PICKENS COUNTY — Parents of students who attend Dacusville Elementary and Dacusville Middle schools have raised concerns about the recently announced district plan to have one principal for the two schools starting in the Fall.

Wanda Tharpe, the current principal at Dacusville Middle School, has been tasked by the district to take the helm of Dacusville Elementary School as well, following the resignation of Robin Walsh, the elementary school’s principal.

“The change is intended to last one year,” said SDPC Information Specialist John Eby. “As Mrs. Tharpe takes on added responsibilities, Dacusville Middle School’s assistant principal position has been increased from part-time to full-time to ensure effective day-to-day operations.”

It’s a change — temporary or not — that has some parents worried.

“It sounds to me that once again, the district is trying to save a buck,” said Sara Macleod. “Each school needs their own principal. This is ridiculous.”

Macleod also stated that “several teachers” had “resigned in protest” to the administration’s decision.

“I don’t blame them one bit,” said Macleod. “It’s just going to mean more work for the rest of the staff and teachers.”

In response to Macleod’s statements, The Sentinel-Progress reached out to the district, asking about complaints and if teachers were indeed resigning in protest.

Eby said no.

“I’m not aware of any teachers resigning in protest,” he said. “And as of today anyway, there’s been no complaints about the situation on a district level.”

Eby also said that if parents were having concerns, the school district welcomes any and all input.

“Whenever there’s change, it’s going to put some people on guard,” Eby said. “But parents need to know they can contact us anytime.”

“Over the coming year, we will be developing ways to transform Dacusville Elementary for future success,” Dr. Danny Merck, SDPC Superintendent, said in a released statement. “During that time of transition, we trust Mrs. Tharpe to lead both schools with excellence.”

Merck also said that the change will be made possible in part by the close proximity of the schools, which are on adjoining properties and he stressed the importance of collaboration between them.

“Mrs. Tharpe will help instill a growth mindset that focuses on how well students are prepared to succeed at the next level,” he said.

Dacusville Middle School Principal Wanda Tharpe will head Dacusville Elementary School as well for next school year.
https://www.theeasleyprogress.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/web1_WandaTharpe.jpgDacusville Middle School Principal Wanda Tharpe will head Dacusville Elementary School as well for next school year. Courtesy photo

By Kasie Strickland

kstrickland@civitasmedia.com

Reach Kasie Strickland at 864-855-0355.