Ever since Patrick Mapes became superintendent of Hamilton Southeastern Schools in February of 2024, Dr. Matt Kegley has served as deputy superintendent. Mapes made it clear that when he was away from the district, Kegley would handle day-to-day leadership at the district’s administration building.

Now, following Mapes’ surprise resignation, the school board is moving quickly to place Kegley in charge.

Board President Tiffany Pascoe quickly announced the board’s intention to appoint Kegley as interim superintendent to lead the district during the transition.

Kegley has spent much of his career in the HSE district and has held a wide range of roles in education. His experience includes time as a teacher, assistant principal and athletic director. He later served as principal at Riverside Junior High and then at Hamilton Southeastern High School before moving into district administration.

As part of his appointment as interim superintendent, Kegley will receive an additional $375 per week.

The board voted unanimously Wednesday naming Kegley to the interim position.

School board members have not indicated how long Kegley will serve in the interim role. The board has also not announced whether it plans to conduct a formal search for a permanent superintendent.