A new assistant superintendent has been selected to replace Patrick Franklin, the now-incoming superintendent.
With a 19-year career in education, David Leenman, 40, was picked to succeed Franklin on Monday, Feb. 10. Leenman, who has worked in school systems including Habersham, Stephens and Bartow counties, was one of two candidates interviewed after the position was advertised for 10 days.
Now Habersham requested the name of the other candidate from school officials by email Monday night.
“I’m very confident he’s been selected,” Habersham County Board of Education Chairman Russ Nelson said. “I think he’s going to do a great job.”
Franklin also expressed confidence in Leenman on Monday. “I think he’s got the necessary skillset,” Franklin said. “He’s going to do a great job.”
Leenman, after expressing gratitude to Cooper, Franklin and board members, said he’s excited to expand his new role in the mission of success for all students.
“I look forward to helping the students, the directors, the principals and whatever I can do to support them,” Leenman said.
Franklin, 43, was the sole candidate chosen to replace Superintendent Matthew Cooper, who announced his retirement on Jan. 14. Franklin will start in the new role on April 1.
As superintendent, Franklin will receive an annual salary of $180,000, according to Chief Financial Officer Stacy Newsome. His salary as assistant superintendent was $147,702.
Cooper, 53, has served as superintendent for 13 years and was paid just over $208,900 as head of the Habersham County School System.
