WINNSBORO – Fairfield County School District Superintendent Dr. Tony Hemingway has submitted notice that he is retiring, effective June 30, 2025.
Dr. Hemingway said his decision to retire was prompted by an urgent family commitment.
“While this was not an easy decision,” Hemingway told staff, “my family obligation will not allow me to give the role of Superintendent the full time and focus it deserves.
“I shared with the staff yesterday that I love being here, I love the job and the relationships that I’ve built here,” Hemingway told The Voice in a conversation Thursday morning. “I feel we have done some amazing work here in a short time and I hope that work continues to prepare our students globally. But at this time, I know I won’t be able to 100 percent commit myself with the family responsibility that I have, but I’m always available to offer any support that I can to make sure that the students succeed and win.
“That’s what it’s always been about for me …the students winning. So, anything I can do to insure that, I’ll definitely be available to help with that.”
Dr. Hemingway was hired by the FCSD school board in February, 2024. He previously served as the Chief Human Resources and Strategic Planning Officer in Clover School District since 2017. Prior to this position, he served as the Principal of Larne Elementary School, as Assistant Principal in Crowders Creek Elementary, Larne Elementary, and Kinard Elementary.
“Dr. Hemingway has led strategic impact in academics, operations, human resources and communications,” said School Board Chair Henry Miller. “We knew we were moving in the right direction under Dr. Hemingway. Unfortunately, life changes in ways that upset us sometimes. I’m sad that he is leaving, but I respect his need to take care of his family and do what he needs to do. In a very short time, he did a lot for the District.
“He had a way of doing things that made us all love being around him,” Miller said. “The District loved him. He made changes that, I think, have set the district on a solid, forward path. He was a visionary …and his vision was all about the students’ success, all day, every day.
“I am proud of what we’ve accomplished together,” Hemingway said of his time at Fairfield County School District. “And I feel the District is well-positioned for continued success.”
Hemingway emphasized his commitment to supporting a smooth leadership transition in the months ahead.
“And if I can be of help to the District in any way after I leave,” he said, “I’m just a phone call away.”
