Burke Royster is the new superintendent of Greenville County Schools. The school board approved Royster late Tuesday night in a 7-5 vote.
The 7-5 vote by the Greenville County School Board Tuesday night to offer the job to Royster came after a three-hour closed meeting. Royster accepted the job. He will receive a 3-year contract with an annual salary of $215,000, and an annual annuity of ten percent of his salary.
Royster will replace Phinnize J. Fisher, who is retiring after almost eight years as superintendent. Royster’s effective date of employment will be no later than July 1.
The trustees’ national search presented three finalists with Eugene White, superintendent of Indianapolis Public Schools, Lynn Moody, superintendent of York County District 3 and Royster.
"A national search was conducted and Board members worked many hours reviewing applications and interviewing candidates to ensure we employ the right person to next lead our school system,” said Board chairman Roger Meek. “Mr. Royster has the experience, expertise, and qualifications to continue to advance student achievement and to provide students across our school district with high quality educational opportunities. “
The school board failed to reach a decision during a 14-hour meeting Saturday.
Royster received a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s degree in secondary education from Clemson University. He is pursuing a doctorate in education from the University of South Carolina.