Canton Public School District announces new interim superintendent

Special to The Canton News 

Canton Public School District (CPSD) Superintendent Gary Hannah has officially announced his resignation, accepting a new position as Chief of Staff for Memphis-Shelby County Schools.

In a message to the CPSD community, Hannah said the decision came after “careful consideration and prayer” and cited the opportunity to be closer to home and spend more time with family.

“As I reflect on my tenure as superintendent of Canton Public Schools, I find myself filled with a mixture of gratitude and nostalgia,” Hannah wrote. “My time here has come to a heartfelt conclusion, and I want to take a moment to express how deeply I appreciate each one of you.”

Hannah’s farewell letter highlighted his appreciation for the CPSD staff, board members and the greater Canton community. He acknowledged the district’s collective efforts in supporting scholars and fostering a nurturing educational environment.

“The memories we’ve created together - filled with triumphs and challenges - will forever hold a special place in my heart,” he wrote. “I will genuinely miss the camaraderie, the collaborations and the laughter we’ve shared.”

Hannah extended his gratitude to the CPSD Board of Trustees, stakeholders and families for their continued support during his tenure.

There was no immediate announcement regarding interim leadership or the process for selecting a new superintendent. The Canton Public School District has named veteran educator and administrator Dwight J. Luckett Sr., Ed.S., as its interim superintendent, marking his second appointment to the position.

Luckett brings more than three decades of experience in public education, including previously serving as the district’s full-time superintendent from 2006 to 2014 and as interim superintendent in 2018. Known for his transformative leadership, he helped raise student achievement, increase graduation rates, and improve the district’s academic standing during his earlier tenure.

“We are excited to welcome Mr. Luckett back to the Canton Public School District,” the district said in a statement. “His proven track record and commitment to student success make him the ideal leader to guide us through this period of transition.”

Under his previous leadership, Luckett oversaw the construction of two new schools and a state-of-the-art football stadium—all without the need for a bond referendum. He also helped establish pre-kindergarten classes and implemented a five-year strategic plan for the district.

Beyond Canton, Luckett has served in multiple interim leadership roles, including interim superintendent for Kosciusko Public School District and interim principal of Nichols Middle School. Earlier in his career, he held key roles such as principal of East Side High School in Cleveland and assistant principal at Velma Jackson High School.

Luckett holds a bachelor’s degree from St. Edward’s University and both a master’s and specialist degree in educational leadership from Delta State University. He is also a past president of the Mississippi Association of School Superintendents and currently serves on the Madison County Economic Development Authority board, where he was chairman in 2018.

District officials said they are cofident Luckett’s return will bring stability, continuity, and renewed momentum for students, educators, and families alike.
“We look forward to working together as we continue elevating minds and empowering possibilities,” the statement read.