Samantha Fuhrey, superintendent of the Newton County School System, received the President’s Award from the Georgia School Superintendents Association (GSSA) during its spring Bootstrap Conference in Savannah.
The President’s Award is given to superintendents for outstanding leadership in their school systems and communities.
“I am honored to have been selected to receive GSSA's President's Award,” Fuhrey said. “I am proud to be member of an organization made up of superintendents and other school system and state leaders who are focused on meeting the needs of students throughout our state.”
Fuhrey added, “I am thrilled to be a part of an amazing school system team led by a school board with a laser-like focus on improving student outcomes. Together we are working to ensure that Newton County School System adheres to its mission of providing educational excellence for all students.”
The school system staff and faculty surprised Fuhrey upon her return Thursday. “My awesome team decorated my office with balloons, flowers and a huge card chock full of congratulatory notes,” she said. “I even received numerous messages throughout the day from employees across the district. Several community members also reached out to me through email, Facebook and Twitter offering words of support and kindness.
“It’s been a fantastic couple of days,” she said. “I am honored to have been selected to receive such a prestigious award. I am so very proud to be a member of the Newton County School System team!”
Fuhrey has served at almost every level in public education. She has been a teacher, assistant principal, principal, executive director of secondary education, director of professional learning and deputy superintendent, establishing a reputation of being tireless, progressive and innovative.
During her tenure as superintendent, Fuhrey has increased communication and support between the administration and faculty. As part of the “school chat” initiative Fuhrey introduced, the superintendent meets with every teacher individually during the year to share information and solicit ideas on improving the district.
New programs to enhance student learning and improve student achievement have been introduced under her leadership, including the Newton College and Career Academy Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Institute. The institute recruits rising freshmen with a strong interest in engineering or healthcare as a future career choice.
John Zauner, the GSSA Executive Director said, “Ms. Samantha Fuhrey consistently displays a passion for the children of this community. She works tirelessly in providing the best education environment for the children of the Newton County Schools. It is evidenced in the rising student achievement results the Newton County School System is producing."
Dr. Stephanie Gordy, Executive Director of Griffin RESA said, “I am fortunate to have the honor and privilege of working with this exemplary school superintendent. Our entire region benefits from her professional prowess and excellent leadership.”
