By Stephanie Nelson
For The Advance

John Knott was named superintendent of the Escambia County School System on Thursday.

Knott, who currently serves as the system’s assistant superintendent, and Escambia County Middle School Assistant Principal Kim D. Staley were the two finalists for the job.

Current superintendent Randall Little will retire June 30. Knott will assume his new role on July 1.

The meeting room was filled to capacity with members of the education staff and retirees as the decision was announced. Board members convened in a 15-minute executive session before the roll call vote was taken.

Board Member Coleman Wallace cast the only vote for Staley.

Knott’s hire is conditional upon negotiations on a contract, board members agreed.

“Alone we can go fast; together we will go far,” said Board President Danny Benjamin.

Board members and staff congratulated Knott on his new appointment.

“I’m just thrilled,” Knott said of the board’s decision. “I know that we’re going to do great things here in the Escambia County School System.

Previously, Knott said he planned to focus on teacher and staff professional development.

“Nothing stays the same in education,” he said. “Things constantly change, and we must make sure our teachers and staff are developing the skills they need to educate our children.”