Spartanburg School District Three announces its next superintendent

Joanna Johnson, Herald-Journal
·2 min read

After an extensive search, Spartanburg School District Three trustees have selected a veteran educator as its next superintendent.

Julie Fowler, who is currently serving as director, dispute resolution officer and liaison for the State Department of Education, was named as the next superintendent. She will replace Kenny Blackwood, who will retire at the end of the school year.

In this file photo from August 2022, Spartanburg School District 3 completed major renovations at several of their schools. Lana Greene, a high school teacher at Broome High School, shows off how she uses the new technology in the classroom.
In this file photo from August 2022, Spartanburg School District 3 completed major renovations at several of their schools. Lana Greene, a high school teacher at Broome High School, shows off how she uses the new technology in the classroom.

The board of trustees made the announcement on Dec. 5, during a Special Called Board Meeting.

"This District is known for its well-rounded students, academic excellence, beautiful facilities, and being a community that cares," Fowler said in a statement. "Mr. Blackwood’s legacy will continue to live on in our newly renovated schools and philanthropic students. He is leaving an incredible footprint that will have a lasting impact for years to come. My goal isn’t to come in and make any drastic changes, it is to see what we’re doing that’s great and build on it, continuing to make District Three the place to be."

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Trustees said Fowler has many years of experience and is a good fit to lead their district. She has been teaching since 1985 and has experience working with grades from preschool through college. She currently sits on the board at Winthrop University.

Fowler previously served as deputy state superintendent for College and Career Readiness, assistant superintendent for Greenwood County schools, director of Special Services and Student Support Services and director of Curriculum and Instruction of McCormick County school districts.

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During her years of teaching, she worked at Rock Hill District 3, Albemarle City Schools, Park Ridge School, Noah's Ark Preschool, Greenwood District 50 and Clemson University.

Blackwood said it is a bittersweet moment leaving the district but is looking forward to watching Fowler lead the district into greatness.

"It’s a bittersweet decision for me to retire but I am looking forward to spending more time with my family and watching Dr. Fowler lead District Three on the best possible course for success," Blackwood said. "I know District Three is in phenomenal hands under Dr. Fowler’s leadership and I can’t wait to see what she can do for our students, staff, and families."

This article originally appeared on Herald-Journal: Julie Fowler will serve Spartanburg County District Three as new superintendent