Cherokee, Laurens 55 school districts continue searches for superintendent

(WSPA) – School boards in Cherokee and Laurens counties took steps on Tuesday to address their districts’ needs for a new superintendent.

In Cherokee County, members of the board voted to hire the South Carolina School Boards Association to conduct a search for a new superintendent.

The board also said it plans to create a four-person search committee to help decide the new superintendent. Board members hope to get input from community members before deciding on a new superintendent.

In March, Cherokee County Schools superintendent Dana Fall announced he will resign at the end of the current school year.

The resignation came after more than a month of discussions by the board over Fall’s decision to accept a job in Spartanburg County while he was still under contract with Cherokee County.

The Spartanburg County district ultimately rescinded their job offer to Fall as well.

In Laurens County, the District 55 board began reviewing what community members say they want in a future superintendent.

District 55 has been searching for a new superintendent since January, when Ameca Thomas announced her resignation .

On Tuesday, the board reviewed the results of a survey conducted by the South Carolina School Boards Association which drew more than 300 responses from parents and teachers.

The number one quality those who took the survey said they want in an applicant is a skilled communicator. Nearly half of respondents – 47% – said they want a leader who will take the district in a “significantly different direction.”

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