Strickland to retire as Florence 5 schools superintendent

Florence School District 5 Superintendent Dr. Dale Strickland has announced he would retire as head of the Johnsonville-based school district, effective June 30.

Strickland has served as superintendent for the past 10 years.

During the board of trustees regular meeting Monday, Strickland told board members of his plans to retire.

“It is with mixed emotions that I have decided to announced my retirement, effective June 30 as superintendent of (Florence 5),” Strickland said in a letter to the board. “I feel blessed to have had the privilege of working with such a fine board, one for which I have great respect.

“I know that this district is in competent hands and that you will find a new superintendent who will continue the success to which this district is accustomed.”

Board chairman Brad Hooks said Strickland is a fine superintendent and will be missed.

“Our board works very closely with him and it’s been a pleasure working with him since (becoming a member of the school board),” Hooks said. “I wish him well in his retirement.”

Hooks said the board has agreed to contact the South Carolina School Boards Association to initiate the superintendent search.

During a telephone interview Tuesday, Strickland said the job has “truly been a labor of love” and that the faculty and staff have been like family to him during his years of service.

“I truly enjoy Johnsonville,” Strickland said. “Both the school district and the community have been good to me and my family.

“We have a wonderful teaching staff that’s absolutely superb,” he said. “It’s been a pleasure to work with them.”

Strickland said his retirement from the district will allow for more time to pursue his hobbies, do some traveling and just live life to the fullest.

“You reach a point where you realize you’re burning the candle on both ends and there’s things you in life you want to do,” he said. “There’s a lot of things you want to do, but sometimes you just don’t have time to do those things.”

Strickland received a bachelor’s degree in physical education from Pembroke State University, a master’s degree in administration and supervision from Appalachian State University, an educational specialist degree in education administration from Winthrop College (now University) and a Doctor of Education in education administration from South Carolina State College (now University).

Strickland began his educational career in 1970 as a teacher and coach at Aynor High School. He would later serve in the same position at Dreher High School in Columbia.

Strickland held several other positions including assistant principal, principal and superintendent of Dillon School District 3 based in Latta, Jasper County Schools and Marion School District 2 based in Mullins.

He became Florence 5’s superintendent in 1998.

During his career, Strickland has received several honors including a letter of commendation from former Gov. Richard F. Riley for outstanding service.

Strickland is a member of Johnsonville City Council, having won a second term this month. He also is a member of several civic and educational organizations.

Strickland and his wife, Cheryl, have four children.

ON THE WEB

Florence School District 5: www.flo5.k12.sc.us