Media release from Rome, GA City Schools:
The Rome City Schools Board of Education approved the hiring of Dr. Christy Epps as the new Rome High School Principal at the board meeting this morning.
Dr. Epps brings a proven track record of success, along with more than 20 years of experience in education and strong familiarity with Rome City Schools.
“Returning to work at Rome High School feels like coming home. Having been part of Rome City Schools for nearly a decade, I personally know the strength of our culture and our unwavering dedication to the growth and achievement of all students. I have a deep appreciation for how Rome values the development and interests of all students – academics, athletics, fine arts, and career and technical education,” she said. “I am eager to rejoin this incredible team and collaborate with a faculty and staff that I know is second to none. I am thankful for the support of the Board of Education and Dr. Holland in providing me this great opportunity to lead at Rome High School. I will serve with pride and a humble heart. Together, we will continue the outstanding work that is happening in Rome City Schools. One team. One vision. One Rome.”
Dr. Epps served as Associate Principal at Rome Middle School for seven years before becoming the Principal of Rome City School’s Phoenix Learning Center, Virtual Learning Academy, and Transitional Academy. She also served as CTAE Director for the College and Career Academy before transitioning to serve as Principal at Madison County High School.
At Madison County, Dr. Epps led multiple academic and operational initiatives focused on student achievement, staff development, stakeholder engagement, and school safety.
Under her leadership, Madison County High School increased its graduation rate to 95.2 percent. The school also showed dramatic academic gains as measured by the CCRPI, including a nine-point increase in the school’s overall score, a 20-point increase in Algebra content mastery, a 26-point increase in progress points, and a nine-point increase in closing the gaps metrics.
Dr. Epps led Madison County High School to expand Advanced Placement opportunities, adding new classes while increasing both the number of tests taken and the exam pass rates. The school also expanded academic and behavioral interventions for students through PBIS initiatives.
Under her leadership, Madison County High School has grown its staff retention rate to nearly 98 percent. She provided her staff with professional learning initiatives focused on the data team process, teacher leadership opportunities, and new teacher mentoring.
“Dr. Epps has built a strong legacy of leadership centered on student achievement, relationships, and high expectations for both students and staff. Her familiarity with Rome City Schools, combined with the success she has achieved throughout her career, makes her an outstanding fit to lead Rome High School. She understands our community, our culture, and our commitment to ensuring every student graduates prepared for college or work and prepared for life. We are excited to welcome her back to Rome City Schools and look forward to the leadership she will provide for our students, staff, and families.”
Dr. Epps spent her early years in education as a Family and Consumer Sciences teacher and Work-Based Learning Coordinator at Commerce High School. Throughout her classroom and leadership roles, Dr. Epps has worked extensively with scheduling, personnel management, safety and operations, budgeting, and community partners.
Dr. Epps attended the University of Georgia, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences Education in 2004, a Master of Education in Educational Administration and Policy in 2007, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership in 2012.
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