Friday, June 6, 2003

New superintendent sworn in

John T. Haro officially was sworn in as the new Superintendent of the Fulton County School System on June 3. His first official day on the job began June 4.

Following a brief swearing-in ceremony presided by Fulton County Probate Judge Pinkie Toomer, Dr. Haro addressed the Board of Education, school system staff, and community members in attendance.

"Thank you for this opportunity. I look forward to working for the students, staff, and community of this great district," Dr. Haro said. "Our goal is for every child to have the opportunity to reach his or her full potential, and I pledge that I will do my best to make sure that happens for all of our kids."

Dr. Haro, a graduate of the University of California (B.A., 1972; M.A., 1973) and the University of La Verne (Ed.D., 1991), is a veteran educator with a 20-year record of success as a superintendent. He has served as a teacher, athletic director, dean of students, assistant principal, and high school principal prior to his superintendent positions.

Dr. Haro's track record of success includes the last 10 years as superintendent of the 28,500-student Independent School District 196 in Rosemount, Minn., which is considered one of the premier larger school systems in the Midwest.

During his tenure, he oversaw a rise in student achievement through improved test scores, the construction of seven new schools, a strengthened financial status, and expanded communications activities with staff, parents, business leaders and the community.

He also has been superintendent of the 1,200-student Newman-Crows Landing Unified School District in Newman, Calif., the 7,250-student Cotati-Rohnert Park Unified School District in Rohnert Park, Calif., and the 20,000-student Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District in Fairfield, Calif.

Dr. Haro's selection came after an extensive national search. More than 70 candidates from 30 states representing a diverse group of professional educators, business leaders and career military personnel were considered, including 32 candidates with superintendent experience.

Retired school system administrator Thomas M. Payne served as interim superintendent until Dr. Haro took office.