Dr. Ridley

08/13/2026

Gilmer County School System Superintendent Dr. Brian Ridley has announced his intent to retire, effective November 30, 2026. He was appointed to the role of GCSS Superintendent in July of 2021. Dr. Ridley has led a distinguished career as classroom teacher, a turnaround principal, district level administrator and superintendent. In Gilmer County, he has presided over significant academic improvements, expansions of CTAE programs and an unprecedented period of construction that included the Poultry Research Facility, the Gilmer Performing Arts Center and numerous other projects.

In a message to GCSS staff Dr. Ridley stated "Serving this outstanding community and school system for the past five years has been the highlight of my career. I will always cherish my time in Ellijay and the relationships I have built with our students, parents, staff, and community." He went on to say, "I want to express my sincere appreciation to the members of the Gilmer County Board of Education for their trust, guidance, and support throughout my tenure as superintendent."

Dr. Ridley plans to return to the West Georgia area to be closer to family and devote more time to his grandchildren. The Gilmer County Board of Education will be working with Georgia Leadership Associates to begin the process of finding a suitable replacement to lead the district.

07/29/2026

Starting off the school year on a high note!

07/29/2026

The Gilmer Performing Arts Center is an amazing achievement for our schools and our community. I am proud to have been a part of it!

07/01/2026

Gilmer County Schools hosted Leadership Gilmer's June session and provided participants with an inside look at the people & programs helping prepare the next generation right here in Gilmer County. Through conversations with educators & community leaders, the class gained a deeper understanding of the important role education plays in the success of our community.

Leadership participants also enjoyed a tour of the new Performing Arts Center at Gilmer High School - a remarkable space that reflects our community's continued investment in students & their futures.

Thank you to our presenters and everyone who welcomed the Leadership Gilmer class for another outstanding session!

06/15/2026

06/08/2026

So proud to partner with Buddy Costley and everyone at SCHOOLDOG! Real safety and security data that works for school districts.

06/08/2026

The legendary Phil Hartley addresses the crowd at the Georgia School Boards Association annual Policy Workshop!

06/06/2026

Hey teachers….

06/05/2026

Hello Friends,

Just a reminder that early voting for the Runoff is next week(Mon. June 8- Fri. June 12) and the Runoff election date is Tues June 16.

I’d like to urge you one last time to consider voting for Bubba Longgrear for State School Superintendent. Bubba has the needed experience to make changes that will benefit Public Education.

Visit his website Bubba4GA.com to research his priorities.

Runoff elections are about turnout and he needs our support.

Join me in supporting Bubba

Official campaign website for Bubba Longgrear for State School Superintdendent