Smyth County, Va. — In a moment both nostalgic and forward-looking, Smyth County Public Schools is entering a new chapter of leadership. This evening, the Smyth County School Board officially announced Dr. Brad B. Haga as the district’s new Superintendent of Schools, following the retirement of longtime superintendent Dr. Dennis Carter.
Dr. Haga, currently the Assistant Superintendent of Finance for Wythe County Public Schools, is no stranger to Smyth County. Before his tenure in Wythe County, Haga spent several years within Smyth’s school system, serving as both a teacher and assistant principal. His career has spanned various roles in education including principalships, human resources, and other administrative positions at the central office level. Pictured here is Dr. Dennis Carter.
The transition marks the end of a decade-long era under the leadership of Dr. Dennis Carter, who announced his retirement earlier this year during a School Board meeting held at Sugar Grove School, the very place he began his educational journey as a principal. His departure is a fitting full circle moment in a career that has left a significant impact on the county.
Over the past ten years, Dr. Carter has overseen sweeping improvements in academic performance, infrastructure, and community engagement. Under his guidance, Smyth County Schools saw increased graduation rates, expanded career and technical education programs, and enhanced school facilities.
Dr. Haga’s appointment comes after a months-long search that included a tedious interview process.
For now, Smyth County is reflecting on a decade of growth while looking ahead to what many hope will be a new era of innovation and continued success in education.
