FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 18, 2026
Photo caption: Dr. Anthony D. Jackson, Superintendent of Chatham County Schools, has announced his intention to retire effective July 1, 2026, concluding a 39-year career in public education.
Photo credit: Gary E. Hodges
Dr. Anthony D. Jackson Announces Retirement as Superintendent of Chatham County Schools
PITTSBORO, N.C. — Dr. Anthony D. Jackson has announced his intention to retire as Superintendent of Chatham County Schools (CCS) effective July 1, 2026, concluding a distinguished 39-year career in public education.
Dr. Jackson has served as Superintendent of Chatham County Schools since July 2021. The district serves approximately 9,000 students in grades PK–12 across Chatham County.
During his tenure, the district implemented the One Chatham Strategic Plan (2022–2027), aligning the school system around clear priorities focused on curriculum and innovation, student health and safety, and strong support for faculty and staff.
Under this strategic framework, Chatham County Schools has made meaningful progress in several key areas, including maintaining a graduation rate of approximately 92 percent, achieving 100 percent of schools meeting or exceeding EVAAS academic growth expectations, and expanding academic, career and technical education, arts, and athletics programs that provide broader opportunities for students.
The district has also received national recognition for its work, including being named a Cognia District of Distinction, reflecting strong systems of continuous improvement and commitment to student success.
“Serving as Superintendent of Chatham County Schools has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life,” said Dr. Jackson. “I am deeply grateful for the partnership of the Board of Education, the dedication of our teachers and staff, the engagement of our families, and the support of the Chatham County community. Together, we have worked to strengthen opportunities for students and position the district for continued success.”
Dr. Jackson emphasized that he remains fully committed to leading the district through the remainder of the school year and supporting a smooth transition as the Board of Education begins the process of identifying the next superintendent.
“Chatham County Schools is fortunate to have an exceptional team of educators and leaders who care deeply about the success of our students,” Dr. Jackson said. “I am confident that the district is well-positioned to continue building on the progress we have made together.” I am looking forward to continuing to support public education and celebrating our excellent public schools in the state in other ways.
Statement from the Board of Education
“On behalf of the Chatham County Board of Education, we thank Dr. Jackson for his dedicated leadership and service to the students, staff, and families of Chatham County Schools. During his tenure, the district strengthened its strategic direction, expanded opportunities for students, and built a strong foundation for continued success. We are grateful for his commitment to public education and look forward to working with him to ensure a smooth leadership transition.”
— Gary Leonard, Chair
Chatham County Board of Education
Dr. Jackson by the Numbers
Years in Public Education: 39
Superintendent of CCS: Since July 2021
Students Served in CCS: Approximately 9,000 PK–12
District Graduation Rate: Approximately 92%
Academic Growth: 100% of schools met or exceeded EVAAS growth expectations
Strategic Framework: Implementation of the One Chatham Strategic Plan (2022–2027)
District Recognition: Named a Cognia District of Distinction
Professional Recognitions:
Recipient of the 2026 Duke Energy Annual Citizenship and Service Award
Recipient of the A. Craig Phillips North Carolina Superintendent of the Year Award (2020)
Student Opportunities Expanded Through:
Career and Technical Education pathways
Arts and music programs
Athletics and extracurricular activities
Innovative academic programming aligned to student interests and workforce readiness
The Chatham County Board of Education will begin the process of identifying the district’s next superintendent in the coming months.
For more information about Chatham County Schools visit www.chatham.k12.nc.us. To learn more about the Chatham County Board of Education, visit: www.chatham.k12.nc.us/page/board-of-education, or contact Chatham County Schools Public Information Officer, Jessica Pasión.
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Media Contact:
Jessica Pasión
Public Information Officer
Chatham County Schools
468 Renaissance Drive
Pittsboro, NC 27539
Phone: 919.542.3626
About Chatham County Schools
Chatham County Schools serves more than 9,000 students across 20 schools in central North Carolina. With a commitment to excellence, equity, and engagement, the district works in partnership with families and the community to prepare ALL students for success in college, careers, and life.
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