A member of the Florence County School District Three board of trustees announced his resignation at the conclusion of the board’s regular monthly meeting Thursday.
Michael D. Blakeley, who was elected to Seat 2 in 2014, submitted his letter of resignation to board Chairman Dr. Lane N. Floyd earlier in the day. In his letter, Mr. Blakeley stated his work and family obligations have not allowed him to serve effectively as a board member.
“Being a board member is a very honorable and important position to hold,” Mr. Blakeley stated in his letter. “It requires much dedication to stay relevant with knowing what’s going on within the district and being a present voice on behalf of the students. I have been unable to fully fulfill my duties as a board member that I think are so vital to be effective.”
Seat 2, which represents the Coward area, is one of three board seats up for election in the November general elections. Dr. Floyd said after consulting with the district’s attorney, the seat will remain vacant until the next election.
“Being a school board member takes a huge commitment,” commented Dr. Floyd. “We are involved in the schools and we are involved in the community. It really does take a tremendous commitment. I reluctantly accept his letter of resignation. He has been a good board member. He is one we could always count on and I have valued his opinion, this whole board has. I’m sure it was a very difficult decision for him to make.”
“I want to thank you on behalf of Florence School District Three for your service,” said Superintendent Laura Hickson. “Thank you for the support you have given me as superintendent to lead the district and, most of all, thank you for just loving children and doing what’s best for children.”
The filing period for Seats 1, 2 and 3 opens at noon Aug. 1 and closes at noon Aug. 15. The general election is Tuesday, Nov. 8.