Charles R. Drew Charter School, the first public charter school to open in Atlanta, announced a new top administrator.
The school board this week said Peter McKnight will be the next head of school, beginning July 1. McKnight has been the principal of the high school senior academy since 2013.
Don Doran, the current head of school, announced last fall he would retire at the end of this school year. Doran has held the job for a decade.
His successor, McKnight, previously worked as a teacher at South Atlanta High School, according to a letter from the school board announcing the appointment.
McKnight received a bachelor's degree in mathematics and religious studies from the University of North Carolina and a master's degree in educational leadership from Georgia State University, according to the school's website.
Officials conducted a nationwide search to find its next leader, resulting in three finalists who met with students, parents, employees and community members.
“It was clear that Mr. McKnight had the leadership skills, the ability to collaborate with families, staff and partners, and a deep understanding of and commitment to Drew’s mission that would make him an effective and successful Head of School for Drew Charter School,” stated the school board letter announcing the decision.
Drew Charter School opened in 2000 and enrolls more than 1,800 students.
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