Gwinnett County Schools superintendent fired by board of education
Gwinnett County Schools superintendent ousted
Gwinnett County Public Schools, which is the largest school system in the state has made a change at the top. Late Friday morning, the school board voted to opt out of the superintendent's contract.
GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. - The Gwinnett County Board of Education has voted to cut short the contract of Superintendent Dr. Calvin Watts, ending his tenure as leader of Georgia’s largest school district.
In a 3-2 vote following an executive session Friday morning, the board decided to terminate Watts’ contract before its scheduled end. Watts was hired in 2021 to replace longtime Superintendent Alvin Wilbanks and had his contract renewed for two years in 2023 despite ongoing concerns about school safety.
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The backstory:
In a separate 4-1 vote, the board appointed Dr. Al Taylor as interim superintendent, effective April 2. Taylor currently serves as Gwinnett County’s Chief of Schools and will step into the leadership role as the district transitions to new leadership.
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Gwinnett County Schools superintendent fired
The board of education for Gwinnett County Schools has voted to cut short the contract for Supt. Dr. Calvin Watts.
Dr. Calvin Watts releases statement
The other side:
Dr. Watts wrote a letter to Gwinnett County Public Schools students and families:
"I am writing to share an important update regarding the future of Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS). In a 3-2 vote this morning, the Gwinnett County Board of Education (BOE) decided that new leadership is needed to move our district forward. Based on my contract, I will continue to serve as our superintendent until April 1, 2025.
"To ensure a seamless transition, the BOE has appointed Dr. Al Taylor, Chief of Schools, as interim superintendent, effective April 2, 2025. Dr. Taylor has served in GCPS since 2002; he has spent his entire educational career in Gwinnett. Dr. Taylor will serve as interim superintendent through April 2, 2026, or until the board hires a permanent superintendent. In support of Dr. Taylor’s successful transition to interim superintendent, I am committed to continuing to work with Dr. Taylor and supporting him.
"During this time, our teachers, principals, staff, and district leaders will remain steadfast in delivering the high-quality education and support each and every student deserves.
"Please know it has been my absolute honor and privilege to serve GCPS from 2001-2014 and as our superintendent since July 2021. I look forward to continuing to serve our students, families, staff, and community over the next 60 days.
"I want to assure you that this transition will not impact the daily operations of our schools or the quality of education students receive. The success and well-being of each and every student remains our top priority."
What's next:
Further details on the decision and next steps for the district are expected in the coming weeks.