By Karla McArthur, Correspondent
GADSDEN, AL — The Etowah County Board of Education has posted the position of superintendent of schools and will begin a comprehensive search to identify the next leader of the Etowah County School System.
Board members said they are committed to conducting a thoughtful, transparent and thorough search to identify the best candidate and the right fit for students, staff and the community.
Current superintendent Dr. Alan Cosby has announced plans to retire effective Aug. 1, 2026. The board expressed appreciation for Cosby’s leadership during his 16-year tenure and recognized the lasting impact he has made across the school system.
“Dr. Cosby has provided steady and thoughtful leadership to Etowah County Schools for more than 16 years,” Board President Jay Freeman said. “He genuinely cares about our students, our teachers and the families who trust us with their children each day. Under his leadership, our schools have stayed focused on doing what matters most — helping students succeed in a safe and supportive environment. He understands that our schools are the heart of our communities, and he has worked hard to strengthen that connection. Dr. Cosby has led with integrity and a servant’s heart, always putting students first. His impact will be felt in our schools and throughout our county for many years to come.”
Board members also expressed gratitude for Cosby’s service and vision and praised his commitment to student success. They said proactive steps are being taken to ensure a smooth and successful transition as the system prepares for its next chapter of leadership.
The search will be guided by the mission of Etowah County Schools: “Etowah County Schools provide a rigorous, relevant education in a safe, student-centered environment that produces college- and career-ready graduates who contribute responsibly in a global community.”
Key aspects of the system’s mission and vision include providing a safe, supportive and student-centered environment; developing graduates who are academically, technologically and socially prepared; embracing the county’s vision of “Building the Foundation Today for Tomorrow: Empowering, Challenging, Succeeding”; and fostering strong partnerships among home, community and school.
The board said it will seek a superintendent aligned with the system’s mission, who values strong leadership, prioritizes student success and safety and shares a clear vision for the future of education in Etowah County.
A copy of application instructions can be found here.
