Employment
SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS
SWAIN COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
The Swain County Board of Education is seeking a superintendent to lead the Swain County Schools. Prior experience or a doctoral degree is preferred but not required. The individual chosen will be required to live in Swain County as required by North Carolina law. All applications will be kept confidential and Candidates should be prepared to take office no later than July 1, 2026. An earlier start date is preferred.
Candidates should demonstrate a strong ability in: (1) instructional and administrative leadership; (2) partnering with community members, school personnel and government officials; (3) public relations; (4) administration and organization; (5) long and short-term planning; (6) budgeting; (7) personnel management and staff development; (8) facility management; and (9) community involvement.
Located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Swain County has a population of approximately 15,000 people and serves over 1,900 students in six schools spread throughout the County - one high school, one middle school, two elementary schools and one Pre-K. Cherokee Extension School K-12 is a joint program of the Swain County Schools and the Cherokee Central Schools. These schools represent the future and pride of Swain County.
Swain County is located in western North Carolina about an hour from Asheville. The County also encompasses much of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee’s Qualla Boundary, with its own sovereign government. Geographically, the county is spectacular. Key attractions include Clingmans Dome, four scenic rivers (the Nantahala, Tuckasegee, Oconaluftee and Little Tennessee) and beautiful Lake Fontana, west of Bryson City, the county seat. River rafting and tubing, miles of hiking trails, lakes, rivers and the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad all combine to make for countless outdoor activities throughout the year.
The Swain County Schools is governed by an elected five-member Board of Education. The Board is consistently recognized as group of highly committed leaders in the community who enjoy a strong and effective relationship with county government and the citizens of Swain County. Swain County Schools has experienced strong growth in academics over the last several years and the Swain County Board of Education is searching for a superintendent who will continue this tradition of excellence and propel the district forward in all areas.
The application can be found at SWBOE Superintendent Application 2026
Applications must be received by no later than January 30, 2026. Completed applications should be mailed or emailed to Christopher Z. Campbell, Board Attorney, Campbell Shatley, PLLC, 674 Merrimon Ave., Ste. 210, Asheville, NC 28804; Email applicant@csedlaw.com