Superintendent Will Schofield announced today his intent to recommend Laurie Hitzges, the current Principal of McEver Arts Academy, as the first Principal of the district’s newest elementary school, Everwood Elementary. Schofield’s recommendation will be made at the Monday, November 18, 2024 board meeting.

Everwood will open its doors to the communities of Oakwood Elementary and McEver Arts Academy in the fall of 2025. Those two schools will close and merge to form Everwood.

“I am excited and honored with the opportunity to serve as the first principal of Everwood Elementary School, said Hitzges. “We are not just merging two schools; we are creating a unified community of learners, educators, and families. And when we come together, we will do extraordinary things! The future of Everwood Elementary School is bright, and I can’t wait to see all the wonderful things we will accomplish together.”

A second-generation Cuban American, Hitzges was raised in a bilingual household in South Florida. She began her career as an elementary school teacher, spending 13 years in classrooms in both Broward County, Florida, and Jackson County, Georgia. From 2010 to 2015, she served as an assistant principal in Jackson County before transitioning to Hall County. In June 2015, she became Co-Principal of the World Language Academy Elementary School and was later appointed Principal of the World Language Academy Middle School in 2018. In April 2024, Hitzges was named Principal of McEver Arts Academy.

“Laurie Hitzges has consistently shown an exceptional ability to foster community and bring students, staff, and families together around a shared commitment to excellence,” said Superintendent Will Schofield. “We are excited to see her guide these two communities as they unite, knowing the students of Everwood Elementary will be in good hands.”