Clayton County superintendent to step down this month

December 6th, 2022

Clayton County Public Schools Superintendent Morcease Beasley discusses why students in his district will continue with virtual learning until further notice and what has to happen before in-person class instruction can resume.

Courtesy of Clayton County Public Schools

Clayton County Public Schools Superintendent Morcease Beasley will leave the district earlier than expected. Beasley announced a few weeks ago that he planned to step down when his contract ends in June. But the school board unanimously approved a separation agreement with Beasley in a meeting Monday.

Beasley was tight-lipped recently when WABE asked him about leaving.

“We’re just looking forward to that next opportunity and we’re excited and we’ll keep you all informed as it occurs,” he said.

In a statement, Beasley says he’ll seek different educational achievements, but doesn’t get specific.

“I’ll be cheering for Clayton County Public Schools in my next endeavor,” he said. “It’s been an absolute honor and privilege to serve Clayton County in the role of Superintendent. Clayton County Public Schools will always be family to me and a wonderful part of my educational journey. May God continue to bless the school district and all its stakeholders!”

Meanwhile, the board has appointed Anthony Smith to serve as interim superintendent. Smith is currently the district’s deputy superintendent of governmental relations, partnerships, grants, and operations. He’ll take over after Beasley steps down on December 16.

Beasley has been superintendent since May 2017. Shortly after he was hired, he told WABE he planned to stay for the long haul.

“I am not an individual who’s looking to just get experience and hop to another community,” he said. “That’s just not who I am. I want to see this community grow and I’m committed to the long-term process of growth.”

Georgia law limits school districts to three-year contracts for superintendents. However, research shows for district leaders to be effective, they need to stay for a minimum of five years.