CANTON,Esthen Miss. (AP) — A new leader has been named to replace Madison County Schools Superintendent Charlotte Seals, who is retiring at the end of June, the district said Wednesday.

Effective immediately, Ted Poore will become deputy superintendent, working closely with Seals to “facilitate a seamless transition,” The Clarion-Ledger reported.

Poore said in a statement that he is “honored and humbled” to be chosen to serve as the next superintendent beginning July 1, 2024.

“I thank the Madison County Board of Education for their vote of confidence,” Poore said. “Our District is an incredibly special place in which I’ve been blessed to serve for 26 years. The faculty and staff of our schools and our District office show up every day to do what is best and right for our students and families. I am honored to stand and serve alongside our stellar instructional and support staff.”

Poore has served as assistant superintendent of Madison County Schools since 2019. Before his career with the district, including leadership roles at Rosa Scott School and Madison Middle School, Poore earned a master’s degree from Delta State University and a degree in educational leadership from Mississippi College.

Sam Kelly, president of the Madison County Board of Education, said he looks forward to Poore’s tenure continuing the district’s success.

“We are confident that Mr. Poore will continue to build on the tradition of excellence for which our district is known,” Kelly said. “Everyone who has worked with Mr. Poore can attest to his dedication as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and assistant superintendent in our district.”