Overview:
The resignation will be effect on November 15, 2025 with Dr. Norman C. Sauce III as interim superintendent.
The DeKalb County School District is once again facing leadership turmoil after Superintendent Dr. Devon Horton submitted his resignation amid federal fraud .
On Wednesday, the DeKalb County Board of Education voted 6-1 to accept 贬辞谤迟辞苍鈥檚 resignation, effective November 15. Board member Melanie Slaton was the lone vote against the decision.
贬辞谤迟辞苍鈥檚 resignation follows last week鈥檚 federal indictment alleging he accepted kickbacks on contracts while serving as superintendent of a small school district in a Chicago suburb, prior to his arrival in Georgia.
鈥淕iven the recent federal indictment involving Dr. Horton related to his employment in a prior school district, the Board believes this action is in the best interest of the DeKalb County School District,鈥 stated Board Chair Deirdre Pierce. 鈥淲e recognize the seriousness of the situation and remain committed to transparency, accountability, and maintaining public trust. While there will be changes ahead, please know that the Board remains fully committed to our ongoing work, including key initiatives such as the Student Assignment Project (SAP), and providing a high-quality education for all students.鈥澛
Horton was relieved of his duties on Thursday. The following day, the district appointed Dr. Norman C. Sauce III as interim superintendent.
鈥淭he board has full confidence in Dr. Sauce鈥檚 leadership during this transition,鈥 Pierce added. 鈥淗is experience, steady demeanor, and strong relationships within the district will help ensure continuity and focus on what matters most 鈥 the continued success of our students and staff.鈥
In addition to accepting 贬辞谤迟辞苍鈥檚 resignation, the school board voted unanimously (7-0) to authorize a forensic audit of district contracts and 贬辞谤迟辞苍鈥檚 purchasing card (P-card) statements. The audit is intended to 鈥渆nsure full transparency and accountability鈥 across all district spending and procurement processes.
In the statement to parents, the DeKalb County Board of Education has promised a seamless leadership transition.