Categories: School News

CCSD Board Members Seek State Probe into Superintendent Hire





CCSD Board Members Seek State Probe into Superintendent Hire

Charleston, South Carolina

Several members of the Charleston County School Board have requested Governor Henry McMaster and State Attorney General Alan Wilson to investigate the validity of the district’s new contract with Superintendent Anita Huggins. The board members, including Carol Tempel, Darlene Roberson, Daron Calhoun II, and Courtney Waters, are concerned that the contract may have violated the S.C. Freedom of Information Act.

Background Information

During a contentious meeting on January 22, the board voted 5-4 to have district lawyers negotiate a three-year contract with Huggins, who had been serving as acting superintendent since September. The four members requesting the state investigation were among those who voted against the motion.

The decision to find a new superintendent came after the board parted ways with former Superintendent Eric Gallien in October, agreeing to a settlement of over $350,000 just months into his tenure.

Concerns Raised

Carol Tempel immediately protested the contract, stating that the board had not seen or agreed to the terms, including Huggins’ $275,000 annual salary. Tempel, along with the other board members, raised concerns about the process followed in finalizing the contract with Huggins.

Legal Matters

The request for investigation came after attorney William Hamilton raised issues with the contract, alleging violations of the state’s Freedom of Information Act. Hamilton pointed out that the board did not provide proper notice before voting on Huggins’ hiring and made the decision during a closed-door executive session.

However, Wilbur Johnson, counsel to the school district, stated that the statute being cited does not explicitly address superintendent employment matters.

Response Awaited

As of now, the Governor and Attorney General’s Office have not confirmed whether they will launch an investigation into the matter. Board Chairman Keith Grybowski declined to comment, while other board members did not respond to inquiries.

The four board members who requested the investigation declined to provide a copy of the letter or comment on its contents, stating that it would be best to wait for a response.

Conclusion

The situation surrounding Superintendent Anita Huggins’ contract has sparked controversy within the Charleston County School Board, leading to calls for a state investigation into the validity of the agreement. The outcome of this probe could have significant implications for the district’s leadership and decision-making processes.



Author: HERE Charleston

HERE Charleston

Share
Published by
HERE Charleston

Recent Posts

Hurricane Helene Causes Nearly $200 Million in Damage to South Carolina’s Timber Industry

Hurricane Helene Leaves $194 Million Impact on South Carolina Timber Industry Horry County, S.C. —…

10 hours ago

Charges Against South Carolina Forward Ashlyn Watkins Dismissed Amid Legal Proceedings

Charges Dismissed Against South Carolina Forward Ashlyn Watkins Columbia, S.C. - Suspended South Carolina forward…

10 hours ago

Columbia Woman Surprised by Large Snake in Bathroom

Columbia Woman Encounters Snake in Bathroom Columbia, South Carolina – In a surprising incident early…

10 hours ago

Execution of Inmate Richard Moore Marks South Carolina’s First Execution in 13 Years Amid Racial Controversy

Spartanburg, South Carolina Richard Moore, a 59-year-old inmate, was executed on Friday evening in South…

10 hours ago

Burglary Attempt Leads to Arrest of Repeat Offender in North Charleston

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. – Burglary Gone Wrong Leads to Arrest! In a bustling neighborhood in…

13 hours ago