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This week, Superintendent Tim Cochran formally announced his resignation at the end of this school year. Cochran will be retiring with his family to northeast Georgia, where he has accepted a position as executive director of Pioneer RESA. The Board of Education confirmed his resignation at Thursday night’s board meeting, and will begin looking for a replacement with the aid of a search company.

In his official resignation letter, Cochran reflected on his tenure in Decatur County, writing, “I have had a tremendous journey in my educational career and the last seven years, while serving as your Superintendent, have been a blessing.” He further reflected on the growth, awards and accolades the schools have received over the years, as well as the challenges that have faced the system, including COVID and Hurricane Michael.

“It’s always been our family’s dream to retire in the mountains,” Cochran told the Post-Searchlight. “So this opportunity came about, about a month back, and it’s just one of those things when the good Lord talks to you, and He puts opportunities in front of you, and sometimes you’ve got to have the courage to listen to Him when He talks to you.”

Having been just three years away from being able to officially retire, Cochran will be working full-time for the next three years in this new position.

Cochran closed his resignation letter saying, “I have so much respect for this Board, this system, and this community. I am very humbled for all the times we have shared these last seven years. I pray for continued success for Bainbridge, Decatur County, and Decatur County schools. May God bless each and every one of you.”