Public forum speakers praise Superintendent Alvin Presley and urge board unity

Several residents used the meeting’s public forum to defend Superintendent Alvin Presley and to urge the Newberry County Board of Trustees to present a united, professional front.

Jan Redden, a retiree of the district, opened public comments by listing leadership qualities she said Presley demonstrates: “Competence… Character… Connection… Courage,” and concluded, “A good leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.”

Multiple speakers echoed that theme. Ingle Thompson said the community “has your back” for Presley and called the superintendent “overqualified” for the district. Jessie Reeder said bus drivers and other staff “have to be trusted,” and urged board members to avoid statements that damage staff morale. Barbara Ware thanked the board members who hired Presley in 2021 and urged the board to prioritize unity so the district can focus on students.

Other comments included concerns about potential changes at the federal level: Anthony Caldwell warned of the risk to students with Individualized Education Programs if the U.S. Department of Education’s enforcement role were diminished.

Speakers frequently asked the board to clarify the line between governance and administration and to restore professional norms after contentious public exchanges at a prior meeting. Several speakers referenced board conduct and recommended adherence to Roberts Rules or a parliamentarian to keep meetings orderly.

Board members acknowledged the public remarks and, at times, offered clarifying comments during later agenda items but the public comments did not trigger immediate board actions recorded in the open session.