The Fulton County Schools Board of Education appointed Sara Gillespie to fill the upcoming vacancy of the District 1 seat held by Katha Stuart.
Gillespie won the nonpartisan election to fill the District 1 seat starting in January 2025.
Stuart announced her resignation effective Aug. 31. She had decided not to run for reelection this year.
With the board’s appointment, Gillespie will fill the unexpired term beginning on Oct 8.
Stuart said she believes in the value of term limits.
“I was tempted to run for another term because the last couple of years have been the most enjoyable of the almost nine I served. And I feel strongly that our school system is on a very positive trajectory,” she said.
Stuart said working with new board members was an absolute joy and that she was proud of the board’s accomplishments, including two new high schools, Innovation Academy and Global Impact Academy. Career track opportunities have expanded to middle and elementary schools. Increasing student support by having a licensed mental health partner in every school as the system increases the number of social workers were other accomplishments she named.
