Moore County Schools Superintendent, Dr. Tim Locklair, announced his intent to retire during the Dec. 1 Board of Education Work Session. His retirement will become effective March 1, 2026.
A Moore County native since the age of 11 and proud graduate of Pinecrest High School, Locklair has dedicated 31 years to public education and has served Moore County Schools in multiple leadership roles, including Chief Officer for Academics and Student Support Services before becoming Superintendent in 2022. His career has also included service as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, and principal across Montgomery County Schools and Wake County public schools. He holds both a Master of School Administration and a Doctorate in Education from East Carolina University.
“During his tenure as Superintendent, Dr. Locklair led Moore County Schools through a period of significant academic growth, expanded learning opportunities, strengthened community partnerships, and elevated the district’s reputation at the regional and state levels,” said the school district in a press release. “He is widely recognized for launching the “MCS Way,” a collaborative, student-centered leadership approach emphasizing excellence, trust, and teamwork across all 24 schools in the district.”
Under his leadership, the district listed Moore County Schools’ achievements as follows:
• Ranked Top 10 out of 115 districts in North Carolina for both Grade Level Proficiency (GLP) and Career and Technical Education credential attainment for 2024–2025; currently ranked No. 7 out of 115 districts in GLP for 2025–2026.
• 77 percent of schools meeting or exceeding growth in the 2023–2024 school year.
• Purple Star District designation for five consecutive years, reflecting extraordinary support for military-connected students and families.
• Launch of Moore Innovative High School, which opened in August with support from a $25 million state appropriation, offering students the opportunity to earn a high school diploma and an associate degree while preparing for high-demand workforce pathways.
• A significant expansion of public school choice opportunities, including Virtual Learning, Blend+Ed, and multiple in-person pathways designed to meet the unique needs of Moore County families.
• Creation of the School Leadership Academy, now in its fourth cohort, to develop the next generation of principals and executive leaders.
Throughout his time as superintendent, Locklair has been known for his energetic leadership style, described by colleagues as “transformational and grounded in character, integrity, and service.” His well-known motto, “fired up,” reflects his belief that every staff member, regardless of their role, makes a lasting impact on students every day.
In June, Locklair was named the 2025–2026 Regional Superintendent of the Year for the Sandhills region, a recognition voted on by his peers across 13 districts. He was one of eight finalists for the 2026 A. Craig Phillips North Carolina Superintendent of the Year Award.
“It has been an honor to serve the students, families, and staff of Moore County Schools,” said Locklair in a press release. “I am grateful for every teacher, every employee, and every community member who has embraced the MCS Way and worked together toward our shared vision of being the standard for excellence in education in North Carolina. Leadership matters, and I have been blessed to work alongside outstanding people who care deeply about our children. I am humbled by what we have accomplished together, and I passionately believe that the Moore County Schools team will continue to excel well into the future. I look forward to supporting a smooth transition as the district continues its momentum.”
Moore County Schools Board of Education Chair, Dr. Robin Calcutt, added, “We are incredibly grateful for Dr. Locklair’s service, leadership, and deep love for the students and staff of Moore County Schools. His commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and leadership development has set a strong foundation for continued success. The Board will be thoughtful and thorough in the upcoming superintendent search to ensure a seamless transition for our district.”
Locklair plans to spend more time with family while exploring new opportunities to continue supporting public schools across North Carolina.
The Moore County Board of Education will share details about the superintendent search process as they become available.
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Article and photo contributed by Moore County Schools.
