Sanderson Receives Fond Farewell

Wishing Superintendent Fred Sanderson the best in his retirement was a common theme during Thursday night’s Board of Education meeting.

He will retire from the district Thursday, giving way to Dallas’ as Cobb’s 20th superintendent in July.

“I would like to wish Dr. Hinojosa the best of luck and welcome him to the best district in the United States as far as I’m concerned,” Sanderson said. “He seems very excited.”

Sanderson returned to the district in January 2006 as its 19th superintendent. He had retired from the district in 2002 after 31 years to be the vice president of a benefits marketing group in Cobb.

Kennesaw Mayor Pro Tem Bill Thrash and City Council member Bruce Jenkins started Thursday night’s warm sendoff for Sanderson by giving him a key to their city, among other things.

School board members also offered their appreciation for Sanderson’s work.

“It’s rare that someone like you crosses anyone’s path, but you’re an inspiration to everyone, and I thank you for that,” said Post 5 board member David Banks of Northeast and East Cobb.

After attending the University of Georgia on a football scholarship and playing on the 1971 Gator Bowl championship team under Vince Dooley, Sanderson earned his bachelor’s degree in business in 1972. He returned to UGA to earn his specialist degree in administration and supervision in 1986.

In addition to serving as superintendent, Sanderson’s work for Cobb County included being an economics teacher, a head football coach, a high school principal, a deputy superintendent and a chief academic officer.

Sanderson estimated he attended 150 to 160 board meetings the past 5½ years.  

“It’s quite a few hours sitting in this chair,” he said. “I can’t say they were all fun, but we got a lot accomplished.”

He took time to acknowledge those who joined him at those meetings.

“I want to wish this board the best of luck,” he said. “I hope you will remain your focus on student achievement and what it’s all about and try to minimize some of the noise that’s out there outside of what’s good for kids.”

Sanderson thanked all of the county’s teachers and staff members and particularly his executive staff, which he said is “one of the best in the county.”

He closed by thanking his wife of 35 years, Carey, a retired educator.

“She’s been by my side listening in the stands as I got screamed at as a football coach, second-guessed as a principal, and obviously tripled- and quadrupled-guessed as a superintendent,” he said. “But she’s been there steadfast.”

Sanderson wore a big smile as some members of his executive staff nodded and smiled back.

“Best of luck,” he said, “and we’re ready for life’s next adventure.”