Indicted DeKalb Superintendent Resigns, but Questions and Concerns Remain

DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — Former DeKalb County Schools Superintendent Dr. Devon Horton, who was indicted on 17 federal counts including fraud, theft, and tax evasion, resigned from his position on Wednesday. Despite stepping down, Horton will continue to receive his salary for the next 30 days, a move that has sparked frustration and concern among parents and community members.

The DeKalb School Board accepted Horton’s resignation, which will take effect in a month, and announced plans for a forensic audit of the district’s finances. However, many parents say they still do not have clear answers regarding the employees Horton hired, the raises he approved, or why he will continue to be paid.

“Everything we told you in that press release yesterday is all I can tell you at this point,” said DeKalb School Board Chair Deirdre Pierce, acknowledging parental frustration.

Former board member Dr. Joyce Morley noted that the board had been aware of the impending indictment for over a year, yet Horton continued to hire staff and approve substantial raises during that time. “He hired two people within 30 days, giving one a $48,000 raise and another $38,000, all approved by the board,” Morley said.

Parents have raised questions about why Horton will receive pay after his resignation. Pierce pointed to state law, but experts note that severance pay is typically a matter of employment contract rather than a legal requirement under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

Many parents are now looking to state leadership for intervention. Some have indicated plans to petition Governor Brian Kemp to replace the entire school board to restore public trust.

Calls for Reform
Parents and community leaders are advocating for immediate reforms to prevent future mismanagement. Suggestions include the creation of an independent oversight committee, stricter ethics reviews for board decisions and superintendent contracts, and full transparency in hiring and spending practices.

“We need a system where leadership is accountable, and students and taxpayers are protected,” said Karen Robinson, a parent advocate. “No more revolving doors, no more secrecy — it’s time for real oversight and meaningful change in DeKalb schools.”

With Horton’s resignation now official, the district faces a critical moment to rebuild trust and ensure that governance decisions prioritize students, families, and the integrity of the school system.

A Decade of Turmoil in DeKalb County Schools

1. Cheryl Atkinson (2011–2013): Resigned amid low test scores and board conflicts.
2. Michael Thurmond (2013–2015): Served as interim to restore accreditation after a state takeover.
3. Stephen Green (2015–2020): Departed following controversies over facilities and board infighting.
4. Cheryl Watson-Harris (2020–2022): Fired abruptly in a surprise board vote during the COVID-19 pandemic.
5. Vasanne Tinsley (Interim, 2022–2023): Brought in to stabilize the district but resigned before Horton’s arrival.
6. Devon Horton (2023–2025): Indicted on fraud charges; resigned amid scandal but will remain on payroll for 30 days.