Robert Moody
Robbinsville – Just two months after Graham County Schools Superintendent Angie Knight announced her retirement, the district has already selected her successor.
Assistant superintendent Robert Moody was unanimously approved to fill the role by the board of education as Tuesday’s meeting drew to a close. Moody was selected from a field of four total candidates, which also included principals Dr. Jaime Hooper (Robbinsville Elementary) and David Matheson (Robbinsville Middle), as well as assistant principal Warren Knott (Robbinsville Elementary).
Knight will step down July 1; Moody will begin his duties immediately thereafter.
“I taught Mrs. Hooper; Mr. Matheson is one of my friends; and Warren called me his ‘second dad’ when his died,” board chair Rodney Nelson said. “But I enjoyed the (hiring) process.”
A request for comment from Moody about his selection was not returned by The Graham Star’s Wednesday press deadline. Closed-door interviews were held Monday, with several employees of Graham County Schools – as well as temporary board attorney John Henning – combining efforts with the board to produce a list of pre-determined questions. The widespread poll was the product of Robbinsville High School’s Crystal White addressing the board in a passionate, thorough pitch to the board at April 2’s meeting.
Feedback from the district was gauged via a survey emailed out last month.
“I appreciate the interest that all of you showed in the superintendent seat,” board vice chair Chip Carringer said. “You’re great employees and it wasn’t an easy decision.”
In addition to his service as assistant superintendent for Graham County Schools, while also holding a dual role as safety coordinator for the district.
Henning and the board will next work to draft a contract for Moody’s promotion, which is expected to be ready in time for May 28’s special-called meeting.