By BILL KENT
CORDELE — Crisp County School Board Chairman Erskine Weaver revealed the names of the three finalists for superintendent in a Monday noon meeting.
One of these men will succeed Dr. Judy Bean who is retiring at the end of June.
Candidates include Jay Brinson, a former principal and assistant superintendent in Crisp County and currently superintendent of Jasper County schools; Bobby Griffin, retired Berrien County superintendent, and Dr. James “Kip” Stevens, current superintendent of Webster County schools.
State law dictates that the local BOE must wait 14 days after announcing the finalists before any one candidate can be offered the position.
Brinson, a resident of Monticello, has served as superintendent of Jasper County Schools since 2001. Before coming to his present position, he was assistant superintendent of Crisp County Schools from 1999-2001 and principal of Crisp County High School from 1991-1999.
He also held several teaching and administrative positions in Waycross City Schools.
Brinson received his Bachelor of Science in Education and Masters Degrees in elementary education from the University of Georgia. Then he earned his Masters of Education and Specialist Degree in administration/supervision from Valdosta State University.
Brinson’s interests and hobbies include high school and college sports, occasional fishing, dove hunting, yard work, reading and visiting with family and friends.
Griffin, a resident of Elko, served as principal of Perry High School, Irwin County High School, Irwin County Elementary and Irwin County Middle School and as a teacher and coach before becoming superintendent in 2004. He retired in 2007.
He studied at New Coastal Community College, receiving his associate degree in social studies. He was awarded a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Studies from Georgia Southern University. Then he received Masters of Education Degrees in Administration and Administrative Leadership from Valdosta State University.
Griffin’s hobbies and interests include quail and deer hunting. He also is an avid sports enthusiast.
Stevens of Sycamore assumed his position as superintendent of Webster County Schools in 2006. Previously, he served as assistant superintendent of Turner County Schools, and principal of Turner County Middle School. He also held other principal and teaching positions in Turner and Seminole Counties.
Stevens’ doctorate in Educational Administration is from NOVA Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, FL. He received his Masters and Specialists Degrees from Valdosta State University. His Bachelors of Science Degree is from Georgia College and State University.
Interests and hobbies include working with his hands and reading. Previously he owned a small cattle operation. In his statement, Stevens mentions the importance of putting family and faith first.
