Monroe Signs Two-Year Contract As Clay School Director

Diana Monroe will officially begin as the new Clay County Director of Schools on January 1st.

School Board Chair Benji Bailey said Monroe has signed a two-year contract for the board to ratify at its next meeting.

“I think we are excited about it,” Bailey said. “Miss Monroe has a lot of experience both in education and another professional career as an attorney and judge, so she brings a lot to the table.”

Monroe replaces current Director of Schools Matt Eldridge who retires December 31st. Bailey said Monroe has 10 days in the contract to train alongside Eldridge before starting. Bailey said federal COVID money spending will be an initial focus as Monroe transitions back to education.

“Her first goal I think as director personally is to get into the schools and see where those funds could be used most appropriately, and then in the next six months I’m sure she will be evaluating for herself the school system as a whole.”

Bailey said the school board looks for a fast start from Monroe. Bailey said Eldridge was very active over the years and performed well in many roles.

“He was very valuable in the transition from our previous director, and we owe him a lot of gratitude taking this position as well. He has been wonderful to work with, and we hate to see him go.”