Rockdale County Schools Superintendent Shirley Chesser Announces Retirement

Chesser will retire at the end of the 2025-2026 school year after leading the district through a transition period.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Rockdale County Public Schools (RCPS) Superintendent Shirley Chesser has announced her plan to retire at the end of the 2025-2026 school year. The Rockdale County Board of Education will enlist the Georgia School Boards Association to conduct a national search to fill the vacancy.

Why it matters

Chesser's retirement comes after a period of transition for the district, as she took over as superintendent in 2025 following the retirement of the previous superintendent amid disputes with the school board. Her departure will mark the end of an era for RCPS as they look to find new leadership.

The details

Chesser was appointed acting superintendent in February 2025 after former Superintendent Terry Oatts announced his plans to retire effective Feb. 14, 2025. Oatts' retirement announcement followed a dispute with the board over his contract, and he also faced criticism from the public over performance and other issues. The Rockdale County Board of Education voted 7-0 to appoint Chesser as superintendent from April 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026 at a base salary of $230,000.

  • Chesser was appointed acting superintendent in February 2025.
  • Oatts announced his plans to retire effective Feb. 14, 2025.
  • The Rockdale County Board of Education voted 7-0 to appoint Chesser as superintendent from April 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.

The players

Shirley Chesser

The outgoing superintendent of Rockdale County Public Schools who has announced her retirement at the end of the 2025-2026 school year.

Terry Oatts

The previous superintendent of Rockdale County Public Schools who announced his retirement in 2025 amid disputes with the school board.

Sandra Jackson-Lett

The chairwoman of the Rockdale County Board of Education who praised Chesser's leadership and service to the district.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I want to express my sincere appreciation for the opportunity to enter into negotiations for a contract extension. After thoughtful consideration, I have made the decision to retire at the end of my current contract period. It has been an honor to serve Rockdale County Public Schools in multiple capacities throughout my career. I am truly grateful for the privilege of serving the children, staff, and families of this wonderful community. I will always value the relationships formed and the work we accomplished together in support of student success and public education.”

— Shirley Chesser, Superintendent (On Common Ground News)

“On behalf of the Rockdale County Board of Education, I extend my deepest gratitude to Superintendent Shirley Chesser for her leadership, unwavering commitment, and heartfelt service to our schools and community. Throughout her tenure, Superintendent Chesser has led with integrity, vision, and a steadfast dedication to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed. Her support for educators and staff and her tireless advocacy for students have left a lasting impact on our district. We are grateful for the stability and strength she has provided, especially through moments of change and challenge. Her influence will continue to shape our schools for many years to come. We celebrate her career and wish her the very best in her well‑deserved retirement.”

— Sandra Jackson-Lett, Board Chairwoman (On Common Ground News)

What’s next

The Rockdale County Board of Education will enlist the Georgia School Boards Association to conduct a national superintendent search to fill the vacancy left by Chesser's retirement.

The takeaway

Chesser's retirement marks the end of an era for Rockdale County Public Schools, as she has provided steady leadership during a period of transition for the district. The school board now faces the challenge of finding a new superintendent who can build on Chesser's legacy and continue to support the success of students and educators in the community.