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Bainbridge High School Principal Christopher Merritt has been hired as Colquitt County High School’s next principal. BHS hired Merritt in 2022. 

“We are excited to announce Dr. Chris Merritt as the next Principal of CCHS,” said Dan Chappuis, incoming Superintendent and current CCHS Principal. “He has a wealth of leadership experience as a high school principal, assistant principal, and athletic director. He has a strong background in instructional leadership and extracurricular activities.  We look forward to having Dr. Merritt join Packer Nation.”

Merritt made a large impact on the Bainbridge community in his tenure at BHS, according to Decatur County Superintendent Dr. Boyd English.

“We would like to thank Dr. Chris Merritt for everything he has done for the students, faculty, and staff at Bainbridge High School since his arrival as principal in 2022,” Boyd said in a statement. “We have seen tremendous strides at BHS under his leadership. As we begin the search for the next principal at BHS for the 2024-2025 school year, we would like to extend our gratitude and best wishes to Dr. Merritt as he continues his career in educational leadership.”

Merritt Graduated from Colquitt County High School in 2006 and got his first job in education there as a volunteer coach for the Packers.  

“I am humbled and honored to be selected to serve the students, staff, and Packer community as the next principal of the high school,” Merritt said. “As a CCHS graduate, it is the most rewarding professional achievement to return home to the community that invested so much in me; now, I get the opportunity to give back to current and future Packers.”

Merritt left Colquitt County High School in 2008 to accept a position at North Florida Christian School as an offensive line coach and offensive coordinator. North Florida Christian School won the 2008 A and 2011 AA FHSAA State Championships and four region championships. 

In 2014, Merritt returned to Georgia, teaching history and accepting the quarterback’s coaching position at Cook County High School. During his two years in Adel, the Hornets won the 1-AAA region title in 2014. 

Merritt took a teaching position and the Offensive Coordinator position at Thomasville High School in 2016. After the 2016-2017 school year, Merritt was named the Athletic Director there.

In 2018, Merritt was elevated to Assistant Principal at the school. During Merritt’s tenure as an Assistant Principal, he oversaw the administration’s operational and instructional side.