By Zach Hester, Reporter • zach@southerntorch.com

PICTURED: DeKalb County Superintendent Dr. Jason Barnett and his wife Leah on election night in 2016.

DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — DeKalb County Superintendent Dr. Jason Barnett is set to be the next Superintendent of Education at Guntersville City Schools.

“Last night, it was announced that I am the top choice of the Guntersville City Board of Education to serve [as] its Superintendent of Education,” said Dr. Barnett. “I consider this a great honor and a statement of support not only for me but specifically in regards for the great work that we have accomplished in DeKalb County.”

According to Barnett, members of the DeKalb County Board of Education will appoint his replacement on an interim basis to serve until his term expires on December 31, 2024. No special election is expected to be held.

Pending board approval, Barnett, who has served as Superintendent of DeKalb County Schools since 2017, will replace Ric Ayer who has served as interim superintendent since last December. Ayer previously served as superintendent for Albertville City Schools and Franklin County Schools in Georgia.

“While considering leaving home is hard and the timing may never seem right, God directs our path, and His timing and plan [are] perfect,” continued Barnett. “I am very excited to finalize this process and then embark on this new journey alongside the community and the faculty and staff of Guntersville City Schools.”

According to Guntersville City Schools, a special called board meeting will be held to finalize Barnett’s contract. Southern Torch will continue to follow up on this developing story.