By Jessica Pasión
Pittsboro, NC – The Chatham County Board of Education is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Kelly Batten as the next Superintendent of Chatham County Schools, effective July 1, 2026.
Dr. Batten brings more than two decades of experience in public education and has served Chatham County Schools with distinction for the past 14 years. Most recently, he has served as Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources, where he has led strategic efforts to recruit, retain, and support a high-quality workforce dedicated to student success.
“Dr. Batten is a proven leader who understands our schools, our community, and our commitment to excellence,” said Mr. Gary Leonard, Chair of the Chatham County Board of Education. “His depth of experience, steady leadership, and unwavering focus on students make him the right choice to lead Chatham County Schools into the future.”
Throughout his tenure in Chatham County, Dr. Batten has played a pivotal role in advancing instructional quality and expanding student opportunities. His leadership has supported initiatives such as early college programming, increased access to advanced coursework, and the development of high-impact professional learning systems for teachers and school leaders. He has also been instrumental in fostering collaborative partnerships that strengthen outcomes for students across the district.
Prior to joining Chatham County Schools, Dr. Batten served as principal of Carrboro High School in Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, where he led efforts to build a strong academic culture and inclusive school environment. He also held multiple leadership roles in Wake County Public Schools, including assistant principal, and began his career as a high school social studies teacher.
Dr. Batten holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, along with advanced degrees in school administration and teaching. He is a licensed superintendent, principal, and social studies educator in North Carolina.
“I am deeply honored and humbled by the opportunity to serve as Superintendent of Chatham County Schools,” said Dr. Batten. “This district has been my professional home for many years, and I am proud of the work we have accomplished together. I look forward to continuing our efforts to ensure that every student has access to an excellent education and the support they need to thrive.”
Additional details regarding the leadership transition will be shared in the coming weeks.