Laurens County School District 55 School Board Selects Dr. Rhett Harris as Interim Superintendent
June 24, 2026
The Laurens County School District 55 Board of Trustees met during the regularly scheduled June 22, 2026, School Board meeting, and announced Dr. John “Rhett” Harris as the selected Interim Superintendent.
The transition between administrations is expected to be smooth. Both Dr. Harris and Dr. Penland served as Co-Interim Superintendents beginning January 2024, and Dr. Rhett Harris currently serves as the Assistant Superintendent to retiring Superintendent Dr. Jody Penland. The two veteran educators have a strong professional relationship and genuine mutual respect.
Dr. Penland shared, “I am excited that Dr. Harris has been named Interim Superintendent. The district is in great hands during this transition. Rhett and I have worked hand in hand over the last couple of years, and he is the perfect choice. I will be working to assist in a smooth transition and will be available for anything he needs as he takes the lead role.”
“First of all, I’d like to thank Dr. Penland for being such a positive and supportive leader over the last two years. He will be greatly missed. I’m grateful to the Board for their confidence in me to help guide the district through this transition year as they search for a new superintendent. I do not doubt that our teachers, school leaders, and district leadership will focus foremost on the goal of educational excellence for the students of Laurens 55,” stated Dr. Harris.
Dr. Harris earned his Doctor of Education from Nova Southeastern University, holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from the University of South Carolina, and a Bachelor of Arts in History from Francis Marion College. He has had certifications in Secondary Social Studies, Secondary Supervisor, Secondary Administration, and Superintendent. He has served in many capacities, including Laurens Middle School Principal, Laurens District 55 High School Assistant Principal, teacher, and athletics coach. The district believes Dr. Harris’s diverse background equips him for his new role.
The district is excited to welcome Dr. Harris and lead in Building a 5-Star District of Excellence. He will begin serving as Laurens County School District 55 Interim Superintendent on July 1, 2026.
Cover photo: Dr. Harris and Dr. Penland
