Lear tapped to lead West Hall High

HALL COUNTY, Ga. — Hall County Schools is set to name a new leader at West Hall High School, with Superintendent Will Schofield planning to recommend Marla Lear for the role at the May 11 board meeting.

Lear, currently principal at Myers Elementary School, would replace Dr. Ley Hathcock, who recently announced he is seeking other opportunities within the district.

“I am deeply honored and sincerely grateful for the opportunity to serve the West Hall community, which is defined by belonging, pride, success, and a rich tradition of excellence,” said Lear. “I am especially excited to work alongside high school students during such a pivotal and inspiring time in their lives.”

Lear brings more than two decades of experience in education, including more than 20 years with Hall County Schools since 2005. She began as a paraprofessional at Spout Springs Elementary, later teaching at World Language Academy. In 2016, she moved into administration, serving at Davis Middle School and later as an assistant principal at World Language Academy. Since 2020, she has led Myers Elementary, focusing on student achievement, staff development, and school culture.

“Marla Lear is known for building strong and successful school communities through high expectations and love of students and their families,” Schofield said. “She’s served in multiple roles in a variety of settings, and she brings with her a wealth of experience to West Hall High School.”

Lear holds an Education Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Piedmont University (formerly Piedmont College), a Master of Education in Reading, Language and Literacy from Georgia State University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education from Brenau University. She also earned Tier I and Tier II leadership certification from the University of North Georgia.