Press Release: TCS Superintendent, Dr. Chris Kennedy, to retire at end of the calendar year
After 32 years of service in public and higher education and three and a half years with the Thomasville City Schools, Superintendent Dr. Chris Kennedy will step down and begin his retirement effective the close of business on December 31, 2023.
The Thomasville City School Board and Dr. Kennedy have mutually agreed upon a release from his contract which was scheduled to end on June 30, 2025. The Board and Dr. Kennedy want to ensure adequate time to implement a thorough search for his replacement. Dr. Kennedy will remain in Thomasville City Schools through December 31, 2023, and he has agreed to the board’s request to be available for a “transition period” following his last day to consult with or assist in the transition of the new or interim superintendent.
Under Dr. Kennedy’s leadership, Thomasville City Schools has continued charting a path to learning recovery from the pandemic while beginning new and innovative programs. Dr. Kennedy has led the implementation of advanced teaching roles in the district as well as new curriculum initiatives and Capturing Kids Hearts district-wide. He has also led significant safety improvements while increasing the district’s fund balance over $600,000 and has championed the process for construction of a new Thomasville High School.
Dr. Kennedy says that working in Thomasville City Schools has been a wonderful experience. “Thomasville is such a special place and I am honored to have served the district as superintendent,” Kennedy said. “With a historic election on the horizon, the incoming board needs the opportunity to find someone who aligns with their values and vision. I am grateful to the current board for allowing me to get a jump start on my retirement and I will forever be a Bulldog.”
Kimberly Oliver, chairperson of the Board of Education, added “Dr. Kennedy is a fair-minded and forward-thinking leader. We are proud of his many great accomplishments and successes. He has led the district as well as the staff with integrity and in the best interest of our students. We wish Dr. Kennedy well and congratulate him on his retirement.”
The board named Chief Academic Officer Andrew Wiener as interim superintendent, effective upon Dr. Kennedy’s retirement. Mr. Wiener will lead the district during the transition process as the soon-to-be newly elected Thomasville City School Board begins the search process for a new superintendent.
