Morgan County Charter Schools Superintendent Dr. Virgil Cole will retire on May 31, 2025.
In a letter to the Board of Education, staff, and community on Aug. 30, Cole announced his plans to retire, rather than seek a contract extension.
Cole has been the school system’s superintendent since 2020.
“The opportunity to live and work in the Morgan County community has been the highlight of my career,” he said in the letter. “Serving as a superintendent for eight years, with five of those years dedicated to Morgan County, and as an administrator for 25 years has been an incredible blessing. Despite our challenges, our school district has continued to enhance Morgan County Charter Schools’ longstanding tradition of excellence in academics, arts, and athletics, earning recognition as one of the best in Georgia.”
In his letter, Cole thanked several people in Morgan County for impacting his career and the school system.
“Throughout my 32-year journey working with and for students, including my time in Glynn, Henry, and Rockdale counties, I have witnessed remarkable changes and complexities around public education,” he said. “As I look back over the years, I feel tremendous appreciation and pride when I reflect on all the wonderful places I have been and the remarkable people I have worked with. I am deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed to shaping my career. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the supportive and invested School Board members, dedicated district staff and leaders, exceptional school staff, teachers, administrators, and our supportive community and family members.”
He also thanked his wife, Mollie, for her “unwavering support and guidance.”
In his letter, Cole also noted the ways Morgan County has continued to excel and wished the school system the best in the future.
“In my view, leadership is about serving others, and I hope to have given as much as I have received,” he shared. “I am just one part of a larger system composed of exceptional educators, parents, and students, all dedicated to a cause greater than themselves. Our success has been made possible by working together and being unified as a team. The education of our students is paramount, and I am confident that with continued collaboration among all stakeholders, Morgan County will continue to excel.
"As I prepare to embark upon this new chapter, I will continue to pray for this system and community, seeking blessings, wise decisions, strength, and integrity, all to continue making a positive impact worthy of this historic and special place. I am committed to ensuring a smooth transition and will keep working tirelessly for the betterment of our district and community as we continue to learn, lead, and thrive.”