Habersham County Schools said goodbye to a valuable member of their team at the end of 2022, as longtime administrative assistant Melinda Jenkins announced her retirement.
“Melinda Jenkins has given 12 years to that little office,” Superintendent Matthew Cooper said. “In the 12 years I’ve worked with Melinda, I honestly can’t remember her ever letting me down. I’ve tried to think of a time she did, but I honestly can’t.”
“I have really enjoyed my time with Habersham County Schools. I consider myself very lucky to have been a small part of such a wonderful organization,” Jenkins said. “I have held many jobs and I have made many, many friends since my start in 1999. I have had the support of Mr. Cooper, the Board, the Principals and countless others. The community has been great and I’ve met a lot of wonderful people. I can’t thank everyone enough. It has been an honor.”
Cooper had effusive praise for Jenkins at the December Board of Education meeting, appreciating her service helping not only him, but the school system as a whole.
“Melinda believes in doing things right. She’s not going to compromise,” Cooper said. “Melinda is very ethical, honest, (and) dedicated to this school system. You took ownership through this whole school system. She takes care of this board, a tremendous amount of responsibility.”
Cooper stressed that Jenkins was a reliable and trustworthy member of his team.
“We’ve handled some interesting things, some sensitive things, and very important things. Melinda is one of those people you can trust. Very few people can handle confidential information like we do in this school system, but Melinda can. You’ve always come through,” Cooper said. “Probably what (she’s) known for is her attitude. Some people are nice sometimes, but Melinda Jenkins – she is positive every single day.”
– Staff reports