Major Changes Ahead in Surry County Schools: Retirements and Infrastructure Remediation

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News Summary

Surry County Schools are undergoing significant transitions with key retirements and infrastructure improvements, particularly asbestos remediation in school buildings.

Major Changes Ahead in Surry County Schools: Retirements and Infrastructure Remediation

Surry County Schools are entering a transformative phase as several key personnel shift roles, with plans afoot to address pressing infrastructural issues, particularly the removal of hazardous asbestos from school buildings. The latest school board meetings have highlighted significant developments that will impact students, staff, and the broader community.

Leadership Transitions: A Legacy of Service

In a significant leadership transition, Robert Draughn, the Director of Construction, Planning, and Design for Surry County Schools, will retire after 25 years of dedicated service. Draughn has been pivotal in overseeing numerous school projects and has made substantial contributions that have positively affected thousands of students.

Joining him in retirement is Superintendent Serbrenia Sims, who has announced her exit at the end of the current school year. Sims has served in various capacities within the Surry County Public Schools since 2007, culminating in her appointment as superintendent in 2020. Her tenure notably coincided with the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic, requiring innovative approaches to continue education amidst challenges.

Asbestos Remediation and Safety Enhancements

Addressing long-standing safety concerns, the Surry County Board of Education has approved funding to remediate dangerous asbestos in four schools. This decision underscores a commitment to providing a safe learning environment for students and staff, allowing families to know their children are in a health-conscious school setting.

In addition to asbestos removal, funding will go toward security improvements across various schools, ensuring that the physical safety of students is prioritized. Parents trust school systems to give their children both educational and physical care for significant portions of their formative years, and these improvements aim to uphold that trust amid rising health concerns.

A New Era for East Surry Sports

While administrative changes are underway, the athletic department at East Surry High School is also experiencing a major shift. Coach David Diamont has announced his retirement after 18 remarkable seasons as head varsity football coach. Under his leadership, the team achieved an impressive 252-131 record and secured multiple conference championships, establishing East Surry as a competitive powerhouse in high school sports.

Diamont’s multifaceted career also extends to politics, having served ten terms in the North Carolina House of Representatives. His contributions to both athletics and community leadership are celebrated as he transitions into retirement, where he plans to spend more time with his family and potentially author a book.

Community Impact and Legacy

In remembrance of community stalwart Robert “Bob” Swanson White, the region reflects on his impact as a humble and devoted servant. White’s memorial service is scheduled for January 15, 2024, illustrating the high regard in which he was held by those whose lives he touched through social work and education.

As Surry County Schools navigate through these leadership changes and infrastructural improvements, the community resonates with sentiments of gratitude and anticipation. The board is now tasked with naming a successor to Sims within the state-mandated timeframe, and the search for a new head football coach at East Surry is already in progress.

With combined efforts to improve safety and educational leadership, the coming months promise to be a period of both reflection and forward momentum for Surry County Schools as they strive to meet the evolving needs of their student body and community.