Driving Educational Change: Dr. Horton Discusses Strategies and Successes in DeKalb County

In this episode of Superintendents Unplugged, host Addison Davis sits down with Dr. Devon Horton, superintendent of Georgia’s DeKalb County School District—home to over 92,000 students and the third-largest school system in the state. Broadcasting from AASA’s national conference, this candid conversation dives into Dr. Horton’s 25-year journey in public education and the bold transformation he’s leading in DeKalb.From his early teaching days in Chicago Public Schools to his leadership roles in East St. Louis, Louisville, and Evanston, Horton shares how every step shaped his philosophy: “students don’t fail—systems do.” Now at the helm of DeKalb, he’s reimagining those systems with precision and vision.Listeners will hear how Dr. Horton restructured DeKalb’s regional model to provide laser-focused support through the district’s Horizon initiative—a bold approach targeting the most vulnerable schools with intensive resources, coaching, and academic leadership. He discusses his strategic hiring of 63 new principals and a revamped leadership cabinet, bringing in top-tier talent to match the district’s ambition.Dr. Horton also unpacks DeKalb’s innovative moves—from launching elementary sports to planning a districtwide STEAM initiative and a sweeping student assignment redesign. Throughout, Davis highlights Horton’s values-driven leadership, commitment to equity, and relentless drive to ensure every student has access to opportunity.Key Moments04:43 Evolution of Leadership in DeKalb07:14 Educational Transformation and Leadership Focus11:11 Hiring and Supporting Effective Principals14:14 High-Impact School Closure Strategy16:03 District-Wide STEAM and Athletic RevampConnect with Dr. Devon HortonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-devon-horton-53690661Website: https://www.dekalbschoolsga.org/