Berkeley County School Board members Terry Hardesty and Jimmy Hinson have specific qualifications of what they want to see in the next superintendent.
The board’s search for a replacement for Dr. Chester Floyd, who will retire in January, is underway.
Board member Terry Hardesty represents District 6. He opposed the 2008-2009 school district budget that passed June 24. Hinson and Hardesty have been two of Floyd’s most vocal critics as superintendent.
“Primarily we are looking for someone who can raise academic and performance levels,” Hardesty said. “To be able to do that and keep a fiscally responsible budget.
“So far I am pleased with the consultants we hired. I like the formulated plan. I wish the process could be quicker but it takes time.”
Board members agree that this is the most difficult decision that they will make. To ensure that they make the right decision, the district will involve the community with online surveys and open forums in the weeks ahead.
Board member Jimmy Hinson represents District 4.
“We are looking for an instructional leader who can raise test scores and graduation rates and decrease dropouts,” Hinson said. “I want us to stop producing mediocre test scores, so we need a superintendent able to talk instruction.”
Hinson said he wants the new superintendent to have the ability to move the district forward. During the interviews, Hinson said he expects candidates to give him ideas on how they intend to improve the district.
“The new superintendent has to be fiscally responsible for the budget,” Hinson said.  “We can’t keep going to the bank to borrow money or raising taxes for the taxpayers. As a leader he has to be budget wise.”