It’s easy for anyone in a new role — especially an administrative one — to spend their first few months on the job in a closed office underneath a never-ending pile of paperwork. Just about all of us have been there.

We’re sure there are plenty of things Dr. Brian Shumate can be doing as he gets acclimated to his new role as superintendent of the Troup County School System. We’re sure there are plenty of financial reports and test scores to analyze as he tries to find opportunities for growth.

However, nothing is more important than getting to know the teachers who work for him and the students and parents he works for. 

Shumate has clearly made it a priority to get out of his office, as he’s been on a tour of every school in the Troup County School System this week.

The tour gives him an opportunity to see teachers in action, give buildings a close look and get in front of students. Being the superintendent is a very public position, and we’re encouraged to see how much Shumate is embracing that.

Of course, it’s not possible for Shumate to do this every day or every week. He’s got plenty to do and he has to keep the overall school system in mind as he works through each day.

However, it is important for him to get in front of students and teachers as much as possible. Whether that’s a quick stop at a football game or a random stop by a school building, showing up and being supportive is arguably the most important of his job.