The only superintendent finalist nominated in Atlanta Public Schools

ATLANTA — The search for a superintendent for Atlanta Public Schools is almost over.

At a news conference Tuesday, Dr. Bryan Johnson was named the sole finalist for the position after the district completed interviews and named two other finalists for the role.

Dr. Bryan Johnson, if elected by the Board of Trustees, would return to APS after leaving his position as executive vice chancellor and chief strategy officer at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. A Nashville native with extensive experience in public education and business leadership, Johnson has guided UTC’s strategic planning, according to Atlanta School Board President Erika Mitchell.

Previously, he was chief transformation officer at US Xpress Enterprises and superintendent of Hamilton County Schools. Under his leadership within the school district, he launched the Future Ready Institutes and ensured free high-speed internet access for disadvantaged students during the pandemic, according to Mitchell.

According to the Atlanta School Board, he was also recognized as the 2020 Tennessee Superintendent of the Year and a finalist for National Superintendent of the Year.

Johnson holds degrees from Austin Peay State University and Belmont University and a doctorate from Trevecca University.

A decision on Johnson is expected in July from the Atlanta Public Schools Board of Education. Dr. Daniella Battle is still serving as interim superintendent until the final decision is made.

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