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Franklin County Board of Education Selects Dr. Nakia Hardy as Next Superintendent

Franklin County Board of Education Selects Dr. Nakia Hardy as Next Superintendent

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Franklin County Board of Education

December 5, 2025

The Franklin County Board of Education is pleased to announce the selection of Dr. Nakia Hardy as the next superintendent of Franklin County Schools (FCS). Dr. Hardy will tentatively assume her position in February 2026.

The Board conducted a comprehensive and thoughtful review of applications from a highly qualified and diverse pool of twenty-nine candidates representing six states. While many exceptional leaders applied, the Board determined that Dr. Hardy’s deep experience, proven leadership, and steadfast commitment to students and staff make her the ideal choice to guide FCS into its next chapter. The Board is confident that Dr. Hardy will lead the district to even higher levels of success, innovation, and community partnership.

Board Chair Meghan Jordan expressed her enthusiasm for the appointment, stating:

“Personally, I am truly excited that Dr. Hardy is joining the district. She brings a blend of professionalism, warmth, and instructional expertise that will serve our community incredibly well. On behalf of the FCS Board of Education, we are grateful for the opportunity to partner with her in this next chapter.”

Dr. Hardy brings more than twenty-seven years of distinguished service in public education across North Carolina and Maryland. Since 2023, she has served as superintendent of Lexington City Schools. Prior to that, she served as Deputy Superintendent for Durham Public Schools beginning in 2018. Her extensive leadership experience also includes roles as Chief Academic Officer for Guilford County Schools, Executive Director for Teaching and Learning for Baltimore City Public Schools, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction for Rockingham County Schools, and principal and assistant principal positions in the Alamance-Burlington School System. Dr. Hardy began her career as an AP Chemistry teacher in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Her academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Appalachian State University, along with both a master’s degree in school administration and a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Dr. Hardy expressed excitement about joining Franklin County Schools, sharing:

“I am honored to serve the students, staff, families, and communities of Franklin County Schools. This is a district filled with promise, talent, and a deep commitment to children. I look forward to building strong relationships, listening and learning from our stakeholders, and working collaboratively to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive. Together, we will continue building a stronger community one life-long learner at a time.”

The Franklin County Board of Education invites the community to join in congratulating and welcoming Dr. Nakia Hardy as the new superintendent of Franklin County Schools.

Media Contact:

Dr. Dawayne McIntosh

Public Information Officer

Franklin County Schools

communications@fcschools.net