The Dawson County Board of Education on Friday unanimously named Dr. Aubrey Damon Gibbs as the sole finalist for school superintendent.

Current Superintendent Keith Porter announced in December he will retire May 31, the end of the school year.

Gibbs currently serves as executive director of facilities for the Hall County school district. He has worked in the Hall Countysystem since 1996. According to his application, he began as a teacher and coach at North Hall High School and advanced through the system, serving as assistant principal at Flowery Branch High School, and principal at Spout Springs Elementary and Johnson High.

Gibbs holds a bachelors degree in marketing from the University of North Georgia. He received his masters in occupational studies from the University of Georgia, as well as his doctorate in education leadership.

Gibbs also serves on the Flowery Branch City Council.It is my plan to continue serving on the city council until we move to Dawson County, Gibbs said. He said he is not exactly sure when his family will make the move to Dawson.

Gibbs and his wife Stefanie have two children a daughter Kylie, 19, who is a sophomore at the University of North Georgia and a son, Deuce, 16, who is a junior at Flowery Branch High School.

The board of education feels the decision as to who will be the next superintendent of Dawson County School System is one of the most important decisions to be made by this board for the children and citizens of Dawson County, Board Chair Roger Slaton said.

Gibbs said he is looking forward to being a part of Dawson County. Im really humbled by the opportunity and excited by the new challenge, he said.

In a letter to the Georgia School Board Association, Gibbs said he welcomed the chance to use his education and experience on abroader scale.

I consider myself a lifelong learner who thrives in a busy atmosphere that involves many different tasks, the opportunity to work with both children and adults, and the chance to excel, Gibbs said in his letter.

He also said he wants to help students reach their full potential. It is my desire as an educator to help students meet their fullest potential by providing an environment that is safe, supports risk-taking and invites a sharing of ideas.

Gibbs also stated there is quite a draw to Dawson County for its small town setting and close proximity to mountains, lakes and Atlanta. He also appreciates the communitys support of ELOST (Education Local Option Sales Tax). Communities that want 21st century facilities and technology support the ELOST and appreciate the support it provides the general fund and helps keep the local millage rate low.

After the required by law 14-day waiting period, the Dawson County Board of Education plans to name Gibbs superintendent.