Dr. John Pace, III, was appointed Superintendent of Henry County Schools, effective September 3, 2024. His appointment follows a long and successful tenure at Miami-Dade County Public Schools in Florida, where he most recently served as Deputy Superintendent.
Dr. Pace brings a proven track record of collaboration toward high-impact instructional leadership, creating safe and secure learning environments, providing professional development for teachers and leaders, promoting fiscal responsibility, and building positive relationships with community groups.
His academic pursuits and extensive career in public education have equipped him with the knowledge, skills, and vision to lead Henry County Schools into the next phase of its “Pursuit of Exceptional.”
All 25 years of Dr. Pace’s career in public education prior to coming to HCS were spent with Miami-Dade County Public Schools, which, at the time of his transition, was the third-largest school district in the U.S. and an A-rated school district for five consecutive years.
As Deputy Superintendent, he directed the Office of School Leadership and Performance and the daily operation of 350 traditional K-12 schools and technical colleges, serving more than 240,000 students.
He previously served as Chief Operating Officer of School Operations (2021-2022), Region Superintendent of the Central Region Office (2017-2021), and Administrative Director of the Education Transformation Office in the Division of Academic Support (2015-2017).
His district-level administrator roles were preceded by more than a decade in school-level leadership, including as principal of Myrtle Grove K-8 Center (2011-2015), assistant principal of Norland Elementary School (2007-2011), and school administrator for the William H. Turner Technical Adult Center (2007-2011).
Additionally, Dr. Pace spent seven years in the classroom as a music instructor, jazz band director, and co-concert and marching band director for Miami Norland Senior High School.
Dr. Pace holds a Doctor of Education degree in educational policy, planning, and leadership from The College of William and Mary, as well as a Master of Science degree in music education from Florida International University, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in music/business finance from the University of Miami.
“I am honored and humbled for the opportunity to join Henry County Schools,” Dr. Pace said. “I am committed to working collaboratively with students, parents, employees, and the community to ensure every student has a chance to succeed. Together, we will continue to forge a culture of equity and academic excellence in realizing the district’s vision for a high-quality, world-class education for every student.”
