Civil Municipal Magazine - Nov 2023

214 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 11 some positive news on this front, “We are 99% staffed. We started early with retention and had 90% of our school staff affirm their return last April.” Their success in this regard isn’t merely luck. He explains, “We’ve been competitive with our salary structures, making Fulton an attractive workplace, leading in innovation.” On the operations side, Jones-Huff notes challenges but also highlights successes, particularly in transportation. “We’ve initiated an opportunity team for transportation recruitment, traveling road shows, attending community events, and hosting hiring fairs,” she elaborates. This concerted effort has nearly fully staffed the transportation team. However, she acknowledges ongoing difficulties when addressing skilled trades. “While we face competition and challenges with competitive salaries, we’re exploring outsourcing and contracting to fill the gaps,” she says. It’s evident that Fulton’s proactive approach and adaptability are vital in navigating the evolving challenges post-pandemic. Bridging Communities: Sports, Arts, and Wellness Initiatives Fulton County’s endeavors extend well beyond the classroom. Jones illuminates the rich tapestry of sports and arts programs, describing them as central pillars uniting communities. He remarks, “From esports to traditional games like basketball and baseball, our athletic program is varied and highly regarded.” And there’s no mistaking the electric ambiance of a Friday night game in Fulton County, as the harmonious blend of sport and music lights up the evening. Jones is equally enthusiastic about the arts, noting, “We’ve been regional leaders in the arts for over two decades, offering diverse programs like orchestra, chorus, and even Cirque du Soleil- inspired activities.” Standout programs for the visual and performing arts are located at North Springs High School and Tri-Cities High School. He adds, “With Atlanta’s flourishing film industry and talents like Tyler Perry close by, our students have unprecedented opportunities.” Jones shared an important project, of which