News Summary
Dr. Eric Bracy has been selected as a finalist for the superintendent position at Rock Hill School District, succeeding Tommy Schmolze. With 17 years in education leadership, Bracy hopes to enhance educational standards. Other finalists include Dr. Deborah Elder and Dr. Joshua P. Starr. A public meeting on March 15 will allow community engagement before the board’s final decision on June 2.
Rock Hill, SC – Dr. Eric Bracy has been named a finalist for the superintendent position at Rock Hill School District, as the district seeks to fill the role previously held by Tommy Schmolze, who resigned effective January 31. Bracy has served as the superintendent of Johnston County Public Schools since July 1, 2020, and has 17 years of experience in educational leadership.
The other two finalists for the position are Dr. Deborah Elder, the Deputy/Chief Operating Officer of the Iowa Department of Education, and Dr. Joshua P. Starr, a former superintendent in Montgomery County, Maryland, and Stamford, Connecticut. The selection process is being facilitated by Zeal Education Group, a consulting firm hired by the district to manage the search.
A public meeting is scheduled for March 15 at 6:30 PM at the Rock Hill Schools District Office, located on East Black Street in Rock Hill. This meeting will allow citizens and school staff the opportunity to interact with the finalists and learn more about their visions for the district. The Rock Hill Board of Trustees is expected to appoint the new superintendent during their next board meeting on June 2.
The Rock Hill School District encompasses approximately 24 schools and serves roughly 16,300 students. This makes it the second largest school district in York County, employing around 2,400 staff members. Located just 20 miles south of Charlotte, North Carolina, the district is known for its strong commitment to educational excellence.
Dr. Bracy’s tenure in Johnston County follows 6.5 years as the Sampson County School Superintendent. His leadership led to his selection as the 2024 Central Carolina Regional Education Service Alliance Superintendent of the Year. He has a reputation for implementing innovative educational programs and fostering community engagement within schools.
Dr. Deborah Elder brings a wealth of experience with over 30 years in the education sector. Since her appointment as Deputy/Chief Operating Officer at the Iowa Department of Education in 2024, she has been instrumental in shaping educational policy and ensuring the effective implementation of educational programs across the state.
Dr. Joshua P. Starr offers a broad background in education, having held superintendent roles in both Montgomery County and Stamford. In addition to his position as a superintendent, Starr has worked with several nonprofit organizations and education companies, which provides him with a diverse perspective on educational leadership and reform.
The search for the Rock Hill School District’s new superintendent began following the resignation of Tommy Schmolze. John Jones is currently acting as the interim superintendent, overseeing the daily operations of the district until a permanent replacement is appointed. The final decision on the next leader will rest with the Rock Hill Board of Trustees, who are keen on selecting a candidate that aligns with their vision for the district’s future.
The Rock Hill community is eager to engage in the upcoming public meeting, where they can learn more about each candidate’s background and plans for the district. The selection of a new superintendent is viewed as a pivotal step in continuing to maintain and enhance the educational standards and support provided to students and staff alike.
As the deadline for applications closed on April 20, the board’s decision will come at a critical time for the district, setting the tone for its leadership direction for years to come.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Rock Hill Schools Superintendent Search Finalists
- Wikipedia: Superintendent
- Herald Online: Rock Hill Superintendent Search Update
- Google Search: Rock Hill School District
- JoCoReport: Dr. Eric Bracy Named Finalist
- Google Scholar: Educational Leadership
- WSOC TV: Rock Hill School Board Starts Search
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- Herald Online: Rock Hill Schools Update
- Google News: Rock Hill Schools
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
