An investigation against the Clarendon County School District has been requested by Governor McMaster's Office citing allegations of "potential financial irregularities" after receiving information brought to the Governor by Clarendon County Representative House 64, Fawn Pedalino. Governor McMaster sent the documentation presented to him to State Inspector General Brian Lamkin, requesting an investigation.
Shortly after the press release was received form the Governor's office, Representative Pedalino released the following statement :
"I don't want to comment on the documentation that was turned over to the Governor's Office, as it may result in an audit/investigation from the Inspector General, and I wouldn't want to hinder that. If you have specific questions as to that information, he now has it in his possession and will need to reach out to him. I will say, however, after looking into the ongoings of the school district, there were many things that concerned me. I made several attempts to meet with the Superintendent and school district with little response. This was the next step.
I hope the people of my district know that I am actively working for them and on their behalf to make sure our county organizations are running as they should be. In a rural county, like Clarendon, it is crucial that our schools help prepare our children for success in life.They deserve the best and we should do all we can to make sure our schools are able to meet that challenge. I will always work hard to help give them the quality education they deserve. I took the initiative to lay out the issues I saw, and I believe our Governor, who was the former Attorney General for this great state, would know if it warranted further analysis."
When asked about the investigation, Senator Kevin Johnson gave the following statement:
"Although Representative Pedalino stresses the value and importance of transparency, as a member of The Clarendon County Legislative Delegation, nothing was shared with me or brought to my attention. Because of everything that has been alleged by her in reference to our school district, I actually welcome an investigation by the Inspector General. Our school district is less than one year old and compared to most recent school consolidations, this consolidation went relatively smooth. I have the utmost respect for our school board and our administration and as far as I know, they have done an exceptional job and many great things are happening in our district on behalf of our students. Since Representative Pedalino has requested an investigation and assuming that her request is granted, the next step is for everyone to wait until the investigation is completed and to see what the results of the investigation are."
Chairman of Clarendon County School District, Ceth Land, echoed the same sentiments as Senator Johnson. He said, "I have reviewed the press release from Governor McMaster's office and discussed the release with Superintendent Johnson. We are not aware of any 'potential financial irregularities' as referenced in the press release. We believe the review by the State Inspector General will demonstrate that there are no irregularities."
At time of print the investigation is still just a request, not an open investigation. Check manninglive.com for updates.
