10 to watch: Lynn Moody

Published 12:00 am Sunday, January 5, 2014

Dr. Lynn Moody took over as Rowan-Salisbury superintendent Oct. 1, in the midst of budget mediations between the school system and the county.

Moody, 54, plans to focus on integrating technology into classrooms and using it as a tool throughout the entire district, as well as implementing the school system’s literacy plan.

Moody is a native of Ruffin, N.C. and received her undergraduate and master’s degree from N.C. State University. She received her Doctorate of Education from Nova Southeastern University.

Moody has 25 years experience in the education field. She has served as a teacher, counselor, softball coach, and administrator in the Carolinas and Virginia.

She is married to Wayne Moody, and they have two adult sons, Brad and Hunter.

Moody’s predecessor was Dr. Judy Grissom who held the position of superintendent for 8 years after 44 years in the education profession. Grissom retired Sept. 30.

Job title: Rowan-Salisbury Schools Superintendent

Age: 54

Address: Landis

If you won millions in the lottery, what would you do? “I would probably go to Canyon Ranch Spa and I’d figure it out while I was there.”

She said that she would like to continue working in some way, form a foundation and let her two sons play an integral role in deciding how they spent the money.

Favorite TV show? The Good Wife

Who should play you in a movie? Geena Davis. “She’s my favorite, but she doesn’t look anything like me.”

What would you choose for your last meal? A hot dog with mustard, chili, and slaw; French Fries (steak fries or home fries) an hot chocolate pudding

Who will you watch in 2014? Pope Francis, with the qualities he is modeling; Dr. Mark Edwards, Mooresville Graded School District and 2013 Superintendent of the Year and her youngest son, who is majoring in education and beginning a career as an educator.

Biggest challenge in 2014? “The biggest challenge for me is to develop and focus a strategic plan for the school system,” Moody said.

Biggest hope for 2014? Moody hopes that she’s “able to build a very positive culture in the organization where there’s trust.”

Reaction to making the list? Moody’s placement on the list means that Rowan County is a community that values education. “I’m always mindful that the job is important to the community. I understand that it’s not about me, it’s about the role,” Moody said.