Hawthorne resigns, accepts new role with state BOE

By Haley Mitchell Godwin

Superintendent of Crenshaw County Schools Dodd Hawthorne has announced his resignation following his acceptance of a position with the Alabama State Board of Education. Hawthorne will take on the role of Assistant State Superintendent for Career & Technical Education (CTE) & Workforce Development, effective August 16th.

Hawthorne highlighted the critical challenges facing the state’s education department, emphasizing the need for more widely varied opportunities for high school students.

“I think that’s always going to be our biggest challenge,” Hawthorne said. “Making sure that wherever a student is, no matter what school, that we’re getting them prepared to be successful when they leave Alabama public schools.”

Hawthorne expressed his enthusiasm for the expanding alternative pathways available in Alabama public schools.

“I’m excited about this opportunity to join the Alabama State Department of Education. I am very thankful for the opportunity to have served as Superintendent of Crenshaw County Schools and I happy that I will still be working for our Crenshaw County kids. I want to thank our board members, faculty, students, parents and community members for all the support I have received. My first day with the state department will be August 16.”

Hawthorne has served as the superintendent of Crenshaw County Schools since 2018 and was a finalist for Superintendent of the Year in 2023.

In a July 16 Facebook post, State Superintendent Eric Mackey praised Hawthorne’s experience in Crenshaw County’s small school system, stating it would be invaluable as they aim to expand and enhance high-quality CTE options statewide.

“I am very pleased to introduce Mr. Dodd Hawthorne as the new Assistant State Superintendent for Career & Technical Education (CTE) & Workforce Development effective August 16th,” Mackey said. “He understands the vital role of our Career Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs), which offer leadership courses and opportunities for thousands of students across our state.”

As of now, an interim superintendent for Crenshaw County Schools has not been named. The Luverne Journal will provide updates as more information becomes available.

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