School Board names new Superintendent
Matthew Ferguson, new Darlington County School District Superintendent.
At a special-called meeting Monday night, the Darlington County Board of Education named Dr. Matthew Ferguson as the new superintendent of the Darlington County School District (DCSD). Dr. Ferguson, currently the deputy superintendent of the South Carolina Department of Education, will assume the role on July 1 from outgoing superintendent Dr. Tim Newman and will serve as superintendent-elect during the transition.
“The Board recognized that we have an unusual opportunity with perfect timing. This was our chance to fill the superintendent’s role with a highly qualified Darlington County native with extensive education and leadership experience at both DCSD and the state levels,” said Wanda Hassler, chair of the Darlington County Board of Education. “Dr. Ferguson’s personal and professional roots lie deep within the Darlington County community. He knows our people, our schools, our community, and our goals. He also has leadership experience at the state level, shaping the conversation and policy for our schools. We are confident in his ability to build on the progress we’ve made. We believe this appointment is the best step forward for the district.”
Dr. Ferguson began his education career in Darlington County, where he taught high school English and later served in district-level roles, including Director of Personnel and Curriculum Coordinator. His leadership helped expand early learning programs, strengthen literacy instruction, and launch summer learning initiatives that continue to serve students today.
At the South Carolina Department of Education, Dr. Ferguson led efforts to strengthen instruction statewide: rolling out the Science of Reading to more than 19,000 educators, expanding math support through the Palmetto Math Project, delivering high-quality instructional materials to classrooms, and supporting HOPE Network districts in accelerating student learning.
“I believe every child deserves access to an excellent education—no matter their background, neighborhood, or circumstance. That belief was born right here in Darlington County, where I began my journey as an educator,” said Ferguson. “It’s an incredible honor to return home and serve the community that shaped me. I’m excited to listen, to learn, and to build on the great work already happening—so that every school in Darlington County is a place where every student is prepared to reach their full potential.”
The Board’s decision to appoint a new superintendent rather than launch a months-long search process was driven by several considerations. The Board prioritized a smooth leadership transition with adequate time for collaboration between outgoing and incoming superintendents—something a prolonged search would not have allowed. The Board also recognized that the 14 ongoing superintendent searches across South Carolina may significantly narrow the pool of qualified candidates.
“Our priority has always been to ensure stability and continuity for our schools, staff, students, and families,” Hassler added. “By appointing Dr. Ferguson, we are securing experienced leadership with immediate knowledge of our community and educational landscape. This decision allows us to move forward without delay, as Dr. Ferguson will begin working with Dr. Newman in the coming weeks to ensure a seamless transition.”
Dr. Ferguson and his wife, Kylie, have four children and look forward to them attending and thriving in Darlington County Schools.
The district will host a series of community meet-and-greet events in the coming weeks to give families, staff, and community members the opportunity to connect with the new superintendent.
