Clarke County School District Superintendent Dr. Robbie P. Hooker has retired from his role, effective June 30. The decision was announced following a meeting with the CCSD Board of Education earlier today, March 31. “Serving this incredible district has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Hooker stated in an email to CCSD families. “The opportunity to work alongside such dedicated educators, supportive families, and most importantly, amazing students, has been nothing short of transformative.” Photo from the ODYSSEY archives
CCSD Superintendent Dr. Robbie P. Hooker will depart from the district after almost three years in the role.
A year after signing a contract extension that would see him remain in the Clarke County School District until October 2026, CCSD Superintendent Dr. Robbie P. Hooker has retired from his post, effective June 30.
As stated in a March 31 CCSD press release, Hooker informed the Board of Education of his decision to retire in a special, closed-door meeting earlier this evening, March 31. The decision puts an end to his two-and-a-half year leadership of the CCSD, which began in October 2022.
Clarke County School District Superintendent Dr. Robbie P. Hooker speaks at a town hall recognizing his appointment as superintendent on Nov. 1, 2022. Photo from the ODYSSEY archives
Hooker re-entered the CCSD after previous Superintendent Dr. Xernona Thomas stepped down from her position in November 2021, effective December 2022. Hooker came with a dearth of CCSD experience, including stints as the principal of Burney-Harris-Lyons Middle School from 2003 to 2008 and the principal of Clarke Central High School from 2008 to 2016. Prior to re-joining the CCSD, Hooker worked as the superintendent of Social Circle City Schools.
As CCSD Superintendent, Hooker implemented a community-first approach, focusing on bringing in local organizations to support the school system. Hooker’s 5-year Strategic Plan, approved in September 2023, was an early achievement aiming to improve student achievement through analytical research and science.
Hooker’s appointment coincided with increases in the district’s College and Career Readiness Performance Index (CCRPI) and STAR Climate ratings. Under his leadership, graduation rates have fluctuated – the CCSD had the joint-lowest rate in the state for the Class of 2023 at 75.4% before rebounding significantly in 2024 to 81.1%.
“While this choice feels right for me, I know that stepping away from this remarkable community will not be without a sense of loss.”
— Dr. Robbie P. Hooker,
CCSD Superintendant
Other hallmarks of Hooker’s run as superintendent include his partnership with the Athens-Clarke County to establish the Youth Development Initiative, a partnership aiming to bring youth athletics to CCSD elementary schools, the creation of three CCSD health centers designed to increase healthcare access for families, and a strict cell phone policy designed to limit mobile device’s influence in the classroom.
“On behalf of the Board of Education, I want to express my gratitude for Dr. Hooker’s leadership. His focus on maintaining high expectations for all students and his commitment to providing both resources and support for our teachers and staff has been instrumental in moving CCSD forward,” BOE President Dr. Mumbi Anderson stated in the press release.
Clarke County School District Superintendent Dr. Robbie P. Hooker’s farewell message to CCSD families is displayed. Graphic courtesy of the CCSD
Hooker’s departure leaves the CCSD with three months to find a replacement before the start of the next fiscal year. In that time, the press release states that Hooker will assist the district through the leadership transition and prepare staff for the 2025-26 school year.
“Serving alongside you has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. Each of you—through your passion, dedication, and tireless efforts—has made this district stronger,” Hooker stated in his March 31 farewell address to CCSD staff. “Together, we have faced challenges, celebrated successes, and, most importantly, made a difference in the lives of countless students.”
“After careful consideration and discussions with my family, I came to the conclusion that the time is right for me to prioritize my personal journey,” Hooker stated in an email to CCSD families. “While this choice feels right for me, I know that stepping away from this remarkable community will not be without a sense of loss.”
