Lexington County Voters Make Important Decisions on School Boards
Lexington County, known for its vibrant community and family-centered values, just saw its voters turn out in droves for the recent school board elections held on November 5. With over 140,000 ballots cast, it’s clear that residents are passionate about their children’s education. Eighteen school board candidates were elected to fill open seats across five districts, and the results reflect a community committed to making informed choices.
Lexington One: Incumbents Hold Their Ground
In the central Lexington school district, which is appropriately called Lexington One, four seats were up for grabs with two incumbents looking to retain their positions. The voters spoke loud and clear as Kathy Henson and Mike Anderson, both incumbents, successfully held onto their seats. Alongside them, newcomers McKenzie Flashnick and Nicholas Pizzuti claimed victory as well. Here are some details:
- Kathy Henson – 15% (21,741 votes)
- Mike Anderson (Incumbent) – 11% (15,933 votes)
- McKenzie Flashnick – 12% (17,462 votes)
- Nicholas Pizzuti – 11% (16,465 votes)
It’s always exciting to see familiar faces continuing their work while new ones join the team!
Lexington Two: A Mix of Old and New
Over in the Cayce and West Columbia area, Lexington Two’s storyline featured a blend of incumbents and fresh faces. With four at-large seats available, the results were a definite mix:
- Mary Burkett led with 17% (8,498 votes)
- Abbott Tre Bray (Incumbent) – 13% (6,572 votes)
- Liz Chitty Castles (Incumbent) – 14% (7,117 votes)
- Craig Aull – 13% (6,845 votes)
The combination of seasoned leaders and new candidates promises exciting changes in this district!
Lexington Three: Strong Incumbent Performance
In the Batesburg-Leesville area, Lexington Three had three seats contested with all incumbents successfully defending their positions. Here’s how the votes broke down:
- Cynthia Etheredge – 27% (2,809 votes)
- Stacey Derrick (Incumbent) – 21% (2,196 votes)
- Craig Caughman (Incumbent) – 20% (2,142 votes)
- Sonya Winstead Cary (Incumbent) – 18% (1,921 votes)
No doubt the community appreciates the consistent leadership these incumbents provide!
In Lexington Four, New Leaders Emerge
The Gaston and Swansea area saw a fierce competition with six candidates on the ballot for four spots. The newly elected officials are:
- Lynne Fallaw (Incumbent) – 22% (2,395 votes)
- Sadie Wannamaker (Incumbent) – 17% (1,846 votes)
- Dennis Wilson – 16% (1,756 votes)
- Cindy Dibble – 15% (1,689 votes)
This shift in leadership indicates a willingness for growth and change in the district.
Lexington-Richland Five: Project Bond Passes
Finally, in the Irmo and Chapin area, voters faced an important decision not only about school board candidates but also on a hefty $240 million bond referendum. The outcome? A resounding **YES** with 70% of the votes! Here’s how it rolled out:
- Scott Herring – 34% (12,141 votes)
- Catherine Huddle (Incumbent) – 34% (12,043 votes)
- Ken Loveless – 30% (10,947 votes)
Voters clearly demonstrated their support for investing in school facilities, a huge win for the community!
As the dust settles from this election, it’s clear that the people of Lexington County have made choices that resonate with their vision for education. These new school board members will have the big task of shaping the future for local students—something that every parent and resident is definitely watching closely!
With such a vibrant turnout and many new faces on the boards, one can’t help but feel optimistic about the future of education in Lexington County!
