Bluffton Appoints Dr. Roger Ward as New Principal at H.E. McCracken Middle School

Students at H.E. McCracken Middle School during a classroom session.

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News Summary

Bluffton’s H.E. McCracken Middle School is welcoming Dr. Roger Ward as its new principal for the 2024-25 school year following a tumultuous leadership transition. The decision comes amid a federal lawsuit against current principal Ryan Milling and the vice principal regarding serious misconduct allegations. The school district ensures that operations will remain stable during this change, while community anticipation grows for the upcoming academic year under Dr. Ward’s leadership.

Bluffton Welcomes New Principal at H.E. McCracken Middle School

Exciting changes are on the horizon for H.E. McCracken Middle School as the Bluffton institution gears up for the 2024-25 school year with a bold new leader! Following a recent lawsuit that has captured the attention of the community, the school district has announced that Dr. Roger Ward will take the reins as the new principal.

Current Leadership Situation

For the moment, Ryan Milling remains at the helm, serving as principal until the school year wraps up on June 5. Despite whispers about his potential departure circulating, Milling has chosen to remain tight-lipped and has directed all media inquiries to the Beaufort County School District. The district is expected to make a full roster of administrative appointments known come summer, setting the stage for a new academic year.

Parents have been assured through a recent email that all student services and regular operations will continue at McCracken, even amidst these administrative shifts. The district is dedicated to keeping families in the loop, as evidenced by their proactive communication about important events, such as upcoming state testing.

Crisis and Changes

The backdrop to this transition includes serious allegations that led to a federal lawsuit filed in April against Milling and Vice Principal Joseph Hollington. The lawsuit claims that they were aware of a teacher’s troubling history of abusing disabled students yet continued to employ them. The lawsuit has been directed not only toward the individual administrators but also claims the Beaufort County School District is accountable.

Despite the seriousness of the situation, the district refrained from commenting on whether Milling or Hollington will face any reassignment or whether other administrators are currently on leave.

Meet Dr. Roger Ward

Dr. Roger Ward, the new principal for the upcoming school year, has an impressive background that spans over 20 years in educational leadership, primarily in Tennessee and South Carolina. Before relocating to Beaufort County in 2023, he was teaching fifth grade at St. Helena Elementary School. Dr. Ward’s academic credentials include a doctorate in Instructional Leadership and a master’s degree in Educational Administration and Supervision.

A Focused Hiring Process

The selection of Dr. Ward did not happen overnight. His appointment follows a meticulous hiring process involving interview committees filled with teacher leaders, experienced principals, school improvement council members, and district representatives, all working together to find the best candidate for the job. The district has emphasized that this thorough approach ensures that the school will be in capable hands come this fall.

More Changes Ahead

Alongside Dr. Ward, several other new principals have also been appointed within the district, including Constance Goodwine-Lewis for St. Helena Elementary, Matt Hall for Bluffton High School, and Carlos Williams for Whale Branch Elementary. It’s clear that the Beaufort County School District is undergoing a significant transformation.

What’s Next for Bluffton Families?

As we approach the end of the current school year, families can expect a smooth transition with the new leadership. While speculation regarding administrative changes continues, parents and students alike can breathe a little easier knowing that the school and its services remain intact for the rest of the academic year. With a fresh start on the horizon, the community is eagerly anticipating what Dr. Ward will bring to H.E. McCracken Middle School.

Overall, the educational landscape in Bluffton is steadily evolving, promising a hopeful future, where students can thrive under supportive and dedicated leadership.