The Clarke County School Board held its organizational meeting on January 2, 2025, marking a significant transition in leadership and setting the stage for the upcoming year. The meeting began with the outgoing chair reflecting on a productive year, highlighting the successful search for a new superintendent, Dr. Rick Bowling, which was described as a bonding experience for the board.

In a pivotal moment, Monica Singh Smith was nominated and unanimously elected as the new chair of the School Board, a role she is expected to lead with a focus on collaboration and community engagement. Following her election, the board proceeded to appoint Katie Kerholbert as vice chair, ensuring continuity in leadership.

The board also made several key appointments for the year, including Renee Ware as Clerk, Dr. Bowling as Deputy Clerk and Fiscal Agent, and various members to the budget and finance committee. These appointments are crucial as they will guide the financial decisions and policies affecting Clarke County Public Schools.

Additionally, the board approved the 2025 meeting schedule and made several appointments to advisory committees, including the Special Education Advisory Committee and the Career and Technical Education Advisory Committee. These committees play an essential role in shaping educational policies and ensuring that diverse student needs are met.

The meeting concluded with the acceptance of the code of conduct for board members, reinforcing the commitment to ethical governance and accountability. As the board embarks on this new year under Singh Smith's leadership, the community can expect a continued focus on collaboration and effective decision-making that prioritizes the educational needs of Clarke County students.