Friday, October 31, 2003

New superintendent sworn into office

By JOHN THOMPSON
jthompson@TheCitizenNews.com

Fulton County’s new school superintendent was sworn in yesterday, just a week after former superintendent John Haro resigned.

Michael Vanairsdale took office yesterday and pledged to continue the system’s focus on student achievement and continual improvement.

“My philosophy is focused on one goal,” says Mr. Vanairsdale. “We will make Fulton County the best school system in the United States. We will do this by closing the achievement gap, while continuing to make great strides in student achievement at all levels.”

Vanairsdale has been with the Fulton County School System since 1996, most recently serving as Assistant Superintendent of Operations. This division includes school construction and facilities management, school nutrition, records management, purchasing, warehousing, and student transportation.

Officials at the Fulton County School System said since Vanairsdale’s took over as assistant superintendent, all new schools have opened on time and under budget, saving Fulton taxpayers money and relieving overcrowded schools. The process for community involvement in school construction has earned national recognition under his direction, and the system has received awards for its proactive environmental practices and innovative purchasing methods, and for operating one of the most efficient school bus fleets in the nation.

Dr. Haro resigned October 23 from his position as superintendent, citing personal reasons. Haro moved to Fulton County from Minnesota, and said he wanted to spend more time with his family as one of the reasons for leaving Fulton County. The staff and community are invited to meet Interim Superintendent Michael J. Vanairsdale at five community forums. The meetings will allow staff and community members to learn more about Vanairsdale and his direction for leading the school system.

The public is invited and encouraged to attend. Opportunities to ask questions to the interim superintendent will be provided. South Fulton residents can meet the superintendent Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Creekside High School in Fairburn.