Fannin County High School Principal Erik Cioffi has submitted his resignation to the Fannin County School System effective August 28 and will begin his new career as an assistant superintendent in Plymouth County, Massachusetts.
“I have accepted an Assistant Superintendent of HR & Personnel with a school system in Massachusetts to begin on September 1, 2020,” Cioffi stated in an email to the high school’s teachers and staff as well as system administrators.
The move will give Cioffi and his family an opportunity to be closer to their immediate family.
According to Superintendent Dr. Michael Gwatney, Cioffi’s resignation is still pending Board of Education approval, and an anticipated vacancy notice for this position has been made available to the public.
Cioffi reflected on his time within the Fannin County School System, stating it was “hard to believe” it has been 11 years since he started.
“I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything,” he said. “I felt like we’ve accomplished alot in the past 11 years. The students, staff and families have been wonderful to work with.”
Cioffi expressed his appreciation and pride in Fannin County stating, “I truly believe the staff at FCHS is one of the best in the country. Thank you for your efforts and dedication to the students of Fannin.”
He looked ahead to the high school’s plans to continue educating students through the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Continue to be the educators that you are and we will all get through the pandemic of COVID-19,” Cioffi said. “I look forward to seeing you at pre-planning, and we will develop the best possible plan to keep you and our student’s safe upon the re-opening of schools.
“Many protocols and procedures will be fine-tuned over the next couple of weeks as we seek guidance from the North Georgia Public Health Department and local leaders.”
Cioffi said he intends to come back and visit Fannin County for different events through the year as his daughters complete their senior year at the high school.
Gwatney said they are looking to quickly finding the “best qualified candidate” to assume the role as principal at the high school as the 2020-2021 school year begins August 7.