Laurens Native, James “Bubba” Rawl, Tapped for New Director Position with South Carolina Department of Education

Last week James “Bubba” Rawl resigned from his position on the Laurens District 55 School Board.

The resignation was a result of his new position. Rawl has been hired to fill a newly created position of Director of Safe Schools for the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE).

What feels like a loss for the local community is a big win for the state of South Carolina.

In his new role, he will coordinate the SCDE response to schools and districts that have asked for reviews of their school safety plans, conduct research, and compile best practices from around the globe, and serve as a connection point between districts and law enforcement training opportunities. Rawl will report to Laura Bayne, Deputy Superintendent of Strategic Engagement.

Based on his prior work experience Rawl is perfect for the job. His law enforcement career included service with South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and SLED.  Rawl spent over half of his career on the Governors Detail for Governor’s Beasley, Hodges, Sanford, and Haley.

“I’ve enjoyed serving our community and look forward to expanding my focus to safety and security of our schools across the state,” said Rawl.

The Laurens County community thanks Mr. Rawl for his years of service in law enforcement and wishes him well in this new and very important role.