After four years at the helm, Richard Crumley is retiring as principal of Dawson County High School.

“My four years at DCHS have been great both professionally and personally,” said Crumley. “We have made friendships that will last a lifetime.”

Crumley’s retirement from the high school was approved by the board of education at the May 1 work session. He was celebrated along with all other retiring faculty and staff of the school system at the BOE meeting May 7.

Athletically, Crumley has seen DCHS soar to new heights.

During his tenure, the school has won the Region All-Sports trophy twice, the first two times in the school’s history. Tiger athletics have won 16 region championships, had 18 region runner-ups and 39 teams qualified for state playoffs.

“We have accomplished a number of things during the last four years,” said Crumley. “I would say the greatest accomplishment would be the increase in the graduation rate. This is a testament to our teachers and staff.”

The graduation rate moved to a high of 96.7 percent in 2017, an increase in 11.4 percent from when Crumley first started as principal.

Crumley has been an educator for nearly three decades and has filled the shoes of teacher, coach, assistant principal and principal.

He has accepted the role of principal of Loris High School in Horry County, S.C. His first day will be July 1.

“Dawsonville is a unique community. We will miss the unwavering care and support this community consistently shows for the kids and schools,” said Crumley. “Our family will forever be grateful for how we have been treated. We wish God’s blessings on this community.”

In a May 2 press release, Dawson County Schools announced that Brody Hughes will be the new principal of DCHS.

“Mr. Hughes will be a great leader. He has all the skills necessary to take DCHS to the next level,” said Crumley.

A Dawson County native, Hughes has worked in the Dawson County School System his entire career and has served as teacher and graduation coach. He is currently finishing out his year as assistant principal of curriculum and instruction at DCHS.

“We plan to continue to see success in all of our programs - inside the classroom, on the field of play and in the community,” said Hughes.

Hughes is married to Brittany. They have two children, Landon, 2, and Sutton, 10 weeks.  

His educational background includes a bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of North Georgia and an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Valdosta State University.

“My hope is that Mr. Hughes and the staff continue the great work that goes on every day,” said Crumley.

Hughes is already excited for the endless possibilities during the next school year.

“I think it is important for us to recognize the needs of our students and our community so that we can provide our students with the appropriate education to prepare them to be successful citizens after high school,” said Hughes.

One thing Hughes is really excited about this summer is the groundbreaking on the new college and career academy.

“We are excited about expanding and enhancing our current offerings in these areas,” said Hughes. “As always, the faculty and staff will continue to improve our craft as educators and provide a wholesome and competitive education to the students of Dawson County. I look forward to being a part of the growth and success of our school system.”