Friday, July 5, 2002

Interim superintendent named

The Fulton County Board of Education announced last week that former Fulton County Schools administrator Dr. Mike Payne will return as interim superintendent to lead the school system during its search for a new superintendent.

Current Superintendent Dr. Stephen Dolinger announced his plans earlier last week to leave the system to become president of the Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education.

"I look forward to returning to Fulton County and working again with the teachers, students, community, and the Board of Education," said Dr. Payne.

Dr. Payne, who retired in 2001, previously was the Associate Superintendent for Instructional Services. He supervised the system's area superintendents and the day-to-day activities of the schools, and provided direction for the Curriculum, Special Education, Continuing Education, and Technology Services departments.

While an administrator in Fulton, Dr. Payne served as executive director for staff development for eight years, as assistant director of certified staff development for 12 years, and also was a high school counselor for 10 years, and a social studies teacher for two years. He holds a Master's degree and Specialist's degree in Counseling, and a Doctorate in Administration and Supervision, all from Georgia State University.

Dr. Payne will return as interim superintendent on July 22, about a month prior to Dr. Dolinger's departure.

The Board also announced its plans to use a search firm to conduct a nationwide superintendent search. Request for proposals will be sent to search firms beginning July 2, with a closing date of July 19, and the Board hopes to name the selected firm by August 8. The selection process will take several months, possibly up to a year, to find the right candidates.