The Marlboro County School District Board of Trustees announces that, after careful consideration and consultation with legal counsel, a majority of the Board has decided not to appeal the recent decision of the South Carolina State Board of Education declaring a State of Education Emergency within the district and dissolving the locally elected Board of Trustees.
While the Board respectfully disagrees with some aspects of the State Board’s decision, we recognize the importance of maintaining stability and continuity for the students, families, educators, and staff of Marlboro County School District during this transition period. The Board also accepts accountability for areas where stronger oversight and governance could have been exercised to ensure that Board policies, standards, and expectations were consistently met and followed. We acknowledge that effective leadership requires continual evaluation and improvement, and we take seriously the concerns that have been identified regarding district governance.
Our foremost priority has always been, and will continue to be, the educational success and well-being of the children of Marlboro County. The Board believes that refraining from further legal action at this time will allow district leadership and state-appointed officials to focus fully on addressing the challenges and needs facing the district and advancing the work necessary to improve student outcomes.
Although we will no longerserve in our official capacities as members of the Board of Trustees, we remain committed to the citizens of the entire Marlboro County community. We will continue to be receptive to and engaged with the concerns, perspectives, and voices of our constituents, and we will continue to
advocate for what is in the best interest of the students, employees, and families of Marlboro County School District.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the citizens of Marlboro County for the trust and support shown to this Board throughout ourservice. We also thank the district’s teachers, administrators,staff members, parents, and community partners for their continued dedication to the students of Marlboro County School District.
During this period of transition and uncertainty, we respectfully ask the entire Marlboro County community to come together in unity and support of our school district. Our students need stability, encouragement, and a strong foundation of community support now more than ever. By working together with compassion, understanding, and a shared commitment to educational success, we can help ensure that the children of Marlboro County continue to have every opportunity to thrive despite the unknown
challenges ahead.
The members of the Board of Trustees remain committed to supporting the success of the district and encouraging productive collaboration as the district moves forward.
Sincerely,
Michael Coachman
Chairman, Marlboro County School District Board of Trustees
Majority of Marlboro County School Board Decides Not To Appeal Decision of S.C. State Board of Education
