‘A day of celebration:’ New DeKalb County Schools’ superintendent takes oath, begins role

July 1, 2020 was day of celebration for DeKalb County School District as the new superintendent Cheryl Watson-Harris began her first day in the role. 

“Today is a day of celebration…. I believe we have chosen a superintendent who will continue the progress we have made and lead us to the future that we all envision  for DeKalb’s children…a vibrant strong district that provides every child with a high quality education that will enable them to be successful and productive,” said DeKalb Board of Education Chairman Marshall Orson during the July 1 swearing in ceremony. “I hope you will join all of us in supporting Mrs. Watson-Harris and helping her make our schools the best they have ever been.”

The swearing in ceremony was the first time Watson-Harris met district officials in person, as interviews and communication were conducted virtually due to COVID-19. Watson-Harris was sworn in by DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Gregory Adams and was surrounded by family, including her husband and one of her sons, Luke.   

“I won’t only be the superintendent, but I will also be one of the moms, really working on behalf of all of the children. Exactly what I want for Luke is what I would want for all the children here,” she said. 

While one of Watson-Harris’ first major tasks is planning for the upcoming school year amid COVID-19 and implementing a school reopening plan, she said she was not eager to make promises prior to beginning her role. 

“I’m going to make you a promise now that I’m going to work so hard. That I’m here to work,” she said. “I hope in me you’ll find not only a superintendent, but a friend and someone you know will work side by side with you to make DeKalb County the number one choice.”

Watson-Harris spent nearly three decades in the education system, starting as a teacher working her way up the ranks to most recently the second-in-command for New York City Department of Education, the country’s largest school district. 

“I truly believe I have the skill set, the experience, the passion and drive to come here and work alongside you to help DeKalb soar to higher heights. I’m looking forward to our journey together,” she said. 

Watson-Harris replaces Ramona Tyson,who has filled in the role since November and retired from the district June 30. 

The board voted 6 -1 on June 18 to appoint Watson-Harris after initially rejecting its first sole finalist, Rudy Crew, on May 12.