Bulloch County’s new superintendent joins students Monday on first day back

BULLOCH COUNTY, Ga. (WTOC) - More than 11,000 students across 15 schools in Bulloch County returned to class Monday, joined by a new superintendent with plans to unify the district.

Dr. Torian White visited schools across the county on the first day of the 2026-27 school year, including Julia P. Bryant Elementary School. White, a former principal at Southeast Bulloch Middle School, said he recognized familiar faces — including some former eighth graders now dropping off their own children.

“I definitely felt a little older this morning,” White said. “I saw a few of my middle school eighth graders who are now parents and bringing their students in.”

Three pillars guide White’s first 100 days

White’s framework for his first 100 days as superintendent is built on three pillars: clarity, capacity, and community. He said community took center stage on the first day.

“Forming those positive relationships, making sure the students know that they are cared for, that they are seen, and that they can learn in a safe environment,” White said.

White spent the summer meeting one-on-one with every principal in the county to gather feedback.

“That’s the thing that is so amazing about education, that once you have opportunity to interact with the child and do it in a positive way, that feeling never leaves,” White said.

Personal device ban expands to middle schools

During the 2026-27 school year, personal device bans will expand from elementary schools into middle schools.

Principal highlights district unity

Julia P. Bryant Elementary School Principal Stephanie Compton said the superintendent’s approach has resonated with school leaders across the district.

“All of our expertise together are really going to make a difference and that is what we are looking forward to is that community feel and that unity that Dr. White brings with us here in the district,” Compton said.

Superintendent pledges to read to every pre-K class by February

White said he plans to remain a visible presence in the community. Among his commitments is a pledge to read to every pre-K class in the county by February.