Ridgeland Board Chair Faces Scrutiny Over Campaign Contributions
Ridgeland – Recent revelations concerning the local school district have raised questions about transparency and ethics in Jasper County’s education system. Joyce Gerald, the new chair of the Jasper County school board, has reported a significant campaign contribution from Rechel Anderson, the recently fired superintendent of the district.
Details of the Contribution
Gerald reported a $2,000 contribution from Anderson, but this disclosure comes over 18 months after Gerald won a special election for the board. Initially winning her seat in March 2023, Gerald amended her campaign records in August to include the previously unreported donation. The contribution was not disclosed in her election filings from November 2022, when she originally campaigned for a seat that was ultimately revoked from the initial winner due to residency issues.
Election History
In November 2022, Joyce Gerald was in a race where she did not win initially, as the declared winner, Mack McCaffrey, was found to have lived outside the voting district. Following this, a special election was held on March 7, 2023, in which Gerald ran unopposed and won with only 26 votes after one opponent withdrew. Her campaign contributions during this time included a mix of personal funds and small donations from several supporters.
Legal Context
According to South Carolina election laws, candidates are required to file a final report of all campaign contributions within a set timeline, typically 10 days after the end of the election quarter. Gerald’s omission of Anderson’s contribution from her initial filings raises concerns amidst state regulations. If deemed negligent, failing to report could lead to fines or even prison time.
Board Actions and Reactions
Rechel Anderson’s tenure as superintendent has been marred by controversy, culminating in her suspension in July 2024 amid an investigation into mismanagement and financial irregularities. The school board initiated this inquiry following widespread community concern, particularly from local activists advocating for accountability in the district. Following public pressure and media coverage, the board voted to terminate Anderson’s employment in October 2024 during a closed meeting where results from an undisclosed internal investigation were considered.
Bridgette Jones, a community member who has been vocal on social media about accountability issues within the Jasper County school system, highlighted the need for transparency, exhibiting frustrations about the ongoing inquiries into Anderson’s financial practices. With a focus on educational standards, community members are concerned about how such events reflect on the district’s reputation and the educational quality provided to students.
Current Status
Joyce Gerald officially took on her role as chair of the school board in December 2024. Each school board member holds an elected position, yet the chair serves as the primary spokesperson for the group. While Gerald did not respond to a request for comments regarding the delayed campaign contribution disclosure, she previously stated that every action taken was within legal boundaries.
As investigations continue, and community dialogues unfold, the Jasper County school district remains under the watchful eye of both local residents and state authorities. The outcome of these inquiries could have lasting implications for the governance and administration of education in the region.
