79°West: Breakfast Club

In December, come hear from Dr. Kelly Batten, who became superintendent of Chatham County Schools on July 1, 2026, bringing more than two decades of experience in public education. Before joining the district, he was principal of Carrboro High School in Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, where he worked to build a strong academic culture and an inclusive school environment.

In his 14 years with Chatham County Schools, most recently leading its human resources work, he is credited with early college programming, expanded access to advanced coursework, and professional learning systems for faculty. For the 2026-27 school year, his theme is “One Chatham: Forward Together”. It marks the close of the current strategic plan and the start of work with the community on the district’s next five-year vision, guided by what he calls gratitude and responsibility.