Spartanburg District 6 Superintendent Darryl Owings retires to spend time with family

Spartanburg School District 6 Superintendent Darryl Owings has announced his retirement, the district said in a statement released June 6.

Owings has led the school system for 21 years and is the second longest-serving superintendent in the district's history. He will leave his position on July 1.

District 6 Deputy Superintendent Ken Kiser will temporarily lead the district until the selection process is completed for a new superintendent in the coming months, according to the statement released by District 6. Kiser previously served as the principal of both Dorman High and Dawkins Middle schools.

"I am overwhelmed with the amount of support and dedication I have witnessed over the years," Owings said in a statement. "It has been a true honor to serve in this role and I am proud of the accomplishments we have achieved while working together. I am very excited about this new chapter in my life that will allow me the opportunity to spend quality time with my family, who has fully supported me throughout my 36 years in education."

Prior to his role as superintendent, Owings was the principal at Dorman and Gable Middle School and taught for five years at Spartanburg High School.

The new Dorman High School was unveiled the same year Owings became superintendent. District Six trustees outlined some of his accomplishments such as he developed a plan that allows students to take dual credit courses without cost. He initiated the Schools of Study to help students better understand career opportunities and how they relate to courses offered at Dorman. He spearheaded the district’s first systemic anti-bullying program to help create a safe and positive climate for Pre-K-12th grade. Trustees said he was eager to launch the first Project Search program in the state to provide real-life work experiences to students in the special education department.

"Dr. Owings is a true visionary with an unwavering commitment to the district's mission and values," Chairman Lynn Harris said speaking on behalf of the board. "He has always led our district with integrity, humility, and authenticity. Since 2002, Dr. Owings has been a trailblazer with innovative ideas that have improved the educational experience for our District Six community."

This article originally appeared on Herald-Journal: Spartanburg District Six Superintendent Darryl Owings announces retirement