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Dr. Collins to Retire March 1, 2025

Superintendent Collins

Onslow County Schools announces the retirement of Superintendent Dr. Barry Collins from the Onslow County School District, effective March 1, 2025.  Superintendent Collins’ retirement will mark the end of a 36-year educational career serving students in the state of North Carolina. Collins has spent nearly 6 years successfully leading the Onslow County School District as superintendent. 

In a letter notifying board members of his decision, Collins simply shared, it has "been an honor and privilege to serve as the superintendent of the Onslow County School System.” 

Former School Board Chair Ken Reddic said, “As an educator for over thirty years and superintendent for six years, Dr. Barry Collins has expertly guided the Onslow County School System with his steady, calm and distinguished leadership. His focus on student growth and academic achievement has truly ‘Raised the Bar’ for students, teachers, staff and community. Dr. Collins' ethical and principled approach to living and leading have made an indelible mark on the Onslow County School System now and in the future.” 

During his time as an educator, Collins has worked as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and assistant superintendent. A proud graduate of White Oak High School, where he served as a school bus driver his senior year, he began his career in public education with Onslow County Schools. First, as a math and science teacher at Northwoods Park Middle School and then as assistant principal at Swansboro Middle School. Dr. Collins then worked in Jones County Schools as principal of Maysville Elementary and director of human resources. He held the position of assistant superintendent for human resources and student services with Onslow County Schools from March 2007 until being named superintendent in March 2019. 

Under his leadership, the district saw significant advancements, including the expansion of the school resource officer program, the implementation of metal detectors and EVOLV weapons detection systems, and the installation of vape detectors at all middle and high schools. Dr. Collins also championed the mental health and well-being of students by expanding the number of school social workers, psychologists, and counselors, and implementing the Say Something Anonymous Reporting System. 

His efforts in negotiating a school funding agreement with Onslow County and managing federal and state funds were instrumental in supporting the district's financial stability, especially after Hurricane Florence and the COVID-19 pandemic.  

Additionally, Dr. Collins has overseen the construction of two new elementary schools and the opening of the Eastern North Carolina Regional Skills Center, demonstrating his commitment to addressing the district's growth and improving educational facilities.  

His dedication to the "Raising the Bar" campaign significantly improved early childhood literacy education, and his support for military families ensured a supportive learning environment for all students.