What factors weighed most in drawing you to Adair County?
I was looking for a system that cares about the education of their students and is willing to do what is necessary to provide that for them. I was also looking for one that is a small town/rural setting that would be compatible with my farm background. Being a fisherman, the accessibility of the lakes was also a drawing factor.

Had you ever visited the county prior to applying for superintendent?
I have been in and through Adair County on numerous occasions but had never really visited with the intent of looking at employment opportunities.

What had you known about Adair County prior to applying for the position?
I did know that Adair County has a reputation of being a good school system. I was certainly aware of the outstanding band program and of the fine student athletes that excel in their sports.

How did you learn about the position?
The position was posted on the Kentucky School Boards Association web site as well as with the Kentucky Department of Education and the Kentucky Association of School Administrators.

How long do you hope to be superintendent?
I hope to be here for 812 years.

Hobby, leisure time activities?
I enjoy fishing, camping and traveling. I also enjoy eating! My 4 favorite words in the English language are "All-you-can-eat!"

My wife, Marilyn, and I have a 30th wedding anniversary coming up in August. She has worked outside of the home but is currently a homemaker. (It's a full-time job taking care of me!)

We have 2 sons, ages 28 and 26. Darrell Jr. is the assistant farm manager on the research farm for the University of Kentucky in Lexington. Scot is the assistant public works director for the City of New Castle, Ky. Both of our daughters-in-law are teachers at Henry County Middle School.

We have a 6-year old granddaughter, Shelby, who is the most beautiful, intelligent, talented girl I have ever known!! ( I might be just a little biased there. I do carry pictures with me !!)

Avocations?
I am ordained as a Baptist minister. I pastored Orville Baptist Church in Henry County for 6 years and have been pastor of Canby Tabernacle, an interdenominational church in Owen County, since May of 1997.

Will you continue as a pastor after taking this position?
I have resigned as pastor at Canby effective the 4th Sunday in June. I feel that the students of Adair County are my primary focus. I would like to continue in my ministry as a supply preacher or maybe try to do a little evangelistic work. I would not rule out pastoring another small church at some point if the duties would not detract from my effectiveness as superintendent.

Other avocations?
I sold my farm in Henry County in 1999 and my real estate license is in escrow. I don't see doing either except on a hobby basis or after I retire from public education.

What is your basic educational philosophy?
Providing students the best education that they can receive to help prepare them to be productive citizens in our society should be the goal that we keep before us. If we truly look at each decision and determine, to the best of our ability, what is in the best interest of students, then we can be assured that the results will be positive.

What do you see as the district's biggest challenges, and biggest need(s).
I think the challenge will be to do a comprehensive self-evaluation of our district with all stakeholders involved to determine our strengths to build on and our weaknesses that need to be corrected.

Improvements you might plan for the maintenance and aesthetics of the schools.
I will need to actually get into the schools and see what the needs are and what plans are already in place. We certainly want the buildings themselves as well as the school climate to create an inviting atmosphere for everyone.

Any staff changes anticipated? (Purges? They've happened here.)
I do not see any immediate changes. As we look at the programs that can best meet the needs of our students, within the confines of the budget issues that everyone is facing, there may have to be changes made.

What needs to be done in the technology field in the school system?
Students need to be prepared for the technological age in which we live. Our technology within the schools needs to be the best that we can possibly supply within our resources. I understand that grants have helped Adair County in this area in the past. We need to continue to pursue opportunities to enhance our technology. We must also be sure that teachers are trained in the use of technology in the classroom and that students understand appropriate use. Within the district and school offices technology is a vital part of almost everything we do. It will be a challenge to keep up with the advances that are made at such an amazing pace.

Personal policy toward athletics and philosophy
Having been a coach and having served on the Class "A" State Board of Directors and the KHSAA Board of Control, I am a strong supporter of all athletics. I think they are a vital part of the educational process. I feel that academics are the "meat and potatoes" of the educational process, but I always like dessert with my meal and athletics serve as the "dessert" of the students' education.

The band?
I am very supportive of band programs. Adair County has an outstanding reputation within the state and one that I want to see continue. The band competitions are cocurricular which make them an integral part of the whole band program. They serve as a vehicle for positive group interactions as well as successful individual performance.

Academic teams?
Academic competitions challenge students to use the knowledge they have attained and to be able to think and act under pressure. These are attributes that we all need to be successful in life. I wholeheartedly support the academic teams.

Performing and visual arts?
I think that any program that allows students to showcase their talents is a valuable part of the learning process. These programs deserve our support the same as any others.

Any comment on the proposal to consolidate the counties K-8 schools?
I am well aware of the state proposal to provide funding to consolidate Knifley, Shepherd and Sparksville Schools. We should not just accept state funds because of the money. Neither should we refuse it just on sentiment. The buildings themselves have to be evaluated as well as the student results that are being achieved. We also have to look at what the costs are for maintenance and upkeep and possible renovation. These factors have to be weighed against the cost associated with a new building and different staffing needs. Once those factors are determined and all people are informed, then whatever decision is in the best interest of the students is what we should do.

end of interview