HUNTSVILLE — Following through on a promise she made years ago, Huntsville City Schools Superintendent Christie Finley announced her retirement Friday.
Finley said her youngest son will be graduating in May and she told others she will retire when her youngest child graduates. She was hired in August 2018.
“As my youngest son walks across the stage and prepares for his next stage,” she said. “I’ll be doing the same.”
Finley is a third-generation educator with more than 30 years of experience in public education. During her career in Huntsville City Schools, Finley has served as school principal, Director of Secondary Programs, and Deputy Superintendent of Strategy and Innovation.
“This is tough,” she said. “This place means a great deal to me.
“While it’s hard to say goodbye, I know I’m leaving a good team behind.”
Mayor Tommy Battle, who was at the announcement, thanked Finley for her dedication and service.
“Christie Finley has been a dedicated public servant and an exemplary leader for Huntsville City Schools,” he said. “We thank her for her years of service to our teachers, students, parents and community.
“We trust the Huntsville Board of Education will find an outstanding new superintendent to lead our education system.”
Finley challenged the community to continue to support the team to “keep this district one of the best in the state.”
To her staff, Finley said, “Continue to lead on. Pay it forward. Leave a legacy.”
Her plans after retiring in June include going to Disney World.
“I have family in Florida,” Finley said. “I’m going to take a vacation.”
Until then, she said, “We’ve got school to do every day.”
“It’s all about student success. Every student. Every day.”
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