Zona JEFFERSON

• Name	Zona JEFFERSON  [1, 2]
  Gender	Female
  HIST	Jefferson announces retirement Print JEFFERSON Posted: Tuesday, March 8, 2011 6:00 am | Updated: 6:00 am, Tue Mar 8, 2011. BY JADE ANDERSON janderson@theitem.com As her district comes to an end, so will Zona Jefferson's tenure as the superintendent of Sumter School District 17. "After 39 memorable and rewarding years of teaching and leading, I shall retire effective July 1, 2011," she said in a letter to her board dated Friday. "I leave this position with fond memories and a tremendous feeling of pride and personal satisfaction, the way one feels upon reaching a goal or keeping a promise." Jefferson shared her letter publicly Monday, ending questions about whether she would apply for the position of the first superintendent for the new school district. The Sumter School District, the one that will be formed out of the merger of Sumter school districts 2 and 17, comes into existence July 1. Jefferson has been superintendent for 10 years, and school officials contacted late Monday said she will be remembered fondly by those who worked with her. "It's been a pleasure to work with her for the last four years," said Greg Simonson, chairman of Sumter School District 17's Board of Trustees. "I knew it was coming, but it's still sorrowful. It signals the end of an era." Trustee Doug Mathis agreed, saying it had been his pleasure to work with Jefferson the past four years. "She has been excellent in her capacity as superintendent," he said. "She's always had a passion for the children. She's shown that to the board and to the children." Jefferson said students were her driving force. "For me, it was always about the children," she said. "They were the ones who motivated me, who pushed me into new directions." Mathis said he wishes her well and hopes whatever she plans to do in retirement will involve education in the county. "If she doesn't get back into something with education, Sumter will be missing out," he said. She wasn't specific in her letter, but Jefferson seemed to indicate she would be doing something in the education realm. "I am happy to say that my commitment to ensuring positive and enriching experiences for children will not end with my retirement," she said. "Retirement will afford me another platform to advocate for children and public education. Moreover, it is my desire to offer guidance and assistance wherever there is a need." She declined further comment. Leola McFadden, another District 17 trustee, said she'll miss Jefferson. "I learned a lot, and she taught me a lot. She's done a fantastic job with the district," McFadden said. "She's moving into a new phase in life. I congratulate her." Larry Addison, currently chairman of Sumter School District's Board of Trustees and former chairman of Sumter School District 2's Board of Trustees, never worked under Jefferson, but he knew her value. "In my experience, she's passionate about teaching children and helping children," he said. "I know she'll still be an active part of education in Sumter County." Keith Schultz and the Rev. Ralph Canty are both members of the new consolidated board, but they formerly served with Jefferson. "She was a fine educator and leader of our district, and I wish her well in retirement," Schultz said. "I enjoyed all my interactions with her while I was a member of District 17's board." Canty agreed. "I appreciate her charm, character and competence," he said. "Dr. Jefferson brought grace, dignity and wisdom to the office of (District) 17. ... The community will forever be grateful to her for molding, shaping and directing the lives of our children." Jefferson is just grateful for the chance to serve. "Thank you for giving me the enviable opportunity to work with the best youths in the universe," she said. "Serving them was a privilege and a memory I shall always cherish." Reach Jade Anderson at (803) 774-1250.   Zona Jefferson's letter announcing her retirement   March 4, 2011 Mr. Gregory Simonson, Chairman Sumter School District 17 1109 North Pike West Sumter, South Carolina 29153   Dear Members of the Board of Trustees: Thirty-nine years ago, I accepted the extraordinary offer you tendered me to become a servant-teacher and leader for Sumter School District 17. These years have allowed me to see the promise of each child. When I became superintendent of schools, I accepted that challenge with the keen sense of possibility about serving children and the difference I could make in the lives of our youth. I resolved to use all of my skills, energy, and imagination to advance the mission of Sumter 17. I embraced the myriad of responsibilities with enthusiasm and seriousness of purpose. Now after thirty-nine memorable and rewarding years of teaching and leading, I shall retire effective July 1, 2011. I submit this letter as formal confirmation of this decision. I leave this position with fond memories and a tremendous feeling of pride and personal satisfaction, the way one feels upon reaching a goal or keeping a promise. In all of my many years, my dedication and commitment to the educational needs and aspirations of Sumter's children never waned nor faltered. For me, it was always about the children. They were the ones who motivated me, who pushed me into new directions, always keeping their welfare as my primary emphasis. In fact, working for children quickly changed from an opportunity to a mission. I shall always be grateful for the incredible opportunities Sumter 17 provided me over the years. When I assumed the position of superintendent and partner with the educational enterprise of this renowned district, I could not have imagined the profound experience and sheer joy that working with children would be for me. Nor could I have imagined the significant impact this district would have on my two children who are products of this system. It is for these reasons, I am happy to say that my commitment to ensuring positive and enriching experiences for children will not end with my retirement. Retirement will afford me another platform to advocate for children and public education. Moreover, it is my desire to offer guidance and assistance wherever there is a need. Thank you for giving me the enviable opportunity to work with the best youths in the universe. Serving them was a privilege and a memory I shall always cherish.   With warm regards, Zona W. Jefferson, PhD Superintendent More about District17 ▪ ARTICLE: District 17 will meet with full agenda Tuesday ▪ ARTICLE: School celebrates breakfast week ▪ ARTICLE: Sumter 17 board to receive updates ▪ ARTICLE: School bands will present free concert More about Superintendent ▪ ARTICLE: Crowd shares opinions on next superintendent ▪ ARTICLE: Focus group summary of the Sumter school district superintendent search ▪ ARTICLE: Board closer to choosing superintendent ▪ ARTICLE: School board narrows superintendent search More about Consolidation ▪ ARTICLE: Rep. Lowe clarifies process is 'a real mess,' not consolidation ▪ ARTICLE: Crowd shares opinions on next superintendent ▪ ARTICLE: School board narrows superintendent search ▪ ARTICLE: Participants reminded final forum not 'pep rally' Posted in Local news, News on Tuesday, March 8, 2011 Jefferson retires after 39 years in education Share Share Print Create a hardcopy of this page Font Size: Default font size Larger font size Previous Next ITEM FILE PHOTO Going out with grace: Jefferson retires after 39 years in education When Dr. Zona Jefferson graduated from Mt. Pleasant High School in Lee County, the school was on the state's list of 200 dysfunctional schools. Valedictorian of her graduating class, Jefferson was a good student who was focused on success and head over heels for her high-school sweetheart. This month, Jefferson is celebrating three milestones her 30th year as an educator in District 17, her 30th wedding anniversary with her high-school sweetheart husband, Joseph, and the completion of her first year as superintendent of Sumter School District 17. Posted: Tuesday, June 28, 2011 6:00 am | Updated: 6:09 am, Tue Jun 28, 2011. BY JADE ANDERSON janderson@theitem.com Zona Jefferson has spent her entire career in Sumter School District 17. Although she has worked tirelessly for children and received many recognitions during the years, she doesn't like to draw attention to herself. Those closest to her are left to brag of her good deeds.   SCHOOL LEVEL Jefferson started teaching math at Bates Middle School in 1972. "She was a very good teacher," said Adrena Ray, who was assistant superintendent for human resources at the time. Ione Dwyer said she really got to know Jefferson when she was on the Board of Trustees, but she heard about her when her kids were in school. "Her name was always a buzz word through the district," she said. Jefferson served as an assistant principal at Millwood Elementary School from 1984 to 1987 and at Bates Middle School from 1987 to 1988. "She was an excellent administrator," said Debbie Thomas, who was a teacher at Bates when Jefferson was assistant principal. "She always put the needs of the students first, and supported the teachers." Thomas is retiring as Alice Drive Elementary's principal this year. "(Jefferson) was not just my boss, she was my mentor," she said. "We've always had a great working relationship. She has my highest respect, and she's one of those people I'd be happy to work under forever." Jefferson served as principal of Alice Drive Elementary School from 1988 to 1998. It was during this time she won the Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award, a national award sometimes described as the "Oscars of teaching," according to the foundation's website, and coming with a $25,000 prize. "Somebody called me about it to see if I'd recommend her, which of course I did," said Ray, who was then superintendent. "She was an outstanding principal, (and) it's a very prestigious award." Robert Hutchens was her assistant principal from 1990 to 1991. He said his first day on the job he went to help some other staff members with a child on the playground. "I met Jefferson on my way back in with child in tow, and she said ‘welcome to Alice Drive Elementary,'" Hutchens said. "It was right in the heat of battle." Thomas said Jefferson has a great sense of humor. Hutchens said she was "personable and professional." "Dressing down was not wearing high heels for her," he said. "She always looked the part, and she stepped up and played the part." Hutchens said she stood behind her team and her school. "She meant what she said and said what she meant," he said. "Teachers knew she stood to go the distance supporting them, and in turn, they'd go the distance supporting her." He said she was the first principal he saw that used participatory management in such a successful way. "She listened and imparted information," Hutchens said. "The group crafted the decision, but she retained accountability and authority. Everybody felt like they had ownership." Hutchens said she was also good about giving people room and authority to make a decisions. "She gave us freedom to fail," he said. "She allowed us the latitude to deal with things as they unfolded." The Rev. Ralph Canty, a former District 17 board member, said he's known Jefferson "endless years," but reconnected with her when she served as principal at Alice Drive and his children went there. "As a principal, she was extremely sensitive to the talents (of students) and the need for parental involvement," he said. "She was in touch with the needs of the children." DISTRICT LEVEL In 1998, Jefferson became assistant superintendent for human resources, the position she would hold until she became superintendent in August 2002. "She did an excellent job," said Dwyer, who served on the Board of Trustees from 1992 to 2006. "She was always on top of everything, recruiting good people to the district." Hutchens said she was easy to work with when he was principal at Kingsbury Elementary. "Principals deal with human resources a lot," he said. "If the person that was hired was not working out and probably needed to move on, I'd try to get them to sign a letter of resignation. Dr. J said, ‘Golly, I taught you well.'" When Jefferson became superintendent, Hutchens filled her former position. He said it was like "old home." "She used cabinet meetings the same way and truly allowed the freedom to discuss issues even opposing views," he said. "Sometimes she'd cultivate opposing views and made the group think of the ramifications (because) a lot of decisions have multiple impacts." If the argument was compelling, she'd change her mind. "Ultimately, we made good decisions (and) invariably it's what was best for the kids involved," Hutchens said. "But she always listened (and) she always valued our opinions even if we opposed it originally. When we left the meeting, everybody stood behind the decision." Bobby Matthews was chairman of the board when Jefferson was selected as "the most qualified" candidate to become superintendent. "She knew the ins and outs and what needed to be done," he said. "She got it done, and you didn't have to worry about it. She did what was best for the kids." "She came in with a vision," Dwyer said. "She had a plan. She got results, and she did it with grace. With her, it was always about what was best for the children. We couldn't have asked anymore of her." Ray said she continued to follow Jefferson's career "with great interest" after she retired. "I'm very proud of her because I've been in the position she's in, and I know how hard it is to handle," she said. "I'm certainly impressed with all she's done." Greg Simonson said Jefferson's leadership style has been to be open, sharing a lot of information so trustees can make informed decisions. "She's always been gracious," Simonson said. "We may agree to disagree, but we leave as friends. She has made my term as chair especially enjoyable and very rewarding overall. It's been a pleasure working with her." He said she expected and received superior performance from her employees, something he credits at least in part to her leadership approach. "She's extremely knowledgeable and kept us abreast of developments in the community," said the Rev. Isaac Johnson, another board member. "What really impressed me was her knowledge and concern about the students, teachers, administrators and all the stakeholders in the school system." He said she was a consensus builder, making sure no segment of the community felt disenfranchised. Canty said he's watched Jefferson's professional career reach it's "zenith." "All along the way, I saw in her excellence, commitment and the desire to fully develop every child that was a part of the school and/or district," he said. BEHIND THE SCENES Hutchens said Jefferson's worked with the S.C. Association of School Administrators and the American Association of School Administrators to lobby for legislation to benefit public education. "She's been involved in think tanks across the nation on issues of education," he said. "She's been selected to represent the state and region." Johnson said he has traveled with her to Columbia to lobby for funding and that Jefferson encouraged individuals to attend national meetings as well. "Any time a local superintendent can have the ear of the secretary of education, that means that person is more than influential, they're dynamic," Canty said. Lemira Elementary Principal Delcia Harper-Baxter, who has known Jefferson for 20 years, called her a dynamic leader for her selflessness. "It's not about Zona," she said. "It has always been what is best for the children. Zona has been and will continue to work on behalf of children locally and on the state and national level. She is respected for her willingness to do whatever is required to make sure the students experience success." Despite the many challenges Jefferson has faced, Harper-Baxter said, she's never lost her grace or professionalism. "Zona has been and is an excellent role model for women and African-American women," she said. "She demands the best from all, 100 percent, 99½ won't do." Principal Rut Dingle said Jefferson's love of children drew her attendance at numerous ball games, concerts and academic functions to celebrate their accomplishments. "Dr. Jefferson has been a great friend to Sumter High School," he said. "She has supported all our programs, and I really admire the way that she has handled her busy schedule." Sometimes that love goes outside of the school walls. "Many times she has helped troubled youth, whether as a mentor or helping them with personal or family issues," Dingle said. "I can recall her finding a home for homeless children and her giving of her time and money to support students in need. She has been a great leader for our district, and I will miss her wisdom and heart." Thomas also knew of her generosity, saying Jefferson made sure some fifth-graders got to go on the Washington, D.C., field trip who might otherwise not have been able to go. "She has mentored students," Thomas said. "She's been a positive adult to help them through tough spots. Sometimes that's what a child needs, that person to support them and keep them on the right track when they are tempted to take another direction. She's been instrumental in helping students along over the years. It's nothing she announces to the world. It's just what she does." Hutchens was also aware of her "personally taking students under her wing." He knew of children who were "in bad situations" and self-conscious about their clothes whom Jefferson took shopping, buying them clothes with her own money. "That removed the stigma of going to school," Hutchens said. "She'd make pacts with students. ‘If you do this and stay in school,' and she'd follow through." He said this would shock those students because they were not used to having adult role models who followed through on their promises. "I'd put her third on the list after my mother and wife for someone who had an impact on my life and career," Hutchens said. "I don't know that a lot of people can say that about their boss. I think some people are going to miss her more than they ever realized." He told her she won't be retired long. "I told her, ‘mark my words,'" Hutchens said. "‘You'll spend some time with your grandbabies. You'll travel and do some things, but then you'll be involved with young people again at some point.'"   Reach Jade Anderson at (803) 774-1250.   Professional organizations S.C. Association of School Administrators Phi Delta Kappa Eta Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha The American Association of School Administrators The National Alliance of Black School Educators The S.C. Alliance for Black School Educators The Alpha Kappa Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma   Civic Organizations Rotary Club of Sumter Sunrise Board member for BB&T   Awards Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award Dorothy Ford Givens Educator of the Year Award The Adult Education Superintendent of the Year Award The President's Award from the S.C. Alliance of Black School Educators   Posted in Local news, News on Tuesday, June 28, 2011  [1, 2]
  HIST	Jefferson announces retirement Print JEFFERSON Posted: Tuesday, March 8, 2011 6:00 am | Updated: 6:00 am, Tue Mar 8, 2011. BY JADE ANDERSON janderson@theitem.com As her district comes to an end, so will Zona Jefferson's tenure as the superintendent of Sumter School District 17. "After 39 memorable and rewarding years of teaching and leading, I shall retire effective July 1, 2011," she said in a letter to her board dated Friday. "I leave this position with fond memories and a tremendous feeling of pride and personal satisfaction, the way one feels upon reaching a goal or keeping a promise." Jefferson shared her letter publicly Monday, ending questions about whether she would apply for the position of the first superintendent for the new school district. The Sumter School District, the one that will be formed out of the merger of Sumter school districts 2 and 17, comes into existence July 1. Jefferson has been superintendent for 10 years, and school officials contacted late Monday said she will be remembered fondly by those who worked with her. "It's been a pleasure to work with her for the last four years," said Greg Simonson, chairman of Sumter School District 17's Board of Trustees. "I knew it was coming, but it's still sorrowful. It signals the end of an era." Trustee Doug Mathis agreed, saying it had been his pleasure to work with Jefferson the past four years. "She has been excellent in her capacity as superintendent," he said. "She's always had a passion for the children. She's shown that to the board and to the children." Jefferson said students were her driving force. "For me, it was always about the children," she said. "They were the ones who motivated me, who pushed me into new directions." Mathis said he wishes her well and hopes whatever she plans to do in retirement will involve education in the county. "If she doesn't get back into something with education, Sumter will be missing out," he said. She wasn't specific in her letter, but Jefferson seemed to indicate she would be doing something in the education realm. "I am happy to say that my commitment to ensuring positive and enriching experiences for children will not end with my retirement," she said. "Retirement will afford me another platform to advocate for children and public education. Moreover, it is my desire to offer guidance and assistance wherever there is a need." She declined further comment. Leola McFadden, another District 17 trustee, said she'll miss Jefferson. "I learned a lot, and she taught me a lot. She's done a fantastic job with the district," McFadden said. "She's moving into a new phase in life. I congratulate her." Larry Addison, currently chairman of Sumter School District's Board of Trustees and former chairman of Sumter School District 2's Board of Trustees, never worked under Jefferson, but he knew her value. "In my experience, she's passionate about teaching children and helping children," he said. "I know she'll still be an active part of education in Sumter County." Keith Schultz and the Rev. Ralph Canty are both members of the new consolidated board, but they formerly served with Jefferson. "She was a fine educator and leader of our district, and I wish her well in retirement," Schultz said. "I enjoyed all my interactions with her while I was a member of District 17's board." Canty agreed. "I appreciate her charm, character and competence," he said. "Dr. Jefferson brought grace, dignity and wisdom to the office of (District) 17. ... The community will forever be grateful to her for molding, shaping and directing the lives of our children." Jefferson is just grateful for the chance to serve. "Thank you for giving me the enviable opportunity to work with the best youths in the universe," she said. "Serving them was a privilege and a memory I shall always cherish." Reach Jade Anderson at (803) 774-1250.   Zona Jefferson's letter announcing her retirement   March 4, 2011 Mr. Gregory Simonson, Chairman Sumter School District 17 1109 North Pike West Sumter, South Carolina 29153   Dear Members of the Board of Trustees: Thirty-nine years ago, I accepted the extraordinary offer you tendered me to become a servant-teacher and leader for Sumter School District 17. These years have allowed me to see the promise of each child. When I became superintendent of schools, I accepted that challenge with the keen sense of possibility about serving children and the difference I could make in the lives of our youth. I resolved to use all of my skills, energy, and imagination to advance the mission of Sumter 17. I embraced the myriad of responsibilities with enthusiasm and seriousness of purpose. Now after thirty-nine memorable and rewarding years of teaching and leading, I shall retire effective July 1, 2011. I submit this letter as formal confirmation of this decision. I leave this position with fond memories and a tremendous feeling of pride and personal satisfaction, the way one feels upon reaching a goal or keeping a promise. In all of my many years, my dedication and commitment to the educational needs and aspirations of Sumter's children never waned nor faltered. For me, it was always about the children. They were the ones who motivated me, who pushed me into new directions, always keeping their welfare as my primary emphasis. In fact, working for children quickly changed from an opportunity to a mission. I shall always be grateful for the incredible opportunities Sumter 17 provided me over the years. When I assumed the position of superintendent and partner with the educational enterprise of this renowned district, I could not have imagined the profound experience and sheer joy that working with children would be for me. Nor could I have imagined the significant impact this district would have on my two children who are products of this system. It is for these reasons, I am happy to say that my commitment to ensuring positive and enriching experiences for children will not end with my retirement. Retirement will afford me another platform to advocate for children and public education. Moreover, it is my desire to offer guidance and assistance wherever there is a need. Thank you for giving me the enviable opportunity to work with the best youths in the universe. Serving them was a privilege and a memory I shall always cherish.   With warm regards, Zona W. Jefferson, PhD Superintendent More about District17 ▪ ARTICLE: District 17 will meet with full agenda Tuesday ▪ ARTICLE: School celebrates breakfast week ▪ ARTICLE: Sumter 17 board to receive updates ▪ ARTICLE: School bands will present free concert More about Superintendent ▪ ARTICLE: Crowd shares opinions on next superintendent ▪ ARTICLE: Focus group summary of the Sumter school district superintendent search ▪ ARTICLE: Board closer to choosing superintendent ▪ ARTICLE: School board narrows superintendent search More about Consolidation ▪ ARTICLE: Rep. Lowe clarifies process is 'a real mess,' not consolidation ▪ ARTICLE: Crowd shares opinions on next superintendent ▪ ARTICLE: School board narrows superintendent search ▪ ARTICLE: Participants reminded final forum not 'pep rally' Posted in Local news, News on Tuesday, March 8, 2011 Jefferson retires after 39 years in education Share Share Print Create a hardcopy of this page Font Size: Default font size Larger font size Previous Next ITEM FILE PHOTO Going out with grace: Jefferson retires after 39 years in education When Dr. Zona Jefferson graduated from Mt. Pleasant High School in Lee County, the school was on the state's list of 200 dysfunctional schools. Valedictorian of her graduating class, Jefferson was a good student who was focused on success and head over heels for her high-school sweetheart. This month, Jefferson is celebrating three milestones her 30th year as an educator in District 17, her 30th wedding anniversary with her high-school sweetheart husband, Joseph, and the completion of her first year as superintendent of Sumter School District 17. Posted: Tuesday, June 28, 2011 6:00 am | Updated: 6:09 am, Tue Jun 28, 2011. BY JADE ANDERSON janderson@theitem.com Zona Jefferson has spent her entire career in Sumter School District 17. Although she has worked tirelessly for children and received many recognitions during the years, she doesn't like to draw attention to herself. Those closest to her are left to brag of her good deeds.   SCHOOL LEVEL Jefferson started teaching math at Bates Middle School in 1972. "She was a very good teacher," said Adrena Ray, who was assistant superintendent for human resources at the time. Ione Dwyer said she really got to know Jefferson when she was on the Board of Trustees, but she heard about her when her kids were in school. "Her name was always a buzz word through the district," she said. Jefferson served as an assistant principal at Millwood Elementary School from 1984 to 1987 and at Bates Middle School from 1987 to 1988. "She was an excellent administrator," said Debbie Thomas, who was a teacher at Bates when Jefferson was assistant principal. "She always put the needs of the students first, and supported the teachers." Thomas is retiring as Alice Drive Elementary's principal this year. "(Jefferson) was not just my boss, she was my mentor," she said. "We've always had a great working relationship. She has my highest respect, and she's one of those people I'd be happy to work under forever." Jefferson served as principal of Alice Drive Elementary School from 1988 to 1998. It was during this time she won the Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award, a national award sometimes described as the "Oscars of teaching," according to the foundation's website, and coming with a $25,000 prize. "Somebody called me about it to see if I'd recommend her, which of course I did," said Ray, who was then superintendent. "She was an outstanding principal, (and) it's a very prestigious award." Robert Hutchens was her assistant principal from 1990 to 1991. He said his first day on the job he went to help some other staff members with a child on the playground. "I met Jefferson on my way back in with child in tow, and she said ‘welcome to Alice Drive Elementary,'" Hutchens said. "It was right in the heat of battle." Thomas said Jefferson has a great sense of humor. Hutchens said she was "personable and professional." "Dressing down was not wearing high heels for her," he said. "She always looked the part, and she stepped up and played the part." Hutchens said she stood behind her team and her school. "She meant what she said and said what she meant," he said. "Teachers knew she stood to go the distance supporting them, and in turn, they'd go the distance supporting her." He said she was the first principal he saw that used participatory management in such a successful way. "She listened and imparted information," Hutchens said. "The group crafted the decision, but she retained accountability and authority. Everybody felt like they had ownership." Hutchens said she was also good about giving people room and authority to make a decisions. "She gave us freedom to fail," he said. "She allowed us the latitude to deal with things as they unfolded." The Rev. Ralph Canty, a former District 17 board member, said he's known Jefferson "endless years," but reconnected with her when she served as principal at Alice Drive and his children went there. "As a principal, she was extremely sensitive to the talents (of students) and the need for parental involvement," he said. "She was in touch with the needs of the children." DISTRICT LEVEL In 1998, Jefferson became assistant superintendent for human resources, the position she would hold until she became superintendent in August 2002. "She did an excellent job," said Dwyer, who served on the Board of Trustees from 1992 to 2006. "She was always on top of everything, recruiting good people to the district." Hutchens said she was easy to work with when he was principal at Kingsbury Elementary. "Principals deal with human resources a lot," he said. "If the person that was hired was not working out and probably needed to move on, I'd try to get them to sign a letter of resignation. Dr. J said, ‘Golly, I taught you well.'" When Jefferson became superintendent, Hutchens filled her former position. He said it was like "old home." "She used cabinet meetings the same way and truly allowed the freedom to discuss issues even opposing views," he said. "Sometimes she'd cultivate opposing views and made the group think of the ramifications (because) a lot of decisions have multiple impacts." If the argument was compelling, she'd change her mind. "Ultimately, we made good decisions (and) invariably it's what was best for the kids involved," Hutchens said. "But she always listened (and) she always valued our opinions even if we opposed it originally. When we left the meeting, everybody stood behind the decision." Bobby Matthews was chairman of the board when Jefferson was selected as "the most qualified" candidate to become superintendent. "She knew the ins and outs and what needed to be done," he said. "She got it done, and you didn't have to worry about it. She did what was best for the kids." "She came in with a vision," Dwyer said. "She had a plan. She got results, and she did it with grace. With her, it was always about what was best for the children. We couldn't have asked anymore of her." Ray said she continued to follow Jefferson's career "with great interest" after she retired. "I'm very proud of her because I've been in the position she's in, and I know how hard it is to handle," she said. "I'm certainly impressed with all she's done." Greg Simonson said Jefferson's leadership style has been to be open, sharing a lot of information so trustees can make informed decisions. "She's always been gracious," Simonson said. "We may agree to disagree, but we leave as friends. She has made my term as chair especially enjoyable and very rewarding overall. It's been a pleasure working with her." He said she expected and received superior performance from her employees, something he credits at least in part to her leadership approach. "She's extremely knowledgeable and kept us abreast of developments in the community," said the Rev. Isaac Johnson, another board member. "What really impressed me was her knowledge and concern about the students, teachers, administrators and all the stakeholders in the school system." He said she was a consensus builder, making sure no segment of the community felt disenfranchised. Canty said he's watched Jefferson's professional career reach it's "zenith." "All along the way, I saw in her excellence, commitment and the desire to fully develop every child that was a part of the school and/or district," he said. BEHIND THE SCENES Hutchens said Jefferson's worked with the S.C. Association of School Administrators and the American Association of School Administrators to lobby for legislation to benefit public education. "She's been involved in think tanks across the nation on issues of education," he said. "She's been selected to represent the state and region." Johnson said he has traveled with her to Columbia to lobby for funding and that Jefferson encouraged individuals to attend national meetings as well. "Any time a local superintendent can have the ear of the secretary of education, that means that person is more than influential, they're dynamic," Canty said. Lemira Elementary Principal Delcia Harper-Baxter, who has known Jefferson for 20 years, called her a dynamic leader for her selflessness. "It's not about Zona," she said. "It has always been what is best for the children. Zona has been and will continue to work on behalf of children locally and on the state and national level. She is respected for her willingness to do whatever is required to make sure the students experience success." Despite the many challenges Jefferson has faced, Harper-Baxter said, she's never lost her grace or professionalism. "Zona has been and is an excellent role model for women and African-American women," she said. "She demands the best from all, 100 percent, 99½ won't do." Principal Rut Dingle said Jefferson's love of children drew her attendance at numerous ball games, concerts and academic functions to celebrate their accomplishments. "Dr. Jefferson has been a great friend to Sumter High School," he said. "She has supported all our programs, and I really admire the way that she has handled her busy schedule." Sometimes that love goes outside of the school walls. "Many times she has helped troubled youth, whether as a mentor or helping them with personal or family issues," Dingle said. "I can recall her finding a home for homeless children and her giving of her time and money to support students in need. She has been a great leader for our district, and I will miss her wisdom and heart." Thomas also knew of her generosity, saying Jefferson made sure some fifth-graders got to go on the Washington, D.C., field trip who might otherwise not have been able to go. "She has mentored students," Thomas said. "She's been a positive adult to help them through tough spots. Sometimes that's what a child needs, that person to support them and keep them on the right track when they are tempted to take another direction. She's been instrumental in helping students along over the years. It's nothing she announces to the world. It's just what she does." Hutchens was also aware of her "personally taking students under her wing." He knew of children who were "in bad situations" and self-conscious about their clothes whom Jefferson took shopping, buying them clothes with her own money. "That removed the stigma of going to school," Hutchens said. "She'd make pacts with students. ‘If you do this and stay in school,' and she'd follow through." He said this would shock those students because they were not used to having adult role models who followed through on their promises. "I'd put her third on the list after my mother and wife for someone who had an impact on my life and career," Hutchens said. "I don't know that a lot of people can say that about their boss. I think some people are going to miss her more than they ever realized." He told her she won't be retired long. "I told her, ‘mark my words,'" Hutchens said. "‘You'll spend some time with your grandbabies. You'll travel and do some things, but then you'll be involved with young people again at some point.'"   Reach Jade Anderson at (803) 774-1250.   Professional organizations S.C. Association of School Administrators Phi Delta Kappa Eta Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha The American Association of School Administrators The National Alliance of Black School Educators The S.C. Alliance for Black School Educators The Alpha Kappa Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma   Civic Organizations Rotary Club of Sumter Sunrise Board member for BB&T   Awards Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award Dorothy Ford Givens Educator of the Year Award The Adult Education Superintendent of the Year Award The President's Award from the S.C. Alliance of Black School Educators   Posted in Local news, News on Tuesday, June 28, 2011
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  _UID	0B1A41632CBA44649C4BD1A6876D6924366F
  Person ID	I265043	Singleton and Related Families
  Last Modified	6 Jul 2011

  
  

  Father	JEFFERSON
  _UID	49A51C9B583E46218D6D9056FF1CA237768D
  _UID	49A51C9B583E46218D6D9056FF1CA237768D
  Family ID	F180141	Group Sheet  |  Family Chart

  
  

• Sources

  [S15738] Jefferson announces retirement. [S16241] Going out with grace.