ELLAVILLE — Larry Stubbs calls Sumter County home. “I grew up there, went to school there ... (laughing) ... I went to Plains High School.”

A former teacher and administrator in the Tri-County School System, Stubbs spends most of his time in Schley County as the principal of Schley County Middle/High School. After June 20, Stubbs will step into the role of Schley County Schools superintendent, as current Superintendent William Johnson will be retiring.

Stubbs, married for 33 years with two children, ages 29 and 25, always wanted to be a teacher. “I grew up wanting to be one. I had an aunt who taught school for 62 and half years ... which is a long time. I really didn’t have any particular goals, or special areas that I wanted to focus in on as a teacher. I majored in math and minored in biology ... both subjects that interested me.”

He received his bachelor of science degree from Georgia Southwestern College, his master’s from GSW and his educational specialist degree from Valdosta State University.

Stubbs found out on March 31 that “the Board had decided that I would be the superintendent. I am honored, humbled and feel very blessed to be selected.

“We have a fine school system, and good people on staff, and a supportive community ... the reason our school system has done as well as it should is because of the community.”

Of William Johnson, Stubbs had nothing but high regard. “He has been very dedicated to the school system for over 38 years, and has always had the kids’ best interest at heart.”

He smiled and said, “I guess it is kind of amazing but in the 12 years that we have worked together, we have shared the basic same educational philosophy, and have agreed for the most part on new hires, and with the programs we needed to put in. We’re very compatible.”

Stubbs’ goals as superintendent are similar to what his have been as principal and Johnson’s. “We just want to continue the progress we have done ... we want to continue to make AYP.”

He concluded, “I just want to give our kids the best education possible, and meet the demands placed upon them, have the best teachers available.

“It is all about the kids.”