Schools

Finalist Named for Forsyth County Schools Superintendent

Dr. Jeff Bearden, who has served as a school executive for more than 25 years, presently serves as superintendent of the Rome City School System.

From Forsyth County Schools

The Forsyth County Board of Education has selected Jeff Bearden as the finalist for superintendent of schools.

“We were impressed by the caliber of applicants,” stated Darla Light, Chairperson of the Forsyth County Board of Education. “Our community provided us input to determine the qualifications and characteristics of the next superintendent of schools, and we have determined that Jeff Bearden is the best person to lead our district. Our next step is to negotiate a contract, and plan for final approval in late June.”

Dr. Bearden has served as a school executive for over 25 years. Presently he serves as superintendent of the Rome City School System and before that he was superintendent of the Fayette County Public Schools. A Georgia native, Dr. Bearden spent the first part of his educational career in Maine where he served as superintendent of the Maine School Administrative District No. 35 and the Limestone School Department (ME). Dr. Bearden also served as an assistant superintendent, assistant principal, and district athletic director. He taught social studies and language arts, and was a varsity basketball coach.

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Dr. Bearden holds a Bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree from the University of Maine, and a Doctorate degree from Nova Southeastern University. Additionally, he is a third-generation veteran of the United States Air Force.

“Forsyth County Schools is the premiere school district in Georgia,” stated Dr. Bearden. “I look forward to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to take an outstanding school system to an even higher level of student growth and achievement. I am humbled and honored to be selected by the Board of Education to serve the students of this wonderful community.”

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Dr. Bearden has two daughters and one son. His wife Lisa is an elementary school teacher. Dr. Bearden is a member of the Rome Rotary, the Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce, the Georgia School Superintendents Association (GSSA), and the American Association of School Administrators (AASA). He serves on the Board of Directors for the Sara Hightower Regional Library, the Northwest Georgia RESA, and the Etowah Georgia Youth Science and Technology Center. 

“I feel that my entire career has led me to Forsyth County Schools and I am prepared for the challenge,” stated Dr. Bearden. “It is my educational philosophy, and research supports, that the best schools and the best school systems are the ones where home, school, and community work together. I vow to give Forsyth County Schools, and the students we are privileged to serve, my personal best every day. Lisa and I look forward to joining the Forsyth County community.”


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