Forsyth Leader Named GA Superintendent Of The Year Finalist

FORSYTH COUNTY, GA — The Georgia School Superintendents Association (GSSA) has named Forsyth County Schools Superintendent Jeff Bearden a finalist for the 2020 Georgia Superintendent of the Year. Each year, GSSA calls for and accepts nominations from local school boards, Regional Education Service Agencies, business organizations and communities, and education colleagues in the state.

“Being selected as a Georgia Superintendent of the Year finalist for the past two years is an honor, but it is also very humbling,” Bearden said. “What gives me the greatest joy is the validation of the great work that is happening in Forsyth County Schools. It doesn’t happen without strong board leadership, visionary principals, an outstanding corps of faculty and staff, engaged parents, a supportive community and talented students. My only goal is to represent us in a way that is truly reflective of the outstanding team we have at FCS. Home + School + Community = Student Success…and that’s what matters most.”

According to GSSA, each finalist has been singled out for their leadership abilities and their excellent skill set in working with their boards, staff, and local communities. The winner will be announced at the GSBA/GSSA Annual Conference in December.

Other finalists include Samantha Fuhrey of Newton County Schools, Noris Price of Baldwin County Schools, and Mark Scott of Houston County Schools.

Bearden was also named one of four finalists for the 2019 Georgia Superintendent of the Year out of 23 that applied.

"Each have been singled out for their leadership abilities and their excellent skill set in working with their boards, staff, and local communities," GSSA said. "Having outstanding communication skills seems to be a theme amongst this distinguished group of experienced educational leaders. They all face challenges and do so with high integrity and dynamic and supportive leadership styles. They have risen to the top of their profession for a very good reason. They all strive to create a kinetic and innovative educational environment for students to be successful."

He joined Curtis Jones, superintendent of Bibb County Schools, Samantha Fuhrey, superintendent of Newton County Schools, and Michael Duncan, superintendent of Pike County Schools.