OP/ED DeKalb students deserve better: It’s time to hold Board of Education accountable

By Lance Hammonds

Once again, DeKalb County finds itself in crisis — not because of our students or teachers, but because of failed leadership at the top. Superintendent Dr. Devon Horton has been placed on administrative leave following a federal indictment in Illinois on 17 counts, including fraud, theft, and tax evasion from his previous school district.

While the charges stem from another state, the responsibility for this instability rests squarely on the shoulders of our elected Board of Education. They were aware of concerns surrounding Dr. Horton’s prior employment but moved forward with his hiring in a 6-1 vote.

This is a painful moment for our community — and an even more devastating one for our students. Only two years ago, the Board terminated then-Superintendent Cheryl Watson-Harris without clearly explaining its reasons. At that time, our schools were already struggling with high turnover, declining morale, and inconsistent direction. Parents, teachers, and taxpayers hoped the next superintendent would bring steady leadership and renewed focus on student achievement.

But here we are again. Another leadership crisis. Another setback for students, teachers, and families who crave consistency and accountability.

These repeated failures in leadership come at a tremendous cost. Every time the Board falters, it damages morale in our schools, erodes public confidence, and pushes families to look elsewhere for quality education. Strong schools are the foundation of strong communities. When our public schools struggle, property values decline, businesses hesitate to invest, and our local economy weakens. The price of poor governance is paid not only in classroom outcomes — but in lost economic opportunity across DeKalb County.

It’s time to break the cycle. DeKalb County cannot afford another “déjà vu” moment. The Board of Education must be held accountable for its decisions. That means full transparency with the public, a commitment to better governance, and—if necessary—resignations from those who have consistently failed to uphold the trust of the community.

About the Author
Lance Hammonds is Chair of the Rockbridge Coalition, representing more than 8,500 households in the Stone Mountain and greater DeKalb County area. He is a longtime community leader and advocate for quality education, economic development, and good governance.