Board approves 'Jeff Phillips Circle' at Charger Academy to honor longtime bus driver

The Tipton County School Board approved a request to name the front drop‑off circle at Charger Academy "Jeff Phillips Circle" in honor of Jeff Phillips, a bus driver and volunteer who helps students each morning.

Principal Christie Ross had requested the honor and submitted the required paperwork under district policy. Board members noted that while the district's usual naming policy favors naming facilities posthumously, the policy permits naming a specific campus area for a living individual who has made a substantial contribution. The paperwork from the principal was presented to the board during the meeting.

A motion to approve the naming was made by Mr. Jenkins and seconded by Ms. Eubanks. The board voted by voice; the chair announced the motion passed.

Board members and community speakers praised Phillips for his daily presence at Charger Academy, helping students from their cars and providing a consistent, positive presence for several years. The board did not discuss a formal dedication date or the design/specifications for a sign; staff indicated typical practice would be a small sign placed at the curb.