Beloved Macon principal takes on new role in Atlanta. Who will replace her?

For more than 10 years, Chendra Dupree has commuted for an hour from the Atlanta metropolitan area to Macon, committed to shaping the future of its public schools.

“My husband and my kids are in this school system. I brought my kids to the school system because I believed in it, so I travel an hour,” Dupree told The Telegraph. “Although I own a home an hour away from Macon, I recently had to get an apartment in Macon due to the high demands of my workload. When work requires me to stay late, I stay in Macon to be closer and more available.”

With 24 years of experience in education — 14 of them in the Bibb County School District — Dupree has served the past eight years in leadership roles at Central High School, including principal. But now, she is now stepping into a new leadership position with Atlanta Public Schools, a move that has stirred emotional responses from staff, parents and community members.

Dupree said her calling to education stems from a firm belief that every student can learn and thrive from a desire to make a lasting difference in her community. As a byproduct of Bibb County and graduate of Northeast High School, Dupree said her love for Macon runs deep.

Dupree has been praised for her strong leadership skills and ability to develop other strategic leaders within the school system.

Throughout her tenure, Central High hit several major milestones, including graduation rates above 90% for three consecutive years and recognition as a PBIS Distinguished High School — an award for implementing positive behavioral frameworks that foster safe learning environments and reduce disciplinary issues.

Maria Rodriguez, head of Spanish instruction for the Central High International Baccalaureate program, highlighted another achievement for the school this year: a senior recently became the district’s first-ever recipient of the Georgia Seal of Biliteracy.

“She’s always on the front line supporting teachers,” Rodriguez said, adding that Dupree’s clear expectations and emphasis on teamwork have been key to her leadership style.

In a heartfelt letter to the school community, Dupree confirmed her new position in Atlanta and emphasized the decision was not made lightly.

“I want to be clear,” Dupree wrote. “I’m not leaving because I no longer want to be here or because I’m chasing something ‘better.’ I’m leaving because it’s time to honor my growth, protect my peace, and walk fully in the purpose God has placed on my life. Growth often calls us into new spaces and while I move forward in faith, my love for Central remains deep, steady and unwavering.

“This is not goodbye. It’s simply ‘see you again,’” she concluded.

Macon’s reaction to Dupree’s departure

Members of the Central High community have expressed both pride and sadness in Dupree’s future career opportunity.

Katie Beck, a counselor who has worked under Dupree for four years, credited the former principal with raising academic expectations and drawing talent to the school.

“She’s very involved in all aspects of the school and holds everyone to a high standard. We’re so excited to see her go and do great things, but I am very sad,” Beck told The Telegraph, tearing up over a phone call.

“I don’t think I will ever find another principal to work for as amazing as her,” Beck added, noting Dupree’s personal support during her pregnancy.

Online, some Macon residents voiced frustration with the district for allowing a highly regarded leader to leave.

Parent Monya Rutland described Dupree’s leadership as “selfless” and instrumental in shaping the next generation of educators. She said she was disappointed when she heard the news.

“My heart is heavy not only because I’ve been able to engage with her growth and see how it’s benefited my children and other children directly, but also to lose that transformative leadership from a district where we know overall there’s a need for teachers and administrators who are committed to our children,” Rutland said.

“We have to be passionate and unapologetic about retaining good leaders (and) good teachers, especially when they’re coming through our district,” Rutland added.

Who will be Central High’s new leader?

When asked about a plan to find Dupree’s successor, district spokesperson Stephanie Hartley said Dupree’s former leadership position is currently posted, and the district is accepting applications. The position was posted on June 1, and the deadline is June 8.

“BCSD is focused on a great start to the next school year. The District intends to fill the position with the best candidate who will support Central High’s continued growth and success,” Hartley said in an email.

Parents and staff say they are hoping for a leader who can uphold Dupree’s legacy and professionalism.

“I think what deepens the shoes that Dr. Dupree is leaving behind is, because she’s leaving the district, and we no longer have the benefit of her expertise, whoever that new person is needs to come in having had some teaching and leadership roles in the district and experience with a diverse population economically and academically,” Rutland said.

This story was originally published June 5, 2025 at 1:03 PM.