The Henry County Board of Education has unanimously selected Dr. John Pace III as the sole finalist to serve as the district’s next superintendent.
The board announced its decision at a special called meeting on July 22, setting in motion a 14-day waiting period required by Georgia law before they can vote to confirm the appointment and set Dr. Pace’s start date and contract.
Dr. Pace currently serves as Deputy Superintendent for Miami-Dade County Public Schools in Florida. If confirmed, he will lead Georgia’s eighth-largest school district, which serves over 43,000 students across 52 schools.
Board Chair Sophe Pope (Dist. 4) expressed gratitude for the community’s involvement in the selection process. “We gave serious consideration to the input from our community, and we are so thankful for that input,” Pope said.
She highlighted that Dr. Pace’s experience aligns with the community’s desires for a superintendent, including experience as a principal, teacher, and assistant superintendent.
“They wanted a leader who promoted vision, culture, and instructional leadership, with a background in operations, resource, and personnel management. He has extensive experience in all those areas,” Pope added.
Dr. Pace brings a wealth of educational experience to the role. He holds a Doctor of Education degree from The College of William and Mary, a Master of Science in music education from Florida International University, and a Bachelor of Arts in music/business finance from the University of Miami.
In his current role as Deputy Superintendent of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, which he has held since 2022, Dr. Pace oversees the Office of School Leadership and Performance and the daily operation of 350 traditional K-12 schools and technical colleges serving more than 240,000 students.
His career in education spans over two decades, including roles as Chief Operating Officer of School Operations, Region Superintendent, and Administrative Director in Miami-Dade County Public Schools.
Dr. Pace also spent more than a decade in school-level leadership, serving as principal of Myrtle Grove K-8 Center and assistant principal of Norland Elementary School. His educational career began in the classroom, where he spent seven years as a music instructor and band director at Miami Norland Senior High School.
Responding to his selection, Dr. Pace expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm for the opportunity. “I am humbled and honored to be considered and selected as a finalist for the Superintendent of Henry County Schools,” he said. “I look forward to working with the students, parents, employees, and community in the continued ‘Pursuit of Exceptional’ in HCS.”
Henry County Schools has experienced significant growth over the past two decades, mirroring the county’s population increase from 113,000 to over 244,000 residents. The school district has more than doubled its student enrollment and employee count during this period.
The district’s vision, as outlined in its 2021-2026 Community-Inspired Strategic Plan, is to ensure a high-quality, world-class education for every student. Its mission is to empower all students with exceptional opportunities and access that lead to success in a global society.
The board’s decision comes as part of their commitment to advancing opportunities, access, and outcomes for every student in the district. They aim to provide Exceptional Support, Exceptional Access, and an Exceptional Future for all students.
As the 14-day waiting period progresses, the Henry County community awaits the final confirmation of Dr. Pace’s appointment. If confirmed, he will take the helm of a rapidly growing school district with a clear vision for the future and a commitment to exceptional education for all students.