Dr. Shayla W. Savage brings more than two decades of experience in public education and a proven track record of instructional leadership, school improvement, and student achievement. A passionate advocate for children, families, and educators, Dr. Savage is committed to ensuring that every student receives a high-quality education and the opportunity to reach their fullest potential.

Originally from Pinetops, North Carolina, Dr. Savage is a proud product of public education and a first-generation college graduate who believes deeply in the transformative power of education. She earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She also holds a Master of School Administration, a Bachelor of Science in Special Education, and a Bachelor of Social Work from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.

Throughout her career, Dr. Savage has served as a special education teacher, assistant principal, principal, school leadership coach, executive director of administrative services, and chief student services officer. Her leadership has focused on improving academic achievement, strengthening school culture, supporting educators, enhancing school safety, and addressing the academic, social, and emotional needs of students.

As Chief Student Services Officer for Iredell-Statesville Schools, Dr. Savage helped the district achieve its highest graduation rate in history, significantly reduce the chronic absenteeism rate, and decrease suspensions. Previously, as a school leadership coach with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, she supported schools across multiple districts, including Thomasville City Schools, helping leaders strengthen instructional practices and improve student outcomes.

As a principal in Guilford County Schools and Randolph County Schools, Dr. Savage developed a reputation for transforming school performance, strengthening school culture, and building meaningful partnerships with families and communities. She led schools out of low-performing status, improved student achievement and growth, reduced teacher turnover, strengthened teacher working conditions, and cultivated partnerships that generated substantial community support for students and schools.

Her professional accomplishments include being named Guilford County Schools Elementary Principal of the Year, receiving the Distinguished Educator of the Year Award from Randolph County Schools, and being recognized through several state and regional leadership development programs.

As Superintendent, Dr. Savage is committed to working collaboratively with the Board of Education, staff, students, families, and community partners to strengthen academic excellence, cultivate positive school environments, and prepare students for successful futures. Her leadership philosophy centers on strong relationships, high expectations, shared accountability, and the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed.

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Dr. Savage treasures her family. She is married to Mr. Jeremy Savage, and together they are the proud parents of two adult children, Jeyla and Treylan.

Dr. Savage is honored to serve the Thomasville community and looks forward to building upon the district's strengths while creating new opportunities for every student to thrive.

It's a great day to be a Bulldog in Thomasville City Schools, where Together Children Succeed!