The change, according to Young, came about for a number of reasons, including his familiarity with the Boyle County school system.
"I'd known for a long time Boyle County was dedicated to athletics. Back in the dark ages when I played basketball at Anderson County, I got to know that about Boyle. But when I moved to Mercer County, I found out Boyle County parents, administrators and staff had high expectations, not only for athletics, but for the band, academic teams, test scores and everything else as well.
"And if I'm correct, Boyle has the highest CATS testing scores in the region."
Young also had heard positive remarks about his new elementary school.
"When I heard more about Junction City, I never heard a bad word. I've heard it's a great place to work."
Good vibes
Young attributes a solid portion of the good vibes to the work of his predecessor and the apparent dedication of the faculty and staff. To Young, the proof is in the pudding.
"When I look at policies and such, they're talking the talk of the most highly effective schools. The policies and programs right now are right on par with the highest-level schools in the state. I think that speaks volumes for Morris and the staff. The community is obviously proud of the work they've been doing."
And that same community is doing its part to welcome the new principal, said Young. Monday night, JCES hosted an event for the faculty and staff to get to know him.
"One of the first things said after I was offered the job was that we needed to have a reception for staff and teachers to get to know me, which was nice."
Young enjoyed the family atmosphere of the reception and was moved by the vast amount of employees present.
Of course, his new job represents more than hugs, cake and finger sandwiches. Young said he's ready to jump aboard what he says is a solid system.
"In the last six years, the test scores (at JCES) have grown dramatically. It's obvious they've been putting in some programs that have really worked. Junction has met all of the criteria present in No Child Left Behind, which is a big deal. It looks like, without having seen teachers teaching, quality instruction has been going."
Young noted the marked improvement in the areas of reading and math, the latter of which he hopes to be able to "bring something new to the table to," being a "math guy" himself.
Young wants to take hold of the school and get a feel for JCES in the early months of the coming school year.
"I want everyone to know that I'm focused on instruction. I have every belief good instruction is going on, but I want them to know how important it is to me. I'm going to be in the classroom, and I look forward to getting to know every parent and every staff member."
