Administrators with Clinton City Schools have announced the replacement for Dr. Mark Duckworth, who offered his resignation to the board last month.

Dr. Kelly Batts, current beginning teacher coordinator and middle school curriculum coach with the system, has been named as the new assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction, effective July 1.

Batts began working with Clinton City Schools in July 2015 and is entering her 20th year in education. She began her career as a teacher at a Title 1 school in Pender County in 1997 and has worked within the school level, central office level and with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction in the roles of teacher, coordinator, professional development trainer and instructional coach.

“Dr. Kelly Batts brings a level of understanding and knowledge of what it will take to move our curriculum and instruction department forward,” Clinton City Schools superintendent Dr. Stuart Blount said. “She has developed solid professional working relationships with teachers, school level administrators and other members of our school system”

During her year with Clinton City, Batts said she has formed lasting relationships with not only the teachers, but the students, administrators and community members.

“I just can’t say enough about the fantastic teachers, administrators, community members, and kids that I’ve grown to know and work alongside here in Clinton City Schools,” Batts shared. “They welcomed me with open arms when I first started with the system back in July of 2015 and have been so supportive as I begin this transition to a new role within the school system. The future is so bright here.”

Batts obtained her master’s degree in curriculum instruction and supervision with a concentration in instructional technology in 2000 and a master’s degree in school administration in 2005. In 2010, she earned a doctorate degree in educational leadership from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. Batts was named the Pender County Teacher of the Year, as well as a Blumberg Scholar by the Council of Professors of Instructional Supervision.

Curriculum and instruction are an area of passion for Batts and she says she is excited to continue working with Clinton City Schools in a new capacity.

“I am most excited about being able to support our teachers, administrators and curriculum team as they seek to provide the best possible learning opportunities for kids,” Batts added. “I see this as a role of service and I’m so grateful for the opportunity.”

According to Blount, Batts has been instrumental in re-organizing the Beginning Teacher program, providing professional development opportunities for teachers, as well as, improving curriculum alignment at the middle school.

“Her experiences at the K-12 level and the state level will assist Clinton City Schools in striving for excellence in the classroom,” Blount said. “She is well respected in our system and we are truly excited to see the impact she and those she will be working with will have on student achievement.”

Reach Kristy D. Carter at 910-592-8137, ext. 2588. Follow us on Twitter at @SampsonInd. Like us on Facebook.

By Kristy D. Carter

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