PROVEN LEADERSHIP.
Richard Woods, Georgia's School Superintendent
Richard's Résumé Leadership Experience
Classroom Experience
Business Experience
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Military Family, Rural Roots
Richard Woods grew up in a military family and graduated from Fitzgerald High School in South Georgia. Richard went on to receive a Bachelor’s Degree from Kennesaw State University and a Master’s Degree from Valdosta State University. Pre-K through 12th Grade Experience in Education Richard has over 25 years of pre-k through 12th grade experience in public education. He was a high school teacher for 14 years, serving as department chair and teacher mentor. During his tenure, he was also selected as Teacher of the Year. For eight years Richard served in various administrative roles such as assistant principal, principal, curriculum director, testing coordinator, pre-k director, and alternative school director. Throughout these various leadership roles, he never forgot what it was like to be a teacher. Business Background Richard also brings a business background to the superintendent's position, having been a lead purchasing agent for a national/multi-national laser company and a former small business owner. State and National Recognition For his work in reducing high-stakes testing, promoting literacy, increasing access to the arts, and his focus on putting the heart back into teaching, Richard was recognized twice as one of Georgia Trend's 100 Most Influential Georgians (2017 & 2018). For his work promoting and increasing fine arts opportunities for students, Woods received a National Arts Education Association award. He was also recognized as a 'Who's Who' for his educational leadership by the Atlanta Business Chronicle. He and his wife Lisha, a retired 30-year educator, are long-time residents of Tifton and have been married for over 26 years. As a man of faith, Richard has a record of serving youth and his community. As State School Superintendent, Richard has ensured all of Georgia -- including rural Georgia -- has had a voice in Atlanta. > Download High Resolution Headshot Image Share this page by clicking on a button below:
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The State School Superintendent’s position is the only elected position that provides a direct voice for Georgians to weigh in on education issues – issues that impact over 1.7 million students. Each day, I focus on being that voice for Georgians across the state. Together, we continue to keep classroom-centered and child-focused policies the center of all our work.
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real results. Proven Leadership. Richard Woods.
Speaking about education issues while at a school visit. Photo credit: Susan Sneathen.
Speaking at the Georgia GOP convention about progress being made in the area of public education. Photo credit: Jon Richards
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Speaking about testing, evaluations, and supporting teachers at an education forum. Photo credit: Walter Jones
Attending a local GOP meeting. Photo credit: Jon Richards
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On the campaign trail. Photo credit: Walter Goff
Photo credit: Susan Sneathen.
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What could be better than having a State Superintendent who has so much experience in all areas of education? Mr. Woods cares about our children and is concerned with the direction education is going.
-- Allison P. |
Thank you for being a strong man of faith. I appreciate your values and know that we need someone
like you in this position. -- Susan H. |
Richard, so proud of your giant effort
to better our Georgia school system! Both of my children are teachers now. Both appreciate your encouragement and strength as one of their favorite teachers. -- Betty S. |
