By DONNA THORNTON, Editor
When the dust settled on election night, Marshall County voters opted to send someone new to the superintendent’s office – Asbury Principal Clay Webber.
In a social media-driven campaign, three-term incumbent Cindy Wigley lost in the runoff race for the Republican nomination to Webber, taking 2,088 votes to Webber’s 4,122. With no Democrat on the ballot for November, the Republican nomination means Webber wins the seat.
It will be January, however, before Webber takes office. Until then, he said, he expects to continue his duties as principal at Asbury High School. Asked whether major charges will come when he takes the new role, this is what Webber said.
“I plan to spend a lot of time listening and learning before making any major changes. However, I will immediately begin leading an effort to change the culture and climate of Marshall County Schools to reflect fairness, transparency and fiscal responsibility.
“I will immediately work to initiate changes regarding the scheduling of board meetings after 5 p.m. as well as the livestreaming of all board meetings,” Webber said. “We will start there,” and with the rest of the 10 points Webber outlined during his campaign.
When he listened to constituents during the campaign, he said he heard most frequently about the lack of transparency. “Basically, action needs to be taken to increase clear and timely communication with the public concerning every aspect of MCS.
“There are many barriers in place that prevent the public from being heard and from accessing public information — or at least that is how many citizens feel. There may be processes in place, but going through the motions is not the same as authentic transparency.”
He said the communication provided is sometimes generic, instead of being clear and specific. “Citizens want access to their board member’s ear as well as their superintendent’s ear. The people of Marshall County want authenticity,” he said.
Webber said the strength of the Marshall County Schools is its people. “This is something that many have lost sight of. People are always the most important resource in any organization,” he said.
“Our people are passionate, dedicated, and they care about students. However, we have to do a better job supporting our people and ensuring that teachers are able to do their job in the classroom. Our county needs district leadership that will start taking items off the plates of teachers. We need to get rid of all the unnecessary initiatives and programs,” Webber said, and let teachers do their jobs again.
“If we don’t address teacher burnout and employee morale, we will continue to lose employees to neighboring districts,” he said. “The key to this improvement is a major re-focus on climate and culture.”
Webber was thankful for the elections’ outcome and for the support, encouragement, prayers and votes he received. “I am deeply honored and humbled by the trust you have place in me to serve as the next Marshall County Superintendent.”
He thanked the Lord, his family for their unwavering support, the countless volunteers who gave time and energy to his campaign, “and every person who shared our vision for a stronger future.”
He thanked everyone who participated in the election process, and said now it is time to “move forward in unity for the benefit of our students.”
Webber concluded saying he felt the numbers show what the people of Marshall County want.
“I would say that the overwhelming margins of victory in the superintendent and board of education race on June 16th were not just a win. This was an absolute mandate from the people of Marshall County — a message sent loud and clear from the voters that they no longer want business as usual,” Webber said. “They want change, they voted for change, and they shall have it.”
Wigley expressed her thanks as well on social media, and she said she was proud of a campaign run with dignity.
“I want to thank everyone who supported, encouraged, volunteered, prayed for, and believed in me throughout this last year,” she said in a post. “I am incredibly proud of the campaign we ran with integrity, dignity, respect, and a genuine commitment to serve Marshall County.
“Serving our communities has been one of the greatest honors of my life. I am proud of the work we have accomplished together, and I remain grateful for the opportunity I have had to serve.
“Over three decades, I have had the privilege of working alongside incredible students, educators, board members, families, and leaders throughout our communities. These relationships and experiences will always be with me,” Wigley said.
“For many years, I have dedicated my heart to public education and to the children of our schools. I am proud of the progress we have made together.
“I leave this campaign with gratitude, pride, and deep appreciation for the opportunity to have served. I am humbled by your support. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your lives and your children’s futures, as this has always been the greatest reward.”
