The Buford Board of Education has named its pick for the next Superintendent, and it’s someone familiar to the job. The board named the sole finalist for the position at their Monday night board meeting – the current Assistant Superintendent.
Melanie Reed was named the Assistant Superintendent in 2019 and named Deputy Superintendent earlier this year. She will succeed Dr. Robert Downs who announced his retirement in mid-November.
In a press release from the school board, Dr. Downs said that selecting someone from within the district will benefit the school system with consistency in leadership. “Buford is known for its culture of excellence. With Mrs. Reed in the superintendent role, she will ensure the district’s mission and vision continue to be carried out with fidelity,” said Downs. He added that he was grateful for the partnership he shared with Reed during his time in the position.
Reed has worked in education for 30 years and has been in leadership roles for the last 20 of those 30 years. Before becoming Deputy Superintendent, she served as Assistant Superintendent and has held leadership positions at Buford Elementary and Buford Middle. She got her undergraduate degree from the University of North Georgia. She later graduated from Lincoln Memorial University earning a Specialist Degree in Leadership.
Reed, a Gwinnett County native, says she is honored to serve her community. “I am both humbled and honored to be named the sole finalist for Superintendent, and I am grateful to Dr. Downs for his guidance and direction over the last three years. I am thrilled to continue serving this district I love so much.”
As required by the state, the school board must wait a mandatory 14-day period before taking action on the sole finalist.
