Dr. Corey Murphy has been named the next superintendent for the Aiken County Public School District.
“I consider this to be the honor of my life,” the veteran educator said.
The announcement came during a special called board meeting Monday night. Murphy's employment contract will become effective July 1, 2024. His contract is for a three-year term of employment.
He will replace King Laurence, who retires this summer.
"Tonight, the board of education took the next step … for the future of this school district," Aiken County Board of Education Chairman Cam Nuessle said.
Murphy was one of three finalists for the position. He was selected over Chan Anderson and Amy Morris Edwards.
Murphy has served as chief officer of operations and student services since 2020. He received his doctorate, educational specialist, Master's of Education and Bachelor's of Science in biology degrees from the University of South Carolina.
Murphy's experience also includes stints as chief of staff at Williamsburg-James City County Public Schools in Williamsburg, Virginia, five years as principal at Beaufort High School and five years as principal of Great Falls Middle/High School. He was an assistant principal at Camden High School as well as a classroom teacher for the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice and Eau Claire High School.
He is also a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve and has more than 23 years of honorable service.
“I will build on the stalwart leadership of King Laurence to push the boundaries of public education,” Murphy said. "I will be ready from day one to take charge and continue to work to maximize every child’s potential in safe and functional educational spaces."
"I look forward to working with him and continuing upon the success of Mr. King Laurence, and making student success a priority … in all different facets," Nuessle said.
