By Staff
Clif Knight, Hartselle Enquirer
Hartselle School Board member Ronnie Abercrombie, who served as chairman for two years, has resigned. He served three years of a five-year term.
Abercrombie presented a letter of resignation to Superintendent Dr. Mike Reed on June 24, the day after the board's June meeting; however, it was not acted on until the board met again on July 7.
"When I gave Dr. Reed my letter he was preparing to go out of town and indicated that he would hold it until he got back. He told me I could pick it up at any time in the interim," Abercrombie said.
In the letter, Abercrombie said he was not quitting or giving up.
"I feel like I have completed my work earlier than expected and should move on to another project where I can benefit more people."
He said later he has no regrets for the time and effort he devoted to the board. "The school system is in its best shape in 10 years. We have a comprehensive drug policy in place, joined the Alabama Reading Initiative, adopted and funded a technology upgrade plan and reduced our student dropout rate from 20 to 12 percent."
Board Chairman Greg Cain expressed appreciation to Abercrombie for his time and service and said he will work closely with the city council in the process of finding a replacement.
Council President K.T. (Kenny) Thompson said he anticipates that the opening will attract a lot of interest in the community.
"I've had a couple of people tell me they're interested in seeking a place on the school board when there is an opening. We'll set a deadline to take applications, conduct interviews and then make a decision. That could take place as early as our July 26 meeting."
The board acted on other matters as follows: