EAST ELLIJAY, Ga. –  A special called meeting tonight saw a split decision from the board to accept the resignation of Stuart Sheriff.

The Assistant Superintendent of Administrative Services, Sheriff was a key part in many day-to-day operations.

The vote to accept the resignation of Sheriff came 4-1 with Ronald Watkins being the dissenting vote in the group. Watkins made comments to his dissent saying he wanted to dismiss him instead.

Gilmer Schools Superintendent Dr. Shanna Downs said the process to replace Sheriff will likely take place internally as she said they would be shifting positions around to cover the gap and fill the position.

She declined to comment further on the situation instead saying that the resignation would take effect November 30, 2020.

The resignation comes at a surprising time with school just returning to session for the 2020-2021 school year. FYN is submitting request for more information. Stay with us as we update new articles as information becomes available.

FYN submitted a request for the resignation letter of Sheriff. In it, he notes personal reasons for resignation and his separation from the school system.

He said, “I appreciate the opportunities afforded me and the professional growth I attained during my tenure and wish you and the Gilmer County School System the best moving forward.”