The Sun News: Former superintendent seeks state board seat

Posted on December 7, 2007 
Filed Under News

Former Horry Schools Superintendent Gerrita Postlewait jumped into the race for the local seat on the state Board of Education on Tuesday.

Postlewait was not available for comment.

One legislator who wanted her to run welcomed her candidacy, while two others said they don’t believe they will support her and criticized her for not stepping up earlier.

“That’s good news, that’s great,” said Rep. Vida Miller, D-Pawleys Island, who said last month that Postlewait is one of the most respected people in Horry County and should seek the post.

“She’s not a conservative and we need people who are conservative on the state school board,” said Rep. Thad Viers, R-Myrtle Beach.

Postlewait sent a letter stating her intention to be a candidate to the Horry County legislative delegation office around midday. The post represents the 15th Judicial Circuit, which is Horry and Georgetown Counties, on the state board.

Five of Horry’s legislators wanted to reappoint former state board member Greg Killian of Myrtle Beach, who served eight years. They were thwarted, though, when three other legislators and proxy votes from four who were absent delayed action on the vacancy.

The delegation is now taking applications again until 5 p.m. Dec. 13.

If the seven who wanted to delay Killian’s appointment vote for Postlewait, she could win the unpaid post. Viers said he expects the five who voted to appoint Killian will stick with him. They will also have some tough questions for Postlewait, he said.

Postlewait retired from the superintendent’s job in August of 2006, saying she needed time to care for her mother. The district still has not hired a permanent replacement.

“She abruptly left the school system with little notice, which I believe was unjust to parents, students and teachers, and I look forward to hearing more about the real reason she resigned in such a hurry,” said Rep. Tracy Edge, R-North Myrtle Beach.

“I would question because of her sudden resignation whether she has the time and willingness to commit to a four-year term,” he said.

Viers said he believes Postlewait has some money-management questions to answer as well.

The delegation hoped to put someone in place in time for the state board’s January meeting, but has not set a date to interview candidates and vote on someone.

Contact ZANE WILSON at 357-9188 or zwilson@thesunnews.com.

Former superintendent seeks state board seat
By Zane Wilson – The Sun News