Overview:
Dr. Carl Knowlton will begin the role as interim superintendent of Henry County Schools on March 7.
In a special called meeting last week, the Henry County Board of Education unanimously appointed Dr. Carl Knowlton as Interim Superintendent, effective March 7.
“I am honored to be called upon to provide consistency, stability, and a seamless transition as our Board of Education undertakes the process of selecting a long-term leader,” said Dr. Knowlton. “I began my career journey as a fifth-grade teacher. Over nearly three decades in the classroom, the principal’s office, and the district office, I’ve learned the importance of positively connecting with school board members, employees, families, businesses, elected officials, and most importantly students. We will continue to ensure that exceptional academic outcomes for all students are not by chance, but an expectation across Henry County Schools.”
This appointment of Dr. Knowlton comes after predecessor, Dr. Mary Elizabeth Davis was named the Superintendent of Cherokee County Schools on Feb. 15.
“Dr. Knowlton is the ideal candidate to lead us through this transitional period,” said Board Chair Sophe Pope (Dist. 4). “He is a familiar presence in our community who has a deep understanding of the district and the many roles and responsibilities necessary to provide the best possible environment for our nearly 44,000 students and 6,000 staff.”
In a letter to the community, the Board of Education shared this news and its intention to identify an external search firm to guide the process of selecting a permanent leader.
“We fully intend to have a new Superintendent by the start of the 2024-2025 school year, and we’re committed to keeping the community informed throughout this search,” the letter states. “You can now find a link to the ‘Superintendent Search’ webpage on our district website where this letter and future communications about this process will be updated for our community.”
Dr. Knowlton has worked for Henry County Schools since 2002, and has served as a teacher, assistant principal, Executive director of human resources, chief of Staff and most currently the Chief Human Resources Officer.
“We have no doubt that under the leadership of Dr. Knowlton we will finish this year strong on our way to identifying the next permanent Superintendent for Henry County Schools,” said Board Vice Chair Annette Edwards (Dist. 2). “Together, we will ensure that the 2023-2024 school year remains focused on ‘Winning for Kids’ until the final tassel is turned at graduation.”