New principal named for Marietta High School

Eric Holland is the new principal for Marietta High School after the Marietta Board of Education voted Wednesday to appoint him to this top role. 

Board members voted 7-0 to appoint Holland following a 30-minute executive session to discuss personnel issues. 

His salary will be $195,000. He begins his tenure at Marietta High on Monday. Holland replaces outgoing principal Keith Ball, who in June was transferred by the board to a central office position after four years at the helm of MHS.

An educator with 23 years of experience, Holland served as principal of Rome High School in northwest Georgia before this appointment. 

Superintendent Grant Rivera recommended Holland as the new principal and it was approved by the board at a special-called meeting. 

 Said board Chair Kerry Minervini,“Under Dr. Holland’s leadership, the Rome High School community saw growth and improvement in their academic offerings and outcomes, as well as expanded extracurricular opportunities and family engagement. We are excited to welcome him to the Marietta City Schools family, and we look forward to seeing how his vision, passion for education, and positive energy will impact the people and programs of Marietta High School.”

Holland holds a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s degree in education, both from Georgia Southwestern State University. He earned his doctorate in leadership in educational administration from Capella University. Holland has previously worked as an administrator with Tift County High School in Tifton, the district said, and was once named Teacher of the Year at Crossroads Academy in Americus.

Holland’s appointment follows the board voting 4-3 last month to transfer Ball to the central office at the request of Rivera. An explanation was not provided at the time. 

Three months prior to this, the board had approved by a 5-2 vote a one-year contract extension for Ball and all other district principals. Marietta High School was constantly in the news about student fighting and discipline. It was also reported Ball was held responsible for high staff turnover and low teacher morale.