city schools principals

THOMASVILLE — A “perfect storm” is on the horizon with leadership changes at the city schools’ upper level campuses, the district’s leader said.

Thomasville City Schools is in the midst of changing principals at MacIntyre Park Middle School and Thomasville High School, along with selecting a new director for the Scholars Academy.

“New leadership in all three positions will allow us to enhance the relationship between them,” said Superintendent Dr. Laine Reichert.

Tina McBride, MPMS principal, will move to the district’s central office as the new director of student services after the current school year. The city school board approved moving McBride to a new position at the February board meeting.

“She will help transfer the person in,” Reichert said of McBride.

At the Scholars Academy, now former long-time director Dr. Dale Graham resigned Feb. 23. Graham was offered a district-wide position but declined.

Surveys were sent out to faculty and the feedback will be used in the interview process, Reichert said.

The MPMS and Scholars Academy positions, Reichert pointed out, each will have their own interview committee.

Six applicants were interviewed for the Thomasville High principal’s position.

“Most of the individuals interviewed had not been a ‘building leader,’” Reichert said, adding only one applicant had principal experience.

The city schools superintendent said applicants were questioned on a variety of topics, including the makings of an effective school, a school’s culture and climate, and best ways to support students.

Reichert added: “I want to make sure this is a good hire, that I get this right.”

In February, the school board voted not to renew current THS Principal Chip Clatto’s contract and later accepted his resignation after correcting action to follow board policy. Clatto has rescinded his resignation.

All three position openings were posted on the city schools’ website and teachgeorgia.org.

Hiring decisions, Reichert said, are anticipated to be made later this month.