Kicklighter, principal of Lakeside High School from 1971-1984, spent his career building a foundation of outstanding academics, athletics and culture at his schools. Born and raised in Mendes, Georgia, he graduated from Glennville High School in 1949 before attending Newberry College on football, basketball and baseball scholarships.Following his graduation from Georgia Teachers College in 1955, Kicklighter began active duty in the United States Army until 1959 before transferring to the US Army Reserves.His teaching and coaching career began at St. Andrews Junior High School in Charleston, South Carolina. He was principal at Springfield Elementary, St. Andrews and Middleton High School, where he stepped in during the school’s inaugural year.In 1977, while serving as principal of Lakeside, Kicklighter earned an Education Specialist degree from Georgia State University and was promoted to Colonel in the United States Army. From 1984 up until his retirement in 1991, he served as Athletic Director, Director of Planning and Associate Superintendent of DeKalb County Schools. Kicklighter also received the Army Achievement Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal and the Legion of Merit.
The Lakeside High School Sports Hall of Fame is dedicated to honoring the rich history and achievements of high school athletes who graduated from Lakeside High School in Atlanta, Georgia.
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