Faculty members announce plans to leave Southland District

Ted Wilkerson, who has been a principal at Southland for over 20 years, announced his intentions to retire, effective at the conclusion of his current contract, which expires June 30.

"Mr. Wilkerson has been an invaluable asset to the students at Southland," said Superintendent Raymond Lasley. "He has served Southland as an instructor in vocational agriculture and as both elementary and high school principal. Along with his duties as principal, he also drove a bus route."

Replacing Wilkerson will be Johnny McMinn, a current high school science teacher for the district. Gary Burnside, a current P.E. teacher and coach for the district, was hired as assistant principal.

Also leaving will be Elementary Principal Alicia Shaw. Lasley said Shaw announced her resignation at Southland to accept a position at Gideon Elementary School.

Shaw's position will not be filled, as the board made the cost-cutting decision in February 2009 to have only one principal, along with an assistant principal, for the upcoming school year.

Another retirement announced during the meeting was that of Teresa Woods, counselor, who has been with the district for eight years. Heather Bowers, a current junior high English teacher for the district, will replace Woods. Hanna James has been offered a contract to become a junior high English teacher.

In addition to the departing faculty, Board of Education member Doug , announced that he is resigning from the school board.

"Mr. Kemmett has served on the board since 2001," Lasley said. "The board is seeking letters of application from qualified candidates."

In other matters, the board:

* Approved the minutes of the May 2010 meeting;

* Approved the 2010-2011 budget;

* Approved the payment of the monthly bills;

* Authorized the superintendent to advertise for bids for milk and bread;

* Designated Kim Campbell, incoming superintendent, as the district's authorized representative effective July 1;

* Approved a bid from Butler Floor Service for replacing carpet in the superintendent's office and nurse's office;

* Adopted the special education assurance;

* Approved the qualification for free and reduced meals, and;

* Approved changing the date of the July board meeting to July 13.