News Summary
Rock Hill Schools has selected three out-of-state finalists for the superintendent position following the resignation of the previous leader. The candidates, Eric C. Bracy, Deborah Elder, and Joshua P. Starr, bring extensive experience in education. A meet and greet event will be held for the community to engage with them. The selection process reflects the district’s commitment to finding a qualified leader to shape the future of education locally.
Rock Hill, South Carolina – Rock Hill Schools has selected three finalists from out-of-state for the position of new superintendent, as announced on May 14, 2025. The finalists are Eric C. Bracy from North Carolina, Deborah Elder from Iowa, and Joshua P. Starr from Maryland. This search for a new superintendent was initiated following the resignation of previous superintendent Tommy Schmolze, effective January 31, 2025.
Eric C. Bracy brings 17 years of experience as a superintendent and is currently leading Johnston County Public Schools in North Carolina. His previous role was at Sampson County Schools, where he served for over six years. Bracy holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, a master’s degree in education administration and supervision, and a doctorate in educational leadership. He was honored as the 2024 Central Carolina Regional Education Service Alliance Superintendent of the Year for his contributions to education.
Deborah Elder has an extensive background in education, totaling 30 years. Currently, she serves as the deputy/chief operating officer of the Iowa Department of Education, tasked with managing educational outcomes for over 486,000 students in K-12 schools and community colleges. Elder possesses a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in elementary education, an educational specialist degree in educational leadership, and a doctorate in organizational change and leadership.
Joshua P. Starr has served as a public education leader across various sectors, including a decade as a superintendent in Montgomery County, Maryland, and Stamford, Connecticut. He began his career as a teacher in Brooklyn, New York, where he taught global studies. In addition, Starr has held notable positions such as CEO of PDK International and managing partner of the Center for Model Schools. He holds degrees in English and history, special education, and a doctorate in administration, planning and social policy.
Meet and Greet Event
On May 15, 2025, at 6:30 p.m., Rock Hill Schools will facilitate a meet and greet event with the finalists at the district office located at 386 E. Black St. This event is an opportunity for the community to engage with the candidates and gain insight into their vision for leading Rock Hill Schools.
Search Initiation and Management
The search for a new superintendent was conducted by Zeal Education Group, a specialist superintendent search firm. The application process closed on April 20, 2025, followed by candidate reviews on April 29, 2025.
Interim Leadership
During this transitional period, John Jones is serving as the interim superintendent. The Rock Hill Board of Trustees is expected to appoint the new superintendent at their upcoming meeting on June 2, 2025.
Conclusion
The selection of these three candidates reflects Rock Hill Schools’ commitment to finding a well-qualified leader to guide the district. Stakeholders are encouraged to participate in the meet and greet event, as the Board of Trustees prepares to make a critical decision that will shape the future of education in the community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Rock Hill Schools Superintendent Search Finalists
- Google Search: Rock Hill Schools superintendent
- Herald Online: Rock Hill Superintendent Search
- Wikipedia: School Superintendent
- WSOC TV: Rock Hill School Board Starts Search
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Superintendent
- MSN: Rock Hill Schools Announce Finalists
- Google News: Rock Hill Schools
- JoCo Report: Dr. Eric Bracy Named Finalist
- Herald Online: Superintendent Candidate Insights
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.
