Other: Morehead State University Attended From (mm/yyyy)

06/2005

Attended To (mm/yyyy) 05/2006 Degree Other: Certification

Subject Other: School Superintendent


Name of School Other: Lee University Attended From (mm/yyyy)

08/1986

Attended To (mm/yyyy) 05/1982 Degree Bachelor of Science

Subject Elementary Ed

Student Teaching #1

Name of School Cleveland, TN Subject Elementary School

Grade Semester

Year 1988

REFERENCESA minimum of two references from a previous supervisor is required. If you are currently attending a college/university, references can be a professorsand/or instructor.

Nickie Blackburn

Title Instructional Coach Relationship Colleague

Address City Grayson

State Kentucky Zip 41143

Email Phone

From 06/2000 To present

Reference Letter

Donald Damron

Title Director of Personnel Relationship Colleague

Address City Grayson


Email Phone

From 07/2011 To 03/2017

Reference Letter

Teresa Lockhart

Title Vice President, University ofPikeville

Relationship Colleague

Address City Pikeville


Email Phone

From 06/2000 To present

Reference Letter

DISTRICT QUESTIONS

District Questions



Have you retired from any State of Florida administered retirement plan? You are considered retired if: 1) You have received anybenefits under the FRS Pension Plan (including DROP). 2) You have taken any distribution (including a rollover) from the FRSInvestment Plan, or alternative retirement programs offered by state universities (SUSORP), state community colleges (CCORP),state government (SMSOAP), or local governments.

No

If you have retired from a state of Florida administered retirement plan, is the effective date July 1, 2010 or later?

No

Have you previously been employed, other than a substitute teaching capacity, with the Flagler County School District?

No

If "Yes", please providethe dates of yourprevious employmentwith the District and yourposition.

Is any member of yourimmediate familyemployed by the schooldistrict of FlaglerCounty?

No

If "Yes", please provide the name of your family member, School/Dept where they worked, and Position Held.

Been investigated formisconduct related toyour employment?

No

If "Yes", please provide adetailed explanation.

Been arrested orcharged(even if nocontest or chargesdropped or pled down)for a crime?

No

If you answered "Yes" please provide details including the date of the charge, the court action, and the address of the court involved.

Are you currently under indictment or subject of any other pending legal proceeding for a criminal offense?

No

If "Yes", please provide details including the date of the charge, the court action, and the address of the court involved.

Are you under investigation by any local, county, state, federal, or international agency for any reason (including any violation of theFlorida Code of Ethics)?

No

If yes, please provide adetailed explanation.

Been named by a state agency responsible for child welfare as a perpetrator in an indicated report of child abuse or neglect?

No


Had a report of child abuse or sexual activities involving a K-12 student or minor filed against you with a school district, a state orfederal agency, a police agency, or in court?

No


Have you ever had a professional certificate, credential or license (of any kind) revoked or suspended, or have you been placed onprobationary status for any alleged misconduct or alleged violation of professional standards or conduct. Are there any pendingadverse actions against you?

No




Have you ever been denied a professional license for which you applied or granted a professional license on a conditional orprobationary basis for any alleged misconduct or alleged violation of professional standards of conduct?

No


Have you surrendered aprofessional license ofany kind before itsexpiration?

No


Have you ever been disciplined by any public agency responsible for licensure of any kind, including but not limited to educationallicensure?

No


Have you ever been suspended, terminated, non-reappointed, released during a probationary period or resigned in lieu of terminationor non-reappointment from an educational institution, the State of Florida, or any other employer/organization including the military?

No


Have you ever been placed on leave by your employer or left such employment prior to the end of the contract term due to anyreason other than the Family Medical Leave Act or a physical disability?

No


Is your physical/mental health condition such that you can fulfill the essential job functions of the position for which you are applying(either with or without reasonable accommodations)?

No

Are you considered a"High Risk" offender,according to Senate Bill988?

No

If you answered YES to the question above, please explain in the space provided, including the date of your last conviction.

Have you ever had any record sealed or expunged in which you were convicted, found guilty, had adjudication withheld, entered apretrial diversion program, or pled guilty or nolo contendere (no contest) to a criminal offense other than a minor traffic violation (DUIis NOT a minor traffic violation)? Failure to answer this question accurately could result in dismissal from employment. A YES or NOis required by Florida Law.

No

If Yes, you must specify the City Where Arrested, State, Date of Arrest, Charge(s), and Disposition(s). Please NOTE: Sealed orexpunged records must be reported pursuant ss. 943.0585 and 943.059, FS. However, the existence of such records will not bedisclosed nor made part of your certification file which is public record.

Have you ever been convicted, found guilty, had adjudication withheld, entered a pretrial diversion program, or pled guilty or nolocontendere (no contest) to a criminal offense other than a minor traffic violation (DUI is NOT a minor traffic violation)? Failure toanswer this question accurately could result in dismissal from employment. A YES or NO is required by Florida Law.

No

If Yes, you must specify the city where arrested, state, date of arrest, charge(s), and disposition(s).

Are you a veteran asdefined by s. 295.07,Florida Statutes?

No



Are you claiming Veteran's Preference? If yes, a DD214 must is required and can be submitted under attachments.

No

If you are claiming Veteran's Preference, please indicate the provision under which you qualify.

Provision 1 – A veteran of any war who has served on active duty for one day or more during a wartime period, excluding active dutyfor training, and who was discharged under honorable conditions from the Armed Forces of the United States of America.

Provision 2 – A veteran with a service-connected disability who is eligible for or receiving compensation, disability retirement, orpension under public laws administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense.

Provision 3 – Receipt of any Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal is qualifying for veterans' preference.

Provision 4– The spouse of a veteran who cannot qualify for employment because of a total and permanent service-connecteddisability, or the spouse of a veteran missing in action, captured, or forcibly detained by a foreign power.

Provision 5 – The unremarried widow or widower of a veteran who died of a service-connected disability.

If you state that you were "A veteran of any war...", please indicate the war, according to these options:

Korean Conflict: June 27, 1950 to January 31, 1955

Vietnam Era: February 28, 1961 to May 7, 1975

Persian Gulf War: August 2, 1990 to January 2, 1992

Operation Enduring Freedom: October 7, 2001 to date to be determined

Operation Iraqi Freedom: March 19, 2003 to date to be determined

ATTACHMENTS

Attachment

Resume

Cover Letter

Transcript

Reference Ltrs (IncludeAll)

Other

Other

DISCLAIMERS AND AFFIRMATION

District Policy

We conform to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. Westrongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply to all of our job openings. We arean equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race,color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, age, disability status, Genetic Information &Testing, Family & Medical Leave, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibitRetaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, oragainst any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or otherwise oppose discrimination.

Application Confirmation Statement

I affirm that all information set forth in this application is accurate, truthful and complete. If I am employed by Flagler CountySchool District, I will abide by all Board of Education and school policies, work on assigned committees, and continue myprofessional growth to the best of my ability and within reasonable and personal standards. I grant permission for schoolofficials to obtain a personal record check from the federal, state, county, and/or local law enforcement agencies andDivision of Family Services. I understand that references may be contacted as soon as I submit an application. I release



individuals listed as references and current or former employers from any liability for information given in response to arequest for an employment reference.

I understand that I will be required to take a drug test and that some positions in the district require a physical exam prior toassuming any position for which I may be employed. In the event that I am employed by the District and in the further eventthat I have provided false or misleading information in this application or in subsequent employment interviews, Iunderstand that my employment may be terminated at any time after the discovery of the false or misleading information.

I agree to the termsabove

Affirm

Initials RD

Affirmation Date 03/13/2017



Dr. Ronnie A. Dotson Leading to Exceed Excellence

Professional Resume

2017

Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools

Flagler County Public Schools

Ronnie A. Dotson, Ed.D. 409 Riverwood Drive Grayson, Kentucky 41143 Phone: 606-316-7342 E-Mail: [email protected]

D Professional Mission Statement

To advance academic excellence through exemplary

leadership

Professional Attributes x Visionary leader driven by enthusiasm for continuous improvement to bring about

systematic and systemic change

x Ethical values in conjunction with a hands-on approach to lead schools and districts to academic excellence

x Guided by loyalty to the significance of the profession to further formal and professional education beyond the norm

x Committed to an energetic and dynamic role as an administrator by nurturing a climate of positive relationships and school culture

x Dedicated to enthusiastic coaching that empowers others to surpass their own self-perceived limitations

x Effective communicator valuing the input of all stakeholders by maintaining a commitment to accessibility

”If you want to see a school system with adults excited about learning and who put kids first, go to a district where Ronnie Dotson is superintendent. His talent, care for students, and interest in the parents and teachers is unsurpassed. I’ve been in lots of districts during my educational career but none that had a more talented and caring individual at the helm than Ronnie Dotson.”

David Barnett, Dean of Education University of Pikeville, KY

Education and Certifications

Educational Doctorate Morehead State University, Morehead, KY 2015

Superintendent Certification Morehead State University, Morehead, KY 2005

Supervisor of Instruction Morehead State University, Morehead, KY 2005

Rank I – Elementary Principal Morehead State University, Morehead, KY 1997

Masters of Arts Morehead State University, Morehead, KY 1990

Bachelor of Arts Lee University, Cleveland, TN 1988

Key Qualifications x Educational Doctorate: Dissertation focused on student goal setting x Twenty-nine years in public education x Proven leadership as a school system superintendent, supervising approximately 800

employees and 5,000 students x Proven leadership as an elementary principal, supervising 100 employees and 600 students x Unified three diverse staffs as principal of newly consolidated elementary school x Managing a budget in excess of $45,000,000 x Principal’s Excellence Program Mentor/Instructor, University of Kentucky x Kentucky Principal’s Academy, University of Louisville x Kentucky New Superintendent Mentor x Leadership Department Faculty, Morehead State University x Teacher Leader Master’s Degree, Program Lead, University of Pikeville, 2014 x Doctoral Committee Member, Morehead State University, 2015 x Community Action Work Force Ready Committee Chairperson, Grayson, KY, 2016 x Knowledgeable of research based practices that impact student achievement x Experienced facilitator providing professional learning at the local, regional, and state levels

Employment x Superintendent, Carter County School System

o Grayson, KY, August 2011 to Present

x Adjunct Professor, University of Pikeville o Pikeville, KY, January 2014 to Present

x Adjunct Professor, Morehead State University o Morehead, KY, August 2012 to July 2015

x Principal, Southside Elementary o Pike County School System, Pikeville, KY

August 1997 to July 2011

x Teacher, South Williamson Elementary o Pike County School System, Pikeville, KY

August 1995 to July 1997

x Teacher, Blackberry Elementary o Pike County School System, Pikeville, KY

August 1988 to July 1995 o Pike County School System, Pikeville, KY

“The Carter County School District has never been better than we are right now under the leadership of Dr. Ronnie A. Dotson. In every measurable aspect our district is continually soaring to greater heights as we pursue his vision of being the standard of excellence.”

Donald M. Damron, Director of Personnel Carter County Schools, KY

Innovations and Initiatives

x Initiated the Carter County Master’s Degree Program through a collaborative effort with the University of Pikeville to provide and facilitate a program that allows teachers to further their education

x Initiated the Carter County Administration Cadre through a collaborative effort with Morehead State University to provide and facilitate a program that allows teachers to further their education

x Developed and implemented a Goal Setting Process that ensures all students K-12 are taking ownership of their own learning

x Initiated the development of Google and Studio Classrooms at both middle and high schools x Increased the number of technology devices in Carter County from 1,500 to more than

3,400 x Implemented a Common Language focused on instructional design and delivery that is

consistent throughout a district of more than 350 teachers x Collaboratively re-designed the district’s vision which changed the community perception of a

once failing school system to that of a model school system x Initiated the implementation of Professional Learning Academies for teachers to increase

professional knowledge x Initiated the implementation of a Community Welding Class to provide a new skill to

community members x Created a Superintendent’s Advisory Council and a District Advisory Team to increase

stakeholder involvement and improve communication x Initiated, facilitated, and collaborated to design and develop curriculum maps and common

assessments for all contents x Re-structured central office administration roles to establish a focus on student achievement x Created a change process for School and District Improvement Planning that has proven to

increase student achievement x Advanced the professional learning of all teachers at Southside Elementary and in the Carter

County School System to serve as a model for other schools and districts x Established a monitoring protocol to ensure expectations are understood with clarity and

implemented with fidelity

Leadership Accomplishments Academic ¾ Advanced the Carter County School System from the bottom five percent of districts in

Kentucky to a District of Distinction scoring among the 95th percentile ¾ Advanced the Carter County School System to a first time AdvancEd accreditation ¾ Increased the percent of seniors graduating College and/or Career ready from 27% to 98.2% ¾ Increased and maintained a graduation rate of 98.2% in the Carter County School System ¾ Implemented collaborative programs with local colleges and universities which resulted in 45%

of students graduating with 12 or more college hours ¾ Carter County welcomes over 200 colleagues from across the Commonwealth to observe best

practices ¾ Leading Southside Elementary to a ranking status of 2nd out of 740 elementary schools in

Kentucky based on state assessments ¾ Led Southside Elementary to the status of a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence ¾ Received state level recognition for advancing East and West Carter High Schools to be in the

top ten high schools in the state ¾ Received state recognition for the Carter County Career and Technical Center being one of

the top Career and Technical Schools in the state ¾ Received “Exemplary” ratings in all categories of Superintendent Evaluation ¾ Recipient, Key to City of Grayson, KY for Distinguished Service and Leadership ¾ Kentucky’s National Distinguished Principal Finalist ¾ Principal with Principles, Forward in the Fifth

Carter County Statistics

Publications x Dotson, R.A. (2016). Does Goal Setting with

Elementary Students Impact Reading Growth. Morehead, KY: MSU.

x Dotson, R.A. (2016). Goal Setting to Increase Student Academic Performance. Journal of School Administration Research and Development, 44-46.

Leading to Exceed Excellence

Leadership Highlights

Buildings and Grounds x Building and completion of two new schools x Complete renovations at two schools x Complete renovations of both high school gymnasiums x Complete renovations of both high school grandstands Projects totaling: $40,000,000.00

Finances x Creatively sought to provide yearly teacher salary

increases during each fiscal year in the midst of budget decreases

x Ended each fiscal year with a higher contingency fund than the previous year over the course of five years

x Implemented a budget reduction of 1.5 million dollars over the course of five years due to state funding decreases

x Received nine state competitive grants totaling $450,000.00 yearly

Professional and Community Affiliations x Kentucky School Board Association x Kentucky Association of School Superintendents x Kentucky Association of School Administrators x Kentucky Educational Development Cooperative x Kentucky Forward in Fifth Educational Committee x Kentucky Association of Elementary School Principals x Kentucky Christian University Planning Committee x Grayson Area Chamber of Commerce x Olive Hill Area Chamber of Commerce x Grayson Rotary Club x Carter County Work Force Ready Committee Chairperson

“Dr. Dotson is a transformational leader in our district with a clear purpose and vision for student success. Our high school has grown from a Persistently Low Achieving school to a School of Distinction under his leadership as Superintendent.”

Sheri J. Bonzo, Teacher

Carter County Schools, KY

Transformational Leadership

Dr. Dotson helped me to see the ability within myself and helped me work towards harvesting it and improving my instruction. He has been such an inspiration for Carter County.

Jussie Minor Teacher

Olive Hill Elementary, KY

Professional Learning Participant x Visible Learning, John Hattie x School Improvement Systems, Jim Shipley and

Associates x Kentucky Association of School Administrators

Yearly Conference x Kentucky AdvancEd School Improvement Yearly

Summit x Kentucky Association of School Superintendents

Yearly Conference x Kentucky Principal’s Academy, University of

Louisville x Coaching Models, Rutherford Learning Group x National Reading Conference, Cincinnati, OH x National Title I Conference, Nashville, TN x National Reading First Conference, St. Louis, MO x National Reading First Conference, Nashville, TN x Response to Intervention x Kentucky Reading Association Conference x Four Blocks Reading Framework, Patricia

Cunningham x Assessment Practices, Kentucky Educational

Development Cooperative x Thoughtful Classroom, Silver and Strong x CHAMPS (Classroom Management Program),

Eastern Kentucky University x Creating Strategic Readers, Valerie Ellery x Building Fluency, Timothy Rasinski x Teaching through Engagement, Debra Berlin x The First Days of School, Author and Presenter,

Harry Wong

“Dr. Dotson is a true professional. He has demonstrated his allegiance to improving educational opportunities for students by his own commitment to life-long learning. Spending most of his time in schools mentoring principals and modeling lessons for teachers, Dr. Dotson emphasizes the importance of a hands-on approach. I have been fortunate to have witnessed Dr. Dotson striving to be the best that he can be while helping others do the same for many years.”

Freddie Bowling Assistant Superintendent Pike County Schools, KY

Local, Regional, and State Professional Learning Facilitator/Presenter Dotson, R. A. (2015). A Hands-on Approach to School Leadership. Pike County Regional Title I Conference.

Pikeville, KY. Dotson, R. A. (2014). Teaching Reading Strategies to Ensure Success at all Grade Levels. Kentucky Association of

School Councils. Louisville, KY. Dotson, R. A. (2014). The Turnaround Process: Changing a Persistently Low Achieving School into a State Model.

Kentucky Support Network Conference. Louisville, KY. Dotson, R. A. (2015). Communicating Clear Expectations That Produce Results. Kentucky Education

Development Corporation. Lexington, KY. Dotson, R. A. (2016). Keeping Students on Track With Goal Setting. Kentucky Association of School

Administrators. Louisville, KY. Dotson, R. A. (2016). Reading Strategies for Secondary School Content. Kentucky Content Literacy Network

Conference. Lexington, Ky.

Teacher Perception Survey x 95% of teachers believe they

are held to high professional standards for delivering instruction.

x 90% of teachers believe there is a shared vision between teachers and leadership.

x 91% of teachers believe that Carter County Schools are a good place to work.

Leadership Beliefs and Values ¾ I believe that teachers are the most critical

element in the classroom and that students are more than a test score.

¾ I believe that Excellence attracts Excellence. ¾ I believe a system leader must hold

themselves to higher standards for others to follow.

¾ I believe that a school system must have a positive culture in order to be successful.

¾ I believe school culture has a profound impact on student achievement.

¾ I believe the individual needs of students must be met before learning can take place.

¾ I believe that involvement in the assessment and learning process will create substantial gains in student performance and achievement.

¾ I believe students will meet the expectations established for them.

¾ I believe that students must be taught to be lifelong learners with an awareness of the importance of the connection between school and work.

¾ I believe that a first class education is the shared responsibility of school, family, and community.

¾ I believe that every family has strengths that can be tapped to increase students’ success in school.

¾ I believe that when every student counts, success is sure to follow.

“Dr. Dotson helped me to see the ability within myself and helped me work toward harvesting it and improving my instruction. He has been such an inspiration for Carter County.” Jussie Minor, Teacher Carter County, KY

A Model for Change

Carter County Schools Continue Success as Distinction

Grayson Journal Times October 26, 2016

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References Bryan Greenhill, Chairperson Carter County Board of Education Email: Phone: Cell: Cherri Keaton, Principal Olive Hill Elementary School Email: Phone: Cell: Sherry Horsley, Superintendent Greenup County School System Email: Phone: Cell: Sheri Bonzo, Teacher East Carter High School Email: Phone: Cell: Donald Damron, Director of Personnel Carter County Schools Email: Phone: Cell: Paul Schmidt, Pastor Grayson First Baptist Church Phone: Cell: Helen Rose Dowd, Rotarian Grayson Rotary Club Phone: Cell: Freddie Bowling, Assistant Superintendent Pike County School System Email: Phone: Cell:

Ronnie A. Dotson, Ed.D.

409 Riverwood Drive

Grayson, KY 41143

Dear Superintendent Search Committee:

I am writing to express my interest in the position of Superintendent of Schools in

Flagler County, Florida. For over twenty-nine years I have dedicated my life to public

service through education. It is with great pride that I share with you my successes

during my tenure as an administrator at the school and district levels.

Advancing student achievement has been at the forefront of my career. As an

advocate for all learners, I take personally the responsibility granted to me to ensure that

future generations are prepared to excel academically in order to lead productive and

meaningful lives. I believe these core foundations are incomparably shaped through the

endeavors of public education. As such, the success of public education as an institution

is essential to the future of our society and must be held to a standard of excellence.

It is in this pursuit of excellence that I have found my life’s mission. During my

time as a principal at Southside Elementary School in Pike County, Kentucky, the school

was recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. As Superintendent of

Carter County Schools in Kentucky, I orchestrated and led the turnaround of our district

from the bottom five percent of schools in Kentucky to above the 95th percentile.

During my tenure in Carter County, I was responsible for a working budget of

$45 million and had the privilege of overseeing four building projects totaling $40

million. Further, as one of the largest employers in the region, I helped to cultivate a

culture of pride among our 800 employees.

It is with an unbridled sense of passion and enthusiasm that I am confident the

Flagler County School District’s best days are yet to come. I believe that when every

student counts, success is sure to follow. I look forward to speaking with you and would

be honored to make this journey together.

Sincerely,

Ronnie A. Dotson, Ed.D.

DearCommittee:

ItiswithgreatconfidencethatIrecommendDr.RonnieDotsonforemploymentasthe

SuperintendentofFlaglerCountySchools. There isnoperson inwhich Icouldgivea

higherrecommendation.

I have had the pleasure of working with Dr. Dotson for several years. Serving as

educationadministratorsinthesameregion,thetwoofussharemanyopportunitiesto

collaborate.Iwasconstantlyamazedatstoriesandevidencethatdepictedthelevelof

enthusiasm and commitment that he showed to his students, employees, and

community.Alwaysbelievingthateachstudentwasdeservingofthebestthathehadto

offerwasthedrivingforcebehindthedecisionsthathemade.Hehasproventobevery

efficientandeffective.Histalentintheareaofleadershipisexemplaryandhasplaced

him in a category of excellence that few in the education professionals attain. This

characteristic is evidenced by his extraordinary accomplishments in Carter County,

Kentucky where he currently serves as superintendent. His district has transformed

fromoneplaguedwith lowperformancetoaDistrictofDistinctionscoringamongthe

top5%inthestate.

I first began working with Dr. Dotson when he served as a school principal in Pike

County, Kentucky. Dr. Dotson’s school, one of the largest in our district of 10,000

students,wasranked2ndoutofappx.750elementaryschoolsinKentucky.Theschool

received the status of a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence and served as a

modelacrossourstate.

Dr. Dotson’s energy and enthusiasm for his work are evident in the tasks that he

completes. He can take on any project or idea and through determination and

perseverance, see it through to the end. He is extremely knowledgeable and has the

abilitytoattendtodetailsthatenhancehiswork.

Dr.Dotsonisanextremelybrightindividualwhotakesgreatprideinhisleadershipand

instills a confidence in others that motivates them to strive at high levels. I am

continually impressed with his drive, enthusiasm and desire to improve as well as

sharingideaswithco-workers.Hehasaveryfriendly,pleasingpersonalityandiseasyto

workwithonanytask.Hisco-workershavegreatrespectforhisabilities.

ItiswithoutreservationthatIrecommendDr.Dotsontobeselectedforemploymentby

yourschoolsystem.IcanassureyouthatnomorequalifiedpersonexiststhanRonnie

Dotson.This isoneofthoserareopportunitiesforanorganizationtogofromgoodto

great that doesn’t come along very often. I am confident that he will exceed your

expectations.

Sincerely,

TeresaLockhart

VicePresident,UniversityofPikeville

“The Carter County Schools do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, marital status, or disability in its educational

programs, services, activities, or employment.”

CARTER COUNTY SCHOOLS 228 SOUTH CAROL MALONE BLVD. ● GRAYSON, KY 41143 PHONE: 606-474-6696 ● FAX: 606-474-6125 ● WWW.CARTER.KYSCHOOLS.US

BOARD OF EDUCATION

Bryan Greenhill

Keila Rogers-Bender

Lisa Easterling

Chris Patrick

Randy Steagall

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

Ronnie Dotson Superintendent

Donald Damron

Director of Personnel

Jack Lowe Director of Pupil Personnel

Andy Lyons

Director of Finance/Treasurer

Ruth Sharp Director of Special Education

Barrett Bush

Director of Technology/CIO

Grant Harper Director of Transportation

Sheila Bradshaw

Director of Food Service

David Jessie Director of Maintenance

INSTRUCTION

Rebecca Corsetti Supervisor

Judy Dotson

Supervisor

Sherry Horsley Supervisor

March 10, 2017 Superintendent Search Committee Flagler County Schools Dear Committee: It is with great pleasure that I recommend Dr. Ronnie Dotson for the position of Superintendent in Flagler County, Florida. Dr. Dotson is a true gem in our district and has led our school system to greatness. I have had the pleasure of serving as Dr. Dotson’s personnel director in Carter County for the past six years. I could not say enough about the rapport Dr. Dotson has with the students and employees. He has energy and enthusiasm for his work that are evident in the tasks that he completes. In one of the largest academic turnarounds in Kentucky history, Dr. Dotson reformed our school district from the bottom five-percent of districts in the state to our current standing of >95th percentile. As a strong leader, Dr. Dotson has not only maintained the high levels of academic achievement, but also surpasses new goals every year. Other notable strengths include: • Interpersonal and communication skills • Strong leadership skills • Impeccable rapport with stakeholders • Strong understanding of essential concepts to lead a school district • Fiscal management • Experience in implementing research-based instructional strategies • Knowledge of assessment and accountability systems • Knowledge of the Common Core Standards • Self-motivated worker

Dr. Dotson has also proven to be a strong fiscal leader. At a time when Kentucky school districts were faced with a budget shortfall, Dr. Dotson consistently worked with our school board to implement teacher pay raises each year. He oversaw construction projects totaling more than $40,000,000 and effectively worked with local and state leaders to secure funding for our district. Perhaps I am most impressed with Dr. Dotson’s enthusiasm to never be complaisant with the status quo. He is constantly seeking ways to improve our district and succeeds in most all that he does. It is without reservation that I recommend Dr. Ronnie Dotson to be selected for this position. I can assure you that Dr. Dotson truly personifies the Standard of Excellence. Sincerely, Donald Damron, Director of Personnel Carter County Schools

March 09, 2017

To Whom It May Concern:

It is with great confidence of continued success that I write a letter of support for Dr. Ronnie Dotson. I have known and worked with Dr. Dotson for several years and have found him to be a person of great integrity, superior work ethic, and unmatched passion for educating children.

I currently serve as an instructional coach in Carter County, however, my first acquaintance with Dr. Dotson was many years ago when we attended the same church. He and his wife were very active in the church serving as Couple’s Directors, Vacation Bible School Directors, and Youth Leaders for the congregation. I later completed my teaching certification and had the opportunity to serve the students of the school were Dr. Dotson was principal. I saw first-hand the compassion that he showed for the students and community that he served. While he always had high expectations for everyone, his love for people was always evident. When he left the school to accept a position as superintendent of schools, the entire community mourned his leaving.

Dr. Dotson expects the best. He not only expects the best, but he works to create opportunities where the best can be obtained. He practices a hands-on approach to leadership. He spends a great deal of his time in schools supporting teachers and administrators. On numerous occasions, he has conducted professional development sessions, tutored students in various subjects, and served as a mentor to students. The employees in Carter County view him as a partner in education and they appreciate the support that he provides.

Dr. Dotson is passionate about providing opportunities for students. He works collaborative with the different businesses and civic organizations in the community to make sure students are learning the skills necessary to be productive. He has formed many partnerships with area colleges and universities to provide dual credit opportunities to students. He is very innovative and is constantly looking for ways to enhance the already state acclaimed school system that he has created.

It is a pleasure to endorse Dr. Dotson as he begins this new chapter in his life. I have witnessed his commitment and dedication to public education for many years. He is the real deal! I know that he will serve the students and community of your district with the same enthusiasm.

Sincerely,

Nickie Blackburn

Instructional Coach, Carter County Schools

Dr. Ronnie A. Dotson Leading to Exceed Excellence

Superintendent Applicant

Johnson City School District

A Systematic Process for Systemic Change

100 Day Plan and Beyond

The First 100 Days Exceeding Excellence

A man’s heart plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps.

Proverbs 16:9

Goal 1: Focus on Every Student

Core Beliefs

9 I believe the individual needs of students must be met before learning can take place.

9 I believe that student involvement in the learning process will substantial gains in student performance and achievement.

9 I believe that students will meet the expectations established for them.

9 I believe that students must be taught to be lifelong learners.

Foundational Research

x Self-reported grades/student expectations has the largest effect size on student achievement (1.44). Creating activities for students to reflect and/or predict their academic progress can reinforce student expectations. (Hattie, 2012)

x Engaging students in every facet of the educational process strengthens their commitment to education (Fletcher, 2008).

x Teacher expectations, whether high or low, have a significant impact on overall student achievement (Spader, 2006).

x Students who realize the connection between knowledge gained in high school and their school-to-work opportunities are more likely to graduate high school (School-to-Work Act, 2001).

Superintendent Actions

Visit schools and classrooms to observe instructional practices

Establish a Superintendent’s Advisory Panel consisting of representatives from various stakeholder groups

Convene the Superintendent’s Cabinet to review teaching and learning and improvement planning processes, conduct an analysis of current assessment levels, introduce goal setting procedures for all schools, and communicate superintendent expectations.

Goal 2: Invest in the School Community

Core Beliefs

9 I believe teachers are the most critical element in the classroom.

9 I believe EXCELLENCE attracts EXCELLENCE.

9 I believe teacher efficacy is major contributor to teacher success.

9 I believe teachers must feel valued and supported at all levels.

9 I believe teachers must be equipped with a toolkit of effective practices.


x Hattie (2012) indicates teacher clarity has an effect size of .75. x Teachers who believe they can teach all children in ways that enable

them to meet high standards are more likely to exhibit teaching behaviors that support this goal (Brinson and Steiner, 2007).

x The most promising strategy for sustained, substantive, school improvement in building the capacity of school personnel is the implementation of Professional Learning Communities (DuFour and DuFour, 2006).


Visit schools and classrooms to observe instructional practices

Convene Superintendent Cabinet to review system processes for supporting teachers and administrators within each of the following capacities:

9 Professional learning 9 Resources and personnel 9 Higher education

opportunities 9 Staff recognition and wages 9 Instructional design and

delivery 9 Curriculum mastery 9 Assessment literacy 9 Improvement planning 9 PLCs

Goal 3: Partner with Our Stakeholders

Core Beliefs

I believe that a first class education is the shared responsibility of school, family, and community.

I believe that every family has strengths that can be tapped to increase students’ success in school.


x When schools, parents, families, and communities work together to support learning, students tend to earn higher grades, attend school more regularly, stay in school longer, and enroll in higher level programs (NEA, 2016).

x Researchers conclude that there is a significant positive correlation between school, family, and community involvement and student success (Henderson and Map 2016).

x Family participation in education was twice as predictive of students' academic success as family socioeconomic status. Some of the more intensive programs had effects that were 10 times greater than other factors (Walburg, 1984).


Convene the Superintendent Cabinet to review the following:

9 Vision and mission process for redesign

9 Analyze current needs of the school community

9 Customer service and communication perceptions

9 Current internal and external communication systems

Visit local community agencies to engage in collaborative opportunities

Conduct outreach meetings to solicit input and perceptual beliefs from various stakeholder groups

Excellence

Superintendent Strategic Plan Exceeding Excellence

Overarching Components

Student Ownership


Phase 1 Establish a Common Language

Professional Learning System

9 Initiate professional learning academies 9 Promote professional learning opportunities that are job-embedded, teacher

and administrator led, and student focused 9 Establish a common language throughout the district 9 Establish a foundational instructional delivery model

Teaching and Learning System

9 Create/refine a district walk-through instrument through collaboration with various stakeholders

9 Begin the introduction of district best practices focused on comprehension 9 Support principals in their role as the instructional leader through professional

learning, mentoring, and coaching 9 Initiate Phase 1 of District Goal Setting Process

Assessment Literacy System

9 Analyze and update district common assessments 9 Establish a monitoring system for reporting common assessment results 9 Ensure teachers understand the congruency between assessments and targets 9 Establish an assessment literacy process focused on formative and summative

assessments

Continuous Improvement System

9 Review the district vision through a collaborate process with various stakeholder groups

9 Initiate the development of an intentional process for continuous improvement

9 Establish research-based Professional Learning Communities 9 Implement the Plan, Do, Study, Act Systems approach 9 Develop an effective meaningful system to advance improvement planning to

the forefront of instruction

Superintendent Strategic Plan

Exceeding Excellence Phase 2

Refining Practice


9 Continue professional learning academies based on identified needs of staff

9 Scale the work of the district common language

9 Reinforce the district foundational delivery model

9 Implement an intense focus on student engagement


9 Create a district wide instructional framework to clarify effective practices 9 Refine teacher pedagogy in connection to content standards 9 Implement “Flashback” activities to reinforce the district common language 9 Conduct Instructional Rounds 9 Continue the implementation of district best practices focused on vocabulary 9 Continue providing support to principals in their role as the instructional

leader 9 Implement Phase 2 of District Goal Setting Process


9 Review and refine district common assessments

9 Create a district assessment map that is aligned with curricular units

9 Refine the assessment literacy practices within the system

9 Begin the monitoring and review of common assessments for analysis

9 Continue the congruency focus on standards and lesson design and delivery

9 Refine formative and summative assessment practices


9 Review district vision through a collaborate process with various stakeholder groups

9 Teachers create professional mission statements that are reflective of the district’s vision

9 Continue refinement of Plan, Do, Study, Act

9 Implement the improvement planning system

9 Develop a monitoring system to ensure program and process implementation to fidelity


Phase 3 Intensifying Instruction


9 Continue professional learning academies with a focus on the district common language and foundational delivery model

9 Pilot lesson study


9 Reflect on and refine district instructional framework

9 Continue Instructional Rounds

9 Continue support to all staff through coaching and professional learning

9 Implement Phase 3 of the district goal setting process


Review current practices

Reflect on strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats

Refine practices and process

Superintendent Strategic Plan

Exceeding Excellence

Phase 4 Teacher and

Student Efficacy


9 Full implementation of assessment map

9 Establish connections to the PLC protocols to ensure student achievement remains at the center of all practices

“The Carter County Schools do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, marital status, or disability in its educational

programs, services, activities, or employment.”

CARTER COUNTY SCHOOLS 228 SOUTH CAROL MALONE BLVD. ● GRAYSON, KY 41143 PHONE: 606-474-6696 ● FAX: 606-474-6125 ● WWW.CARTER.KYSCHOOLS.US

BOARD OF EDUCATION

Bryan Greenhill

Keila Rogers-Bender

Lisa Easterling

Chris Patrick

Randy Steagall

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

Ronnie Dotson Superintendent

Donald Damron

Director of Personnel

Jack Lowe Director of Pupil Personnel

Andy Lyons

Director of Finance/Treasurer

Ruth Sharp Director of Special Education

Barrett Bush

Director of Technology/CIO

Grant Harper Director of Transportation

Sheila Bradshaw

Director of Food Service

David Jessie Director of Maintenance

INSTRUCTION

Rebecca Corsetti Supervisor

Judy Dotson

Supervisor

Sherry Horsley Supervisor

March 10, 2017 Superintendent Search Committee Flagler County Schools Dear Committee: It is with great pleasure that I recommend Dr. Ronnie Dotson for the position of Superintendent in Flagler County, Florida. Dr. Dotson is a true gem in our district and has led our school system to greatness. I have had the pleasure of serving as Dr. Dotson’s personnel director in Carter County for the past six years. I could not say enough about the rapport Dr. Dotson has with the students and employees. He has energy and enthusiasm for his work that are evident in the tasks that he completes. In one of the largest academic turnarounds in Kentucky history, Dr. Dotson reformed our school district from the bottom five-percent of districts in the state to our current standing of >95th percentile. As a strong leader, Dr. Dotson has not only maintained the high levels of academic achievement, but also surpasses new goals every year. Other notable strengths include: • Interpersonal and communication skills • Strong leadership skills • Impeccable rapport with stakeholders • Strong understanding of essential concepts to lead a school district • Fiscal management • Experience in implementing research-based instructional strategies • Knowledge of assessment and accountability systems • Knowledge of the Common Core Standards • Self-motivated worker

Dr. Dotson has also proven to be a strong fiscal leader. At a time when Kentucky school districts were faced with a budget shortfall, Dr. Dotson consistently worked with our school board to implement teacher pay raises each year. He oversaw construction projects totaling more than $40,000,000 and effectively worked with local and state leaders to secure funding for our district. Perhaps I am most impressed with Dr. Dotson’s enthusiasm to never be complaisant with the status quo. He is constantly seeking ways to improve our district and succeeds in most all that he does. It is without reservation that I recommend Dr. Ronnie Dotson to be selected for this position. I can assure you that Dr. Dotson truly personifies the Standard of Excellence. Sincerely, Donald Damron, Director of Personnel Carter County Schools

March 09, 2017

To Whom It May Concern:

It is with great confidence of continued success that I write a letter of support for Dr. Ronnie Dotson. I have known and worked with Dr. Dotson for several years and have found him to be a person of great integrity, superior work ethic, and unmatched passion for educating children.

I currently serve as an instructional coach in Carter County, however, my first acquaintance with Dr. Dotson was many years ago when we attended the same church. He and his wife were very active in the church serving as Couple’s Directors, Vacation Bible School Directors, and Youth Leaders for the congregation. I later completed my teaching certification and had the opportunity to serve the students of the school were Dr. Dotson was principal. I saw first-hand the compassion that he showed for the students and community that he served. While he always had high expectations for everyone, his love for people was always evident. When he left the school to accept a position as superintendent of schools, the entire community mourned his leaving.

Dr. Dotson expects the best. He not only expects the best, but he works to create opportunities where the best can be obtained. He practices a hands-on approach to leadership. He spends a great deal of his time in schools supporting teachers and administrators. On numerous occasions, he has conducted professional development sessions, tutored students in various subjects, and served as a mentor to students. The employees in Carter County view him as a partner in education and they appreciate the support that he provides.

Dr. Dotson is passionate about providing opportunities for students. He works collaborative with the different businesses and civic organizations in the community to make sure students are learning the skills necessary to be productive. He has formed many partnerships with area colleges and universities to provide dual credit opportunities to students. He is very innovative and is constantly looking for ways to enhance the already state acclaimed school system that he has created.

It is a pleasure to endorse Dr. Dotson as he begins this new chapter in his life. I have witnessed his commitment and dedication to public education for many years. He is the real deal! I know that he will serve the students and community of your district with the same enthusiasm.

Sincerely,

Nickie Blackburn

Instructional Coach, Carter County Schools

DearCommittee:

ItiswithgreatconfidencethatIrecommendDr.RonnieDotsonforemploymentasthe

SuperintendentofFlaglerCountySchools. There isnoperson inwhich Icouldgivea

higherrecommendation.

I have had the pleasure of working with Dr. Dotson for several years. Serving as

educationadministratorsinthesameregion,thetwoofussharemanyopportunitiesto

collaborate.Iwasconstantlyamazedatstoriesandevidencethatdepictedthelevelof

enthusiasm and commitment that he showed to his students, employees, and

community.Alwaysbelievingthateachstudentwasdeservingofthebestthathehadto

offerwasthedrivingforcebehindthedecisionsthathemade.Hehasproventobevery

efficientandeffective.Histalentintheareaofleadershipisexemplaryandhasplaced

him in a category of excellence that few in the education professionals attain. This

characteristic is evidenced by his extraordinary accomplishments in Carter County,

Kentucky where he currently serves as superintendent. His district has transformed

fromoneplaguedwith lowperformancetoaDistrictofDistinctionscoringamongthe

top5%inthestate.

I first began working with Dr. Dotson when he served as a school principal in Pike

County, Kentucky. Dr. Dotson’s school, one of the largest in our district of 10,000

students,wasranked2ndoutofappx.750elementaryschoolsinKentucky.Theschool

received the status of a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence and served as a

modelacrossourstate.

Dr. Dotson’s energy and enthusiasm for his work are evident in the tasks that he

completes. He can take on any project or idea and through determination and

perseverance, see it through to the end. He is extremely knowledgeable and has the

abilitytoattendtodetailsthatenhancehiswork.

Dr.Dotsonisanextremelybrightindividualwhotakesgreatprideinhisleadershipand

instills a confidence in others that motivates them to strive at high levels. I am

continually impressed with his drive, enthusiasm and desire to improve as well as

sharingideaswithco-workers.Hehasaveryfriendly,pleasingpersonalityandiseasyto

workwithonanytask.Hisco-workershavegreatrespectforhisabilities.

ItiswithoutreservationthatIrecommendDr.Dotsontobeselectedforemploymentby

yourschoolsystem.IcanassureyouthatnomorequalifiedpersonexiststhanRonnie

Dotson.This isoneofthoserareopportunitiesforanorganizationtogofromgoodto

great that doesn’t come along very often. I am confident that he will exceed your

expectations.

Sincerely,

TeresaLockhart

VicePresident,UniversityofPikeville

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