Fulton County Schools Names New Board President

FULTON COUNTY, GA — The Fulton County Board of Education underwent leadership changes at its work session on Tuesday as current President Linda Bryant, who took the term last January, stepped into the role of vice president. Julia Bernath, who was serving as vice president, moved into the president's role.

"This time last year, this board was searching for a superintendent, and we believed that leadership continuity was important for the search process and transition of our new leader," Bryant said. "The board decided that I would continue as president through 2019 and Mrs. Bernath would be elected vice president. We also agreed that beginning at this meeting in 2020, I would assume the vice president's role and Mrs. Bernath would assume the presidency for the second year of my term. Next year, the board will return to its process of electing a president for two years and a vice president for one year."

Bernath, who represents District 7 and is in her fifth term, represents portions of Sandy Springs, Roswell, Johns Creek and Alpharetta. She served as school board president from 2007 to 2009 and as vice president from 2009 to 2010. She also has served on the Fulton County Schools Employee Pension Plan board as vice chair and chair. In addition, she has represented the school board on the Fulton Education Foundation's Board of Directors.

"I am honored to serve in this position and thank my fellow Board member for putting your faith in me," Bernath said. "I look forward to working with the Board and Dr. Looney as we move forward."

At the state level, Bernath is an active member and previous president of the Georgia School Boards Association, as well as a graduate of Leadership GSBA. Additionally, she is a graduate of Leadership Atlanta, Leadership Sandy Springs, Regional Leadership Institute, the Education Policy Fellowship Program and other leadership programs. She also is a member of the Rotary Club of Sandy Springs and serves on the Board of Directors for the Georgia Chapter of the American Cancer Society and the Sandy Springs Education Force.