School board chief in Jefferson retires

Jefferson County School Board Superintendent Carl Bethune announced his retirement to the county's board of education during a meeting Monday.

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Bethune's last day of work will be May 31.

In a letter given to the school board members, Bethune said his retirement is bittersweet.

"This community has great people and an outstanding board of education. It has been a privilege and honor to work here for 20 years with hundreds of wonderful people who are and have been deeply committed to the education of all students," Bethune said in the letter.

Bethune, who lives in Evans, said he will never forget the children of the community.

"They, as an inspiration to all of us, have exhibited a multitude of talents and have demonstrated the will to succeed," he wrote. "I wish for this school system much continued success. Those who have worked so hard will continue to do so because they do it for the children."

He also stated in his letter that the school board has been diligent in keeping a generous reserve fund that might be needed in the next few years because of state funding cuts.

Georgia Hunter, a retired Jefferson County teacher and a current school board member, said Bethune's announcement was unexpected.

"It was a surprise," she said. "I know the citizens of Jefferson County are going to miss him for his long years of service."