First I want to say I appreciate Southern Torch for putting the information out on the letter signed by the Board members at the last Board of Education meeting. The letter is just a request for legislation concerning how we select a Superintendent of Education in DeKalb County.

I have read many of the posts and understand there will be some people who support the idea of an appointed Superintendent and some like it the way it is with an elected Superintendent. I do want to clarify one misconception. This legislation would not prohibit Mr. Taylor from seeking another term as Superintendent. We are asking for Legislation that would make it effective January 1, 2021. It really has less to do with Mr. Taylor than it does with how our school system functions.

I have been a board member for just over 2 years; however, I have been involved with the School System for over 20 years. In that time I have come to the conclusion that an elected School Board, elected by district, that publicly interviews, and hires a Superintendent would be in the best interest of our school system. Since becoming a school board member I am convinced that an appointed Superintendent is the best solution for the problems in our system. I also firmly believe in open government. This is a public school system and the public has every right to know what is going on. Just because we want a change in the way we select the Superintendent does not mean we want to remove the public's input. Far from it. If this change is made, it would be my desire that the selection process be open and thorough, with as much public input as possible. My goal is for us to have the best school system possible. Irregardless of the outcome of any potential legislation concerning this issue, I will continue advocating for the students of DeKalb County.

I will be more than happy to talk to anyone about this issue. Please send me a message if you have any questions. Or you can email me at mgsharp@dekalbk12.org. I try to return every message I receive as soon as I can. I look forward to hearing from you.

Thanks,

Matt Sharp, Chairman DeKalb County Board of Education