Born, raised, and educated in Bay County, Dr. John L. Haley, Jr. devoted more than 30 years of service to Bay District Schools. His lifelong connection to the community brings both personal commitment and extensive professional experience to his service on the School Board.
Dr. Haley began his career with the district as a volunteer and substitute teacher. Over the years, he has served numerous roles, including paraprofessional, math teacher, dean of students, administrative assistant, assistant principal, and principal. During his tenure as principal of J. R. Arnold High School, the school earned its first “A” school grade. He later transitioned to the district office as the first Executive Director of Operations, where he oversaw critical departments including Information and Technology Services, Textbooks and Instructional Materials, Safety and Security, Middle and High School Athletics, Facilities, Food Service, Maintenance, and Transportation.
Dr. Haley understands firsthand the opportunities and challenges students face in today’s schools. He and his wife founded the “Two Doctors in One House” Scholarship Fund to encourage local high school students to graduate and pursue college opportunities in the Panama City area. He also mentors students and serves the community as Founder and Senior Pastor of New Covenant Church, where the church’s outreach ministry operates a food bank supporting families in need. In addition, Dr. Haley regularly supports local organizations that benefit area schools and students. He is a member of the Chamber of Commerce and an executive board member of LEAD. As owner and founder of Doc Homes, LLC, Dr. Haley builds and remodels homes for those who are financially challenged.
As an educational leader, policy maker, contract negotiator, and budget manager, Dr. Haley believes strongly in transparency and accountability. His priorities include putting Students First by modernizing school facilities to support the expansion and enhancement of career and technical programs that equip students with the skills and credentials needed for high-demand careers while still in school. He is committed to providing Front-Line Support, so teachers and staff have the resources needed to help students succeed and receive fair compensation for the important work they do.
Through his commitment to fiscal responsibility, Dr. Haley will work to ensure taxpayer dollars are managed wisely and effectively. He also believes in strengthening the connection between the District Office and local schools so that decisions remain grounded in the needs of students, educators, and families. Above all, Dr. Haley is dedicated to ensuring every child has access to a safe, supportive learning environment.
As a neighbor, community leader, and lifelong resident, Dr. Haley is committed to helping Bay County students become academically successful and engaged citizens.
Remember Dr. John L. Haley, Jr. — A Voice. A Vision. A Volunteer.
A voice for our community.
A vision for successful pathways for our students.
A volunteer advocating for quality education
JH
THE PRIORITIES FOR BAY COUNTY SCHOOLS
Students First, Politics Last
Education should never be about political agendas — it should be about our children.
Every decision made at the school board level must start with one question: Does this benefit students? Not political interests. Not outside pressure. Not headlines.
Putting students first means focusing on academic outcomes, classroom success, and preparing young people for real opportunities after graduation — whether that’s college, a trade, or the workforce.
Our schools should be places where parents feel confident, teachers feel supported, and students are equipped to succeed — without unnecessary political distractions getting in the way.
Student Safety
Nothing matters more than the safety of our students and staff.
Parents should never have to worry about whether their child is safe at school. That means maintaining strong security measures, supporting school resource officers, and ensuring clear emergency protocols are in place and practiced.
Safety also goes beyond physical security. It includes addressing bullying, maintaining a positive school environment, and making sure every student feels secure and respected on campus.
A safe school is a successful school — and that must always be a top priority.
Technology Has Its Place, But Cannot Replace Great Teachers
Technology is a valuable tool — but it should support education, not replace the human connection that great teachers provide.
Students learn best through engagement, mentorship, and real interaction. While digital tools can enhance learning, they should never come at the expense of strong instruction and meaningful classroom relationships.
We need to be smart about how technology is used — ensuring it improves outcomes without creating distractions or dependency.
At the end of the day, nothing replaces a dedicated teacher who knows their students and is invested in their success.
Support the Frontline: Teachers and Support Personnel
Our teachers and school staff are on the frontlines every single day — and they deserve real support, not just words.
That means ensuring they have the resources, respect, and working conditions they need to do their jobs effectively. It also means listening to their feedback and valuing their experience when making decisions.
Support personnel — from bus drivers to paraprofessionals to administrative staff — are just as essential to keeping our schools running smoothly.
When we support the people who serve our students, we strengthen the entire education system.
Serving Beyond the Classroom
For Dr. John L. Haley, Jr., serving the community has never been limited to the school system — it’s a lifelong commitment.
As Founder and Senior Pastor of New Covenant Church in Panama City, Dr. Haley has helped build more than a place of worship — he’s helped build a place of support, connection, and service for families across Bay County.
Through the church’s outreach ministry, Dr. Haley leads efforts that provide real help to real people. From operating a local food bank that supports families in need, to hosting community events that bring neighbors together, his work is rooted in compassion and action — not words.
Meeting Needs, Changing Lives
Whether it’s organizing food distribution, mentoring students, or simply being present for families during difficult times, Dr. Haley understands that strong communities are built through consistent service.
His “Two Doctors in One House” Scholarship Fund encourages local students to pursue higher education right here in Bay County — reinforcing his belief that opportunity should be created locally and shared broadly.
Invested in Bay County
Dr. Haley’s commitment extends across the community:
- Active member of the Chamber of Commerce
- Executive Board Member of LEAD
- Supporter of organizations that directly benefit local schools and students
- Founder of Doc Homes, LLC — helping provide housing solutions for those in need
These aren’t titles — they’re responsibilities he takes seriously.
A Neighbor You Know. A Leader You Trust.
Dr. Haley doesn’t just talk about community — he lives it.
From the classroom to the church, from the food bank to the boardroom, his focus has always been the same: helping people, strengthening families, and building a better future for Bay County.
"Dr. Haley was my principal at Arnold High School, and even after all these years, I still remember him ending the morning announcements with:
“That being said, AS ALWAYS… GO MARLINS!!”
As students, we may not fully realize the impact school leaders have on us, but looking back, I can truly appreciate the leadership, encouragement, and pride Dr. Haley poured into Arnold High School and its students every single day.
Today, I’m honored to support and endorse Dr. John L. Haley, Jr. for Bay County School Board, District 3.
Bay County students deserve leadership from someone who has dedicated his life to our schools, our teachers, and our community."
– Hannah Clay
Regional Marketing Manager, Buffalo Rock
Arnold High School Class of 2008
"Susan and I are very pleased you are running for Bay County School Board, District 3. Your past educational experiences and your experiences at the district office uniquely qualify you for the School Board. Thank you for your lifelong commitment to public education."
– John and Susan Bozarth
"I’ve known Dr. Haley for a long time, and I am proud to say I fully support and endorse Dr. John Haley for Bay School Board District 3! I think he will do a great job!"
– Ralph Hammond
Mayor of Springfield, FL
STAND WITH DR. JOHN HALEY FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR THE CHILDREN OF BAY COUNTY!
This campaign is about our community and our students. I welcome your thoughts, concerns, and ideas — because the best decisions come from listening to the people we serve.
Email: info@votejohnhaley.com
Phone: 850.832.1379
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