The Rockdale County school board selected Leslie Demarco as Rockdale County Public School's new Chief Academic Officer Thursday night - a position vacated when Rich Autry became RCPS Superintendent.

In an unanimous 5-0 vote (board members Darlene Hotchkiss and Jean Yontz were not present) approved Demarco's selection Thursday night.

"I'm humbled and proud to continue the work in the system," she said. "We have a great school system. I'm so glad to continue to do the work we've been doing," said Demarco at a new teachers' at an orientation Friday morning.

Demarco was previously the Director of Curriculum and Instruction and is going into her eighth year with RCPS. She had worked closely with Autry when he was Chief Academic Officer. Prior to RCPS, she served in Clayton County as the principal of an elementary school.

The Rockdale County school board also accepted the resignation of Dr. Linda Sevigny, director of professional learning.

New Superintendent Rich Autry was sworn in Thursday night by Judge Sidney Nation before the school board meeting, with Autry's wife Brandy and parents Nancy and Gerald on hand.

"Let's get to work," said Autry after the swearing in.

Autry said during the meeting, "I certainly want to thank the board and the confidence you've expressed in me. I look forward to serving this community and board as I have for the last 13 years." He said he had been overwhelmed with the positive messages he had received as he attended community events and as the school system geared up for the year with startup events this week, such as the Superintnendent's Awards.