The Thomaston-Upson County Board of Education unanimously approved the appointment of Dr. Walton Jeffrey “Jeff” Kelly as Deputy Superintendent during its meeting on Tuesday evening. The appointment was made upon the recommendation of Superintendent Dr. Tret Witherspoon.
A lifelong resident of Upson County, Dr. Kelly brings more than two decades of experience in Georgia public education and a proven record of leadership, service, and dedication to student success.
Dr. Kelly has served as Executive Director of Human Resources & Safety for Thomaston-Upson County Schools, where he has provided districtwide leadership in personnel management, school safety, compliance, strategic planning, and organizational effectiveness. Throughout his tenure, he has worked closely with district and school leaders to strengthen operations, support employees, and create safe, high-quality learning environments for students.
"I am deeply honored and humbled by the confidence that Dr. Witherspoon and the Board of Education have placed in me," said Dr. Kelly. "Thomaston-Upson County Schools has always been home, and it is a privilege to continue serving the community that has invested so much in me. I look forward to working alongside our Board, Dr. Witherspoon, our dedicated employees, students, families, and community partners as we continue building upon the great work already taking place across our district."
Dr. Kelly's career reflects a progression of leadership roles, including teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, district administrator, and executive leadership. His broad experience provides him with a comprehensive understanding of instructional leadership, school operations, personnel management, and strategic district planning.
Prior to serving as Executive Director of Human Resources & Safety, Dr. Kelly served as Director of Federal Programs & Safety and as an assistant principal at multiple middle schools, where he focused on instructional improvement, student achievement, school climate, and leadership development. He has also served as an adjunct professor at the University of West Georgia, helping prepare future educational leaders.
Dr. Kelly holds a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership, along with advanced degrees in educational leadership and middle grades education. His professional accomplishments include being named National Outstanding Assistant Principal of the Year and Georgia Assistant Principal of the Year, honors that reflect his commitment to excellence and servant leadership.
Dr. Kelly and his wife, Amy Adams Kelly, have been married for 27 years and are the proud parents of two children, Trey and Kate. His lifelong connection to Thomaston-Upson County continues to shape his passion for serving the students, staff, and families of the community he proudly calls home.
Dr. Kelly is an active member of Northridge Church, where he serves as a deacon and guitarist on the worship team. He is also actively involved in the community through service on the Gordon State College Educational Advisory Council and the Thomaston Hospice Foundation Board. His leadership is rooted in a commitment to service, collaboration, and building strong relationships that benefit students and the broader community.