On Monday, January 6, 2025, Dr. Sherrie Gibney-Sherman informed the Foothills Regional High School (Foothills) Governing Board of her plans to step down from her role as superintendent effective June 30, 2025. Her decision marks the culmination of a distinguished career spanning nearly 50 years in Georgia’s public education system, including a decade of service as superintendent at Foothills.
“It has been the highlight of my career to serve the students of Foothills Regional High School alongside our dedicated and passionate staff,” said Superintendent Gibney-Sherman. “I appreciate the unwavering support of our families, partner districts and communities. Your support has been and will continue to be instrumental in helping all students achieve a high school diploma. I am honored to have had the opportunity to build and expand our reach over the past 10 years and am excited about what the future holds for Foothills Regional High School.”
Dr. Gibney-Sherman began her career in 1976 as a teacher in Clarke and Gwinnett Counties before stepping into various educational leadership roles, including principal, director, and assistant superintendent in Clarke County, Jefferson City, and Madison County. After initially retiring in 2009, she served as a consultant with the Georgia Department of Education and an assistant professor for the Educational Leadership Residency Program at the University of Georgia.
Driven by her core belief that every student deserves the opportunity to graduate from high school, regardless of their circumstances, Dr. Gibney-Sherman founded Foothills Education Charter High School, later renamed Foothills Regional High School, in 2015. Beginning with just a few locations in Northeast Georgia, Foothills has expanded to include 16 in-person locations, a virtual campus, three correctional sites, and two Youth Challenge Program sites across Georgia. Under her leadership, Foothills has celebrated over 2,700 graduates, giving many students a second chance at achieving their educational goals. For countless individuals, Foothills has not only provided an education but also hope, resilience, and a brighter future.
“Together, we have achieved remarkable milestones and overcome many challenges while staying true to our mission and helping our students transform challenges into opportunities. I am stepping into this next phase with a deep sense of pride and gratitude for what we have accomplished,” Gibney-Sherman continued.
Dr. Gibney-Sherman remains dedicated to the success of Foothills and will assist the Governing Board and future superintendent, as needed, to ensure a smooth transition.