News Summary
Chuck Epps, the respected superintendent of the Fort Mill School District, has announced his retirement effective June 30, 2025, after 45 years in education. His legacy includes overseeing significant growth in student enrollment and fostering collaboration among staff and families. The district now faces the challenge of finding a suitable successor to continue his impactful leadership. While his departure marks the end of an era, Epps plans to support the district through December 2025, ensuring a smooth transition.
Fort Mill Set to Say Goodbye to a Beloved Educator
In the heart of Fort Mill, a wave of nostalgia is washing over the community as Chuck Epps, the much-respected superintendent of the Fort Mill School District, has announced his decision to retire. After an impressive career that spans more than four decades, Epps will formally hang up his hat on June 30, 2025. This upcoming retirement marks the end of an era, and the education community is both excited for him and a little sad to see him go.
A Lifelong Commitment to Education
Epps has dedicated 45 years of his life to the Fort Mill School District, 15 of which he has spent as the superintendent. His journey has been one of service and passion for fostering educational success in the region, making him an integral figure in the schools he has overseen. During a Fort Mill School Board meeting held on February 4, 2025, he shared that working for the district has truly been “the honor of my professional life.”
His retirement announcement follows closely behind the resignation of Tommy Schmolze, the former superintendent of the nearby Rock Hill Schools. Both Fort Mill and Rock Hill are the largest school districts in the Rock Hill region, and both will now embark on the quest for new leadership.
Support Until the Bitter End
Even though Epps plans to retire in June 2025, he has graciously offered his support to the district until the end of December 2025. This commitment will provide a smooth transition for whoever steps into his substantial shoes as the next superintendent.
As it stands, the Fort Mill School District is yet to decide on how they will seek Epps’ successor, according to district spokesman Joe Burke. With such an extensive legacy behind him, selecting someone to carry on Epps’ work will be no small feat.
A Journey Through Various Roles
Chuck Epps has worn many hats throughout his remarkable career. From being a teacher’s aide and coach to eventually becoming an administrator, he has experienced nearly every aspect of educational leadership. Under his stewardship as superintendent, the Fort Mill School District has seen significant changes—including a student enrollment surge that nearly doubled during his tenure.
Now, the district stands as the largest in York County, serving over 18,400 students. Epps’ leadership has not only focused on increasing academic achievement but has also included fostering a culture of collaboration among staff, students, and families. He has highlighted that community teamwork is essential in achieving educational goals, stating that when everyone unites with a shared vision, incredible things can happen.
Pride and Gratitude Mark the End of an Era
Epps has taken great pride in navigating the tricky balance of growth and maintaining high academic standards during his time as superintendent. He expresses hopes that the next leader will continue this legacy and build upon the strong foundation laid over the years.
To Epps, the district feels like family, a sentiment that resonates throughout the many relationships he has cultivated during his career. His leadership has created a vibrant sense of community among everyone involved, fostering connections that will last long after he says goodbye.
As June 2025 approaches, the Fort Mill community is preparing to bid a heartfelt farewell to a man who has dedicated his life to helping others succeed—both in and out of the classroom. Chuck Epps’ retirement will undoubtedly leave big shoes to fill, but the impact he has made will echo on for generations of students to come. His blend of passion, community spirit, and unwavering dedication will be missed, but his legacy will undoubtedly carry on through those he has influenced.
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Additional Resources
- WCNC: Fort Mill Superintendent Retirement
- Google Search: Fort Mill Superintendent Retirement
- Herald Online: Announcement of Retirement
- Google Scholar: Fort Mill Education
- WBTV: Long-Time Superintendent Announces Retirement
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fort Mill School District
- News Break: Chuck Epps Retirement Announcement
- Google News: Fort Mill Superintendent
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
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