SACS takes DeKalb County schools off probation

STONE MOUNTAIN, Ga. — An accrediting agency has taken DeKalb County Schools off probation, but warned there is continued work to do.

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools placed DeKalb County Schools on probation in December 2012.

Accrediting official Mark Elgart told the school district they have been placed under "accredited warned" status and will continue to be monitored for several years.

Elgart is the president and chief executive officer of the association's parent company AdvancED.

The district was put on probation after a six-month investigation. The investigation cited in a report long-term leadership issues including nepotism, fiscal mismanagement, inappropriate micromanagement and intimidation within the district.

Channel 2's Richard Elliot spoke to Gov. Nathan Deal after Tuesday's announcement.

"I must say that I am surprised how fast that this step was taken. I am pleasantly surprised, however," Deal said.

DeKalb County Schools Superintendent Michael Thurmond was also pleased with the news.

"Celebrate the fact that the DeKalb County School District is no longer on probation. It has been a stain and a stigma on the district as well as the county," Thurmond said.

The district is not off the hook yet. SACS explained the school is on accreditation warning, which is two notches below full accreditation status.

Elliot will have more details on the district's status on Channel 2 Action News beginning at 4.

WSBTV