This week Newton County School Superintendent Gary Mathews announced the appointment of Dr. Craig Lockhart as the principal of Newton High School.

We welcome Dr. Lockhart to our community as the first major appointment of the Mathews era in dealing with our local schools. We expect nothing but the best.

In reviewing Lockart’s resume that seems to be what we have gotten.

Newton High School means much to many longtime residents of the county: It was their alma mater and was where they experienced many positive firsts as they grew into adults.

Soon, we will have a new, state-of-the-art Newton High School. A leader of Lockhart’s apparent abilities is needed to see that the transition from the old to the new is seamless.

We are willing and ready to work with Dr. Lockhart and his teachers and administration to continue the positive progress that Newton High has enjoyed over the last few years.