Deputy Chief Academic Officer
As Deputy Chief Academic Officer for the DeKalb County School District, Dr. Sean R. Tartt plays a critical leadership role in advancing academic excellence across 139 sites. His strategic oversight supports curriculum alignment, the implementation of high-quality teaching practices, effective fiscal management, and the creation of robust learning opportunities for educators and students. In collaboration with the Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Tartt provides guidance and leadership for several key departments, including K–12 Teaching and Learning, Career, Technical, Agricultural, and Engineering Education (CTAE), FLEX Academy, Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), Fernbank Science Center, Graduation Innovation, and Educational Media and Instructional Resources.
A proud Georgia native and DeKalb County Schools alumnus, Dr. Tartt’s educational journey is deeply rooted in the community he now serves. His professional career began in college, working summers as a paraprofessional, substitute teacher, and warehouse clerk—experiences that ignited his passion for public education and service.
Dr. Tartt’s career has spanned every level of school leadership. He served as a teacher at Narvie J. Harris Traditional Theme School, followed by leadership roles including assistant principal at Lithonia Middle School and principal at Narvie J. Harris, where he served for 11 years. In 2014, he was honored as Region IV Principal of the Year. His leadership trajectory continued with his appointment as Region III Superintendent in 2018, where he skillfully supported more than 16,000 students, staff, and community members. In December 2023, Dr. Tartt was appointed Deputy Chief Academic Officer, further cementing his role as a central figure in the district’s academic strategy and execution.
Dr. Tartt holds a Bachelor of Science in Health and Physical Education and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Florida A&M University. He earned both his Educational Specialist (2005) and Doctorate (2008) degrees in Educational Leadership from Argosy University in Atlanta.
Throughout his career, Dr. Tartt has been widely recognized for his leadership, service, and impact. He is a two-time recipient of the Georgia Secretary of State's Outstanding Citizen Award, and has received numerous other honors, including the U.S. House of Representatives Proclamation for Outstanding Service, Scholarship, and Leadership (2009), the Governor’s Award for Outstanding Contribution to Education (2009), and the DeKalb County Commissioner’s Community Service Award (2002).
Beyond his formal duties, Dr. Tartt is a passionate mentor and advocate for continuous professional growth. He serves as a district hearing officer, principal mentor, and advisor to both instructional leaders and school administrators. His influence is widely felt across the district, where he is known for his approachable leadership style and unwavering commitment to student success.
Dr. Tartt is also an accomplished public speaker and presenter, sharing expertise on a wide range of educational topics. His motivational speaking engagements are known for their authenticity, inspiration, and practical insight—reaching educators, students, and community leaders alike.
Outside of education, Dr. Tartt is a proud family man who enjoys sports, community engagement, and spending time outdoors. His favorite hobby, yard work, reflects the same dedication, patience, and care he brings to his professional life.
Dr. Tartt leads with purpose and lives by the guiding principle:
“If better is possible, good is not enough.” — Benjamin Franklin
Through his vision, integrity, and commitment, Dr. Sean R. Tartt continues to leave a lasting legacy in education—uplifting communities, empowering educators, and inspiring generations of students.
