Bulloch County Board of Education begins search for next superintendent as Richard Smith steps in as interim

STATESBORO, Ga. (WTOC) - The Bulloch County Board of Education is searching for the school district’s next superintendent following the retirement of Charles Wilson, who led the district for more than a decade.

In the meantime, Richard Smith has stepped into the role of interim superintendent, officially beginning the position this week. Smith told WTOC’s Julianne Sheehan that his first day included meeting with every principal in the district.

“It was a great day, got to know, got to meet some of them for the first time, I am just really excited about the good work going on here,” Smith said.

Interim leader steps in after decades in education

Smith spent 38 years as an educator, including serving as superintendent in Toombs County. He said he came out of retirement after Bulloch County asked him to help guide the district through the transition.

A Bulloch County resident, Smith said the opportunity felt personal.

“I’ve had so many people pour into me and if I can give back, I am always willing to look at those opportunities,” he said.

Search underway; candidates anonymous for now

The Board of Education began interviewing for the superintendent position last week. District leaders say candidates will remain anonymous until the applicant pool is narrowed.

Smith said he is not pursuing the permanent superintendent job and is focused instead on stability and continuity.

“I am here to help in any way I can and just make that transition as smooth as possible,” Smith said.

Finishing the year strong

Smith said the board’s priority is closing out the current school year successfully and preparing for the start of the next school year in September. He also said he’s looking forward to graduation season.

“Our seniors are going to be leaving us going out and doing great things, all the other classes are moving up, our juniors are excited to become seniors,” he said.

The interview process is expected to take several weeks, and the superintendent search is being conducted nationwide.