Jeff McCann will be the next principal of Thurman Francis Arts Academy in Smyrna, Director of Schools Don Odom announced.

Beginning in July, McCann will assume the principal duties following the retirement of current Principal Jeff Duke.

McCann currently serves as principal at LaVergne Lake Elementary School, a position he has held since the school opened in 2007. He previously served as principal of Roy Waldron Elementary School.

"I am pleased the Mr. McCann has accepted the position as principal for the Thurman Francis Arts Academy magnet school," Director Odom said. "He brings to the position experience in music education and a reputation for a focus on academic performance. He knows how to build a team of educators working for a common goal focused on student learning."

Thurman Francis Arts Academy is a K-8 academic magnet school focusing on the arts. Students must meet academic qualifications to be admitted. In addition, the school houses a small K-5 traditional elementary school program, and students are assigned based on their residential zone.

McCann has a bachelor's degree in music education and a master's in educational administration. He served 14 years as an assistant band director, band director and general music teacher before becoming an assistant principal at Roy Waldron in 2001. He was named principal of the school three years later. McCann has a total of 29 years as an educator.

"I am deeply humbled and honored to be given the opportunity to lead Thurman Francis Arts Academy," McCann said. "With a background in the arts, I am excited to work with such talented students and teachers. It is my vision to help create one of the strongest arts programs in the state so that our students' gifts may truly shine."

Rutherford County Schools has started the search process for the next principal of LaVergne Lake Elementary School. The school district will also soon name a new principal for Oakland Middle School after the recent retirement announcement of Kim Edwards.