BUCKINGHAM – Following a three and a-half hour closed session on Wednesday night, the Buckingham County School Board accepted a letter of retirement from Superintendent Gary Blair, effective June 30, 2012.

The motion, which was made by David Christian with a second by Vice Chairman Ed Wise, drew a four-to-three vote.

Chairman Acie Allen, Christian, Pete Gowin, and Wise supported the motion. Kathy Midkiff, Sherry Ragland, and Thomas Hutcherson cast the opposing votes.

The April 4 meeting was announced last week for the purpose of discussing personnel issues relating to the FY13 budget.

During the lengthy closed session, the board did confer for a period of time with the director of academic services and the financial officer.

After the action on Blair's retirement, Chairman Allen stated, “I believe that is all we have this evening. Thank you for being here.” He added, “We are adjourned until the 18th of April.”

At that time, the board will hold its regular monthly meeting. However, the time has been changed from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.; and, the meeting will be held in the auditorium of Buckingham County High School rather than the Window Room.

The agenda of that meeting is expected to include updated information about the proposed FY13 budget.

It's Time

After the meeting, Dr. Blair told The Herald, “I just think it's time after 38 years.”

In his letter, Blair offered, “Buckingham County Public Schools is truly a special school division. It has been my honor to serve as the superintendent during a time of facility growth and outstanding opportunities for our children.”

Blair was appointed Superintendent of Buckingham County Public Schools effective August 1, 2008.

Prior to coming to Buckingham, he served as Superintendent of Highland County Public Schools for three years.

Blair began his career as a third grade teacher. During his 38-years as an educator, he taught at the elementary and middle school levels, served as an elementary and middle school principal, an assistant principal at the high school level, an assistant director of personnel, and an assistant superintendent.