Dr. Hal Brian Ridley has been hired to be Gilmer County Schools’ next superintendent.
Shortly after the start of Monday’s board of education work session, members retreated to executive session to briefly discuss the matter.
Once they were finished, chairman Ronald Watkins made a motion to employ Ridley, “under the terms of the contract agreed on by the board and Dr. Ridley.” The motion was seconded and unanimously approved.
“I’d like to say welcome aboard,” Watkins said after the vote. “We’ve got some great staff members, you’ve got a great central office and we’ve got a lot to work with here. We really appreciate you coming on and taking this on for us, and I think everybody else does, too. (Interim superintendent) Kim (Cagle) may jump up and down for joy here in a minute.”
The search to replace former superintendent Dr. Shanna Downs began April 17, and Ridley was named the sole finalist June 26. He was one of 29 to apply for the position. Ridley just completed his 24th year in education and most recently served as assistant superintendent of Haralson County Schools for five years.
After signing his contract at the conclusion of Monday’s meeting, Ridley addressed those in attendance.
“I would like to thank the board for this opportunity and thank Kim Cagle. She’s been very welcoming as I’ve tried to get myself oriented to this new job,” he said. “I’m looking very forward to working with all of you, and we’re going to do some great things in Gilmer County. I’m very excited for the opportunity and I thank you very much.”
Cagle held the interim position while the search was conducted. Watkins expressed his gratitude for her willingness to take the role even if it did take some initial prodding.
“I would like to say thank you to Mrs. Cagle for stepping in when we needed someone to step in,” Watkins said. “When Dr. Downs left us, she left us for a better job, and I understand that. We didn’t know who we were going to have, or if we were going outside the county to get someone or who it was.”
Watkins added with a chuckle, “I went in there and sat in front of her desk and just sat there and stared at her. She told me ‘no’ about five times. Finally she did say ‘yes,’ and I really appreciate the job you’ve done to help us through a hard situation. We got to have a leader and everything kept going good. Thank you for the job you’ve done.”
A reception to welcome Dr. Ridley will be held Thursday, July 22, at the central office at 5 p.m.