CLEVELAND — The White County Schools Board of Education has unanimously approved the appointment of Steve Horton as the next principal of White County High School, effective July 1.
The board voted Feb. 26 to name Horton to the position. He will succeed Mary Anne Collier, who will remain principal through June 30 before transitioning to director of secondary school improvement.
Horton brings 27 years of experience in education, including 19 years in leadership roles. Most recently, he served at Lumpkin County High School as the school’s Assistant Principal and Athletic Director.
During his career, Horton has overseen daily school operations with an emphasis on student discipline and campus safety. He has managed facility and campus improvement projects, directed districtwide athletic programming for grades 6-12 and supervised instructional delivery and compliance in special education services. He also has classroom experience teaching multiple core content areas and has launched programs aimed at increasing student engagement and strengthening community pride.
In a message to staff, Horton said he looks forward to joining the school community.
“I’m honored to join the White County High School family,” he said. “My priority is building strong relationships with our students, teachers and staff while honoring the proud traditions of White County Schools. Together, we will bring a winning mentality to everything we do.”
Assistant Superintendent Jonathan Stribling said Horton’s background makes him well-suited for the role.
“Mr. Horton is a relationship-driven leader who understands that strong schools are built on trust, high expectations and teamwork,” Stribling said. “His depth of experience in instruction, operations, athletics and student services makes him exceptionally well-prepared to lead White County High School. We are excited about the energy, integrity and commitment he brings to this role.”
According to the district, Horton’s leadership philosophy centers on collaboration, accountability and a student-focused approach. He has said excellence is achieved when educators, students, families and the broader community work together toward shared goals.
Collier, who has led the high school, will move into her new district-level role July 1.
