According to a news report from WLBT, the Canton Public School Board of Trustees selected Jefferson Davis County Superintendent Ike Haynes, as its new Superintendent of Schools, effective July 1.

The Jefferson Davis County School Board met Tuesday morning to discuss budget concerns regarding the new teacher pay raise law.

The Board did go into executive session to discuss a personnel matter unrelated to Haynes.

According to board members, Supt. Haynes has not made any formal announcement regarding his position, but has said he will do so by Friday.

According to Mississippi Code, if a vacancy shall occur in the office of county superintendent of education, such vacancy shall be filled by appointment by the county board of education.

If the unexpired term shall exceed six months, it shall be the duty of the county board of supervisors to call a special election to fill the vacancy.

The person appointed by the board of education shall hold office only until a special election is held.

However, if the term is longer than six months, the board of supervisors must then call a special election in order to elect a replacement.

A county superintendent of education is required to be a resident and qualified elector of the county from which he or she is elected.  Additionally, a person who holds this office must meet the qualifications set fort. No person is eligible to hold hits office if a prior conviction renders him ineligible.

An interim superintendent appointment is required to meet the same qualifications as an elected superintendent.

Election to fill vacancy must be held at least 90 days from the day of vacancy.  If Haynes resigns, the election to fill his  office will take place on the November 4, 2014, ballot.  Haynes’ term would expire at the end of 2015.

Supt. Ike Haynes could not be reached for comment at press time.