Buford City Schools has named current Deputy Superintendent Dr. Amy Chafin the sole finalist to fill the role of superintendent following the upcoming retirement of Dr. Melanie Reed.
The Buford Board of Education made the decision to name Chafin the sole finalist during a called meeting on Jan. 9.
“I am deeply humbled to be named the sole finalist for superintendent,” Chafin said. “Buford City Schools has a long-standing tradition of excellence, and I am honored to have the opportunity to continue building on that foundation. I am especially grateful to Mrs. Reed for her leadership and dedication to our students, staff, and community. I also sincerely appreciate the unwavering support of the Buford City Schools Board of Education.”
Over the past eight years, Chafin has served in several leadership roles within the school district, including curriculum director since 2017, assistant superintendent for student achievement since March 2021 and in her current role as deputy superintendent since January 2022. With 31 years of experience in education, she has worked as a teacher at both the middle and high school levels, as a school improvement specialist, testing director, curriculum director, federal programs director and CTAE director. According to school officials, Chafin’s selection will ensure consistency in leadership for Buford City Schools.
“Buford is a district that thrives on excellence, and our School Board understands the importance of maintaining strong, consistent leadership,” Reed said in a letter to families. “By selecting a Superintendent from within, we ensure that our shared vision and mission continue seamlessly.
“I have seen tremendous success when we have promoted leadership from within,” said Phillip Beard, chairman of the Buford Board of Education.
“I am grateful for our partnership as we have been co-leading the district together,” Reed said. “I am confident that Buford will continue to flourish under Dr. Chafin’s leadership in the years ahead.”
Chafin’s appointment as superintendent is expected to be finalized after a 14-day waiting period, as required by Georgia law.
Chafin holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in secondary education, a specialist degree in educational leadership and a doctorate in curriculum and instruction.
“The Buford City Schools Board of Education thanks Mrs. Reed for her years of service and leadership,” a statement on Chafin’s selection read. “As she prepares for her well-earned retirement, the Board looks forward to working with Dr. Chafin to ensure a seamless transition and continued excellence for Buford City Schools.”
Reed, who announced her retirement on Dec. 9, will officially retire at the end of May. She was named superintendent in January 2022 after working in Buford City Schools as an educator, administrator, assistant superintendent and deputy superintendent. Reed previously served as principal of Buford Middle School and Buford Elementary.