VIENNA — After reviewing applications, the Dooly County Board of Education has named Dr. Grady Miles as the new county school superintendent.

Miles, who has been serving as the superintendent of the Clay County School System for the past four years will be taking over the position following the retirement of Dr. John Bembry.

Miles, who is a former principal of DCHS, has over 20 years experience as an administrator. He has also served with the Dooly County BOE in the past as director of purchasing.

A 1979 graduate of Berrien High School, he received his Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from South Carolina State University in Orangeburg, SC. after receiving a Bachelor of Science in Education degree from Fort Valley State University.

He earned both Education Specialist and Master of Education degrees in educational administration and supervision from Valdosta State University.

He has served on a number of organizational Committees including the Georgia Association of Educators, the Learn Network Board of Directors Crisp/Dooly, the National Association of Secondary Principals, and the Georgia School Superintendents Association.

He has participated in a number of community collaborations such as the Math-a-Thon for St. Jude Hospital, the revitalization of the Dooly County High School Alma Mater and the school song for graduation ceremonies. He also worked with the Easter Seal Leadership Class curriculum used to circumvent gang activity.

While he has been in Clay County, Randolph-Clay Elementary has achieved AYP (Adequate Yearly Progress) status three consecutive years.

Clay County is one of only 5 school systems in Southwest Georgia to achieve system-wide AYP 2007-2008. Also while Miles was in Clay County, that school system ranked in the top 5 in RESA comparing CRCT scores

Clay County received state recognition for 4th grade CRCT scores, and the system scored better than the state average in math at four different grade levels.

In a statement to the Dooly County Board of Education, Miles said he is “ready to encourage, teach, and motivate both staff members and students of the Dooly County School System in reaching their fullest potential.

“In order to create and maintain a successful school system, it is imperative to develop and nurture a foundation that will encompass trust, compassion and commitment from every employee that comes into contact with children.”

“I feel like the board made the correct choice for superintendent,” said Dooly BOE Chairman Eddie Almond.

“I personally am looking forward to the future and working together with Dr. Miles for the good of the students of Dooly County.”