At the Monday, Feb. 21, Buford City Schools Board of Education meeting, two administrative position changes were announced.
Laura Beth Short, who currently serves as principal at Buford Middle School, has been named assistant superintendent of student achievement.
Keith Johnson, currently associate principal at Buford High School, will serve as the next principal of Buford Middle School.
Short will replace Dr. Amy Chafin, who was named assistant superintendent last month upon the announcement of Melanie Reed’s appointment as superintendent. Reed replaced now former superintendent Dr. Robert Downs upon his retirement.
Short has worked as an administrator for Buford City Schools for the past seven years, having served as both an assistant principal and principal at BMS. Prior to serving in administration, she taught math and language arts in middle and high school.
Short holds a bachelor’s degree in math and English education from Auburn University, a master’s in integrating technology and a specialist degree from Lincoln Memorial University in administration and supervision.
Johnson served as an assistant principal at BHS from 2014 until 2020 before being named associate principal.
“With a rich history of public service and passion for student success, Mr. Johnson was an integral part of the transition for staff and students to the new Buford High School facilities,” said Katie Strickland, BCS’ director of strategic communications.
Having retired from the police force prior to beginning his career in secondary school education, Johnson holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Jackson State University. He holds two master’s degrees, one in public administration from Troy State University and a second in education from Cambridge College. Johnson also holds a specialist degree in education administration and supervision from Lincoln Memorial University.
“I look forward to working with Ms. Short and Mr. Johnson in these new roles as we continue to move Buford forward,” Reed said.
Short and Johnson will officially begin transitioning into their new positions March 1.
