Press Release

A JMCSS communication for families & community stakeholders

Participation crucial to continuation of weCARE

Employees encouraged to increase participation as district considers initiative renewal

Wednesday, January 8, 2024

JACKSON, TN — Jackson-Madison County School System employees increased their first-quarter participation in the district’s employee wellness initiative as the second year of the health-based program kicked off at the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year. This innovative program was launched in 2023 to prioritize the health and well-being of our educators and staff. By offering resources, workshops, and activities focused on the physical, mental, and emotional health of employees, JMCSS aims to improve employee support and increase student outcomes.

“We are committed to supporting our employees in every way possible,” said Dr. Marlon King, Jackson-Madison County Schools Superintendent. “Programs like weCARE not only improve individual health but also create a more engaged and energized workforce, which ultimately benefits our students and community. We hope to see even more participation this year as we continue to expand our offerings.”

The weCARE program expanded this year to include a perfect attendance component along with the wellness activity element. Close to 500 employees received the $50 perfect attendance bonus during the first weCARE period, which closed in October. However, fewer than 200 of those employees participated in the wellness component, missing out on a share of approximately $208,739 paid out to employees who completed items in the activities menu: health, nutrition, physical activity, self-care, mental health, and financial health courses.

Graphic below: The graphic below shows an increase in overall participation during Period 1 of the weCARE Employee Wellness Initiative. However, almost 400 of the 1509 participants in 2024 participated in the Perfect Attendance component only, missing out on substantial benefits.

“Employees are leaving money on the table by not fully engaging in weCARE and the wellness component incentive,” said Chief Student Support Officer Dr. Shalonda Franklin. “If participation dips from the 2023-2024 numbers during Period Two, we may have to reconsider the viability of this program, particularly with the ending of ESSER funding. We strongly encourage everyone to get involved to ensure weCARE remains a valuable resource for all staff.”

Data Illustration below: Of the approximately 2,107 employees eligible to participate in weCARE, 1,509 employees participated in some aspect of the employee wellness initiative, including the perfect attendance component.

In addition to realizing the physical and mental benefits of weCARE, the wellness breaks enjoyed by teachers and staff since 2023 are also benefits of weCARE. Protecting these and other benefits is strengthened through continued participation. Whether you’re new to the district or returning, we encourage everyone to take advantage of the opportunities weCARE offers. Participation not only promotes personal wellness but also strengthens our collective ability to serve our students and community effectively.

“We invite all staff members to join us in making weCARE’s second year even more impactful. Together, we can build a healthier and happier workforce,” Dr. Franklin said.

Stay tuned for updates and announcements about upcoming events and activities through district emails and by visiting jmcss.org/wecare

Questions? We want to hear from you. Use the following link to connect with us www.jmcss.org/letstalk

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Rising Freshmen Parent Night

JMCSS will host a parent night at the Board of Education (Central Office) on Thursday, January 23rd from 5:30PM - 6:30PM for rising 9th-grade parents and students. We'll provide information on programs of study, open enrollment opportunities, graduation requirements, ACT preparation, and resources for their upcoming transition to high school. Visit www.jmcss.org/letstalk to share comments or questions.

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Let’s Talk is available 24/7 from your phone, computer, or tablet, and includes staff-facing technologies that ensure you receive a timely, accurate response — every time. You can expect a response from us within two business days.