The Forsyth County school system has named Jeff Cheney the new principal of South Forsyth High School.

Cheney, currently South’s assistant principal, will transition to his new role June 1. He will succeed Jason Branch, who is leaving to become superintendent of the Oconee County school system.

In a statement, Cheney said he was “humbled, honored and very excited” for the opportunity.

“I have had the privilege to learn from two outstanding leaders in our district, Dr. Gary Davison and Dr. Jason Branch,” he said.

“Dr. Branch has been a tremendous role model and valuable resource for me the past four years. His leadership in our community will be sorely missed.”

The change is one of several the school system announced Friday that affect schools ranging from Vickery to Silver City.

They include the promotion of Paige Andrews from assistant principal to principal at Silver City Elementary.

Current principal Kristan Morse is leaving Silver City to become principal at Vickery Creek Elementary, where Ron McAllister currently serves.

McAllister was previously announced as the new principal at Kelly Mill Elementary, which will open August.

Barbara Vella, current Vickery Creek Middle assistant principal will become principal at Chattahoochee Elementary, replacing the retiring Dave Culpepper.

Cheney, the new principal at South, received his bachelor's degree from the State University of New York College, and his master's degree and leadership certification from Georgia Southern University.

He has taught at the elementary and middle school levels and served as an athletic director in Savannah. In addition, he worked as both an assistant principal and principal of Oglethorpe Charter Middle School in Savannah. 

“It has been my privilege to work closely with our staff, school, and community the last six years," Cheney said. "One thing has remained constant at South Forsyth — an exceptional staff dedicated to delivering a world-class education, supported by a community with shared academic values.

“I have full trust and confidence in our staff and know they will continue to focus on supporting student achievement.”