Dr. Jessica Watson Named New School Superintendent
After a three-month search for the Lamar County School System’s next Superintendent, the Board of Education announced this evening that Dr. Jessica Watson is its sole finalist for the position. A start date for Dr. Watson is still pending, as the school system must wait 14 days before the Board of Education can officially confirm her appointment, per Georgia law (OCGA § 50-18-72).
Dr. Watson is very familiar with Lamar County, having been a resident for 19 years. She has been employed by Thomaston-Upson County Schools for her career of 18 years. She began as a science teacher at Upson-Lee Middle School before transitioning to a teaching position at Upson-Lee High School. Dr. Watson will be coming to Lamar County with much administrative experience, most recently serving as Executive Director of Student Services and Secondary Curriculum. Additionally, she has held other leadership positions, including Director of Student Services, Director of Student Information Systems, and Assistant Principal at Upson-Lee High School.
Dr. Watson holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of North Georgia, a Master of Education in Postsecondary Education from Troy State University, and both a Specialist and Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Valdosta State University.
Dr. Jessica Watson is married to Dr. Michael Watson, a longtime social studies teacher at Lamar County Middle School. Their daughter is an eighth-grader in the Lamar County School System. Proud Lamar County residents and dedicated Trojan supporters, the Watsons have deep roots in the community. Dr. Watson emphasized, “My dedication to this community is fundamental in my motivation to serve as the next superintendent.”
In a statement, Dr. Watson expressed her gratitude, saying, “I am grateful to the Lamar County Board of Education for their trust and humbled by the opportunity to serve as the next Superintendent of Lamar County School System. I am dedicated to collaborating with staff, students, parents, and community members to build on the strong foundation and rich traditions of Lamar County Schools.”
Author Profile
Grant Turner is the editor of the Barnesville Buzz and an educator, coach, and writer based in Barnesville, Georgia. He shares stories that bridge community, faith, and personal growth. In addition to teaching and coaching, Grant is Director of Musical Worship and a Sunday School teacher at New Hope Baptist Church in Zebulon, Georgia. He lives in Barnesville with his wife, Haley.
